Buying a Home in Austin, Texas? Here’s What to Know in a Slower Market

Is it still a good time to buy a home in Austin, Texas?

It’s a fair question—and one more buyers are asking now that the market has cooled. Inventory is up. Buyer activity is down. And while we’re not seeing a crash, we are witnessing a reset. Prices have softened, sellers are more negotiable, and buyers finally have breathing room.

That said, opportunity only works if you have the right strategy. I’m Brandon Holley, Broker and Realtor® with Holley Homes Realty, and this updated guide will show you exactly what you need to know before buying a home in Austin, Texas—especially in today’s more balanced (and less chaotic) market.

1. Yes, the Market’s Slower—But That’s Not a Bad Thing

The Austin, Texas real estate market isn’t moving at warp speed anymore, and that’s a good thing for serious buyers.

Here’s what’s different:

• Homes are sitting longer. This gives buyers more time to tour, compare, and negotiate.
• Sellers are more flexible. From price reductions to covering closing costs, deals are back on the table.
• Buyers have leverage. The power pendulum has shifted. You can ask for repairs, concessions, even furniture in some cases.
• Rates are still a factor. But savvy buyers are using builder buydowns and lender incentives to get creative with financing.

2. Inventory Is Up. That Means More Choices—And More Strategy

With more listings hitting the market, buyers now face a new challenge: how to filter the good from the just-listed-too-high.

Holley Homes Realty helps you:

1. Spot overpriced homes and avoid bidding wars
2. Compare resale and new construction opportunities side-by-side
3. Use days-on-market data to time your offer

Don’t get distracted by pretty photos. In this market, you need context. That’s where having an experienced Austin, Texas real estate agent makes a real difference.

3. Builder Deals Are Heating Up Again

If you’re open to new construction, now might be your moment. Builders across Austin are offering:

• Rate buydowns (think: 3.99% Year 1, 4.99% after)
• Closing cost credits up to $15,000
• Free upgrades or design center cash
• Quick move-in homes with deep discounts

At Holley Homes Realty, we track over 200 communities across Central Texas. We know which builders are offering the most value in places like Buda, Kyle, Liberty Hill, and Georgetown.

4. Pre-Approval Isn’t Just a Box to Check—It’s a Negotiating Tool

In a slower market, sellers are still vetting who’s serious. A strong pre-approval letter doesn’t just open doors—it gives you power at the table.

We recommend:

• W2 or 1099? Show consistency.
• Talk to local lenders who understand the Austin market (not just a 1-800 number).
• Know your comfort zone, not just your max.

Need an intro to a lender who gets creative? Holley Homes Realty has a vetted list we trust.

5. Neighborhood Values Are Shifting—Here’s Where to Watch

Not all zip codes are reacting the same to the market shift. Some areas are holding value. Others are offering more room to negotiate.

Still strong:

1. South Austin (78745, 78704)
2. Georgetown master-planned communities

Value-rich opportunities:

1. Leander and Liberty Hill (tons of builder deals)
2. Buda & Kyle (suburban affordability, new retail, great schools)
3. East Austin (some softening after rapid growth)

At Holley Homes Realty, we match clients with the right area based on lifestyle, budget, commute, and future resale potential.

6. Understand HOA, MUD, and POA Fees (Before You Fall in Love)

A slower market doesn’t mean skipping due diligence. Many Austin-area communities have:

• HOA fees: From $35/month to $150+/month
• MUD taxes: Extra assessments to fund infrastructure
• POAs: Especially in newer or semi-rural developments

We help you review all documents before you sign—no surprises later.

7. You Can Actually Negotiate Now. Use That Option Period Wisely

Remember when buyers were waiving inspections? Yeah, we don’t recommend that.

With homes sitting longer, now is the time to:

• Negotiate repairs and credits during your option period (usually 5-10 days)
• Get thorough inspections( foundation, roof, HVAC, etc.)
• Request seller contributions to lower your closing costs or rate

Brandon Holley personally reviews every contract, ensuring you stay protected and fully compliant with TREC guidelines.

8. You Still Need the Right Realtor (Especially Now)

A cooling market doesn’t mean you can DIY your way to a deal. It means you need an expert who knows the backdoors, incentives, and traps that others miss.

At Holley Homes Realty, we pride ourselves on:

• Real-time data and hyperlocal market tracking
• Deep relationships with builders and listing agents
• Clear communication and weekly updates
• Guiding you from pre-approval to closing and beyond

Ready to Buy a Home in Austin, Texas?

If you’re thinking about buying in Austin, now might be your best window in years. Let Holley Homes Realty help you navigate this slower, smarter market with confidence.

Contact Brandon Holley today to set up your strategy call—no pressure, just real talk and smart moves.

Call/Text directly at 512.487.9242