Houston summers are no joke. With temperatures regularly reaching the mid to upper 90s—and humidity levels to match—it’s no surprise that the extreme heat affects more than just weekend plans. It also plays a significant role in how and when homes are bought and sold.

If you’re planning to enter the market during the peak of summer, understanding how the heat influences buyer behavior, seller strategy, and showing logistics can help you stay one step ahead. With guidance from Katherine Boddeker, a trusted Houston realtor, here’s what you need to know.

1. Buyer Activity Shifts Earlier in the Day

Houston buyers are still out there—even in August—but they tend to schedule showings in the morning or early evening to avoid the most intense heat. Midday walk-throughs can feel draining, especially for families touring multiple homes.

What this means:

• Sellers should keep homes cool and comfortable for early viewings.

• Buyers should plan showings during cooler hours and bring water and patience.

• Agents often adjust open house times to start earlier or extend later into the evening.

2. Curb Appeal Requires Extra Attention

Landscaping, lawns, and exterior features can suffer quickly in the Houston heat. Brown grass, drooping plants, or a sun-baked porch can make a home appear neglected, even if the inside is pristine.

Tips for sellers:

• Water early and often to keep curb appeal strong.

• Add fresh mulch to flower beds and consider hardy, heat-tolerant plants.

• Power wash driveways and keep exterior fans running (if available) to make patios and porches more inviting.

According to Katherine Boddeker:

“Curb appeal still matters, even in a heatwave. Buyers notice when a home is well cared for from the moment they pull up. A fresh, green yard makes a lasting first impression.”

3. Empty Homes Can Overheat — and Turn Off Buyers

If your home is vacant or unoccupied during showings, it’s essential to keep the air conditioning running. Nothing turns off a potential buyer faster than walking into a home that feels like an oven.

Pro tip: Set the thermostat to around 74–76°F before showings or open houses. Not only does it create a comfortable environment, it also shows that the HVAC system works efficiently—a major plus in Houston’s climate.

4. The Heat Can Be a Selling Advantage

While summer has its challenges, it also highlights features that help a home stand out—like pools, shaded outdoor areas, energy-efficient upgrades, and good insulation.

Katherine often encourages sellers to lean into the season by showcasing how their home keeps cool:

• Emphasize low utility bills from smart thermostats or solar panels

• Stage shady outdoor areas with seating and fans

• Make sure buyers know if windows, insulation, or HVAC units are recently upgraded

“Buyers are thinking about comfort and cost. If your home performs well in Houston’s toughest season, that’s a huge selling point,” Katherine says.

5. Summer Motivation Is Still Strong

Despite the heat, summer remains one of the busiest times of year for Houston real estate. Families want to move before the school year begins, professionals use vacation time to house hunt, and sellers want to close before fall.

Timing is everything. Buyers and sellers who power through the heat often find motivated counterparts and more negotiating flexibility as the season matures.

Final Thought

Houston’s summer heat is intense—but it doesn’t stop real estate from moving. It simply shifts how the market operates, when people shop, and what features stand out most.

If you’re looking to buy or sell in the height of summer, working with a local expert like Katherine Boddeker can help you navigate the season strategically. From timing showings to optimizing your home’s presentation, Katherine ensures every detail is handled—so you don’t sweat the small stuff.

Thinking about making a move before summer ends? Reach out to Katherine Boddeker for expert advice and a personalized game plan designed to work with Houston’s heat—not against it.