First-Time Homebuyers in Texas Remain Near an All-Time Low

April 09, 2026 - Austin

First time buyers accounted for 21% of all homebuyers in Texas in 2025, near the all-time low of 20% recorded the previous year, according to the 2026 Texas Homebuyers and Sellers Report released today by Texas REALTORS®.

Homebuyers in Texas once again had a median age of 58, tied with the all-time high set in 2024 and very close to the U.S. all-time high of 59. Nationally, the median age of all buyers has gone from 31 in 1981 to 59 in 2025.

"Today's first-time buyers were not in the housing market during the pandemic years of low mortgage rates and quick home value increases, which may leave some of them feeling a step behind," said Jennifer Wauhob, Chairman of Texas REALTORS®. "Meanwhile, homeowners who built up some equity may be able to sell and make a substantial downpayment on another home."

Cash sales reached a record high

The share of homes bought with all cash in 2025 was 30%, more than double the 14% of homes purchased without financing in 2017.

Most sellers reduced prices multiple times last year

Nearly three-quarters (74%) of sellers reduced their asking price two or more times before the sale, an increase of 53 percentage points from the previous year. An additional 18% reduced the price once.

"Nationally, the length of time sellers have stayed in their homes before selling is at an all-time high of 11 years, but listings have increased dramatically in the recent past. Expectations can be out of date on both sides of the deal, so often there's a sorting-out process," Wauhob said. "In this-or any-market, the support of a Texas REALTOR® can make all the difference in guiding buyers and sellers to a satisfying sale."

Satisfaction with REALTORS® and with the buying and selling process was high

Texas homebuyers and sellers overwhelmingly reported satisfaction with the buying and selling process, with 91% of sellers and 93% of buyers saying they were satisfied. They also generally reviewed their individual agents highly. Among homesellers, 87% would definitely or probably use the same agent again. The rates were even higher for buyers, 90% of whom would definitely or probably use the same agent again.