2024 Sees 21.4% Fewer Sales Between January and September

September 23, 2024 : The Austin real estate market has seen a noticeable slowdown in 2024. From January to September, the number of properties sold in the Austin Area per 100,000 population dropped by 21.4%. This decline marks a significant change in a region that has been known for its booming real estate activity. The latest data indicates that the real estate market in Austin is cooling, reflecting broader market trends that may affect both buyers and sellers.

Between the beginning of the year and September, cumulative sold properties per 100,000 population have decreased compared to the same period in previous years. The dip in sales activity, particularly this 21.4% decline, has brought sales volume below the historical average. While some months showed signs of slight improvement, the overall downward trend has been clear. For instance, certain months experienced minor upticks in property sales, with gains of 2.4% or more. However, these gains were insufficient to offset the overall decrease.

Historical trends in Austin show that the city has experienced fluctuating real estate activity over the past two decades. In years of robust economic growth and lower interest rates, the market saw significant increases in sales density. However, 2024 presents a different picture. Buyers seem more hesitant, likely impacted by increased mortgage rates and concerns about affordability. Even though there have been occasional periods of market stabilization, the cumulative figures for 2024 reflect a consistent cooling trend.

The 21.4% decrease is significant when considering the historical context. Over the past few years, Austin’s real estate market has been a hotspot for growth, with strong demand from buyers locally and from out of state. This year’s slowdown indicates that fewer properties are being sold, which could be attributed to changing economic conditions or potential shifts in buyer behavior. At the same time, the broader national market has seen similar slowdowns, reinforcing the idea that the real estate sector is entering a more cautious phase.

While the cumulative decline from January to September is notable, there are still moments of optimism. Certain periods experienced growth, with sales density increasing by over 12% during specific months. These spikes suggest that while the overall trend is downward, there are pockets of activity that show buyers are still engaging with the market. However, these short-term gains are not enough to reverse the broader 21.4% drop seen over the entire nine-month period.

The long-term outlook for Austin's real estate market will depend on various factors, including interest rates, buyer sentiment, and affordability. While the 2024 slowdown presents challenges, the historical resilience of Austin’s market suggests that future growth is still possible once current economic pressures ease. For now, though, the data points to a market that is operating below its typical performance levels, and both buyers and sellers will need to adjust their strategies accordingly.