Llano County: How Rates and Buydowns Shape Buying Power

What does a 7.32% mortgage rate mean for a buyer in Llano County today? With the median close price at $665,000 across 26 closed sales in September, the monthly principal and interest payment on a standard 30-year fixed loan comes to about $3,654. That is an ALEX Intelligence estimate based on current market rates and does not include taxes, insurance, or HOA fees. ALEX Intelligence modeled how buydowns change that picture using the median sale price of $665,000. A 3-2-1 buydown lowers the rate to 4.32% in year one, saving $1,015 per month compared to the full rate, with total costs of about $24,744 (3.72% of the median price). A 2-1 buydown reduces the rate to 5.32% in year one, saving $693 monthly, for a total cost of roughly $12,564 (1.89% of the median price). These figures are based on the loan amount of $532,000 and principal-and-interest only. The data shows prices have softened compared to last September, with the median closing price down 28.1% year over year, while days on market rose 6.7%. Buyers who can secure a buydown may stretch their budget further in this environment, but the underlying rate level remains the primary driver of monthly affordability. For context, the region-wide median price is $407,250 with a 30-year fixed rate of 7.32% as of the week of October 22, 2026 (Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey). Llano County's higher median and longer market time reflect its unique inventory mix and demand dynamics. https://alex.realestate Want to see this home? Call or text George at 713.918.9951 for a private showing. Data from Unlock MLS. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Model outputs are ALEX Intelligence estimates, not appraisals. Read more Central Texas market data on the ALEX blog: https://alex-companies.com/blog