In today’s North Texas market, we’re seeing an interesting trend: nearly 45% of US home sales in the rolling three months ending mid-Q3 involved sellers offering concessions—things like repair credits, help with closing costs, or even mortgage-rate buydowns. That’s the highest mid-Q3 share we’ve seen since at least 2020, and it’s up from about 43% one year ago. For buyers, this shift means more flexibility and opportunities to lower the total cost of purchasing a home, beyond simply negotiating the price. Sellers are getting creative—pairing price reductions with concessions in about 16% of homes sold nationally during this period—reshaping the negotiation process and making deals more accessible for families looking to make a move. At Lavin Group Realty, our local expertise and strong negotiation skills help you navigate these evolving options, whether you’re buying or selling throughout Dallas–Fort Worth and North Texas.
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Inheriting a House With a Reverse Mortgage: How to Handle It
Navigating the inheritance of a home with a reverse mortgage can feel overwhelming, especially during an already emotional time. If a loved one passes away and there’s a reverse mortgage on the property, the loan will need to be repaid or the home surrendered. In some cases, a co-borrower or qualifying nonborrowing spouse may remain in the home, provided they meet all necessary conditions and keep up with taxes and insurance. At Lavin Group Realty, I’ve seen how important it is for families to have clear, honest information when faced with these decisions. If you’re dealing with an inherited property in Dallas–Fort Worth or North Texas, it’s worth understanding your options to make the best choice for your family’s future.
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The Best Time to Buy a Home in 2026
As your trusted guide in Dallas–Fort Worth real estate, I always keep an eye on national trends that impact our local market. According to recent projections, buyers looking ahead to 2026 may find their best opportunities between September 27 and October 3. During this window, active listings are expected to be 31.9% higher than the year's start and 13.3% above the average week, offering more choices for buyers everywhere—including right here in North Texas. Listing prices during this period are projected to be 3.5% below their seasonal peak, which could mean around $14,000 in savings on a median-priced home of $416,000. With competition decreasing by 30.1% from the annual high and homes likely to stay on the market for about 64 days, buyers will have more time and less pressure when making decisions. Historically, early fall expands your options, while later fall may bring even more price flexibility. Whether you're searching for your family's next home, planning a move, or considering an investment, staying informed helps you make confident, well-timed decisions in the North Texas real estate market.
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What Buyers and Sellers Should Expect to Pay at Closing
Navigating closing costs is a key part of every real estate transaction, whether you’re buying or selling in Dallas–Fort Worth or anywhere in North Texas. At the closing table, buyers and sellers each have their own set of expenses—think commissions, title insurance, taxes, fees, inspections, and prepaid items. Some of these costs, like taxes, are set, while others can be negotiated to suit your situation. Our approach at Lavin Group Realty is to offer clear, honest guidance so you know exactly what to expect and can plan with confidence. With our local market expertise and hands-on support, we help you make informed decisions from start to finish—ensuring you’re prepared for every step, including closing day.
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Why Exterior Upgrades are a Smart Investment for Homeowners
In North Texas real estate, first impressions really do matter—especially when it comes to your home’s exterior. Investing in upgrades like a fresh garage door, stone veneer, a new front door, updated siding, or expanded outdoor living spaces doesn’t just elevate curb appeal; it can also boost energy efficiency, security, and overall market value. In fact, these improvements often deliver returns on investment that can exceed 200%. At Lavin Group Realty, we’ve seen how the right exterior enhancements help homeowners stand out in the Dallas–Fort Worth market, attract more buyers, and maximize their property’s value. Whether you’re preparing to sell or simply want to enjoy your home more, thoughtful exterior updates are one of the smartest moves a homeowner can make.
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Justin Buyers Have Leverage—But Good Homes Still Move
Justin’s housing market is tilting toward buyers, though the shift is measured rather than dramatic. With 6.2 months of supply and homes spending an average of 81 days on market, buyers have more time to compare properties, complete due diligence, and negotiate price or terms. Homes are selling for about 97.8% of their list price, suggesting room for thoughtful offers without assuming every seller will make major concessions. Meanwhile, inventory is down 11.4% year over year, which means well-priced, well-presented homes can still attract attention and move successfully. Buyers should negotiate strategically, while sellers should prioritize accurate pricing and strong preparation.
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September 12th Market
Looking for something special to do with the family? The Justin Farmers Market on September 12th is a wonderful way to connect with the community and support local growers and small businesses. From fresh produce and delicious baked goods to unique handmade finds, there’s something for everyone. As someone passionate about our North Texas neighborhoods—whether it’s helping clients discover their perfect home or sharing what makes our area shine—I love seeing events like this bring us together. Mark your calendars and enjoy a taste of what makes our community so vibrant!
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Here’s how much apartment space $1,500 gets renters in Fort Worth
Curious about how far your rental dollar stretches in Fort Worth? For $1,500 a month, renters here can expect around 913 square feet—placing Fort Worth 15th among Texas cities for space at this price point. Compare that to Mesquite, where nearly 1,000 square feet is possible, or Denton at 862 square feet. Across Dallas-Fort Worth, the range spans from 927 to 798 square feet, while McAllen tops the list with 1,378 square feet. With over 14 years of experience helping clients navigate North Texas real estate—from luxury homes to land and custom builds—I keep a close eye on local trends like these. Understanding the value behind the numbers is key to making the right move in our competitive market.
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