San Antonio’s Real Estate Shift: What a Buyer’s Market Means for You

The days of frantic bidding wars and homes flying off the market in a blink of an eye are largely behind us in San Antonio. As of mid-2025, the Alamo City’s real estate landscape has notably shifted, evolving from a red-hot seller’s market to a San Antonio buyer’s market, one that increasingly favors buyers. This transition brings both opportunities and new considerations for anyone looking to buy or sell a home in San Antonio. The San Antonio buyer’s market offers various advantages to potential homebuyers.

For Buyers: Your Time to Shine

If you’ve been on the sidelines, waiting for a less competitive environment, now might be your moment. San Antonio is becoming a more accommodating market for homebuyers, with several key advantages during this San Antonio buyer’s market:

• Increased Inventory Means More Choices: One of the most significant changes is the surge in active listings within the San Antonio buyer’s market. You’ll find more homes on the market now than in recent years, providing a wider array of options to fit your preferences, budget, and lifestyle. This takes the pressure off making a rushed decision.
• Homes Are Staying on the Market Longer: Forget the “act now or lose out” mentality. The average days on market (DOM) for homes in San Antonio has extended, hovering between 52 and 87 days depending on the specific neighborhood and price point. This gives you ample time to tour properties, conduct thorough inspections, and weigh your options without feeling pressured.
• Enhanced Negotiating Power: This is perhaps the biggest win for buyers. With more supply and less intense competition, sellers are becoming more open to negotiation. Data indicates that a significant percentage of homes are now selling below their asking price. You have a stronger position to negotiate on price, closing costs, repairs, or even explore seller concessions like rate buydowns.
• New Construction Opportunities Abound: San Antonio is experiencing a robust new construction boom, particularly in areas like Alamo Ranch and Far West San Antonio. Builders are adding to the overall housing supply, and many are offering incentives to attract buyers, especially in the desirable $250,000-$350,000 range. If a brand-new home with modern amenities is on your radar, now is an excellent time to explore these options.
• Relative Affordability: While mortgage rates remain elevated (typically between 6.5% and 7%), San Antonio continues to be one of the most affordable major metropolitan areas in Texas for homeownership. This makes it an attractive option for those looking to stretch their housing budget further compared to other major cities.

Buyer’s Action Plan:

• Get Pre-Approved: This remains crucial to understand your buying power and show sellers you’re serious.
• Be Patient and Thorough: Take your time to find the right home, and don’t skip essential steps like inspections.
• Don’t Be Afraid to Negotiate: Your agent is your strongest asset in this market. Leverage their expertise to make competitive offers.
• Explore All Options: Consider both existing homes and new construction, as each offers unique benefits in the current climate.

For Sellers: Adjusting Your Strategy

While the market favors buyers, selling your home in San Antonio is certainly still possible – it just requires a more strategic approach than in previous years.

• Expect Increased Competition: With more homes available, your property will be competing with a larger pool of listings. This means first impressions and effective marketing are more critical than ever.
• Pricing is Paramount: Overpricing your home in a buyer’s market is a common pitfall that can lead to it sitting on the market for too long. Be realistic about your home’s value based on recent comparable sales and be prepared to price competitively from the outset. Some market predictions suggest a slight dip in overall prices by mid-2025, emphasizing the need for a smart pricing strategy.
• Presentation Matters More Than Ever: To stand out, your home needs to look its absolute best. Invest in professional staging, high-quality photography, and address any obvious repairs or deferred maintenance. Highlight key features like energy efficiency, recent upgrades, or proximity to desirable amenities. “Turnkey” homes are especially appealing to buyers.
• Be Prepared to Negotiate: Buyers have more leverage, so expect offers that may be below your asking price. Being flexible and open to negotiation on price, closing costs, or contingencies can be the difference between a quick sale and a prolonged listing.
• Time Your Sale Wisely (When Possible): Traditionally, spring and summer tend to be more active for real estate. While the market has normalized, strategic timing can still help you capture more buyer attention. However, don’t delay if you need to sell, as new construction continues to add to the overall supply.

Seller’s Action Plan:

• Work with an Experienced Agent: A local real estate professional can provide an accurate market analysis and advise on the best pricing strategy.
• Prepare Your Home Meticulously: First impressions are everything. Declutter, depersonalize, and make any necessary repairs.
• Price It Right from Day One: Avoid the temptation to test the market with an inflated price.
• Be Open to Offers and Negotiations: Flexibility will help you achieve a successful sale.
• Highlight Unique Selling Points: Emphasize what makes your home special and desirable to potential buyers.

The Bottom Line: A More Balanced Market

San Antonio’s real estate market in mid-2025 signifies a healthy return to balance. While sellers may need to adjust their expectations from the peak of recent years, opportunities still abound for both buyers and sellers who understand the current dynamics and adapt their strategies accordingly. Whether you’re looking to find your dream home or make a successful sale, having a clear understanding of these market shifts within the San Antonio buyer’s market, coupled with expert guidance, will be your greatest asset.