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Ready to Sell in San Antonio? Here's What Today’s Sellers Need to Know

23 min read
Ready to Sell in San Antonio? Here's What Today’s Sellers Need to Know

Ready to Sell in San Antonio? Here's What Today’s Sellers Need to Know

In San Antonio's 2025 housing market, selling your home requires a strategic approach. Here's what you need to know:

Pricing is key: Homes spend an average of 87 days on the market, with 55.6% selling below the asking price. Accurate pricing helps attract buyers and avoid delays.

Market trends: The median home price is $296,892, up 0.2% from last year, but buyers have more options with active listings up 18%.

Neighborhood dynamics: Premium areas like Terrell Hills and Alamo Heights command higher prices, while Southtown and West San Antonio offer value for first-time buyers.

Smart upgrades: Minor kitchen remodels, landscaping, and energy-efficient improvements can boost appeal and provide high returns.

Staging matters: Professionally staged homes sell faster and for up to 20% more. Even small efforts like decluttering and repainting can make a difference.

Digital tools: Virtual tours and online marketing are essential to stand out in a competitive market.

Quick Tip: Listing your home in mid-April or during spring can help maximize your sale price. Partnering with a local real estate expert ensures accurate pricing, effective marketing, and smooth negotiations.

For a deeper dive into San Antonio's market trends, neighborhood performance, and preparation tips, keep reading.

Understanding San Antonio's 2025 Real Estate Market

Current Market Trends in San Antonio

San Antonio’s real estate market in 2025 has settled into a more balanced rhythm, offering both opportunities and hurdles for sellers. The median listing price is $297,000, marking a slight 0.5% increase from last year. This steady pace signals a market that’s stabilizing after years of unpredictable shifts.

Homes are spending an average of 87 days on the market as of March 2025 . While this gives sellers more time to showcase their properties, it also requires patience. The median sold price of $290,000 shows a narrowing gap between listing and selling prices, reflecting a more realistic pricing environment.

Inventory levels are telling their own story. With 4,658 active listings and 1,309 new listings in Q1 2025, buyers now have more options than in recent years. The median sale-to-list ratio of 0.983 as of March 31, 2025, indicates that homes priced correctly are selling very close to their asking price.

Pricing strategies are critical in this environment. About 28.6% of homes are selling above asking price, often when priced competitively. With a median price per square foot of $172, San Antonio continues to offer strong value compared to other major Texas cities. However, these trends can vary significantly depending on the neighborhood.

How Different Neighborhoods Perform

San Antonio’s neighborhoods each bring unique dynamics to the market, creating opportunities for sellers based on location. Stone Oak, for example, stands out in the premium market with a median home price of $350,000 and a price per square foot of $215. Its newer homes and suburban appeal make it a magnet for upper-middle-class buyers.

In contrast, Alamo Heights and Terrell Hills dominate the high-end segment. Alamo Heights boasts a median price of $450,000 and $310 per square foot, while Terrell Hills surpasses that with a median price of $525,000 and $315 per square foot. These neighborhoods consistently attract buyers willing to pay a premium for prestige and location.

For sellers targeting more accessible markets, Southtown offers excellent value near downtown, with a median price of $275,000 and $230 per square foot. Meanwhile, West San Antonio is drawing attention due to infrastructure improvements, with homes priced at a $240,000 median and $185 per square foot.

Neighborhood
Median Listing Price
Price per SqFt




Terrell Hills
$525,000
$315


Alamo Heights
$450,000
$310


Stone Oak
$350,000
$215


Downtown
$310,000
$265


Southtown
$275,000
$230


West San Antonio
$240,000
$185



Downtown San Antonio remains a strong contender with its $310,000 median price and $265 per square foot, appealing to those who value urban amenities and walkability. Even more affordable neighborhoods like Harlandale, with a $220,000 median price, continue to attract first-time buyers and investors.

What This Means for Sellers

For sellers, understanding both citywide trends and neighborhood specifics is key to success. Pricing accurately has never been more important, as 62.8% of homes are selling below list price as of March 2025. Overpricing can lead to longer market times and, ultimately, lower final sale prices. In fact, 31.7% of listings experience price cuts, underscoring the need to get it right from the start.

That said, 15.8% of homes are selling above list price, typically those that are well-priced and in desirable locations or conditions. With the average time on the market extending, sellers should prepare for a longer process. However, this extra time allows for thoughtful preparation, professional staging, and targeted marketing to attract the right buyers.

"We're continuing to see a market environment where inventory is growing and prices remain steady. Buyers have more homes to choose from, and sellers must remain strategic with pricing to stand out in a more competitive landscape." - Reagan Williamson, SABOR board chairman

For those not ready to sell, San Antonio’s rental market offers a strong alternative. With average rents at $1,600 per month and a 7.2% vacancy rate, renting out a property can be a viable option. This robust rental demand also helps maintain property values, highlighting the ongoing need for housing in the area.

Getting Your Home Ready for Sale

In today’s real estate market, standing out is essential. Preparing your home with smart upgrades, professional staging, and effective online marketing can make all the difference in attracting buyers and closing the deal.

Home Improvements That Make an Impact

Targeted renovations can significantly boost your home’s appeal and value. Kitchens and bathrooms are top priorities for buyers, often seen as the heart of a home. A minor kitchen remodel, which typically costs between $4,000 and $18,000, can yield a return of 75% to 85% on your investment.

Curb appeal also plays a major role. Simple landscaping upgrades, costing $3,000 to $16,000, can enhance your home’s exterior appeal by up to 15% and provide a return of 95% to over 100%. Another high-return project is replacing your garage door, which costs between $800 and $3,700 and offers a similar ROI range.

Energy-efficient upgrades are becoming increasingly attractive to buyers. Spending $3,200 to $13,000 on energy improvements can deliver over 100% ROI, while homes with solar panels may sell up to 15% faster.

Project Type
Average Cost
Average ROI




Exterior




Upgraded landscaping
$3,000 – $16,000
95% – 100%+


New garage door
$800 – $3,700
95% – 100%+


New front door
$500 – $1,900+
50% – 100%+


Interior




Minor kitchen remodel
$4,000 – $18,000
75% – 85%


Bathroom renovation
$5,500 – $30,000
35% – 65%+


Energy efficiency
$3,200 – $13,000+
100%+



When planning upgrades, focus on mid-range improvements rather than extravagant renovations. For example, a modest kitchen update often offers a better return than a full-scale overhaul. While these upgrades enhance the structure, staging transforms the way buyers experience the space.

Why Professional Staging Makes a Difference

In today’s market, professional staging is more than a nice touch - it’s a game-changer. Staged homes not only sell faster but often fetch up to 20% higher prices. According to a survey, 83% of buyers’ agents believe staging helps buyers visualize a property’s potential, and nearly half of sellers’ agents report that staging reduces the time a home spends on the market. Even better, 29% of agents say staging can lead to offers 1% to 10% above the asking price.

“Staging is about showcasing an engaging, move-in ready home that creates an emotional connection with the buyer.”

Patti Stern

Professional stagers use furniture and decor to highlight a home’s best features, helping buyers imagine themselves living there. The average cost for staging is $1,776 nationally, with median costs around $1,500. Research shows that sellers who invest just 1% of their home’s sale price in staging often see an ROI of 5% to 15% above the asking price.

“During that time, homeowners might overlook certain aspects that could be less appealing to potential buyers. By staging a home, agents who are Realtors® strategically highlight the best features, ensuring sellers receive the most-competitive offers.”

Jessica Lautz, NAR deputy chief economist and vice president of research

Even small staging efforts, like decluttering, depersonalizing, and repainting walls in neutral tones, can make a big impact, creating a space that feels inviting and move-in ready.

Leveraging Virtual Tools to Attract Buyers

Since most buyers begin their search online, digital marketing is essential. Listings with virtual tours receive 87% more views than those without, and more than half of buyers skip over homes that lack this feature.

“Buyers decide in the first eight seconds of seeing a home if they’re interested in buying it.”

Barbara Corcoran, Founder of The Corcoran Group, NY

360° virtual tours give buyers an immersive experience, allowing them to explore a property’s layout and functionality from anywhere. This tool helps answer key questions like whether the space suits their needs or if their furniture will fit.

“Virtual tours elevate and enhance the buyer’s understanding of the space, helping answer questions like: Is the layout right for me? Will my furniture fit?”

Jeff Allen, President of CubiCasa

Virtual staging is another effective option, particularly for vacant homes. It transforms empty rooms into fully furnished spaces that attract more interest. Services like Styldod offer 360° virtual tours for as little as $1.50 per photo, while platforms like CloudPano provide unlimited tours for $33 per month. Comprehensive packages, including photography, drone shots, and 3D tours, are available from providers like WonOver Images for around $360.

“In 2025, AI will make premium services easier on budgets, giving [agents] high-end marketing materials without the high-end price tag.”

Dan Smigrod, Founder of We Get Around Network

With so many buyers browsing on mobile devices, it’s crucial to optimize virtual tours for smartphones. As one expert explains:

“Whether it’s a family with full-time jobs or an overseas investor using a VR headset, buyers can gain a high level of understanding of a property’s layout. This speeds up the buying process and saves time for both agents and buyers.”

Mikus Opelts, CEO of Giraffe360

Incorporating these digital tools into your selling strategy can help your property stand out in a crowded market.

Pricing Your Home to Sell

In 2025 San Antonio, 55.6% of homes are selling below the asking price. This makes strategic pricing more important than ever if you want to sell your home quickly and for the best possible price.

Using Market Data to Set Your Price

When it comes to setting the right price, it’s all about using the numbers to your advantage. San Antonio's 2025 housing market paints a mixed picture: the median home price is $296,885 (a slight 0.3% increase), but the average home value has dropped by 3.1% to $257,632. To find the sweet spot for your listing price, a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) is key. This tool looks at recently sold homes similar to yours, helping you set a realistic price based on what buyers are actually paying.

In today's market, where homes linger for an average of 74 days, pricing too high or too low can make a big difference. If your home needs repairs, consider pricing it below market value to account for the work buyers might have to do. With mortgage rates hovering between 6.5% and 7%, affordability is top of mind for buyers. Another factor to consider? The median sale price per square foot in San Antonio is $158, a 3.9% decrease from last year. Plus, with more homes available, buyers have plenty of options.

Why Overpricing Hurts Your Sale

Overpricing your home might seem tempting, but it can backfire in a big way. Homes listed above market value often sit unsold for longer and end up selling for 3%–5% less than homes priced correctly from the start. Timing matters, too. Homes that sell quickly - within the first few days - typically fetch 98% to 99% of their asking price. But if your home stays on the market for 31 to 60 days, you’re looking at about 95%. Let it linger for 61 to 90 days, and that drops to 92%. After 91 days? Expect offers around 88% of your original price.

"Overpricing your home is probably one of the most common mistakes first-time sellers make. Not only are you alienating a huge part of the market, but you are also decreasing the likelihood of a sale by pricing your home too high." – JBGoodwin REALTORS®

The first two weeks your home is on the market are critical. If you overprice during this window, you risk losing momentum. Buyers who think your home is overpriced might skip it altogether, while others may submit lowball offers. Worse, the longer your home sits unsold, the more buyers start to assume something is wrong with it.

"The longer a home sits on the market, the less appealing it is to buyers. If buyers see your home has been on the market for several months, they will assume something is wrong with the property." – Ryan Fitzgerald, Realtor, Raleigh Realty

These insights highlight the importance of pricing your home right from the start.

When to List for Best Results

If pricing is step one, timing is step two. Data shows that April 13–19, 2025, is the golden week to list your home. Homes listed during this time can sell for an average of $4,800 more - and in some cases, up to $27,000 more - than those listed earlier in the year.

"Because spring is generally the high season for real estate activity and buyers are more plentiful earlier rather than later in the year, listing earlier in the spring raises a seller's odds of a successful sale." – Realtor.com

Spring, especially May, June, and August, is prime time for higher sale prices. If speed is your priority, June and July are your best bets, with homes typically selling in just 31 to 35 days. Even September has its perks, with sale prices averaging 4.55% above the yearly norm. And don’t overlook the day of the week - listing on a Thursday, particularly after 5 p.m., can increase your home’s visibility since 21% of listings go live on that day.

Missed the April window? No problem. The broader spring market, stretching through May and early June, still offers excellent opportunities. If you're short on time, skip big renovations and focus on small fixes that can make a big impression.

"You won't have time for any major renovations, so focus on quick repairs to address things that could deter potential buyers." – Investopedia

Spring also brings other advantages. The weather is ideal for showings, and many families are eager to move before the school year starts, creating a surge in buyer activity. By understanding these seasonal trends and market dynamics, you can price your home competitively and list it at just the right time to maximize your chances of a successful sale.

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Working With a Local Real Estate Expert

Selling your home in San Antonio's 2025 market doesn’t have to feel like navigating uncharted waters. With about 75% of buyers and sellers saying it’s "very" or "extremely" important for their agent to have local market and neighborhood-specific knowledge, teaming up with a seasoned local professional can transform a potentially overwhelming process into a successful sale. Their understanding of the local market forms the backbone of effective pricing, marketing, and negotiation strategies.

Local Market Knowledge and Pricing Guidance

San Antonio’s 2025 housing market is dynamic - just in March, nearly 3,000 homes were sold, with active listings climbing significantly. In this environment, having a local expert ensures your home is priced to attract buyers. Experienced agents use current market data to strategically position your property, especially within the $300,000 to $399,000 price range, where 712 homes sold in April 2025. They’re also tuned into the growing divide between existing homes and new builds.

But it’s not just about numbers. A local agent understands which neighborhoods are in demand, how school districts stack up, and which contingencies are commonly included in offers. Their personal connections with other local agents can also make a big difference. This insider knowledge can be the deciding factor between a home that lingers on the market and one that sells quickly.

"Pricing your home accurately matters. Overpricing can lead to your listing sitting on the market, while underpricing can result in leaving money on the table. An experienced agent can help determine a price that strikes the right balance." – LRG Realty

Comprehensive Marketing Support

Although only 29% of buyers found their homes directly through a Realtor in 2024 - down from 55% in 2001 - agents still play a crucial role by leveraging smarter, more targeted marketing strategies. For example, Scott Peck and the JBGoodwin team provide end-to-end marketing support, from digital advertising to essential signage.

JBGoodwin REALTORS® equips their agents with automated tools like social media ads, email campaigns, and professional-grade marketing materials such as digital presentations, direct mail, and property flyers. They also manage logistics and costs for professional signage while generating buyer leads using proven online methods. On the tech side, JBGoodwin offers cutting-edge tools like Moxiworks CRM, G-Suite, and Docusign, along with an award-winning website that features agent profiles, home search tools, and local community details.

"Real estate isn't just about listings - it's about making life easier for you." – McCumber Realty Group – Keller Williams Heritage

Skilled Negotiation in a Competitive Market

A strong marketing plan is only half the battle; expert negotiation is equally vital in today’s competitive market. With inventory on the rise and buyers having more options, negotiations can become complicated fast. This is where an experienced agent steps in to guide you through the process, helping to balance firmness on price with flexibility when considering counteroffers or structuring deals.

Beyond negotiation skills, these agents bring valuable connections. They often have established relationships with attorneys, lenders, and home inspectors, all of whom play critical roles in the selling process. While online tools can provide housing data, a real estate agent offers something irreplaceable: human insight. They’re there to clarify confusing contract terms, answer your questions, and advocate for your best interests when challenges arise. In a market that demands strategic thinking, having an expert by your side can turn a good sale into a great one.

Closing and Moving Successfully

The final stretch of selling your home involves multiple critical steps, from inspections to evaluating buyer offers and planning your move. Giving these tasks the attention they deserve ensures you protect your sale and transition smoothly into your next chapter.

Handling Inspections and Appraisals

A well-prepared inspection can save you from costly surprises. Investing in a pre-listing inspection, which typically costs between $300 and $500, may help you avoid an average of $14,000 in unexpected repairs later on.

"A pre-listing inspection, where the seller gets a home inspection prior to listing their home on the market, can significantly help them maximize the home sale as it provides transparency about the home's condition to potential buyers."
– Josh Rogers, WIN Home Inspection Training Specialist

Start by decluttering and cleaning every room, including storage areas and closets, to allow inspectors easy access to key spaces like the attic, crawl space, electrical panel, and basement. Test essential systems - electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and structural elements - to identify and address problems before the inspection.

For electrical systems, check for flickering lights, buzzing sounds, or hot outlets. Replace burnt-out bulbs, label the fuse box, and ensure all fixtures are safe and functional. In bathrooms, verify water flow, check drains, and confirm that exhaust fans work properly. In the kitchen, inspect the dishwasher, sink, and refrigerator for any visible issues.

"One of the critical tasks to prepare for a home inspection is to make sure your roof is in good condition."
– Supreme Inspections

Don't forget your HVAC system - replacing it can cost around $7,500, so it's wise to address any concerns early. Replace filters, check for rust or odors, and inspect for water damage under sinks, around faucets, and near water-using appliances.

Foundation problems can be especially costly, with repair costs averaging $5,165 and ranging between $2,218 and $8,111. If your inspection uncovers issues, prioritize fixing safety hazards, code violations, or structural concerns. Being upfront about your home's condition helps build buyer confidence and reduces your liability.

Once you've addressed inspection-related tasks, your focus can shift to evaluating buyer offers.

Choosing the Right Buyer Offers

In competitive markets like San Antonio, multiple offers are common, but the highest bid isn't always the best choice. Consider the buyer's financial stability, contingencies, and timeline to find the most reliable offer.

Financial strength is crucial. Look for pre-approved buyers with conventional loans and significant earnest money deposits. All-cash offers can speed up the process, though they might not always come with the highest price. Comparing offers based on loan type, interest rates, down payments, and closing costs can help you make an informed decision.

"A key factor in determining between multiple offers is net cash: If net cash is similar, which offer brings the least amount of risk to the transaction?"
– Bryson Taggart, Opendoor Agent

Be wary of offers that include requests for furniture or large closing cost concessions, as these may indicate financial challenges. However, a contingent offer might still be worth considering if the price is significantly higher.

The closing timeline is another important factor. If you need to move quickly, a shorter closing period might outweigh a slightly higher offer. On the other hand, if you have more flexibility, a buyer willing to accommodate a longer timeline could be a better fit.

"Priority should always be given to the offer that meets the seller's needs and wants, and also those that aren't going to fall apart through the process."
– Maureen McDermut, Real Estate Agent with Sotheby's International

Planning Your Next Move

After accepting an offer, it's time to coordinate your move. Timing is everything - move too early, and you risk liability if the sale falls through; wait too long, and you may feel rushed.

Timing
Pros
Cons




Before Closing
Early access to new space; start unpacking
Risk if the deal falls through; potential liability


After Closing
Legally secure move-in; no last-minute issues
May require short-term housing; tighter timelines



Once the sale closes, take care of essential tasks like changing locks, transferring utilities, and updating your address. Secure important documents - such as your deed, mortgage papers, and title insurance - in a safe location.

Revisit your inspection report to address any lingering concerns. It's also a good time to update your estate plan, including your will and power of attorney, to reflect your new circumstances.

Stay vigilant during this transition to avoid scams, especially those involving wire transfers or urgent financial requests. Verify all communications and have a contingency plan in case of delays. These proactive steps will help you navigate the final stages of selling your home with confidence.

Conclusion: Setting Yourself Up for Success in San Antonio's Market

Selling your home in San Antonio's 2025 market requires a clear plan, but with the right preparation, realistic pricing, and expert help, achieving your goals is entirely possible.

Start by pricing your home accurately. Instead of relying on outdated market trends, base your pricing on recent comparable sales. This approach ensures your listing is competitive from day one, which is crucial in today's market.

With competition on the rise, marketing plays a bigger role than ever before. High-quality photography, immersive virtual tours, and well-placed online listings are essential tools to capture the attention of serious buyers. In a market where homes are selling closer to their listing prices, these strategies can make a significant difference.

Partnering with a seasoned real estate agent who knows San Antonio's market inside and out can be a game-changer. From conducting a thorough market analysis to crafting a tailored marketing plan and navigating negotiations, an experienced agent ensures every detail is handled professionally, including compliance with local regulations.

San Antonio's 2025 market reflects a return to more typical conditions after years of unusual trends. While this shift may require sellers to adjust their approach, it also presents new opportunities. By pricing competitively, preparing your home effectively, and working with a knowledgeable agent, you're well-positioned to succeed in this evolving market.

FAQs

How can I price my home in San Antonio’s 2025 market to sell quickly and effectively?

Pricing your home correctly in San Antonio's 2025 market is crucial for drawing in buyers and ensuring a smooth sale process. A good starting point is reviewing recent sales of homes similar to yours in your neighborhood and keeping an eye on current market trends. As of early 2025, San Antonio is experiencing a buyer’s market. This means homes are taking longer to sell, so setting a competitive price is more important than ever.

Be sure to consider your home’s condition, location, and unique features, along with the average time homes are staying on the market - currently about 51 days. To nail down the right price, you might want to get a professional appraisal or consult a trusted real estate agent. They can help you find that sweet spot: a price that highlights your home’s value while still appealing to serious buyers.

What are the best home improvements to boost my home's value and attract buyers before selling?

If you're planning to sell your home in San Antonio, making a few targeted upgrades can not only boost its appeal but also its market value. Here are some areas worth focusing on:

Kitchen and bathroom updates: These spaces often make the biggest impression on buyers. Think about giving your cabinets a facelift, switching to quartz or granite countertops, upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, or refreshing bathroom fixtures to give these areas a modern touch.

Boost curb appeal: First impressions matter. A fresh coat of exterior paint, tidy landscaping, or even replacing the garage door can work wonders. Outdoor spaces like patios or decks are also a big hit in San Antonio, thanks to the warm weather.

Energy efficiency upgrades: Features like energy-efficient windows, LED lighting, or a smart thermostat can catch the eye of eco-conscious buyers while promising long-term savings.

These thoughtful improvements can make your home more attractive to buyers, helping it stand out in the market and potentially sell faster and at a better price.

Why is staging your home important, and how does it affect your sale price?

Staging your home is one of the most effective ways to leave a strong impression on potential buyers. It highlights your property’s best features and helps buyers picture themselves living there, which can often result in quicker offers and higher sale prices.

Statistics show that professionally staged homes typically sell for 5-10% more than their unstaged counterparts. Even better, many sellers report earning back 8-10 times the cost of staging. Beyond just looking good, staging can also reduce the time your home spends on the market, saving you from unnecessary stress and effort. Simply put, staging isn’t just about style - it’s a strategic investment that can boost your home’s appeal and value.