NEWSLETTER - JANUARY 2026
Expert Tip of the Month
Strategic timing, pricing accuracy, and hyperlocal data are defining success for Houston buyers and sellers right now.
In today’s Houston real estate environment, precision matters more than speed. As Real Estate Broker, Arash Asgharian often emphasizes, markets like Houston reward agents and clients who rely on data rather than emotion when making decisions. This is especially true as inventory levels and buyer demand vary significantly by neighborhood.
For buyers, this means understanding micro-markets rather than relying on citywide averages. Areas such as West University, Cypress, and parts of Spring Branch are behaving very differently in terms of competition and pricing. Knowing where leverage exists can make a measurable difference in negotiation outcomes.
Sellers, on the other hand, must focus on pricing within the first 14 days on market. Arash notes that homes priced correctly from day one generate stronger engagement and avoid value erosion from extended days on market.
The takeaway this month is simple: success in Houston real estate comes from informed positioning, not guesswork, supported by local market analytics (har.com).
Market Overview:
December Snapshot
December closed with steady demand, stabilizing prices, and cautious optimism across Houston’s housing market.
December activity reflected a seasonal slowdown, but underlying demand in Houston remained healthy. Transaction volume softened as expected during the holidays, yet well-priced homes continued to sell efficiently, particularly in suburban master-planned communities.
Price stability was a defining feature of the month. While some segments experienced slight adjustments, Houston avoided the sharp corrections seen in other major metros. This resilience aligns with the city’s diversified economy and steady population growth.
Arash Asgharian has pointed out that Houston’s affordability relative to other large cities continues to attract long-term buyers, even during slower months. This trend supports sustained market confidence heading into the new year.
Overall, December set a balanced foundation for early 2026 activity, especially for prepared buyers and proactive sellers (har.com).
Buying Trends:
What Buyers Are Prioritizing Now
Houston buyers are focused on value, interest-rate strategy, and long-term livability.
Buyers in Houston are approaching the market with a more analytical mindset. Rather than rushing, many are comparing financing options, exploring rate buydowns, and negotiating concessions where available. This shift has increased the importance of strong representation.
Location continues to drive decisions, with buyers favoring areas that offer commute flexibility, strong school districts, and newer infrastructure. Suburbs like Katy, Pearland, and Tomball remain popular for families seeking space and relative affordability.
According to Arash Asgharian, today’s buyers are less concerned with short-term market fluctuations and more focused on securing homes that align with their five- to ten-year plans. This long-term perspective is helping stabilize demand.
Buyers who combine patience with preparation are finding opportunities others may overlook, particularly in listings that require minor updates or strategic negotiation (nar.realtor).
Selling Highlights:
What’s Working for Houston Home Sellers
Presentation, pricing accuracy, and digital exposure are driving successful Houston home sales.
Homes that stand out visually are commanding stronger attention online. Professional photography, clear listing descriptions, and transparent pricing have become non-negotiable in Houston’s competitive landscape.
Pricing remains the most critical factor. Sellers who anchor pricing to recent neighborhood sales—not aspirational numbers—are seeing faster results. Arash Asgharian frequently stresses that the first two weeks of exposure largely determine a listing’s trajectory.
Another key trend is seller flexibility. Offering concessions, repair credits, or interest rate incentives has helped bridge gaps and close deals more efficiently.
In short, sellers who treat their listing like a market-ready product, rather than a personal asset, are outperforming the market average (har.com).
Rental Market Update:
Houston Leasing Trends and Opportunities
Houston’s rental market remains active, supported by population growth and employment stability.
Rental demand across Houston continues to be strong, especially in areas near major employment centers and medical districts. Townhomes and single-family rentals are seeing consistent interest from relocating professionals.
While rent growth has moderated compared to previous years, occupancy levels remain healthy. This balance benefits both tenants seeking options and landlords focused on long-term stability.
Arash Asgharian has noted that many renters are choosing to wait before buying, creating sustained demand in well-maintained properties priced competitively.
For investors, Houston remains attractive due to its relative affordability and diversified tenant base (houston.org).
Neighborhood Spotlight:
Spring Branch’s Rising Appeal
Spring Branch is emerging as one of Houston’s most dynamic and opportunity-rich neighborhoods.
Spring Branch continues to evolve with a mix of redevelopment, infrastructure improvements, and growing buyer interest. Its central location offers accessibility to Downtown, the Energy Corridor, and the Galleria.
New construction and renovated properties are redefining the area’s housing stock, attracting both first-time buyers and move-up households. This blend of old and new has created a diverse and resilient market.
As Arash Asgharian has observed, neighborhoods undergoing thoughtful transformation often present strong long-term upside when buyers enter before peak pricing.
Spring Branch exemplifies this pattern, making it a neighborhood worth watching closely (har.com).
Local Insight:
Houston’s Economy and Housing Connection
Houston’s economic diversity continues to provide stability for its housing market.
Houston benefits from a broad employment base spanning energy, healthcare, logistics, and technology. This diversity helps insulate the housing market from sharp volatility.
Job growth in medical and industrial sectors has supported steady housing demand across price points. This trend is particularly visible in areas near major hospitals and logistics hubs.
According to Arash Asgharian, markets with multiple economic drivers tend to outperform over the long term, even during national slowdowns.
Houston’s economic fundamentals remain a key reason buyers and investors continue to view the city as a reliable market (houston.org).
Q & A:
Ask the Experts
Q: Is now a good time to buy a home in Houston, or should buyers wait?
A: For many buyers, now can be a smart time to enter the Houston market—if they are well-prepared and focused on long-term value. While interest rates remain a consideration, Houston’s pricing has stayed relatively stable compared to other major metros, creating opportunities for negotiation in certain neighborhoods. Real estate broker Arash Asgharian often notes that buyers who wait for “perfect” conditions frequently miss out on strong homes that fit their needs and budget. Instead, buyers who secure favorable terms, explore seller concessions, and choose the right micro-market can position themselves well for appreciation and lifestyle benefits over time (har.com).
Looking Ahead:
February & Beyond
Early 2026 is shaping up to reward prepared buyers and strategically positioned sellers.
As February approaches, activity is expected to increase as buyers re-enter the market after the holidays. Interest rate movement will influence urgency, but local demand remains the primary driver.
Sellers who list ahead of peak spring competition may benefit from increased visibility and less crowded inventory. Strategic timing will be essential.
Arash Asgharian anticipates that informed participants—those who understand their neighborhood trends and financing options—will have a distinct advantage in early 2026.
The coming months will favor clarity, preparation, and local expertise in Houston’s evolving real estate market (nar.realtor).
