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Dallas Housing Market Update for Homebuyers
Dallas remains a primary driver of the Texas economy, supported by a continuous influx of corporate headquarters and a diverse professional landscape. For those monitoring the real estate market in 2026, a fundamental question persists: Is now a good time to purchase a home in Dallas?
Current market research confirms, based on the significantly increased inventory and more manageable pace, that 2026 is a good year for buyers in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. The market has moved into a phase of rebalancing, characterized by a notable shift in leverage toward the buyer.
According to national real estate data, Dallas currently shows one of the largest imbalances of sellers to buyers in the country. This environment has effectively replaced the urgency of previous years with a more structured and negotiable purchasing process.
To better understand the current conditions, here are 4 key facts shaping the Dallas housing market in 2026.
1. Inventory Growth Offers Unprecedented Choice
As of January 2026, the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex has approximately 25,211 active residential listings. This represents a significant year-over-year increase, providing a level of supply that hasn't been seen in the region for several years. For buyers, this means the ability to be highly selective, whether you are targeting a new home outside of Fort Worth or in north Dallas. This expanded inventory is a primary factor in the transition toward a buyer’s market.
2. Home Prices are Stabilizing After Historic Peaks
The median home price in Dallas has adjusted to approximately $420,000 as of January 2026. While the region saw rapid appreciation during the early 2020s, the market is currently experiencing a period of price correction and stabilization.
Reports from HAR.com indicate that median prices in some segments of the Dallas market have decreased by nearly 7% over the past year. This adjustment allows buyers to secure property at valuations that are more closely aligned with long-term historic growth rather than speculative peaks.
3. Rental Market Trends Support Ownership Transitions
The Dallas rental market continues to show high demand, even as apartment supply increases. As of January 2026, the average rent for a house in Dallas is approximately $1,975 per month, according to Zillow. While overall rent has seen a minor decrease of about 1.8% over the last twelve months, costs remain high enough that many residents find the monthly cost of a mortgage comparable to renting a similar-sized single-family home.
For those planning to remain in the area long-term, this dynamic often makes the transition to ownership a practical financial move. Locking in a fixed housing payment provides protection against the volatility of the rental market while allowing the owner to build equity in a region with strong projected job growth.
4. The Return of Buyer Incentives
The speed of the Dallas market has moderated significantly. The average time a home spends on the market has increased to approximately 61 to 71 days. This shift is a significant advantage for buyers, as it removes the "buy-it-now" pressure and introduces purchasing incentives that may not have been available in years prior.
Common incentives in today's market include:
- Mortgage rate buydowns: Sellers paying to lower your interest rate for the first 2 to 3 years.
- Closing cost credits: Help with the liquid cash needed to close the deal.
- Home warranties: Providing peace of mind on major systems like HVAC and plumbing.
Is Now a Good Time to Buy a House in Dallas?
Yes, now is a good time to buy a home in Dallas. With inventory reaching record highs for the decade and price growth cooling to more sustainable levels, the current conditions favor intentional and well-researched buyers. While the most desirable properties still attract interest, the overall market trend is one of stability and increased accessibility.
This perspective is supported by local market statistics and national economic forecasts, which point toward a year of opportunity for those ready to trade the unpredictability of renting for the benefits of homeownership in North Texas.
M/I Homes is active in several premier communities throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area, offering modern construction and energy-efficient designs. If you are considering a move, now is an excellent time to explore your options and see how today’s Dallas housing market can help you achieve your goals.
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