Every fall, the same question lands in our inbox: is now a good time to buy a home in Houston? This September, national real estate outlet Homes.com went looking for the answer, and they came to Nancy Almodovar, CEO and co-founder of Nan & Company Properties, to help make sense of it.
The result is a feature article, Buying a Home in September 2026: Pricing, Leverage, Timing, that pulls insight from agents across the country, from San Francisco to Manhattan to Dallas. But when it comes to Houston, Nancy's perspective offers buyers an experienced view of what this fall's market really looks like, and what it means if you are considering a move in Houston this season.
A Market With More Room to Breathe
According to the Houston Association of Realtors' July 2026 report, active single family listings hit a record 40,750 homes, giving buyers roughly a 5.5 month supply. Homes are also spending more time on the market, averaging 53 days before going under contract.
Nancy notes that, for buyers in the Houston market, September presents more choice and breathing room than buyers have had in recent years, while making clear that conditions still vary a great deal depending on location and price point. A rise in citywide inventory does not mean every neighborhood or every price bracket is behaving the same way, and buyers who understand that nuance are the ones who make smarter offers.
Looking Past the Sticker Price
Nancy encourages buyers to consider their entire monthly cost of ownership instead of only the price of the home itself. Mortgage rates, property taxes, insurance, maintenance, and homeowners association fees can all shift a monthly payment, and she recommends that buyers establish a comfortable budget before they ever begin touring homes.
Why the Luxury Market Plays by Different Rules
While much of the article focuses on the negotiating leverage buyers are gaining this fall, Nancy points out that Houston's luxury market remains active, and that beautifully presented, correctly priced homes in desirable neighborhoods can still generate strong interest and multiple offers.
Broader market data tells one story, but exceptional properties, well positioned by the right team, continue to command attention regardless of the overall inventory. Presentation and pricing strategy matter enormously, even in a market that is shifting in buyers' favor.
Date the Rate, Marry the House
“Should I wait for mortgage rates to come down before I buy?”
The simple answer: no. Nancy explains that interest rates can change, and refinancing may be an option down the road, but the right home may become unavailable if a buyer waits too long.
By waiting for rates to fall, you risk a situation where rates may stay elevated. If rates do eventually fall, buyers are likely to face more competition, which erodes the negotiating leverage available to them today.
Structuring an Offer That Works for Everyone
Nancy also shares what makes an offer compelling to a seller in today's market. Strong financing, a reasonable option period, flexibility on closing, and fewer unnecessary conditions can make an offer more attractive while still protecting the buyer.
Working with a knowledgeable agent removes uncertainty for the seller while still safeguarding the buyer's interests, and knowing how to strike that balance takes years of experience in the local market.
Ready to Make Your Move in Houston?
Whether you are exploring neighborhoods for the first time or evaluating whether now is the right moment to buy, our team is here to help you understand what is happening in your specific corner of the Houston market. Conditions vary by neighborhood, and having a knowledgeable guide on your side makes all the difference.
Contact Nan & Company Properties today at 713.714.6454 or at our Contact page to connect with our team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is now a good time to buy a home in Houston? Many buyers are finding more selection and more negotiating room this fall than in recent years, though conditions vary by neighborhood and price point. Speaking with a local agent about your specific area is the best way to know where you stand.
Should I wait for mortgage rates to drop before buying? Most real estate professionals advise against timing the market this way. Waiting for rates to fall often means facing more buyer competition later when rates drop, which can offset any savings from a lower rate.
What should I budget for when buying a home? Beyond your monthly mortgage payment, it helps to plan for property taxes, homeowners insurance, HOA fees, and ongoing maintenance. Looking at your full cost of ownership up front can help you avoid surprises down the road.
If there are more homes for sale, does that mean I can negotiate on any of them?Not always. Homes that are priced well and show beautifully, particularly in sought-after neighborhoods, can still attract a lot of interest even when the overall market has more listings to choose from.
What makes an offer stand out to a seller? Sellers tend to respond well to offers with strong financing, a fair timeline, and flexibility on closing. A clean, well-prepared offer can be just as appealing as a higher price, and it still protects you as the buyer.
