San Antonio Home Sales Slowed in January 2026 — Here's What 98 Days on Market Really Means for You

The San Antonio Board of Realtors released its January 2026 market report, and the numbers tell a clear story: buyers are in a stronger position right now than they have been in years. If you have been waiting for the right moment to make your move, this data is worth understanding.

In January 2026, 1,974 homes sold across the San Antonio area, a drop of about 10 percent compared to January 2025. The average sale price came in at $362,130, up 3 percent year over year, while the median sale price was $292,999, down 1 percent from the same time last year. There were 5.49 months of inventory available, and homes averaged 98 days on market before going under contract.

Let's break down what those numbers actually mean for you.

Ninety-eight days is a long time. In a hot seller's market, homes in popular areas like Helotes, Schertz, New Braunfels, and Stone Oak were routinely going under contract in a matter of days. Sellers set the terms, buyers waived inspections, and offers came in above asking price. That environment has shifted considerably. Nearly three months on market means sellers are waiting, which means buyers have time to think, compare, negotiate, and ask for things they could not ask for before — like closing cost contributions, repairs, and rate buydowns.

The 5.49 months of inventory figure reinforces this. A balanced market is generally considered to be around six months of supply. San Antonio is sitting just below that threshold, which means conditions are close to balanced but still leaning slightly in favor of buyers. Communities across Bexar County and the surrounding region — from Boerne and Converse to Cibolo and Floresville — are all experiencing this same general trend of more homes available and fewer buyers competing for each one.

For buyers, this is the environment to get serious. The median price of $292,999 is still within reach for many households, particularly first-time buyers who may be eyeing neighborhoods like Lackland Terrace on the west side, Converse near JBSA-Randolph, or established subdivisions in the 78245 and 78253 ZIP codes on the far west side of San Antonio. These areas have historically offered more affordable entry points, and with sellers more motivated than they were two years ago, there may be real room to negotiate.

Families with children will want to keep school districts in mind as they shop. The Northside Independent School District, Northeast ISD, Judson ISD, and Comal ISD all serve large portions of the metro area and can influence both home values and long-term resale potential. Buying within a well-regarded district remains a sound strategy regardless of market conditions.

For sellers, the data calls for honest pricing from day one. With homes averaging 98 days on market, an overpriced listing risks sitting for months, accumulating days on market that make buyers wonder what is wrong with the property. Sellers who price accurately, present their homes well, and stay flexible on terms are still closing deals. The 1,974 homes that sold in January are proof of that. The market has not stopped — it has simply slowed and rebalanced.

If you own a home and have no plans to sell, the modest 3 percent increase in average prices suggests your equity is still growing, just at a slower pace than the sharp appreciation seen in prior years. That kind of steady, measured growth is actually healthier for long-term stability in the local market.

Renters also have a decision to consider. With average rent at $1,773 and 5,127 active rental listings across the metro, the rental market is offering decent selection. However, a median purchase price under $293,000 means that for some renters, the monthly math of owning versus renting may be closer than expected — especially as sellers become more willing to help with closing costs or buy down a buyer's interest rate.

February is still early in the spring buying season, and activity typically picks up as the weather warms and families begin planning moves before the school year ends. If you are considering buying, getting pre-approved now and working with a knowledgeable local agent puts you in position to move quickly when the right home appears — before competition increases again in the coming months.

The San Antonio market in early 2026 rewards preparation and patience. Buyers who do their homework, understand the numbers, and work with experienced professionals are finding real opportunities right now.