Annual Home Sales Surge 20% in Austin with Inventory 52% Above Norms
Z•Annual home sales climbed 20% in Austin where inventory is 52% above pre-pandemic averages, and six of the top-10 growth metros show similar restocking. Nationwide active listings rose 3.7% in April but remain 18.7% below historic norms.
1. Sales Growth in Restocked Markets
Markets with replenished supply in the South and West are leading annual sales growth, with Austin at the forefront, posting a 20% increase year over year. Six of the top 10 metros for sales growth have inventory levels exceeding pre-pandemic norms, highlighting a shift in buyer options.
2. Inventory Recovery and Regional Trends
Inventory has fully recovered in 19 of the 50 largest U.S. metros, predominantly in the South and West. This replenishment follows years of low supply and is correlated with stronger sales growth in those regions.
3. Mortgage Affordability Improvements
The typical monthly mortgage payment nationally is 3.4% lower than April 2025, easing buyer budgets. Major metro declines include a 9.8% drop in Austin, 7.4% in Dallas and 7.0% in Denver, boosting affordability where supply has increased.
4. National Listings and Sales Overview
Active listings rose 3.7% in April compared to last year, yet overall inventory remains 18.7% below historical norms. Meanwhile, nationwide home sales ticked up 2.3% year over year, showing modest recovery despite persistent supply constraints.
