MARKET INSIGHTS - Feb. 2026

Beat the Spring Rush

When it comes to selling a home, timing is part of the strategy. Listing your property now, instead of waiting for the Spring can offer distinct advantages that many sellers overlook. From reduced competition to more motivated buyers, getting ahead of the market can put you in a stronger negotiating position and help you achieve the best possible result.

Buyer’s Market

All signs point to a shift toward a buyer’s market. With more inventory available, buyers now have more options and more negotiating power. Many buyers have been sidelined by high home prices and mortgage rates, but those who are able to move forward are benefiting from increased choice and stronger leverage.

Contracts Falling Out at the Highest Rate on Record

High housing costs and rising inventory have made homebuyers more selective. In a Buyer’s Market, buyers have options and may negotiate or walk away if they believe they can find a better or more affordable home. In December 2025, 17.3% pending sales fell out of contract in Houston, TX.

New FEMA Flood Maps are out

After years of delays, FEMA has finally posted a draft of new flood maps created to predict where flooding is most likely to happen during major storms. These maps show the new 100-year floodplain expanding significantly in Harris County. This is only the first step of a lengthy process. Expect many homes to require to have flood insurance. New maps may also affect building codes and future development.

FEMA releases draft flood maps for Harris County after years of delays. Here’s what happens next.

Private Per Seller vs. Exclusive Listing

In today’s real estate conversation, the word private listing or exclusive listing is being used loosely, and sometimes conveniently. It’s important to separate two very different ideas: seller-directed privacy withing HAR MLS and “in-company only” listing strategies promoted by certain national brokerages. These approaches are not the same. And the difference matters, especially to sellers who care about value, fairness, and certainty.

Check out the new Harris County flood maps. Your home may now be on the new 100-yr or 500-yr flood plains.
-Bill

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• FEMA Flood maps (1)
• Houston market (1)
• buyers market (1)