Blog

Author: Manda Mafi

  • Austin metro home sales up 7% from 2025

    Austin metro home sales up 7% from 2025

    We're seeing some noteworthy developments in the Austin-Round Rock market: home sales are up 7% compared to 2025, while the median price has edged up slightly to $439,995. Much of this activity is driven by new construction, which is helping to meet buyer demand and shape pricing trends. Townhomes, in particular, have caught attention—sales surged following a 37% price drop, offering interesting opportunities for buyers and investors alike. Inventory levels are now above pre-pandemic norms, which is contributing to more stable prices across the board.

    Having worked with Texas buyers, sellers, and investors for nearly two decades, I've seen how shifts like these can open doors for first-time homeowners and seasoned investors. A balanced market paired with evolving inventory can be an excellent environment for those looking to build long-term wealth through real estate. If you’re navigating a move, an investment, or considering your next chapter, staying informed is key to making confident decisions.

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  • Most of the best new-home markets are in the South

    Most of the best new-home markets are in the South

    It’s fascinating to see how Southern metros are leading the way for new-home buyers—eight out of the top 10 U.S. markets for new construction are in the South, with Charleston topping the list. There, new homes are priced 12.2% below existing homes, a rare find that’s catching the attention of buyers and investors alike. The combination of builder-friendly zoning and lower land costs in these markets is making homeownership more accessible, a trend I watch closely for my clients across Texas. Having been involved in real estate investing myself since 2007, and drawing on a family legacy in the industry, I always look for these types of value-driven opportunities. For anyone considering a move, investment, or a first home, understanding market dynamics like these can make a real difference in building long-term wealth.

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  • Reno Prices Hold Positive as Austin, Denver Turn Down

    Reno Prices Hold Positive as Austin, Denver Turn Down

    Watching Reno’s housing market hold steady—even as places like Austin and Denver see some price declines—offers a unique perspective for buyers and investors. With price growth slowing in Reno and new construction limited by land constraints, we’re reminded how regional differences can shape opportunity and affordability. Industrial growth, particularly from AI data centers, is still fueling some demand, but rising mortgage rates are making it tough for many to enter or move up in the market. As someone deeply rooted in real estate since 2006, with both personal and family investing experience, I always encourage clients to look at the bigger picture: local factors, migration trends, and affordability challenges all play a role in shaping investment decisions. If you’re considering your next move—whether buying, selling, or investing—having the right market insight is key to building wealth through real estate.

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  • More Homes Hit the Market as Demand Cools

    We're seeing a noticeable shift in the US housing market: in the four weeks ending August 23, new listings inched up 0.4% and total homes for sale rose 0.5%, reaching their highest point since early Q2. Yet, despite more choices, pending home sales dipped 1.1% to a six-month low—proof that higher housing costs are making some buyers hesitate, even as inventory improves. The median home-sale price is up 1.9% year-over-year, now above $400,000, while average mortgage rates hover near 7%, a 13-month high.

    For buyers, this climate can mean greater negotiating power—especially on homes that have been on the market for several weeks. Many sellers are adjusting expectations, focusing on realistic pricing rather than the highs of previous years. In my experience helping Texas buyers and sellers navigate changing markets, these are the moments when careful strategy and clear communication matter most. If you’re considering your next move, understanding current trends—and knowing how to leverage them—can make a real difference.

  • Houston Listings Rise 4.9% Yearly

    Houston’s real estate market continues to shift, and as someone who’s guided buyers and sellers through every kind of cycle since 2006, I keep a close eye on the details that matter. For the week ending August 24, we saw new listings in Houston rise by approximately 4.9% compared to last year—about 3,600 homes came to market, up from roughly 3,400. Yet, buyer activity showed a different rhythm: pending listings dropped around 18% to about 1,800 under contract, and completed closings were down about 17% to 1,500.

    What’s especially interesting for both investors and homebuyers is that despite fewer contracts and closings, showing activity actually increased 2% to 39,000, and open houses were up 4%, with over 10,000 events across the city. This tells me that while more sellers are stepping forward, buyers are browsing and weighing options carefully—a pattern I often see during transitional markets.

    With my background in both residential transactions and property investment, I always look for these subtle cues. Elevated supply can mean more opportunities for those ready to make a move, while increased showings suggest buyer interest remains strong, even if decisions are taking longer. Whether you’re considering a first purchase, a strategic move, or expanding your investment portfolio, understanding these trends is key to navigating Houston’s evolving landscape with confidence.

  • Map: Home sales are surging in these Austin-area neighborhoods

    Map: Home sales are surging in these Austin-area neighborhoods

    This summer, several Austin-area neighborhoods have experienced remarkable home sales growth—Apache Shores surged by 450%, Brentwood jumped 220%, and Upper Westside climbed 166.7%. Steiner Ranch and Barton Hills also saw increases of over 150%. It’s a striking reminder of how dynamic our local market can be, especially as Texas cities currently have more sellers than buyers. For anyone considering their next move—whether buying, selling, or investing—understanding these patterns is key to making informed decisions. With my family’s investment roots dating back to 1983 and years of hands-on experience across residential, lending, and property management, I’m passionate about helping you approach real estate with a strategic, wealth-building mindset. Navigating these trends with the right data and guidance can open doors to new opportunities, no matter your real estate goals.

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  • Austin home sales are on the rise as prices stabilize, new report says

    Austin home sales are on the rise as prices stabilize, new report says

    Austin’s real estate market continues to offer promise for buyers and sellers alike. According to a new report, July home sales in the area climbed 4.4%, with median prices holding steady around $435,000. Within the city itself, the median price eased to $577,000, while sales activity jumped 11%. Notably, affordability for starter homes improved by 6.1%—a welcome shift for those entering the market for the first time.

    With a background rooted in Texas real estate since 2006 and personal family investing experience dating back to 1983, I keep a close eye on market movements that matter for my clients’ goals—whether you’re considering your first purchase, planning for a move, or building a long-term investment strategy. These latest numbers reflect a market where options are growing and opportunity is real for buyers ready to take their next step.

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  • Austin boasts the 8th hottest real estate market among big U.S. cities

    Austin boasts the 8th hottest real estate market among big U.S. cities

    It’s no surprise to see Austin recognized as the 8th hottest real estate market among major U.S. cities—our city consistently draws attention for strong job growth, even as home price gains have moderated compared to some other metros. For those considering where to put down roots or invest, it’s interesting to note that nearby Texas suburbs like Frisco and McKinney are leading the nation in both affordability and new home construction. Having helped clients navigate Texas real estate since 2006, I believe understanding these regional trends is key to making confident, wealth-building decisions—whether you’re buying your first home, relocating, or exploring investment opportunities. Local market dynamics can open doors, especially when you know where to look.

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  • Texas Ranks Among Top Remodel-Activity States

    Texas continues to shine as a powerhouse in the remodeling world—recently ranking second nationwide for remodeling activity in Q1 2026, with an impressive ~7% share and approximately $20B in projects. Even during periods when the broader market showed some softness, Texas held its ground as one of the top three states driving remodeling demand. State-level analysis pointed to consistent strength, with sector confidence holding steady above 60 over the past year. For Texas homeowners, rising home equity has been a key enabler for improvements—especially for those looking to update their space, age in place, or boost long-term value. Having worked with a wide range of clients, from first-time buyers to seasoned investors, I see firsthand how strategic renovations can enhance both comfort and future returns. Navigating these possibilities requires insight into both the market’s numbers and the unique needs of each homeowner—a perspective I’m always committed to providing.

  • Texas Housing Shows Signs of Recovery

    After watching Texas real estate weather an early market cooldown, I’m seeing convincing signs of recovery throughout our state. Inventory is tightening again, which signals a return to a more balanced—and competitive—market. For many of my clients, especially those relocating or investing, this shift means opportunities are opening up, but timing and negotiation are more important than ever.

    Homebuilders are building up their backlogs, a clear indication that demand is regaining strength—even after the earlier slowdown that hit Texas before many other regions. The recent uptick in job growth is also playing its part, giving the housing rebound more traction and stability.

    As someone who’s been guiding buyers, sellers, and investors through Texas markets since 2006—and with a family investment background that’s shaped my approach—I know how much these market dynamics matter for your next step. It’s also worth noting that experts anticipate policymakers will soon be weighing broader growth and inflation pressures, which could influence where our market heads next. I’m here to help you navigate these shifts with confidence, whether you’re buying, selling, or investing in Texas real estate.