Riding the Highs and Lows of Selling Your Home During the Fall Slowdown

Fall in Central Texas is one of the most beautiful times of year — cooler mornings, vibrant sunsets, and a touch of calm after the busy summer months. But if your home is on the market, you’ve probably noticed things can slow down a bit this time of year. The truth is, the Austin MSA (including Manor, Pflugerville, Elgin, Bastrop, and surrounding areas) naturally shifts into a quieter pace as families focus on school routines and the holidays ahead.

That said, slower doesn’t mean stopped — it just means sellers need the right mix of strategy, patience, and presentation.

The Highs

Even with fewer buyers browsing, the ones who are looking in the fall tend to be serious. Many are motivated by job relocations, year-end tax goals, or simply wanting to settle before the holidays. Austin’s steady job market and continued in-migration mean there’s always a steady flow of new buyers entering the area. Plus, homes photograph beautifully in the fall light, and cozy seasonal staging can make your property stand out online and in person.

The Lows

While the Austin metro remains one of the nation’s strongest markets, fall activity usually dips compared to spring and summer. Showings can slow, and feedback might take longer to arrive. In smaller submarkets like Elgin or Manor, you might notice longer days on market simply because buyer traffic is more limited. It’s easy to get discouraged, but these shifts are normal — and temporary.

Tips & Tricks to Stay Motivated and Make Your Listing Shine

1. Lean into Curb Appeal: Keep the lawn tidy, clear out fallen leaves, and add simple fall décor like mums or pumpkins. First impressions matter even more when buyer traffic is light.

2. Create a Cozy Feel Indoors: Warm lighting, light seasonal scents, and comfortable textures help buyers envision spending their first holidays in your home.

3. Stay Flexible with Showings: Fewer buyers means every appointment counts. Be open to short-notice showings or virtual tours.

4. Price for the Season: Work with your Realtor to review recent sales and current competition. A well-priced home in Austin’s fall market will still move — it just may need sharper pricing or creative incentives.

5. Keep Marketing Momentum: Don’t let your listing go quiet. Share updated fall photos, highlight community events, and stay active on social media. Buyers moving to Austin love seeing what local life looks like in neighborhoods like Pflugerville or Bastrop.

6. Trust the Process: Every season has its rhythm. Many homes listed in October and November close just before the end of the year, making room for a fresh start in January.

Selling during the slower fall months in the Austin area can test your patience — but it’s also a chance to attract motivated buyers who appreciate value, location, and charm. With the right guidance and local insight, your home can still make a strong impression and find its perfect match before the year wraps up.