Introducing the First Closer’s Club Event in Austin, Texas Powered by Brodsky Properties

Let’s raise our glasses to the inaugural Closer’s Club event of 2025! If you were walking down South Congress last Thursday, you may have noticed some extra buzz at South Congress Hotel’s unexpected steak house, Maie Day. We brought together some of Austin’s top-performing real estate agents and professionals for an exclusive evening of connection, conversation, and community-building.

The Closer’s Club was born from a simple but powerful idea: to create an opportunity for Austin’s top agents and real estate professionals to come together, not just to network, but to grow, share, and inspire one another. This wasn’t about business cards, it was about real relationships and mutual respect among professionals who are passionate about what they do and always striving to be better.

From thoughtful conversations to new collaborations in the making, the energy in the room was electric. We believe when high-performing minds gather with intention, big things happen. And this event was just the beginning.
Guests received a gold Closer’s Club card, which serves as their key to future events, and an opportunity to nominate future attendees who would be a good fit for the group. With more gatherings in the works, we’re building a community of closers who are powering the industry forward—together.

If you’re an agent who’s looking to be part of something big, we’d love to hear from you. Drop your information here, and our team will be in touch.

The post Top Real Estate Professionals Lead the Way: Introducing the Closer’s Club ATX appeared first on Brodsky Properties.

Renovate or Wait? Essential Maintenance and High-Value Upgrades 

Home updates can feel never-ending, so it’s important to focus on the changes that will give you the best return before listing your home. Essential maintenance—like fixing leaky faucets, repairing roof damage, and servicing HVAC or electrical systems—should come first. Any maintenance or items needing repair that may be found during a routine home inspection should be preemptively addressed. Then prioritize high-impact upgrades like fresh paint, modern light fixtures, and kitchen or bathroom touch-ups. 

For interior appeal, decluttering and staging can make rooms feel bigger and more inviting. Outside, small but impactful updates like replacing your front door or adding fresh landscaping can enhance curb appeal. Consider hiring a lawn or landscaping service to give your exterior a one-time makeover.

But be careful not to over-renovate. While improvements can help your home sell faster and for a better price, costly upgrades that don’t significantly increase value should be avoided. Think strategically: what will make your home more appealing to buyers without cutting into your profits?

Are Pools Worth the Investment? The Real Costs & ROI Breakdown

Texas summers are intense, and a pool can transform your backyard into a refreshing oasis. But before adding one, consider the costs and long-term return on investment (ROI).

A traditional in-ground pool can cost an average of $85,000 to $125,000 in the Austin market, with annual maintenance averaging $1,500 to $2,500. While a well-maintained pool can boost property value by 7-10%, sellers are unlikely to recoup the full price of a pool installation. 

For a lower-cost alternative, stock tank pools—like those from Austin’s Cowboy Pools—are gaining popularity. These compact, easy-to-maintain pools can also function as hot tubs or cold plunges, offering a flexible, budget-friendly way to enhance your outdoor space.

However, pools aren’t for everyone. Some buyers see them as a luxury, while others view them as a liability due to upkeep, safety concerns, and added insurance costs.

Curb Appeal That Sells: Local Landscapers We Love

First impressions matter. A well-maintained lawn, fresh mulch, and vibrant flowers can make your home instantly more appealing to buyers.

Given Austin’s intense climate, many homeowners are shifting toward xeriscaping or native landscaping, incorporating cacti, wildflowers, herbs, and oak trees for a beautiful yet low-maintenance yard. These eco-friendly choices can enhance curb appeal and save on water and upkeep costs.

Local landscaping pros can offer services ranging from seasonal cleanups to full garden redesigns. We’ve curated a list of more trusted vendors for homeowners looking for expert landscaping help—just ask!

Creating Your Pricing Strategy

Setting the right price is key to attracting the best buyers. Pricing too high can lead to a stale listing, while pricing too low might leave money on the table.

Start by gaining knowledge of your area—look at 3-4 comparable homes that sold in the last six months. Consider their size, age, condition, and features when comparing them to your property.

For expert analysis, work with a competent agent who can prepare a Comparable Market Analysis (CMA) to guide you to the best pricing strategy. Working with local real estate experts—like Brodsky Properties—can make the pricing process smoother, and ensure you get the most value from your sale.

Ready to Sell? We’re Here to Help!

As Austin’s spring real estate market heats up, we’re here to help you position your home for success. Whether you have questions about renovations, pricing, or finding the right buyers, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’d love to guide you through the process!

The post Spring is Just Around the Corner: Get Your Home Market Ready appeared first on Brodsky Properties.

A Fresh Start for Buyers and Sellers
Historically, the first quarter of the year sees an increase in real estate activity as buyers and sellers return to the market with renewed focus. Many buyers who paused their search during the holidays resume their house hunting, while sellers looking to capitalize on the New Year’s momentum start listing their homes.
For buyers, this period offers an expanded selection of homes as new inventory becomes available. While competition gradually increases, early-year buyers often benefit from more negotiable pricing before the spring market heats up. Sellers, on the other hand, can take advantage of increased demand, particularly from those relocating for work or looking to finalize purchases before mortgage rates fluctuate further.

How to Buy in Austin’s Market

To be an informed buyer in the Austin real estate market, research is key. Knowing your desired location, budget, and must-have features before starting your home search can make the process more efficient. It’s also essential to stay updated on market trends. While your real estate agent can provide valuable insights, doing your own research based on your timeline and preferred areas will help you make confident decisions.

Getting a head start is also crucial. If you know you want to purchase a home soon, shop mortgage rates and get pre-approved before you begin your search. Knowing your budget ahead of time keeps the process focused and helps you act quickly when you find the right home. Once you have decided on a budget, start exploring available properties to refine your preferences before entering a competitive search.

Home Financing Options
One of the most important aspects of purchasing a home is understanding your financing options. Contrary to common belief, you don’t always need a large down payment. Government-backed loans provide flexible solutions for many buyers. Here are some options to consider:
FHA Loans – Require as little as 3.5% down, with flexible credit requirements. This is an excellent option for first-time buyers.
VA Loans – Available to veterans and active-duty service members, offering 0% down with no private mortgage insurance (PMI). A funding fee applies.
USDA Loans – Designed for buyers in rural areas, these loans offer 0% down, though income limits apply.

Common Home-Buying Mistakes to Avoid
Even with careful planning, buyers can make costly mistakes when purchasing a home. Here are a few key pitfalls to watch out for:

Underestimating Costs – Beyond the purchase price, homeownership comes with expenses like property taxes, repairs, insurance, and maintenance fees. In Austin, high property taxes can have a big impact on affordability.

Not Filing a Residential Homestead Exemption – Many first-time homebuyers do not realize that they file a residential homestead exemption after purchasing their residential property. The homestead exemption protects homeowners by limiting the amount their home’s property taxes can increase annually. Information on filing a homestead exemption and other property tax exemptions in Travis County can be found here.

Not Shopping Around for Loans – Don’t settle for the first loan offer you receive. Lenders vary in their terms and conditions. Compare options carefully and consider consulting a trusted financial advisor or mortgage broker to find the best fit for your needs.

Overpaying for a Property – Bidding wars and emotional decision-making can lead to overpaying. Ensure you are basing your offer on current market data, comparable sales, and long-term investment potential. Overpriced properties can be difficult to resell if the market shifts, potentially affecting your return on investment.

Austin Market Snapshot
Austin’s market is starting the year with strong inventory levels, creating opportunities for buyers while still allowing well-priced properties to move quickly. Since the pandemic, Austin has been an incredibly hot market. With high levels of construction and development and a large migration to Austin, prices rose quickly. Now, as migration slows down but inventory remains high, we have seen a moderation in pricing with slower increases.

As the New Year unfolds, the Austin real estate market is primed for movement. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or simply assess your options, having the right insights and support can make all the difference. If you’re ready to take the next step, reach out today—we’re here to help you navigate Austin’s evolving real estate landscape.

The post How the New Year Sets the Stage for Austin’s Real Estate Market appeared first on Brodsky Properties.

A Seasonal Slowdown with Hidden Opportunities

Historically, the real estate market slows down in November and December. The busyness of travel, family gatherings, and holiday celebrations often means fewer listings and transactions as house hunting takes a backseat. However, this seasonal lull isn’t all bad news.

For buyers, this quieter period often means reduced competition. With fewer people actively searching for homes, it can be easier to secure the property you want without being outbid. For sellers, a less crowded market means your property is more likely to stand out to serious buyers—those who remain active during the holidays are often highly motivated to close deals.

A slower market also creates opportunities for better negotiations on both sides. Sellers eager to meet year-end financial goals or move due to job relocations may be more open to favorable terms for buyers. Meanwhile, sellers benefit from having a spotlight on their listings as fewer homes compete for attention.

What This Means for Buyers

For those looking to buy, the holidays can be an excellent time to make a move. With fewer buyers actively in the market, competition tends to drop to its lowest point of the year. Sellers who list their properties during this season often do so out of necessity—whether due to a job relocation, personal deadlines, or financial goals—and this motivation can create room for better deals.

Austin’s real estate market currently offers additional advantages for buyers. With high inventory levels and fewer active buyers, there’s a wider selection of properties available. This combination of factors makes it easier to find a home that suits your needs while negotiating favorable terms.

Buying at the end of the year can also come with financial perks. Closing on a home before December 31st may allow you to take advantage of tax benefits, such as deductions for mortgage interest, property taxes, and points paid at closing. These deductions can help lower your taxable income for the year, making it a smart financial move for those looking to maximize savings while investing in their future.

What This Means for Sellers

While the holiday season is traditionally quieter, sellers can still find success by taking advantage of this unique time. Buyers who are active during this period are often more serious about closing a deal, whether due to personal timelines or tax considerations. This means the buyers viewing your property are more likely to make competitive offers and follow through on their commitments.

Additionally, with fewer new listings on the market, your home has a better chance of standing out. This can be particularly beneficial if your property is well-presented and appropriately priced. The reduced competition allows your home to attract more attention from motivated buyers, increasing your chances of selling before the New Year.

Positioning your property on the market now can also help you get ahead of the anticipated January surge. The start of a new year often brings a wave of job relocations, new business budgets, and increased activity across Austin’s industries. By listing during the holidays, you’ll be well-positioned to benefit from this momentum.

Austin Market Snapshot

Currently, Austin remains a buyer’s market, with an oversupply of homes and relatively low demand. This dynamic gives buyers an advantage in terms of choice and negotiation power. For sellers, it means pricing your property competitively and highlighting its unique features are more important than ever. Despite the slower pace of transactions, motivated buyers and sellers can still achieve their goals by leveraging the opportunities this season provides.

Putting the Fed Funds Rate Cut in Perspective

On November 7th the Fed met again to continue their interest rate cutting cycle. They dropped the Fed fund rate further, 25 basis points, or a quarter of 1%. This leaves the current rate at 4.5 – 4.75. This reduces the cost for banks to borrow money from one another. While this move initially seemed like good news for the housing market, the effect has been more complex.

Despite the Fed’s action, the 10-year Treasury yield has risen due to expectations of future inflation. Since fixed-rate mortgage rates are closely tied to Treasury yields, this increase has pushed mortgage rates higher, even in the wake of the Federal Funds Rate cut.

This means that while the cost of borrowing has dropped for banks, inflationary pressures have kept long-term mortgage rates elevated. For buyers, understanding this dynamic is essential when planning your budget and securing financing.
With another meeting on December 18th, the Fed will update economic projections, giving us a more informed forecast for 2025.

As the holidays bring changes to the market, there are still opportunities to be found for both buyers and sellers. Whether you’re planning to make a move now or preparing for the New Year, having the right strategy and guidance can make all the difference. If you’re ready to take the next step, reach out today—we’re here to help you navigate Austin’s ever-changing real estate market.

The post How the Holidays Impact Austin’s Real Estate Market appeared first on Brodsky Properties.

THE DEAL WITH INTEREST RATES

On the afternoon of September 18th, 2024 the Fed announced the long-anticipated federal funds rate cut. This is the first cut since the pandemic that lowered the rate by a half point rather than the usual .25% cut, putting the federal funds rate between 4.75 and 5 percent. During the press conference, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell stated, “The labor market is actually in solid condition — and our intention with our policy move today is to keep it there.” (AXIOS)

THE INFAMOUS BUILDUP

Since 2022, the Federal Reserve has steadily increased the federal funds rates in response to rising inflation and economic pressures. Starting from near-zero levels, the Fed implemented a series of aggressive rate hikes to curb inflation, which had surged to levels not seen in decades.

The federal funds rate increases, which began in March 2022, were part of the central bank’s effort to tighten monetary policy after years of stimulus following the COVID-19 pandemic. By mid-2023, the federal funds rate had climbed to a range of 5.25%–5.5%, marking one of the most rapid tightening cycles in recent history.

These rate hikes were aimed at cooling the overheated economy, particularly in sectors such as housing and labor, to bring inflation closer to the Fed’s target of 2%. The sustained increase in borrowing costs has had significant effects across markets, impacting consumer spending, mortgage rates, and business investments.

THE ANTICIPATED PRESENT

On September 18th, 2024, the Federal Reserve implemented a much-anticipated federal funds rate cut, lowering the federal funds rate to a target range of 4.75%–5%, down from the previous range of 5.25%–5.5% set in July. 

This marked the first rate reduction since the Fed began its series of aggressive hikes in 2022 to combat inflation. The decision to cut rates reflected the Fed’s assessment that inflation had eased and the economy had cooled, particularly in job growth, allowing for a more accommodative monetary policy. The central bank also signaled additional cuts by the end of the year, anticipating a quarter-point reduction at each of its remaining meetings. 

Fed officials expressed greater confidence that inflation was moving toward the 2% target, with projections suggesting further gradual rate decreases through 2025. This move indicated a shift toward balancing growth and price stability after a prolonged period of tightening.

WHAT DOES THE FEDERAL FUNDS RATE DROP MEAN FOR BUYERS & SELLERS IN AUSTIN, TEXAS?

IF YOU’RE BUYING HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

For buyers, the market remains competitive, though there are signs of slightly more negotiating power than in 2023. Many areas are experiencing fewer multiple offers, and many properties have seen price reductions. First-time homebuyers, however, continue to face challenges due to higher interest rates and higher-than-average home prices. 

IF YOU ARE SELLING HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

For sellers, the landscape remains largely favorable but more nuanced compared to the hyper-competitive market of recent years. While home values are still rising in price, the pace has slowed, and sellers are finding that pricing their homes too aggressively will lead to extended time on the market. Properties in desirable locations and in move-in-ready condition continue to attract strong interest, but buyers are becoming more discerning and less willing to engage in multiple-offer situations. Sellers with well-maintained homes in popular areas like Tarrytown or Hyde Park are still commanding premium prices, but overall, the need for strategic pricing and attractive listings is becoming more evident.

WHERE RATES ARE HEADED NEXT

The central bank released new projections indicating an expected further Federal Funds Rate reduction of half a percentage point by December, suggesting quarter-point cuts at both of its remaining 2024 meetings.

By the end of 2025, the median projection from Fed officials places the target rate at 3.4%, signaling four quarter-point cuts next year. The Fed’s policy statement noted the committee’s “greater confidence that inflation is moving sustainably toward 2 percent.”

OCTOBER COFFEE CHAT WITH DAVID BRODSKY

Owning a home isn’t just about having a place to live—it’s about building a foundation for your future. See what else David has to say:

WATCH NOW

The post What’s really going on in the Austin, Texas real estate market? appeared first on Brodsky Properties.

Despite a dip in home sales caused by an unprecedented winter storm that shut down the entire Central Texas region in February, home sales statistics show that the market is still hot. According to the February Central Texas Real Estate report from the Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR), overall home sales were down from the year before throughout the five-county Austin-Round Rock Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) last month compared to the same time a year earlier. Despite the decline in the number of sales, the median home price hit an all-time high while Austin homes for sale reached an all-time low. 

“We’re seeing the continuation of an Austin real estate buying frenzy that’s been boosted by changes in the workplace caused by covid. Now workers have more flexibility in where they can choose to live,” said David Brodsky, former Fortune 500 CFO and broker/owner of the award-winning Austin real estate brokerage, David Brodsky Properties. “As a result, more people are looking at where they can experience the best lifestyle for the money. Austin is an ideal place to live due to the strength of the economy, the lifestyle options available and the relative affordability it offers. Since those factors aren’t going to change drastically in the near future, the continued unprecedented demand isn’t likely to slow down anytime soon.” 

The general consensus from economic and real estate experts supports Brodsky’s outlook. In a report that was issued with the real estate statistics, Susan Horton, 2021 ABoR president, pointed out the strength of the market despite the dip in sales. “Although the winter storms slowed activity in February, this does not indicate a market slowdown. We’re still very much in a sellers’ market,” Horton said. “Across the region, a high quantity of offers, cash offers, and requests to waive appraisals or option fees are increasingly commonplace.”

However, it’s likely that March home sales will perform similarly to the February numbers due to the slowdown caused by the February freeze and constrained inventory. In a report about the February housing statistics published by the Austin American-Statesman, Eldon Rude explains how the two factors could curb the number of closings in March. Rude is the principal of 360 Analytics, a real estate consulting firm. His observation points to a continued lack of inventory as the cause of skyrocketing home prices. 

“The February closings figures continue to reflect the pattern we have been seeing in the Austin housing market since last spring — an extreme imbalance of demand over supply translating into record low inventory levels for both new and resale homes,” said Rude. “The result has been rapidly increasing home prices in virtually all market sectors.”

Rising home prices aren’t keeping new residents and corporations from relocating to or expanding in the Austin area, though. Recently, announcements from corporate giants like Tesla, Oracle and Apple have made headlines and are likely to inspire other companies to look at Austin. The thousands of jobs that the three companies will bring to the area will attract workers from around the country who are seeking a new place to call home. The likelihood of continued record-breaking real estate growth makes the Austin real estate market a great place to buy a home. Buyers and sellers should heed the warnings of experts not to try to navigate the market alone, though. 

“Anyone interested in buying or selling a home in the next few months should start preparing now by determining what lending options are available to you, any financial or credit changes needed to boost your approval odds, and where you’re flexible in terms of home location and amenities,” explained Horton. “A REALTOR® can help connect you with a lender and set you up for success through this extremely competitive and increasingly complicated process.”

Austin-Round Rock Real Estate Report

• Home sales dollar volume jumped 15.9% to $1,207,218,785 across the five-county MSA
• Pending sales fell 15.5% to 2,573 in February
• New listings decreased to 24.8% to 2,565
• Active listings dropped to 74.1% to 1,310 listings
• Homes spent an average of 31 days on market

City of Austin 

• The median home price spiked 24.3% to $491,000 in February, an all-time high for any month on record for the city of Austin
• Residential sales decreased by 4.6% to 834 sales
• Sales dollar volume increased by 17.3% to $494,005,207
• New listings decreased by 26.5% to 806 listings
• Active listings dropped by 53.7% to 516 listings
• Pending sales decreased by 9.3% to 840 pending sales
• Monthly housing inventory decreased by 0.6 months year over year to 0.5 months of inventory

Travis County

• February residential sales decreased by 2.3% to 1,287 sales
• Sales dollar volume rose by 26.7% to $777,811,342
• The median price for residential homes increased 25.3% year over year to $470,000
• New listings decreased 28.1% to 1,271 listings
• Active listings plummeted 64.8% to 765 listings
• Pending sales decreased 17.8% to 1,276 pending sales
• Monthly housing inventory fell 0.8 months year over year to 0.5 months of inventory

Williamson County

• Residential sales decreased by 25% to 668 sales this February
• Sales dollar volume decreased 8.9% to $263,288,331
• The median price increased 25.9% to $364,950
• New listings fell 22.1% to 828 listings
• Active listings tumbled 83.9% to 271 listings
• Pending sales decreased 20.3% to 789 pending sales
• Housing inventory declined 1.3 months year over year to 0.3 months of inventory

Hays County

• Residential home sales steadily increased 9.8% to 313 sales
• Sales dollar volume increased 15.1% to $129,092,500
• The median price for homes increased 7.1% to $301,000
• New listings declined 16.7% to 339 listings
• Active listings fell 79.6% to 161 listings
• Pending sales decreased 6.6% to 354 pending sales
• Housing inventory decreased by 1.9 months to 0.4 months of inventory

Bastrop County

• Bastrop County home sales increased 28.8% to 103 sales in February
• Sales dollar volume rose 52.3% to $32,435,443
• The median price for residential homes increased by 12.2% to $274,946
• New listings declined 17% to 112 listings
• Active listings fell 75.2% to 82 listings
• Pending sales increased 33% to 129 pending sales
• Housing inventory decreased by 2.8 months to 0.7 months of inventory 

Caldwell County

• Caldwell County home sales decreased by 28% to 18 sales this February over last
• Sales dollar volume decreased 32.7% to $3,734,524
• The median home price decreased 3.4% year over year to $199,900
• New listings tumbled 60.5% to 15 listings
• Active listings dropped 65.6% to 31 listings
• Pending sales slightly increased 4.2% to 25 pending sales
• Housing inventory decreased 2.4 months to 1.1 months of inventory

Reach out to David Brodsky Properties for expert help with your Austin real estate needs. 

The post Austin Homes for Sale Decline in February Amid Fewer Sales appeared first on Brodsky Properties.

This year started off with a combination of fierce buyer competition and scarce housing inventory throughout the Austin-Round Rock Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA). In the latest housing report from the Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR), January sales statistics indicate that buyer competition is becoming increasingly fierce while inventory dips closer to zero. The combination of sky-high demand and near-zero inventory is creating an environment where homes are selling as soon as they hit the market and almost always for more than the asking price. 

“Central Texas is a popular place for people to move and the continued corporate relocations have created a kind of juggernaut in the Austin area,” said David Brodsky, broker/owner of David Brodsky Properties. “We’re not likely to see this trend come to an end anytime soon. The spring and summer selling seasons may become even more competitive as more people relocate and businesses increase activity.”

Current Austin real estate market dynamics have some wondering if the Central Texas region has entered into a housing bubble. Although prices are increasing at an almost alarming rate, overall market and economic conditions still don’t indicate a housing bubble. It would take a major economic or geo-political event to cause the Austin real estate market to significantly adjust, says Brodsky.

“Buyers are putting up some unbelievable offers to win the house they want in the Austin area. The offers that they’re making are generally leaning heavily on cash,” explained Brodsky. “So we don’t have a situation where buyers are going outside their financial capabilities to get into a home of their choice. Lending requirements are keeping that from happening. This also lowers the risk of homeowners suddenly being unable to pay their mortgage, which is one of the factors that exacerbated the recession of 2008,” he said. 

Austin-Round Rock Real Estate Statistics

• Pending sales jumped by 15.9% to 3,365 in January
• New listings declined by 11% last month from January 2020 to reach 2,878 new listings
• Active listings plummeted by 73.9% in January 2021 from January 2020 and landed at 1,369 active listings last month
• Sales dollar volume surged by 53% this January over last to reach $1,161,692362
• Housing inventory reached a record low after dipping 1.3 months this January from last January to reach 0.4 months of inventory
• Homes spent an average of 33 days on the market

City of Austin Real Estate Statistics

• Home sales increased by 23.8% in January 2021 from January 2020 to reach 811 sales, setting a record for January home sales in the City of Austin
• Total sales dollar volume ballooned by 58% this January over last, to reach $466,444,738
• The median sales price in the City of Austin reached $455,000 which represents a 19.7% increase over January 2020 and is a record high for the month
• New listings decreased by 7% to reach 956 listings this January 
• Active listings fell by 46.9% this January to 956 active listings
• Pending sales jumped by 14.8% to reach 1,066
• Housing inventory decreased by 0.6 months and hit 0.5 months of inventory this January

Travis County

• Home sales increased by 23.5% in this January over last to reach 1,292 sales
• Sales dollar volume spiked by 60% to reach $718,269,389 in January 2021
• The median price for a Travis County home increased by 22.2% year over year to reach $427,750 
• New listings fell 12.7% to reach 1,411 listings 
• Active listings dropped by 63.5% to 819 listings
• Pending sales jumped 10.1% to 1,576 pending sales
• Monthly housing inventory fell 0.9 months year over year to reach 0.5 months 

Williamson County

• Home increased 11.2% over last January to 763 home sales this January 
• Sales dollar volume jumped 28.7% to $272,029,213
• Median price increased by 16.4% to $322,750 
• New listings declined by 14.9% over January 2020 to 921 listings
• Active listings fell by a whopping 85.9% this January to reach 252 listings
• Pending sales increased 5.3% to 1,059 pending sales
• Housing inventory declined by 1.5 months year over year to reach 0.2 months

Hays County

• Home sales in Hays County jumped by 50% to 324 sales
• Sales dollar volume spiked by 78.2% to $128,186,266 
• Median price for a Hays County home increased by 18.1% to $301,250
• New listings decreased by 4% year over year to reach 360
• Active listings steeply fell by 80.8% to 156 listings
• Pending sales increased 40.4% compared to last January to reach 483 pending sales
• Housing inventory decreased by 2 months to 0.4 months

Bastrop County

• Home sales climbed 66.7% to 115 sales 
• Sales dollar volume increased by 81% to reach $34,195,517
• Median price increased 10% to reach $265,000
• New listings increased by 29% to 160 listings
• Active listings declined by 70.7% to 93 listings
• Pending sales skyrocketed 151.7% to reach 22.4 pending sales
• Monthly housing inventory decreased by 2.6 months to 0.8 months

Caldwell County

• Home sales increased by 45% over last January to reach 29 home sales
• Sales dollar volume increased by 45.7% to $8,217,616
• The median home price increased 10.6% year over year to $257,450
• New listings fell by 29.7% to 26 listings
• Active listings dropped 44.9% to 49 listings
• Pending sales declined by 28.1% last month over January 2020 to 23 pending sales
• Housing inventory decreased by 1.9 months to 1.6 months

Contact David Brodsky Properties for more insight into Austin area real estate. Our Austin real estate strategists can lend expert guidance to help you to navigate this challenging and unique market.

The post Austin Area Housing Inventory Dips Lower This January appeared first on Brodsky Properties.

During a year that’s become one of the most vilified in history, Austin real estate saw strong growth despite unprecedented challenges. The latest real estate market report shows that home sales in December 2020 set an all-time record for the month. Sales dollar volume spiked and inventory has reached near zero months. The median sales price for residential real estate reached an all-time high as well, as buyers put up fierce competition over scarce inventory. 

“Austin real estate demand is still reaching historic highs,” says David Brodsky, broker/owner of the eponymous Austin real estate brokerage. “We’re likely to see this demand continue, and perhaps even grow, through the summer.”

Brodsky also urges homebuyers to take action if they are considering listing their home. But don’t risk navigating this uniquely challenging market without a trusted expert. “Home sales are extremely competitive right now and I only see it becoming more challenging as we move closer to summer,” Brodsky says.

“Many homes are getting multiple offers within a day or less of being on the market. Sellers who are not working with a licensed agent will be tasked with negotiating their offers while taking on as little liability as possible. Working with a knowledgeable, experienced agent will help empower sellers to manage multiple offer situations and provide invaluable consultation in these extremely complex and unorthodox market conditions.”  

December sales numbers demonstrate how competitive the market has become. In December, a record-breaking 3,626 homes were sold throughout the Austin-Round Rock Metropolitan Statistical Area. That month, home sales came to a total of  $1,784,023,513 in volume across the Austin area.

“I can only imagine what the spring and summer selling seasons will bring for Austin real estate sales,” Brodsky said. “December has historically been one the slowest months for home sales as a result of the holidays and winter weather. But last December showed us that the Austin real estate market is not conforming to norms right now.”   

December 2020 Real Estate Statistics

Austin-Round Rock MSA 

• Residential home sales across the five-county MSA jumped 16.2% year over year to 3,626 sales, setting an all-time monthly record for December
• The median price increased by 15.8% to 370,000 an all-time record for the metro
• Sales dollar volume in December also increased 41.1% to $1,784,023,513
• Pending sales increased 40.8% to 3,114
• Housing inventory declined 1.1 months to a record-low 0.6 months of inventory for the MSA
• Homes spent an average of 36 days on market, 25 fewer than December 2019

City of Austin

• The median sales price in Austin rose 18.7% to $461,000, an all-time record for the month
• Residential sales increased 16.4% to 1,191 sales, also a record for the month of December
• Sales dollar volume jumped 43.1% to $711,984,698
• New listings jumped 31.3% to 755 listings
• Active listings decreased 33.6% to 753 listings
• Pending sales jumped 31.1% to 928 pending sales
• Monthly housing inventory decreased 0.4 months year over year to 0.7 months of inventory

Travis County

• Residential home sales increased 18.1% to 1,885
• Sales dollar volume spiked 46.5% to $1,137,805,715
• The median price rose 20.2% year over year to $435,000
• New listings jumped 29.5% to 1,216 listings
• Active listings dropped 54.9% to 1,038 listings
• Pending sales increased 38.6% to 1,537 pending sales
• Monthly housing inventory fell 0.8 months year over year to 0.6 months of inventory

Williamson County

• Residential sales in Williamson County increased 4.1% to 1,152 sales 
• Sales dollar volume jumped 20.4% to $424,133,483
• The median price increased 14.3% to $326,650
• New listings jumped 15.6% to 784 listings
• Active listings tumbled 77.8% to 405 listings
• Pending sales increased 24.9% to 987 pending sales
• Housing inventory declined 1.4 months year over year to 0.4 months of inventory, which is the lowest inventory in the MSA

Hays County

• Residential home sales in Hays County increased 35.6% to 423 sales
• Sales dollar volume spiked 60% to $170,517,335
• The median price for homes increased 17.5% to $314,900
• New listings increased 11.6% to 279 listings
• Active listings dropped 64.8% to 297 listings
• Pending sales soared 73.5% to 399 pending sales
• Housing inventory decreased by 1.8 months to 0.7 months 

Bastrop County

• Home sales climbed 57.5% to 137 sales
• Sales dollar volume soared 72.4% to $42,432,735
• The median price for residential homes increased 13.5% to $269,000
• New listings jumped 58.1% to 117 listings
• Active listings dropped 44.9% to 163 listings
• Pending sales skyrocketed 126.9% to 152 pending sales
• Housing inventory decreased by 1.8 months to 1.4 months of inventory

Caldwell County

• Home sales increased 61.1% to 29 sales
• Sales dollar volume increased 58.3% to $7,325,243
• The median home price increased 3.8% year over year to $212,850
• New listings climbed 47.1% to 25 listings
• Active listings dropped 45.7% to 51 listings
• Pending sales soared 160% to 39 pending sales
• Housing inventory decreased 2.0 months to 1.8 months of inventory

2020 Annual Real Estate Statistics

Austin-Round Rock MSA

• In 2020, the median sales price in the Austin-Round Rock MSA rose 9.2% to $344,000
• New listings decreased 0.4% to 43,816 listings
• Active listings declined 34.2% to 4,556 listings
• Pending sales jumped 13.1% to 42,371 pending sales 

City of Austin

• Residential home sales hit an all-time high in Austin and increased 1.7% to 12,745 sales
• Sales dollar volume jumped 16.3% to $6,746,602,345
• The median sales price for residential homes rose 12% year over year to 420,000 this past year, another all-time record
• New listings slightly increased 1.1% to 14,735 listings 
• Active listings dropped 23.8% to 1,332 listings
• Pending sales increased 3.8% to 13,062 pending sales

Travis County

• Residential home sales increased 4.3% to 20,081 sales
• Sales dollar volume rose 19% to $10,663,700,312
• The median price increased 12% year over year to $405,000
• New listings declined 1% to 22,744 listings
• Active listings dropped 32.6% to 2,226 listings
• Pending sales increased 8.1% to 20,986 pending sales

Williamson County

• Home sales increased 9.1% to 13,523 sales
• Sales dollar volume rose 17.7% to $4,603,742,735
• The median price for homes increased 7.7% to $307,000
• New listings dropped 2.9% to 13,794
• Active listings fell 41.4% to 1,322 listings in 2020
• Pending sales increased 12.6% to 14,158 pending sales

Hays County

• Home sales increased 21.9% to 4,864 sales
• Sales dollar volume rose 36.8% to $1,833,669,611
• The median price for homes increased 10.9% to $295,000
• New listings increased 6.6% to 5,220 listings last year
• Active listings fell 30.3% to 657 listings compared to 2019
• Pending sales increased 31.7% to 5,330 pending sales

Bastrop County

• Residential home sales increased 20.8% to 1,350 sales
• Sales dollar volume rose 35.1% to $395,575,892
• The median price for homes increased 10% to $263,000 
• New listings increased 9.3% to 1,654 listings
• Active listings fell 15.3% to 272 listings
• Pending sales jumped 34.6% to 1,524

Caldwell County

• Residential home sales increased 15.7% to 347 sales
• Last year, the median residential home sales price increased 7.1% year over year to $212,500 
• Sales dollar volume jumped 23.9% to $82,877,777
• New listings slightly dropped 1.9% to 404 listings
• Active listings decreased 20.4% to 78 listings
• Pending sales jumped 24.3% to 373 pending sales in 2020

Reach out to David Brodsky Properties for insight into community home sales performance and prices. We’re here to help you develop and execute your successful real estate strategy for 2021.

The post Austin Real Estate Set Records in 2020 appeared first on Brodsky Properties.

Willow Run Homes for sale are hidden in the North Austin area and offer midsized homes that are close to downtown and offer easy access to the growing communities of Round Rock and Georgetown. The community neighbors Wells Branch and is in close proximity to major highways. The community was started in the ‘90s and offers some homes built in the 2000s. 

Willow Run Homes for Sale

Homes in the Willow Run neighborhood range in size from about 14,50 sq. ft. to about 2,900 sq. ft. The floorplans typically offer 3 to 4 bedrooms and 2 to 3 bathrooms. Inside, the homes usually feature open floorplans and modest finishes, although some homes will showcase more modern upgrades. In the community, you can also find many homes completed with stone and masonry. Sometimes you can find small front porches and back patios. 

Willow Run Community Amenities

The Willow Run community offers great amenities for residents. The community pool offers a great way to cool off during the hot Texas summer. There is also tennis at the community tennis courts for those who enjoy the active sport. 

Schools for the Community

Public schools servicing the community include Wells Branch Elementary School, Chisholm Trail Middle School and Mcneil High School. 

For more information about Willow Run homes for sale, reach out to David Brodsky Properties.

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Northwest of Austin lies the new-home community called Carneros Ranch in the burgeoning city of Leander. The development was designed to offer a relaxing place for residents to call home. It features resort-like amenities and multiple nearby parks outside of Austin. Homeowners enjoy state-of-the-art home design that includes floorplans suitable for multi-generational living.   

Homes for Sale in Carneros Ranch in Leander

Homes in Carneros Ranch range in size and style, so there’s something for just about any homebuyer. Homes typically feature gourmet kitchens, game rooms and outdoor living areas. Multi-generational homes offer private suites with separate entrances to provide some separation from the rest of the home. Due to the range of sizes and styles of homes available in the community, there’s a home for just about any buyer in any price range. 

Carneros Ranch Amenities

The community features luxurious amenities within the neighborhood that homeowners have access to. They include: 

• A Junior Olympic-sized swimming pool with children’s splash pool
• Children’s playground and open-air pavilion
• Community meeting/party room
• Easy access to hiking, fishing, camping, and boating

For more outdoor amenities, residents can take advantage of a variety of nearby outdoor activities. With just a short drive, residents have access to swimming, camping, boating and zip-lining at nearby Lake Travis. The nearby parks include Sandy Creek, Gary Park, Devine Lake, Tumlinson, and more. There’s additional boating at the 45-acre Devine Lake Park. Benbrook Ranch offers amenities such as disc golf, softball and soccer fields, playscapes and trails. 

Community Schools

Schools that service the community include: 

• Bagdad Elementary School
• Leander Middle School
• Tom Glenn High School
• Sterling Classical School (Kindergarten – 12th Grade Private School)

Contact David Brodsky Properties for more information about Carneros Ranch.

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