The Brief
- After years of bidding wars, Houston has officially shifted to a “balanced” market.
- Homes are now sitting for an average of 66 days, the longest stretch since February 2020.
- Buyers are regaining leverage, with the ability to negotiate repairs, concessions, and even price cuts.
HOUSTON – For the past several years, buying a home in Houston felt more like a combat sport than a real estate transaction. But new data released by the Houston Association of Realtors (HAR) suggests the “frenzy” has officially come to an end.
‘It’s finally over’
Big picture view:
According to the January 2026 market report, single-family homes in the Greater Houston area spent an average of 66 days on the market before selling. That marks the highest “days on market” average in nearly six years, signaling a major shift in the power dynamic between buyers and sellers.
“I believe we can officially say it’s over,” said Theresa Hill, the 2026 HAR chair. “We started out the year 2026 in a period of continued adjustment to a more balanced market, which is good for both buyers and sellers.”
Power shift from sellers to buyers
By the numbers:…