Why Houston Real Estate Investing Is Surging in 2026

By Saleem Mubarak

A wave of new buyers, booming suburbs, and rising investor interest is setting the stage for Houston’s real estate surge in 2026.

Talking to NYC Empires, Vanda Crossley, an experienced real estate professional from Houston, said that the market is set to boom now as the minimum credit score requirement has been eliminated. Although some lenders still apply their own criteria, she said this change will encourage many people to enter the market and see whether they qualify for a home.

She added that now many creative financing options are available. With the help of an experienced lender, buyers can explore approaches beyond traditional FHA or conventional loans.

Areas Expected to Grow

Crossley said that places like Katy, Brookshire, Waller, the areas toward Bryan and College Station and Richmond are expected to see significant growth in 2026. Katy, she noted, has tremendous potential as it has become a major entertainment hub offering activities for all ages. The area also adds diversity with a wide range of restaurants. A lot of new construction is underway and the area is attracting many new residents.

“It’s starting to feel more like West Houston rather than just a suburb,” she remarked.

Impact of Interest Rates on Houston

Talking about the impact of interest rates on the market next year, she said, “I don’t think the rates are extremely high—they were 11% at one point in my lifetime. A bigger issue might be job uncertainty, which makes people hesitant. But everyone needs a place to live, whether they choose to buy or rent.”

Property Trends for 2026

Shedding light on the property trends expected to boom in 2026, she said that single-family homes would remain at the frontline. She also noted that properties with land will be in high demand, as many people want to move away from the city and its hustle and bustle. Houses with land will likely have strong appeal, similar to the trend seeing during the COVID period, she added.

Advice for Buyers and Sellers

Vanda Crossley advised buyers and sellers to jump in now, since they can’t go back in time to buy when prices were lower. Waiting, she said, will only make prices rise further.

“Get into the market now and you can always refinance later,” she claimed.

Investor Activity Increasing

When asked whether real estate professionals in New York are right in saying that their high property prices are pushing investors toward Houston, she said, “Yes, it’s true. I have a fixer-upper that has been on the market only seven days and has already received five offers—all from investors.”

She added that this trend will continue next year, as she expects to see many foreclosures, which will create opportunities. Investors will do well in Houston, she said.

Author Profile

Saleem Mubarak: The writer is a real estate journalist specializing in all types of New York City properties, including luxury residences, commercial spaces, and homes.

He also writes humorous articles about real estate, investors, and realtors.