Is Buying a Lakefront Home Still a Good Idea in 2025?

If you’ve been on the fence about buying a lake house in 2025, you’re not alone. Between fluctuating interest rates and changing home values, many buyers are wondering: Is now the right time to invest in a waterfront property?

Here’s what we’re seeing on the ground — straight from our team of agents who work daily with buyers and sellers across the lakes of Central Texas.

The Lakes Are Back — And They're Ready to Be Enjoyed

When we originally filmed this video, some Central Texas lakes were well below capacity. But what a difference a few months can make.

• Canyon Lake has jumped from 46% to 68% full
• Lake Travis has risen from 43.7% to an incredible 90.5% full
• Lake Buchanan is now completely full, going from 60.9% to 100%

That means more open water, more boating, more fishing, and more memories waiting to be made.

And honestly, the easiest and most rewarding way to enjoy these lakes — especially with water levels up — is to own real estate on them.

Prices Are Down, and Inventory Is Up

We’re not in 2021 anymore — even though some sellers still think we are.

The reality is that lakefront home values are down about 15–20% from their peak. Some markets may even dip a bit further, but that kind of correction is opening a real window of opportunity for smart buyers.

We’re seeing a surge in inventory. For example, there are nearly 300 waterfront homes available on Lake LBJ alone — and over 100 homes priced between $1.5M and $2.5M. That means more choices, more negotiating power, and more potential deals.

The Interest Rate Dilemma — and the Refinance Solution

Yes, interest rates are still hovering around 6.8–7%. But many signs point to rates dropping in late 2025 or early 2026. That’s why we keep saying: marry the home, date the rate.

Buy now while prices are softer — and refinance when rates improve. In the long run, that strategy could put you ahead of the curve compared to waiting for the perfect “bottom.”

Seller Flexibility: Hidden Gems Like Owner Financing

One thing that might surprise you: more sellers today are open to owner financing. If a seller owns their home outright, they may be willing to offer flexible terms — like a 3- to 5-year note with a balloon payment — that can help you buy sooner, without navigating traditional lending hurdles.

If that’s something you’re interested in, just ask. You might be surprised at what’s possible.

So… Should You Buy a Lake House in 2025?

If you’re waiting for the absolute bottom, just know — very few people ever time it perfectly. The truth is, we’re in a buyer’s market right now, with more supply than demand, and sellers who are increasingly open to deals.

If you’ve been thinking about buying on:

• Lake Travis
• Lake McQueeney
• Canyon Lake
• Lake LBJ

…there may never be a better time than now to explore your options, negotiate confidently, and lock in a great property before competition heats up again.

Want to Be the First to Know About New Lake Listings?

We track every waterfront property — on and off the market — across Central Texas. Sign up for Lake House Alerts and get custom updates delivered straight to your inbox, tailored to your favorite lakes and price ranges.

You don’t need to sleep on it. You could be sleeping in it — sooner than you think.