Let’s start here: renting makes sense for some people right now. If you're prioritizing flexibility, saving for a bigger down payment, or just aren’t ready to plant roots, renting can be the right call. This isn’t about guilt. This is about challenging a growing narrative—that homeownership is a “bad investment,” a financial trap, or a waste of money. That simply isn’t true.
I’m seeing a lot of hot takes saying, “You’ll save more renting and investing the difference in the stock market.” But here’s the thing—you’re paying to live somewhere either way. That monthly housing cost doesn’t disappear just because you rent. And if you’re in a position to buy and are thinking like an investor, the smarter question might be:
Why not do both? Buy real estate and invest in the market. Diversify your assets. Because real estate isn’t just an expense—it’s a tangible, appreciating, leverageable asset that builds wealth in multiple ways. And right now? In Austin? The conditions are quietly aligning in favor of buyers—if you know where to look.
Prices Are Down. Inventory Is Up. Buyers Have Leverage.
Let’s cut through the noise.
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Some of the most desirable neighborhoods are now seeing prices reminiscent of pre-pandemic levels.
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45%+ of active listings are cutting prices, up significantly from the previous year.
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Inventory has increased nearly 70% since 2019, giving buyers more options and negotiating power than they’ve had in years.
This is an opening that didn’t exist during the 2020–2022 frenzy. And yet… most buyers are sitting on the sidelines, waiting for the “perfect moment.”
🔍 The Hidden Market: Where the Best Deals Are Quietly Happening
If you’re only looking on Zillow, you’re missing half the picture.
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Off-market inventory is rich right now, especially among sellers who didn’t get the offers they wanted this spring.
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Many sellers are pulling from the market now to re-enter in the fall with fresh photos, staging, or price changes—but many of them are still open to offers right now.
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We’re also seeing strong buyer incentives, including mortgage rate buydowns, closing cost assistance, and credits for upgrades or repairs—especially in the luxury and move-up segments.
These are real opportunities—quiet ones—while the broader market slows for summer and others wait for rates to drop.
💸 "But Isn’t It Cheaper to Rent and Invest the Difference?"
It can be—if you actually invest the difference and stay consistent for years. But in reality?
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Most renters don’t actually invest the difference. They spend it. And it’s never guaranteed to meet the investment markers that you plan for.
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Rent is a 100% expense—you’re building zero equity, have zero control, and will likely see your rent go up over time.
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Buying a home lets you lock in your monthly payment, build equity over time, and gain access to wealth-building through appreciation, amortization, and tax benefits.
Especially in today’s market, buying is an incredible opportunity. Even in this higher-rate environment, buyers can:
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Negotiate favorable terms,
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Refinance later when rates drop, and
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Build real equity in the meantime.
It’s not either-or. A smart portfolio includes both real estate and market investments. The wealthiest people don’t rent so they can “maximize their 401(k)”—they own appreciating assets and diversify their investments.
And Let’s Not Forget: Real Estate Is About More Than ROI
Some people buy for the return. But most people buy for:
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Stability – No more worrying if your landlord is going to sell the house you’ve made into a home.
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Freedom to customize – Paint that wall. Tile the backsplash. Get that dog.
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Community – Homeownership fosters deeper roots and more connected neighborhoods.
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Peace of mind – You control your living situation. That control matters more than people like to admit.
And unlike a volatile stock? You get to live in your investment. That’s a pretty rare thing.
📈 What Happens If You Wait?
A lot of buyers are hoping for rates to drop before jumping in. Totally understandable. But here’s what history (and current data) tells us:
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When rates drop, demand returns fast—and prices go right back up. (And truthfully, we don’t see rates dropping substantially in the near future).
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In multiple Austin zip codes, we're already seeing that homes moving quickly again with multiple offers—especially if they're move-in ready and well located.
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Right now, sellers are flexible, inventory is strong, and there’s time to negotiate. That won’t last forever.
If you wait for the “perfect” time, you may find yourself back in a bidding war, losing the leverage that exists today.
The Bottom Line
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Renting isn’t wrong—but it isn’t the only smart financial decision either.
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If you're in a position to buy, especially in Austin right now, this might be your best shot in years to secure a home with terms that work in your favor.
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And remember: real estate isn’t just an investment strategy. It’s a lifestyle choice, a stability strategy, and a path to long-term wealth.
You’re already paying for housing. Why not pay toward your future?
If you’re ready to explore off-market inventory or want to understand what a purchase could look like for your financial goals, reach out. I’m happy to run numbers, walk you through options, or just talk it out.
Let’s find the hidden gems—while everyone else waits on the sidelines.
~Trigaci Stiles Group
