Watching the Austin real estate market closely, one begins to notice a pattern. Reports place the Austin-Round Rock metro area among the most desirable, affordable markets in the country, but residents are increasingly struggling with affordability.
As of February 2019, the City of Austin's median price for a single-family home was $360,000 — a $100,000 increase from a decade ago, according to the Austin Board of Realtors. Austin's median home price is also the highest among Texas' major metro areas and more than 59 percent higher than the U.S. median price of $226,300.
The spring selling season is underway, and whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned pro, we wanted to get a sense of just what is available in Austin right now for $360,000. Many of the homes are located in South Austin, offering access to schools and space that many families desire, but sacrificing walkability or access to center city amenities. Like everything in life, however, it's all about attitude (and mortgage pre-approval rates).
It's worth noting that with Austin's market as hot as it is, these homes are meant to provide a snapshot of what's currently available at this median price point. Double check if you think you've found your dream house — some properties are already pending as of press time.
Buckingham Estates — $285,000
Custom features abound in this 3-bedroom, 2-bath, 1,217-square-foot home, nestled just north of Slaughter Lane. The open-concept plan merges the kitchen with the living area, while the master bedroom comes with a walk-in closet and custom bathroom tiling. But the backyard is the true showstopper, with a screen-in porch, separate dog run, and ample green space for at-home gardeners.
8735 Birmingham Dr.
Southwest Austin — $340,000
This 3-bedroom, 2-bedroom house is nestled in the Village at Stone Ledge subdivision, and feeds into the desirable Dripping Springs Independent School District. In her listing, Kuper Sotheby's VP and global real estate advisor Kim Burke bills this 2,360-square-foot home as the "perfect starter home." The house boasts a gourmet-style kitchen, luxe master bath, and expansive patio space. Community amenities include a community pool, gated entry, and nearby retail.
145 Limestone Trl.
South Austin— $370,000
As Jennifer Lewis, lead listing and investment specialist for Papasan Property Group, points out, this property is ideal for families because it feeds into the desirable Bowie High School. Other family-friendly amenities include its cul-de-sac locale inside a gated community, an area pool, and a local dog park. Inside, the 3-bedroom, 3-bath house boasts stainless steel appliances and a large media room.
12313 Canera Ct. #74
North University— $375,000
This 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo is on a bustling stretch of Guadalupe Street near the University of Texas campus. Housed in the same building as Via 313, which should be considered a major selling in our completely unprofessional opinion, the "bright and airy" second floor unit boasts an open-concept floor plan and a gourmet-style kitchen. "Since this newly listed condo is just a mile from UT, there's been a lot of interest from both investors and parents of UT students," says Tom Thornton, broker associate at Realty Austin. "The reserved parking is a big deal in this neighborhood, and both Via 313 and Wheatsville [Co-op] are right downstairs."
3016 Guadalupe St. #218
South Manchaca— $425,000
We know, we know — this doesn't quite fit into the cost parameters we promised, but as they say in real estate, it's all about location. As Lewis points out, this 2-bedroom, 3-bathroom, brand-new build is just a few blocks south of 290, making it the most centrally located single-family home on the list. A covered car port and garage leads into a spacious open living space complete with custom modern fixtures. Upstairs, the chic look continues in the Jack and Jill bath and throughout the master bedroom.
4803 Richmond Ave.
8735 Birmingham Dr.
Texans love Cedar Park.
Courtesy of Cedar Park Center