Today’s buyers are highly aware of their total monthly housing cost.

That means price is important, but it is not the only number influencing their decision. Closing costs, interest rate, insurance, taxes, HOA fees and immediate repair expenses can all affect whether a buyer feels comfortable making an offer.

Nationally, sellers provided concessions in 46.2% of home sales during May 2026, the highest May percentage in Redfin’s records. Concessions can include assistance with closing costs, repairs or a lender-approved mortgage-rate buydown. This is a national statistic rather than a Katy-specific percentage, but it reflects how sellers are competing for payment-conscious buyers.

The clever strategy: compare the price cut with the payment solution

Before automatically reducing the price, ask your real estate agent and a qualified lender to prepare two scenarios:

Scenario A: Reduce the asking price
Scenario B: Offer a buyer credit toward allowable closing costs or a lender-approved rate buydown

The same dollar amount does not necessarily affect a financed buyer the same way in both scenarios. Depending on the buyer’s loan, qualifications and program limits, one option may create a more appealing monthly-payment story while protecting more of the seller’s net proceeds.

This does not mean every Katy seller should offer a concession. It means the decision should be based on actual numbers instead of guesswork.

Possible incentives may include:

• An allowable contribution toward closing costs
• A lender-approved temporary or permanent rate buydown
• A repair allowance
• A home warranty
• Assistance with an identified buyer concern

All concessions must be properly documented and remain within the buyer’s loan-program and contract limits.

When you are ready to sell, before using price as your only option to sell, call 281-392-9272.
Ask CENTURY 21 Western Realty for the best agent to provide a Seller Net and Buyer Payment Comparison. Our agent will help you evaluate whether a price adjustment, buyer incentive or different marketing approach makes the most sense for your home.