Becoming a homeowner this year could become a reality, as the housing market turns the tide. According to a Redfin national report, 62.2 percent of buyers bought their homes in 2025 below the listed price compared to the lowest in 2019 when it was 63.8 percent.
The average discount for homes that sold below their original listing price was around 8%, the largest since 2012.
Buyers are also obtaining concessions from sellers, including cash that can be used for closing costs or to buy down a buyer’s mortgage rate.
Housing Expert with QBS Consulting, Kenya Burrell-VanWormer says, buyers have room to negotiate now. “Sellers: If you’re home isn’t priced right, it’s going to sit there and that’s kind of the reality of the market we’re in today.” Burrell- VanWormer said.
She says for Houston, the discounted trend is the cherry on top. “What’s interesting is it looks like the national market is finally giving buyers some leverage. Houston’s just further along than most places with the national numbers we see.” She said.
One reason Houston’s real estate market is in a better balance compared to the national numbers is the high amount of inventory available and less regulation- one of the only major US cities with no zoning, allowing the supply to meet demand more quickly. “We have 4.5 months of inventory whereas nationally they have 3 months of inventory.” Burrell-VanWormer said.
In addition, with interest rates dropping that really creates an environment for buyers to be in the driver’s seat. In January of 2025, the mortgage rate was over 7 percent, compared to 6.11 percent according to HAR.com.
Houston proves the market can swing towards buyers without losing momentum. “Buyers get leverage and sellers can still transact and supply shows up. When you have a combination like that it’s rare to find and this is why Houston stands out in the cycle.” She said.