Over the last two days, our team had the joy of showing 12 homes to a wonderful couple relocating to Austin from Seattle—and it perfectly captured why this moment in our market feels so exciting.
They were warm, open, grounded, and genuinely curious about Austin life. The kind of people who belong here. They’re seeking a home in one of our top-rated school districts—Eanes ISD or Lake Travis ISD, have a strong budget, and are focused on finding the right fit, not rushing into a decision.
And here’s the best part: we had options. So many good ones.
For the first time in years, buyers in Austin are experiencing something that had nearly disappeared—abundance.
Across Austin and the surrounding Hill Country, inventory has increased significantly compared to the ultra-competitive years of 2021–2023. That means:
More homes to choose from
More architectural styles, lot types, and neighborhoods
More time to evaluate what actually feels right
More leverage to negotiate thoughtfully
Instead of seeing one home and feeling pressure to decide immediately, buyers can now compare, reflect, and move forward with confidence.
For our Seattle clients, this was refreshing. Over two days, we explored a wide range of homes—each with its own personality, setting, and lifestyle offering. It felt expansive. Calm. Intentional.
Austin’s current market is best described as balanced and buyer-friendly.
Homes are spending more time on the market than they did at the peak, giving buyers room to breathe. Sellers are more open to conversations around pricing, terms, and repairs. And in many cases, buyers are able to secure homes without bidding wars or waived protections—something that felt impossible just a few years ago.
For families moving from out of state, especially from high-pressure markets like Seattle, San Francisco, or Los Angeles, this shift is meaningful. It allows you to truly experience Austin before committing—not just buy it.
Many out-of-state buyers come to us with one priority front and center: schools.
Eanes ISD and Lake Travis ISD continue to be two of the most sought-after districts in Texas, known for academic excellence, community involvement, and long-term property value stability. These areas also offer something equally important—quality of life.
Tree-lined streets, proximity to Lake Austin and Lake Travis, access to trails and outdoor living, and a strong sense of community all play a role. When buyers find a home here, they’re not just buying square footage—they’re buying into a lifestyle.
One thing our Seattle clients kept commenting on was how genuine and welcoming Austin feels.
The people. The pace. The balance between ambition and ease.
Austin continues to attract thoughtful, down-to-earth people who want more space, more sunshine, and more connection—without sacrificing culture, creativity, or career opportunity. And right now, the housing market is actually supporting that transition rather than standing in the way of it.
There’s something deeply rewarding about guiding a family through Austin during a moment like this—when the market allows us to truly curate options, tell neighborhood stories, and help people envision their life here.
Showing 12 homes didn’t feel exhausting—it felt energizing. Because each stop offered possibility. Each conversation felt aligned. And each home helped clarify what mattered most to them.
That’s what a healthy market does—it creates space for alignment.
If you’re considering relocating to Austin from out of state and want guidance rooted in local expertise, thoughtful strategy, and genuine care, we’d love to help.
This is a special moment in Austin real estate—and for the right buyers, it’s an opportunity worth exploring.
Eanes ISD. Lake Travis ISD. Westlake. Cuernavaca. Austin living—served with intention.
We’ve noticed something over the years: buyers from Seattle tend to feel instantly at home in Austin—and there’s a reason for that. The cultural overlap is real, but Austin adds a lighter, sunnier layer that many Pacific Northwest buyers are craving.
Here are a few fun (and practical) reasons why the move works so beautifully:
Seattle averages about 150 sunny days a year. Austin enjoys closer to 230–240 days of sunshine—without sacrificing access to green space. Buyers still get trails, water, hills, and outdoor living… just with more chances to enjoy them.
Much like Seattle, Austin residents prioritize an active, outdoor lifestyle. From paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake to hiking the Barton Creek Greenbelt or spending weekends on Lake Travis, the transition feels natural—just warmer.
Seattle buyers often come from strong creative, tech, and entrepreneurial communities. Austin mirrors that energy with its own spin—live music, design-forward homes, independent restaurants, and a deep appreciation for originality.
One of the biggest “wow” moments for inbound buyers: what their budget can do in Austin. Compared to Seattle, buyers often gain:
Larger homes and lots
Outdoor living spaces
Pools, views, or proximity to nature
Top-tier school districts like Eanes ISD and Lake Travis ISD
Families relocating from Seattle are often highly focused on education. Eanes ISD and Lake Travis ISD consistently rank among the top districts in Texas, offering strong academics, community engagement, and long-term value—without the density of larger urban school systems.
Seattle buyers tend to be thoughtful, values-driven, and down-to-earth—and Austin’s culture reflects that same warmth. The pace is friendly, conversations are easy, and community still matters here.
Austin’s central location makes travel surprisingly convenient. Direct flights to both coasts, shorter travel times to visit family, and easier weekend getaways are often an unexpected perk for former West Coast residents.
Seattle-to-Austin relocations work because buyers aren’t giving something up—they’re evolving into a lifestyle with more breathing room.
Right now, Austin’s housing market is giving inbound buyers something rare:
Choice
Time
Confidence
And the ability to truly find a home that fits their next chapter
For families moving from Seattle, this moment feels aligned—and we’re honored to guide them through it.
If you’re thinking about buying—or simply curious about Austin —we’d love to help.
Your home deserves a thoughtful plan. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Want to talk? You can find us at 512-988-1741 or email us at [email protected] We've got you!
For The Council Real Estate Group, residential real estate is about more than just finding a house to live in. It’s about building a lifestyle in the right home and community for you and your family.
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