Houston’s real estate landscape continues to evolve, and we’re here to help you make sense of the latest market shifts. Last week, approximately 3,600 homeowners brought their properties to market—about 4.9% more than the same period last year. While buyer activity has been a bit softer recently, with pending listings down 18% and closings down 17% year-over-year, we’re still seeing steady engagement: showings increased by 2% to nearly 39,000, and open houses were up 4% with over 10,000 events citywide. This pattern highlights a market where seller activity remains strong and buyers are staying engaged, even if fewer are moving forward to contract or closing. Our team’s deep local expertise allows us to navigate these ups and downs, ensuring you have the guidance and support you need—whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or simply stay informed. We’re dedicated to providing the personalized attention and insight you deserve as you pursue your real estate goals in Houston.

Here’s a quick update on the Harris County real estate market. Homes are selling at a similar price as last year. Fewer homes are changing hands, and the number for sale remains steady.

When buyers cannot qualify for a mortgage, some turn to land contracts, a seller-financing option that often leaves them with fewer legal protections.
Researchers found land contracts were commonly used when traditional mortgages were harder to obtain for low-cost homes, manufactured homes, rural properties, and older fixer-uppers.
The central takeaway was straightforward: better mortgage access was linked to less reliance on land contracts, pointing to safer financing pathways for buyers.
Potential solutions included expanding small-mortgage availability, modernizing manufactured-home titling, and improving renovation lending so more homes and borrowers can qualify for mortgages.
Because land contracts are likely to remain part of the market, stronger recording rules, clearer standards, and better buyer protections were recommended.