OHA Market Update Series - Oct 29,2025
National: The Federal Reserve cut interest rates by a quarter point to a range of 3.75%–4%, but Chair Jerome Powell emphasized that another cut in December is “not a foregone conclusion.” This cautious stance highlights continued economic uncertainty, but the move could still offer some relief for homebuyers as borrowing costs ease slightly.
Local: With just two days of early voting left and Election Day this Tuesday, now is the time for Austinites to make their voices heard. Read below to stay informed, know your polling location, and vote to shape the future of our city.
Intrigued? Keep reading.
(4 minute read)
National Real Estate Update
Housing Trends, Interest Rates, and Market Forecasts
What the Fed’s Latest Rate Cut Means for Homebuyers and the Housing Market Nationwide
The Federal Reserve just announced a quarter-point rate cut, bringing its benchmark rate down to a range between 3.75% and 4% — the third adjustment this year. While some hoped this signaled more relief ahead, Fed Chair Jerome Powell made it clear that another cut in December is “not a foregone conclusion.”
In other words: the Fed is hitting pause to assess the impact of the cuts already made. Policymakers remain split, with some advocating for more easing to support a softening labor market, while others want to hold steady to avoid fueling inflation.
Despite the uncertainty, Powell noted that economic growth has been stronger than expected, thanks largely to consumer spending. However, ongoing layoffs, a lengthy government shutdown, and mixed economic signals mean the path forward could still shift quickly.
So, what does all this mean for real estate?
When the Fed lowers rates, mortgage rates don’t always follow immediately — but they often trend downward over time. Even a small dip can make a big difference in affordability or monthly payments for buyers. For sellers, rate cuts can mean renewed interest from buyers who were waiting on the sidelines, which helps stabilize home demand.
Austin’s housing market, in particular, tends to respond dynamically to these changes. With the city’s steady job market, continued growth in tech, and strong demand for housing, small moves from the Fed can ripple quickly through buyer activity here. Whether rates drop again in December or stay put, staying informed and ready to move strategically is key.
If you’re thinking about buying, selling, or refinancing in the next few months, now’s the time to start planning your next step — especially while rates remain below recent highs.
📅 Let’s connect to talk through what this Fed decision could mean for your plans and how to take advantage of current market conditions.
Austin Area Real Estate & Community Update:
Market Trends, Local News, and Neighborhood Insights
Your Austin Election Reminder: Two Days Left to Vote Early!
Hey friends — it's Jenn here. I’ve been reflecting on how proud I am to be an Austinite, working with you all as your real estate guide and relishing everything this city brings. In that spirit of being rooted and engaged, I wanted to share some highlights from a helpful resource about the current election in our city — because being informed is a move worth making.
As a local Austin Realtor and community resource, part of what drives me is helping people feel confident in every decision they make about where and how they live — and that includes civic decisions that shape our neighborhoods and our future.
With just two days of early voting left and Election Day this Tuesday, November 4, now is the time to make sure your voice is heard in Austin’s 2025 election.
What to know — Austin & Central Texas election guide
The ballot this year features a number of constitutional-amendment questions (17 in Texas).
This election also includes a major special election for a local property-tax rate increase (Proposition Q) that supports a $6+ billion budget for the city.
My take & how it ties into life on the ground
As a local homeowner and real estate investor, I feel the connection between the ballot and our real lives:
Property taxes matter. Whether you own your home or are budgeting for one, the tax rate impacts your bottom line and what you get in return (services, maintenance, parks, etc.).
Local services matter. Clean parks, strong infrastructure, local business growth (hello, brunch spots like my favorite Paperboy Austin upstairs patio) — these require a functional local government.
Being informed means empowerment. You don’t have to be a “political person” to show up. You just have to show up informed.
What you can do (and I encourage you to)
Confirm your voter registration. While many of us are “just living life,” checking this takes a minute and ensures you’re set.
Pick your plan: early vote in person (through Oct 31) or go on Election Day (Nov 4).
Review what’s on your ballot ahead of time — candidates, local measures, amendments. That way you’re not choosing on the fly.
Bring your ID if voting in person. If you’re using mail-in, check the rules.
Share with a friend or neighbor. Many of us are rooted in this community and we rise together when we all show up.Why it matters
The measures and candidates on this ballot directly impact our everyday lives — from property taxes and housing initiatives to infrastructure, public safety, and city planning. Whether you rent, own, or are thinking about buying, the outcome of these elections can affect the cost of living and the resources that keep our city vibrant and growing.
You can find your polling location and sample ballot at VoteTexas.gov or through your county’s elections website.
Stay informed, stay empowered
Just like choosing the right home, informed decisions come from doing a little homework upfront. Take a few minutes to review what’s on your ballot — including Proposition Q, which relates to Austin’s property tax rate and local funding. Every vote makes a difference in how our city continues to grow and serve its residents.
Let’s keep Austin engaged
Austin’s strength comes from its people — creative, thoughtful, and community-minded. Whether I’m helping clients find a home or sharing neighborhood insights, I see firsthand how connected this city is. Let’s carry that same spirit into the voting booth this week.
Take five minutes today to confirm your polling location, plan your time to vote, and remind a friend or neighbor to do the same.
Together, we can help keep Austin’s growth grounded in community and care.
Your step today: Head over to the voting portal, check your status, mark your calendar for voting, and remind one person in your life to do the same. It matters.
Feel free to reach out if you have questions around the process (registration, dates, mail-in vs in-person). I’m happy to help — and I believe in showing up, informed, together.
See you out there!
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 dog, yoga and pilates, and has been enjoying gardening at her new home in East Austin🎶✨
