OHA Market Update Series - June 12, 2025
National: The “Let It Bloom” landscaping trend may be beautiful and eco-friendly, but when it comes to selling your home, it can signal neglect and turn off potential buyers. A clean, well-maintained exterior is still one of the most powerful tools for making a strong first impression.
Local: Austin homebuyers are increasingly choosing newer, more affordable homes in the suburbs, driven by rising prices near the city center. At the same time, updated older homes in central Austin remain in high demand, giving buyers great options across the market.
Intrigued? Keep reading.
(4 minute read)
National Real Estate Update
Housing Trends, Interest Rates, and Market Forecasts
Why “Let It Bloom” Landscaping Could Hurt Your Home Sale—and What To Do Instead
There’s a landscaping trend making the rounds right now called "Let It Bloom" June, and while it looks dreamy on social media — think colorful wildflowers and native grasses — it’s not always the best move, especially if you're thinking of selling your home.
The idea supports sustainability by letting your yard grow wild to help pollinators like bees and butterflies. It also reduces watering and can make your yard more resilient in dry weather. But there’s a downside: unmanaged growth can invite invasive plants, rodents, and ticks, not to mention complaints from HOAs or neighbors.
And from a resale perspective? A wild-looking yard might feel natural to you, but to a buyer, it can come across as neglected or high-maintenance. First impressions matter — especially in real estate — and a clean, tidy yard is still one of the easiest ways to say “this home has been well cared for.”
So while “Let It Bloom” might work for long-term homeowners with a passion for native plants, if you're prepping to sell, you're better off sticking with a well-maintained and welcoming curb appeal.
OHA’s HOT TAKE:
This trend is worth thinking twice about—first impressions matter, and an overgrown or wild-looking yard can turn buyers off quickly.
👉 Thinking about selling? Let’s chat about how to prep your house to stand out and attract the right buyers.
Austin Area Real Estate & Community Update:
Market Trends, Local News, and Neighborhood Insights
Why Austin Buyers Prefer Newer Suburban Homes
Data: Redfin analysis of MLS records; Chart: Jacque Schrag/Axios Visuals
Homebuyers in the Austin area are buying much newer homes than the national average — in fact, 42% of homes sold in 2024 were less than five years old, compared to just 17% nationally. This trend reflects more buyers moving to the suburbs, where newer homes are more available and often more affordable.
While the median U.S. home sold last year was 36 years old, in Austin it was only eight years old, tied for second-youngest in the country. Interestingly, newer homes were also cheaper, with homes under five years old selling for a median of $420K, while homes over 30 years old averaged $475K.
That said, updated older homes in Austin’s core are still in high demand — especially those close to restaurants, tech hubs, and nightlife. Renovated charm, walkability, and central location still win when priced right.
Bottom line: Austin’s new construction boom in the suburbs is shaping buyer behavior, but well-maintained, centrally located homes are still hot — and when they hit the market, they move fast.
OHA’s HOT TAKE:
Many Austinites are choosing newer, more affordable homes in the suburbs as prices rise downtown, helping build vibrant new communities. This gives buyers great options to find a home that fits their budget and lifestyle.
If you’re ready to buy, now’s the perfect time to explore both sides of the market!
Jennifer Carey
Realtor and Agent Success Manager at Open House Austin, real estate investor, and renovation enthusiast with Wimberley Airbnbs. She loves mid-century modern design, hiking Austin with her dogs, yoga and pilates, and has been enjoying gardening at her new home in East Austin🎶✨
