May

20

2025

2025– Finally a Buyer’s Market in Austin Tx

May. 20. 2025

Austin Real Estate Market Update: Why This Isn’t 2008 (And What Buyers Need to Know)

I’ve been in real estate since the crash of 2008 (wild, I know!), and let me start by saying this: today’s market is NOT the same.

Yes, we’re in a slower part of the economic cycle, and yes there are quite a few homes for sale, HOWEVER this isn’t a repeat of the subprime crisis. Here’s what’s really going on—and why it actually presents some opportunity for today’s buyers.

Then vs. Now: What’s Different from 2008?

  • Back in 2008, millions of homeowners were sold homes with $0 down, poor credit, and inflated incomes. Lending standards were lax, and equity was almost nonexistent once the bank fraud surfaced
  • Fast forward to 2025: today’s homeowners have stricter loan qualifications and many have significant equity (especially if they bought pre-2020).
  • Translation: fewer foreclosures, stronger financial footing, and more options.

If you haven’t watched The Big Short, now’s a good time. It explains how we got into the 2008 mess. We’re not there. And hey, it’s an entertaining watch regardless.

The Numbers: Austin by the Stats

  • 9,000+ homes are for sale in the Austin area—more than we’ve seen since 2010.
  • Inventory is up. Prices are down. April 2025 shows about a 3% year-over-year decline compared to April 2024.
  • Sellers are offering repairs, closing cost credits, and rate buy-downs just to get offers to the finish line

This is the most buyer-friendly market we’ve had in years, (so sellers-when you reach out to me–I am going to shoot ya straight and it may not be what you wanna hear).

What Buyers Can Finally Do

For the first time in a while, buyers can:

  • Be picky (no more FOMO-fueled bidding wars)
  • Negotiate terms
  • Actually take time to make decisions
  • Sacrifice less (more opportunities=the house that fits your needs)
  • Lock in a home you love and refinance later when rates improve

If the monthly payment works for your budget, this might be your chance to get in while the market is soft.

Helpful Articles to Back It Up:

My Honest Take

This isn’t doom and gloom—it’s a rebalancing. We had a wild ride with ultra-low rates (that never should have existed) and explosive growth (hello WFH opportunities). This part of the cycle feels slower, but it also comes with opportunities if you’re prepared.

If you—or someone you know—is thinking about buying (even if it’s months out), let’s connect. I’m here to help you understand your options and make a smart move.

In your corner,
Ashley Brinkman, Broker Associate

Brinkman Team

Realty Austin Compass

Check out everything from tips on short term rentals, funny listing videos and home buying insights on my YouTube Channel as well!