Steady Home Sales Create Opportunity

You’ll notice that home sales in the Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos area remain steady. In January, 1,761 residential homes closed—a 1.1% increase over last year. Even though the median price dipped slightly to about $409,765, active listings have grown by 16.5%, with new listings up by 20.6%. This means you now have more options and room to negotiate, whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking for your forever home.

Rising Leasing Activity Offers Flexibility 

At the same time, leasing activity is booming. Closed leases jumped by 11.7%, showing that many are choosing to rent amid affordability challenges. With median rents stabilizing around $2,195, you might find that leasing a single-family home offers you the flexibility you need while you prepare for homeownership. This shift is especially appealing if rising mortgage rates push your purchase plans to the back burner. In Williamson and Hays counties, active listings and months of inventory increased, providing buyers with more choices, while sales dipped slightly from last month. Bastrop County saw a modest rise in home sales and inventory, while Caldwell County experienced a significant drop in sales and prices, despite increased listings. Overall, these counties are adjusting to a more balanced market, with varying impacts on pricing and inventory levels.

For a more detailed breakdown of the market in each of these regions, take a look at the graphic below.

Regional Insights for a Dynamic Market

The trends aren’t the same everywhere. In Travis County, for example, new home listings increased by 27.3%, and the median home price stands at about $475,000. Williamson County shows even lower median prices near $400,000, with a healthy bump in active listings. Smaller counties like Hays, Bastrop, and Caldwell also display unique shifts, proving that every area around Austin has its own vibrant market scene.

What It Means for You

You have more choices than ever. The growing inventory in both the for-sale and lease markets means you can explore various options that suit your budget and lifestyle. Leasing might offer immediate affordability and flexibility, while buying builds long-term equity. With Unlock MLS now including detailed leasing data, you gain the insights you need to navigate these decisions confidently. The trends aren’t the same everywhere. In Travis County, for example, new home listings increased by 27.3%, and the median home price stands at about $475,000. Williamson County shows even lower median prices near $400,000, with a healthy bump in active listings. Smaller counties like Hays, Bastrop, and Caldwell also display unique shifts, proving that every area around Austin has its own vibrant market scene.