How to Sell House in 2025
Selling a house in Texas isn’t just a transaction; it’s a full-on rodeo.
Between navigating the paperwork, pricing like a pro, and avoiding buyer buckaroos who think they’re the next Chip Gaines, you’ve got your hands full.
But don’t worry, partner!
We’ll lasso this process and guide you through every twist, turn, and tumbleweed.
Prep Like a Texan BBQ Pitmaster
Every great BBQ and house sale starts with preparation.
Your home needs to be as inviting as brisket on a Sunday afternoon.
- Curb Appeal Matters: First impressions are everything. Trim the bushes, mow the lawn, and maybe add a few pops of Texas-friendly flowers (bluebonnets, anyone?).
- Declutter: No one’s buying your house for your collection of cowboy boots. Pack away personal items so buyers can imagine their own Lone Star dreams.
- Fix What’s Broken: Whether it’s a squeaky door or that mysterious dripping faucet, now’s the time to get it done. A small investment can prevent buyers from galloping away.
Decide Your Strategy: Wrangler or Lone Wolf?
In Texas, you can sell your house with the help of a realtor or go full maverick and sell it yourself (FSBO – For Sale By Owner).
Hire a Realtor
- Expertise: They handle the heavy lifting: marketing, showings, and negotiating.
- Market Knowledge: Texas realtors know the market and can help you avoid rookie mistakes.
- Commissions: But beware: commissions are steep, often 5-6% of the sale price.
Sell FSBO
- Savings: Save on commissions but saddle up for more work: pricing, paperwork, and marketing are all on you.
- Tools: Platforms like Houzeo and Redy can list your home on MLS for a flat fee, helping you reach a wider audience.
Price It Right, Not Texas Tall
Overpricing your home is like serving BBQ with no seasoning—it’s a mistake.
Use comps (comparative market analysis) to determine a competitive price.
- Pro Tip: Texas buyers are savvy. Price slightly below market value to spark bidding wars, especially in slower markets.
- Tools: Free online tools or a professional appraisal can help fine-tune your price.
Market Like a Maverick
Whether you’re selling a sleek Austin condo or a sprawling Dallas ranch, your listing needs to shine.
- Photos Matter: High-quality photos and videos are the Texas-sized difference between a listing that sells and one that lingers.
- Craft a Story: Highlight unique features like “sunset views perfect for margaritas” or “a backyard made for BBQs.”
- Go Digital: List your property on MLS, Zillow, and social media. Platforms like Facebook Marketplace are great for reaching local buyers.
Showtime: The Grand Tour
Host showings or open houses to give buyers the full experience.
- Pro Tips:
- Keep your home clean and clutter-free.
- Remove personal items to help buyers visualize the space as their own.
- Offer details about the neighborhood—buyers love hearing about the best taco joint or the nearest H-E-B.
Fielding Offers: Don’t Be Coy, Cowboy
Review offers carefully. The highest bid isn’t always the best. Look for contingencies, financing terms, and buyer flexibility.
- Negotiations are Key: Be ready to counteroffer. Texans appreciate a good deal, but don’t sell yourself short.
Closing: Wrapping Up the Deal
Texas closings involve a heap of paperwork. Here’s what to expect:
- Disclosure Obligations: Be transparent about known defects. It’s required by Texas law.
- Title Work: Ensure clear title ownership to avoid delays.
- Final Walkthrough: Ensure repairs are complete and your home is move-in ready.
Going As-Is: The No-Frills Option
Selling “as-is” can save time but might reduce offers.
Even in an as-is sale, Texas law mandates full disclosure of known issues.
Current Market Insights
To give you a better understanding of the current Texas real estate market, here are some key statistics:
- Average Time to Sell: As of June 2024, the average number of days on the market (DOM) in Texas was 59 days, slightly higher than the national average of 53 days.
- Best Time to Sell: Late spring and early summer are optimal for selling. Homes sold in June tend to fetch higher prices, with an average of $324,297, which is $18,563 more than the annual average.
- Market Trends: The Texas housing market has seen fluctuations, with a 7.1% decrease in home sales in March compared to the previous month. However, cumulative sales for the first three months are on par with last year’s figures.
Wrapping Up: It’s Bigger in Texas
Selling your house in Texas can feel like herding cattle during a thunderstorm—chaotic but ultimately rewarding.
With preparation, strategy, and a little Lone Star flair, you can turn your home sale into a smooth and profitable process.
