If you're considering buying a home in the Austin area, the question “Is now a good time?” is more relevant than ever. With a market that has shifted significantly in the past year, there are real opportunities, and real things to consider. My goal is to help you evaluate your options with clarity, feel confident in your timing, and position you to act when the moment is right for you.
For years, the Austin market was a heated seller’s market: low inventory, bidding wars, rapid appreciation. That dynamic has softened considerably. Here’s what we’re seeing:
Inventory has increased — more homes are available now than in recent years, which gives buyers more choices and a bit more breathing room. Realtor+2Buy With Batya Blog+2
Prices have stopped climbing at the same pace and in some areas are even retreating slightly. For example, median list prices per square foot were down about 3.5% year‑over‑year in one report. Realtor+2Realtor+2
Homes are staying on the market longer and more sellers are open to negotiation, repairs, or concessions. Kevin Walker
What this means: Buyers have more leverage than they did just a year or two ago. If you’re ready, and your financing is in order, now can be a very good time.
Here are key reasons why the conditions could work for you:
1. More choices, less frenzy.
With more inventory and less intense competition, you’re in a position to be selective. You don’t have to rush into an offer simply because everyone else is bidding. Having time to evaluate homes and terms is a luxury.
2. Potential for better terms and value.
Because sellers are feeling more pressure and buyers are in a stronger spot, you might be able to secure a home at or below list price, ask for repairs or credits, and avoid some of the premium pricing seen in the boom years.
3. Long‑term opportunity.
If you're planning to stay in the home for many years (5+ years), buying now means you may capture more of the upside when the market normalizes and eventually returns to stronger growth. While timing perfectly is impossible, positioning yourself in a stable market with good fundamentals is smart.
Though the timing is favorable in many respects, buying now isn’t without challenges or nuance.
1. Interest rates remain elevated.
While there’s more room to negotiate on price, the cost of borrowing is still higher than the ultra‑low rates we saw during the pandemic. That means your monthly payment may be higher, and you’ll want to factor that into your budget and holding plan.
2. Local market is still adjusting.
Austin isn’t immune to broader economic pressures or shifts. Some neighborhoods are seeing slower activity, and forecasting the exact timing of a rebound is difficult.
3. You need to be clear about your goals.
Buying a home is no longer simply about checking a box — it’s about matching property, neighborhood, and timing to your lifestyle, budget, and longer‑term plan. If you think you’ll only stay for a short period (1–3 years), the market’s current plateau may complicate upside.
To help decide whether “now” is right for you, I guide clients through the following:
How long do you plan to live in the home? (The shorter the timeline, the more risk you take on.)
What’s your budget including mortgage rate, taxes, HOA/maintenance, and potential market changes?
Which neighborhoods align with your lifestyle, commute, amenities, and future value prospects in Austin?
Are you fully underwritten and ready to act, meaning you’ve done your financing homework, so when the right home appears, you’re ready?
Are you comfortable with some market uncertainty and have we factored in a buffer in case things shift?
With the current inventory, price adjustments, and buyer leverage, I believe that for the right buyer (one with clear goals, solid financing, a sound neighborhood target, and a multi‑year outlook), now is an excellent time to buy in Austin.
The key phrase here is “right buyer.” If you’re buying for the long term, have flexibility, and want to own rather than rent, this market gives you more negotiating power than we’ve seen in years. If you’re unsure of your timeline or financing, we’ll want to weigh options carefully.
As your real estate advocate, my priority is to make this purchase process seamless, strategic, and tailored to you. That includes:
Providing a custom search that fits your criteria (budget, style, neighborhood, commute).
Accessing off‑market possibilities (via Compass tools and agent networks) so you see homes before everyone else.
Strategizing together based on my market research and experience to help you submit competitive offers without overpaying.
Guiding you through financing, timing, inspection, and closing with clarity and support, so you feel confident at every step.
Is now a good time to buy in Austin? I’d say yes, if you’re prepared. With the market shifting toward the buyer side, you have more leverage, more choices, and more flexibility than just a short time ago. The key is to enter with purpose, strategy, and the right partner.
If you’d like to discuss whether you’re ready, explore neighborhoods, or view upcoming listings (including off‑market opportunities), I’d love to help you get started. Let’s set a time to chat about your goals and map out your path forward.
Warm regards,
Madison Swanson
Luxury Real Estate Advisor
@buyingwithmadison
Your advocate for a seamless, confident home purchase in Austin.
With a background in customer service, Madison is passionate about helping others, whether that’s her friends, family, or even perfect strangers.
