Is the North Texas housing market shifting toward buyers? New September data points to fewer signed contracts and more opportunities to negotiate—but buyers still face higher borrowing costs.
Pending Sales Fall in Dallas and Fort Worth
According to Redfin’s October 12, 2026 report, U.S. pending home sales fell 4% from August to September on a seasonally adjusted basis, reaching their lowest level since 2014 apart from April 2020. Year over year, pending sales declined 14.5% in Dallas and 12.2% in Fort Worth.
Pending sales measure homes going under contract, not completed sales. A decline suggests weaker near-term buyer activity, but it does not mean every North Texas neighborhood is experiencing the same conditions.
Why Buyers May Have More Negotiating Room
Nationally, 60.5% of homes sold in September went for less than their original asking price, while 14.5% of deals that went under contract were canceled, Redfin reported. Total U.S. housing supply reached its highest level since March 2020.
For a qualified North Texas buyer, less competition may create room to discuss price, closing-cost contributions, repairs, a mortgage-rate buydown or closing flexibility. Those concessions are not guaranteed: property condition, local inventory, and seller motivation still matter.
What Sellers Should Do Now
Pricing based on older peak-market expectations can make a listing harder to sell. Sellers should review recent comparable sales, competing active listings and property condition before setting a price. Strong photographs, accurate descriptions and responsiveness to inspection findings remain important.
Higher Rates Still Matter
Redfin linked the September slowdown partly to mortgage rates climbing above 7%. A negotiated discount does not automatically offset a higher monthly mortgage payment. Buyers should compare total monthly costs—including taxes, insurance and any HOA dues—before committing.
What Veterans Should Consider
Eligible military buyers may benefit from VA financing. Some veterans receiving qualifying service-connected disability compensation are exempt from the VA funding fee, and eligible Texas disabled veterans may qualify for property-tax exemptions. Eligibility and property-specific costs should be confirmed with the appropriate lender and taxing authority.
The Bottom Line for North Texas
Buyers may have additional choices and negotiating leverage, while sellers may need sharper pricing and better preparation. The right decision depends on the specific city, neighborhood, price range and household budget—not just a national headline.
Thinking about buying or selling in Fort Worth, Weatherford, Azle or surrounding North Texas communities? Contact TexasVet Realty Group for guidance tailored to your situation.
Many Realtors, One Decision.
Source: Redfin, “U.S. Pending Home Sales Sink Near 12-Year Low,” October 12, 2026. National and metro-level data are not a substitute for a neighborhood-specific market analysis.