While the dollar-based chart shows an upward trajectory in home prices, surging over 250% since the year 2000, the same homes measured in gold reveal a different reality. Adjusted for gold, home prices today are about the same as they were in the late 1980s. This perspective highlights the impact of the dollar’s declining purchasing power over time rather than true appreciation in home values. The illusion of soaring prices is largely driven by the devaluation of the dollar, not necessarily by real growth in housing value.
For St. Louis home buyers and sellers, this means today’s high prices may not signify as much “appreciation” as they think. Sellers might consider this context when setting their expectations for value, while buyers should keep in mind that what they’re paying reflects broader monetary policies, not just local market conditions. The real estate market remains an excellent way to build wealth, but understanding its relationship with currency values provides a deeper insight into long-term investments.
The chart below illustrates this concept perfectly, with the green line representing home prices in dollars and the blue line reflecting prices in gold. Whether you’re buying or selling, this perspective is a reminder to look beyond the surface and consider what drives the numbers.
At MORE, REALTORS®, we’re committed to helping buyers and sellers navigate the real estate market with a clear understanding of market trends. Our team provides tools and insights to help you make confident decisions. Whether you’re investing in your first home or selling a long-held property, we’re here to assist.
Case-Shiller Home Price Index Both In Dollars (Green) and Gold (Blue)
Historically, as the M2 money supply increases, home prices tend to rise as well, influenced by factors like inflation and the availability of credit. However, the recent stabilization of the money supply suggests that home price appreciation could slow down in the near future. For buyers, this might present an opportunity to find more balanced pricing. For sellers, especially those considering listing their homes soon, now may be a good time to take advantage of historically high prices before any potential cooling. At MORE, REALTORS®, our team is here to guide buyers and sellers through these changing market dynamics with expertise and personalized strategies.
For sellers, being in a low-supply market is good news. A tighter inventory means fewer homes for buyers to choose from, often leading to faster sales and potentially better prices. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, knowing where the opportunities lie can make all the difference.
At MORE, REALTORS®, we use up-to-the-minute data like this to help our clients make informed decisions. Reach out today to see how we can help you take advantage of current market conditions.
Top 10 St Louis Cities With The Highest Supply of Homes for Sale
(click on list below to see complete, live date for ALL municipalities in the St Louis Metro Area)
Today, we honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a visionary who championed equality, justice, and the inherent dignity of all people. His fight against systemic injustices extended to housing discrimination, a battle that continues to shape communities across the nation, including right here in St. Louis.
Fair housing has been a cornerstone of efforts to ensure everyone has access to safe, affordable homes without fear of discrimination. Landmark legislation like the Fair Housing Act of 1968 is part of Dr. King’s enduring legacy, prohibiting discriminatory practices based on race, color, national origin, religion, and other protected classes. These principles are vital to fostering thriving neighborhoods and ensuring that homeownership opportunities are accessible to all.
At MORE, REALTORS®, we serve every client with fairness and professionalism, ensuring all buyers and sellers have access to expert representation and market insights. Whether you’re buying your first home or selling a property, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Despite this significant year-over-year increase, last month’s median sold price of $260,000 actually saw a slight decrease of 3.70% compared to November 2024, when the median sold price was $270,000. The median list price for homes in St Louis County also saw a significant increase, rising 16.00% from $225,000 in December 2023 to $261,000 in December 2024.
In terms of home sales, there were 919 transactions in St Louis County in December 2024, a slight increase of 0.33% from 916 in December 2023. This data is illustrated in the chart below, available exclusively from MORE, REALTORS®.
Overall, the St Louis County real estate market remains strong and is expected to continue its upward trend in the coming months. For all your real estate needs in St Louis County, trust the experts at MORE, REALTORS®.
A recent lawsuit that reached the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit and concluded with a ruling on January 14, 2025, sheds light on a significant issue for homeowners and REALTORS® alike regarding copyright infringement and the use of floor plans in marketing homes. The case, Designworks Homes, Inc. v. House of Brokers Realty, Inc., involved Columbia, Missouri-based House of Brokers Realty and other defendants, and revolved around whether real estate agents and brokers could use floor plans in marketing properties without infringing on copyrights. Ultimately, the court ruled in favor of the defendants, citing the fair use doctrine and affirming the district court’s decision.
The lawsuit originated when Designworks alleged that House of Brokers infringed on its copyrights by creating and sharing a floor plan for a property the brokerage was hired to sell. The court, however, determined that creating and using the floor plan constituted transformative use—it served a functional purpose of providing information to prospective buyers rather than copying the original design’s artistic or creative intent. This ruling sets a precedent, ensuring REALTORS® can continue using floor plans for marketing homes, benefiting both buyers and sellers by increasing transparency.
At MORE, REALTORS®, we understand the value of providing buyers with comprehensive information, which is why we often incorporate floor plans—such as those prepared alongside 3D tours—into our marketing strategies for sellers’ homes. Buyers gain a better understanding of the home’s layout, and sellers benefit from increased visibility and buyer interest. The full lawsuit details and judgment are available below for further review.
Higher interest rates typically discourage borrowing, but this data suggests that the housing market is finding ways to adapt. If you’re navigating today’s market, working with an experienced brokerage like MORE, REALTORS® can help you identify opportunities that fit your goals.
The full chart is available below for further insights. Let me know if you’d like further assistance or adjustments!
Purchase and Refinance Index vs 30 Year Fixed Mortgage Interest Rates
Click the image below for chart with current, live data
If you’re a potential home buyer, these zip codes offer a competitive market with a variety of options to choose from. And for sellers, the fast turnover rate means less time spent waiting for a sale. With an average list price of $113,575 in 63630, $187,675 in 63044, and $50,700 in 62095, there is a range of price points to fit any budget. For a complete list of the fastest selling zip codes in the St. Louis metro area, visit MORE, REALTORS®. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be a part of these thriving real estate markets. Act fast and secure your dream home or make a profitable sale in one of these sought-after zip codes.
The median list price for homes in the jefferson county update remained steady at $259900, showing no change from December 2023. However, there were 170 home sales in December 2024, a slight decrease of 0.58% from the previous year.
This data indicates a strong and stable real estate market in Jefferson County, with increasing home prices and steady demand. As we move into 2025, it will be interesting to see how these trends continue and what opportunities arise for both buyers and sellers. For all your real estate needs in Jefferson County and the greater St. Louis area, trust the experienced team at MORE, REALTORS®.
The Clear Cooperation Policy requires listing brokers to submit a property to their Realtor-affiliated MLS within one business day of marketing it publicly. This policy was intended to ensure transparency but has faced allegations of reducing competition and restricting options for consumers. The Participation Rule, which NAR recently eliminated as part of a separate settlement, previously required listing brokers to make a blanket offer of compensation to buyer brokers to list properties in the MLS. The DOJ had issued a subpoena in 2021 requesting extensive documentation on these rules, signaling its intention to assess whether they hindered fair market practices.
For St. Louis homeowners and investors, the outcome of this investigation could lead to significant changes in how properties are marketed and sold. It’s a reminder of the evolving landscape in real estate and the importance of staying informed. As always, MORE Realtors INLINE TEXT Link – goes to agent website
MORE, REALTORS® is here to provide guidance and insights to help you navigate these developments. Contact us today to learn how we can help you with your real estate needs.
With only 6 active listings and an average of 19 days on the market, Wood River-Hartford DIST 15 takes the top spot. This district boasts a diverse range of homes at an affordable average list price of $104,467. Coming in at a close second is Kingston K-14, with 9 listings and an average of 21 days on the market. Families looking for a more rural setting will find Kingston K-14 in Unincorporated, MO to be an attractive option. Rounding out the top three is Pontiac-W Holliday DIST 105, with 8 listings and an average of 37 days on the market. This district offers a mix of suburban and rural neighborhoods, providing something for every family.
For the complete list of the fastest selling school districts in the St. Louis metro area, be sure to check out MORE, REALTORS®. Our team of experienced agents can help you navigate the market and find the perfect home in one of these highly sought-after districts. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to buy or sell in these fast-moving areas. Contact MORE, REALTORS® today.
The proposed legislation includes Board Bill 169, introduced by Alderman Michael Browning, which raises fines for vacant and deteriorated properties from $25 for the first violation to $100, with repeat offenses escalating to $250 or more. Board Bill 170, introduced by Alderwoman Daniela Velazquez, sets penalties for unsecured buildings at $500 for the first offense and $1,000 for repeat offenses. Additionally, it establishes a $30,000 fine or 50% of the property’s appraised value—whichever is greater—for unpermitted demolitions, with proceeds going toward the city’s Vacant Building Initiative Fund. Meanwhile, Alderwoman Pamela Boyd’s Board Bill 171 introduces a mechanism to add unpaid fines and abatement costs to property tax bills as liens, simplifying collections and ensuring enforcement. Together, these measures aim to deter neglect, reduce vacancy, and revitalize neighborhoods.
These new bills represent a direct effort to address the challenges highlighted during the campaign for Proposition V. St. Louis investors and property owners should take note of these changes as they signal stricter enforcement of property ordinances.
St Louis New Home Building Permits – November 2024
(click on table below for live interactive charts and more data)
For investors, the rationale is clear: they’re working in their own best interests. By finding sellers who value speed or convenience over top dollar, investors can purchase properties below market value. But for a listing agent, whose role is to maximize exposure and achieve the best possible outcome for their seller clients, the same approach seems counterintuitive. Why would an agent limit market exposure, potentially reducing competition and sale price, when their duty is to act in the seller’s best financial interest?
Of course, there are exceptions. In rare cases—such as when selling a high-profile celebrity’s home—privacy might outweigh the importance of a bidding war. Keeping the listing quiet in such scenarios can make sense. However, in markets like St. Louis, this isn’t a common occurrence. For most sellers, achieving the highest possible price is the priority, and the MLS is designed to do just that by exposing properties to the widest audience.
This raises questions when we look at the local numbers. As of January 8, in the counties in Missouri that have listings in MARIS, the regional MLS for the area, there were a total of 15,199 active listings on the market, including those already under contract or pending sales. Of those, 1,275—or 8.39%—were office exclusive and excluded from the MLS. Nearly one in 11 listings are excluded, which seems like a surprising number of “celebrities.” Given that only 76 of the MLS-listed properties had prices over $2 million and the median price was $300,000, it’s unlikely that a large percentage of these listings are celebrity homes. For the Illinois market in MARIS, the numbers are better, with 3,568 active listings (including under contract) and only 149 of those—or 4.18%—being office exclusive.
Digging deeper, there are three counties in Missouri with significantly higher percentages of office-exclusive listings. St. Louis County leads with over 17% of listings being office exclusive, followed by St. Charles County with over 11%, and the City of St. Louis with over 10%. These numbers highlight that the practice is more prevalent in certain areas, raising even more questions about whether these exclusions serve the best interests of sellers in those markets.
So, where does this leave us? Should listing agents continue adopting strategies that mimic investor tactics, even if it means potentially sacrificing their clients’ best financial outcomes? And how do we, as an industry, reconcile the increasing popularity of office-exclusive listings with the ethical and fiduciary obligations of representation? These are questions that deserve thoughtful discussion.
At MORE, REALTORS®, we pride ourselves on transparency and always putting our clients’ best interests first. Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, our team is here to provide expert guidance tailored to your unique goals.
However, there was a slight decrease in median sold price compared to the previous month, with December 2024 seeing a 10.41% decrease from November 2024 when the median sold price was $206,500. This could be attributed to seasonal fluctuations in the market.
The median list price for homes in the metro east area also saw a 5.00% increase from $180,000 in December 2023 to $189,000 in December 2024. This suggests that sellers are confident in the market and are able to list their homes at higher prices.
Despite the slight decrease in median sold price, home sales in the metro east area remained steady with 517 homes sold in December 2024. This is only a 1.34% decrease from December 2023 when 524 homes were sold.
As we move into 2025, the metro east real estate market continues to show promising signs of growth. With steady increases in median sold and list prices, as well as a consistent number of home sales, it is an opportune time for both buyers and sellers in the metro east area. For more information on the current market trends and to find your dream home in the metro east, contact MORE, REALTORS® today.
However, there was a slight decrease in median sold price from the previous month, November 2024, when the median sold price was $362,500. This represents a decrease of 0.69% from the current month’s median sold price.
The median list price for homes in St Charles County saw a 4.29% increase from December 2023, rising from $350,000 to $365,000. Despite this increase, there were 296 home sales in December 2024, a 5.73% decrease from the 314 home sales in December 2023.
These numbers suggest a stable market in St Charles County, with a slight increase in prices compared to the previous year. As we continue into the new year, it will be interesting to see how the real estate market in this area evolves. Stay tuned for further updates from MORE, REALTORS®.
The landlords named in the amended complaint—Greystar Real Estate Partners, Blackstone’s LivCor, Camden Property Trust, Cushman & Wakefield, Willow Bridge Property Company, and Cortland Management—operate more than 1.3 million rental units nationwide. The DOJ alleges that these landlords not only utilized RealPage’s controversial algorithm but also engaged in direct communication and user group discussions to share sensitive pricing strategies. For example, the DOJ highlighted instances where Camden executives communicated with competitors about planned rent increases and occupancy strategies.
In a move to settle with the DOJ, Cortland agreed to cooperate with the investigation, cease using competitor-sensitive data, and stop relying on common pricing algorithms. This consent decree is subject to a 60-day public comment period, after which the court may approve the settlement. The amended lawsuit underscores the DOJ’s commitment to ensuring a competitive housing market, stating, “Landlords must not prioritize profits over fair housing opportunities for renters.”
See the amended complaint below.
The median list price in December 2024 also saw an increase of 8.33%, rising from $240,000 in December 2023 to $260,000. This indicates strong demand for homes in the St. Louis MSA.
Despite the increase in prices, there were 2147 home sales in December 2024, a 9.29% decrease from December 2023. This could be attributed to the holiday season, as well as the ongoing supply shortage in the market.
Overall, the St. Louis MSA real estate market continues to be a seller’s market, with rising prices and strong demand. If you’re looking to buy or sell a home in the area, contact MORE, REALTORS® for expert guidance and assistance.
The median list price in Franklin County also saw a significant increase, reaching $275,000 in December 2024. This is a 19.59% increase from the median list price of $229,950 in December 2023. However, despite these rising prices, there were 69 home sales in Franklin County in December 2024, which is a slight decrease of 6.76% from 74 sales in December 2023.
As seen in the chart below, exclusively available from MORE, REALTORS®, the Franklin County real estate market has been steadily increasing over the past year. This is great news for both buyers and sellers, as it indicates a strong and stable market. If you’re looking to buy or sell a home in Franklin County, now is a great time to do so. Contact MORE, REALTORS® for expert guidance and assistance with all your real estate needs.
A recent lawsuit, Skertich vs. Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing and Alliant Credit Union, highlights alarming vulnerabilities in Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOCs) when it comes to wire fraud. According to the complaint, a fraudulent wire transfer amounting to $425,650 was authorized using counterfeit documents and improper verification processes. Despite clear red flags, such as mismatched signatures and suspicious IP addresses, the financial institutions involved processed the transaction. This serves as a stark reminder for homeowners in St. Louis and beyond to exercise caution with HELOC accounts.
The case emphasizes the importance of robust security protocols. The plaintiffs allege that the defendants failed to have commercially reasonable systems in place to detect and prevent fraudulent activity. This situation escalated further when the victims were held liable for the unauthorized transaction, leading to increased balances and potential foreclosure actions. Homeowners utilizing HELOCs must regularly monitor account activity and promptly report any discrepancies.
For St. Louis area homeowners, this case is a reminder to protect your equity by using secure communication channels with your lender, reviewing monthly statements thoroughly, and inquiring about the security measures your provider has in place. The full complaint, detailing the allegations and implications, can be reviewed below.
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If you’re navigating the complexities of homeownership in St. Louis, MORE, REALTORS® is here to guide you with expert advice tailored to your needs. Contact us today to stay informed and secure in your real estate journey.
The St. Louis real estate market has remained a dynamic and diverse one, with opportunities for homeowners, buyers, and investors alike. From charming historic neighborhoods to bustling new developments, there’s something for everyone. As we kick off the year, now is the perfect time to consider your real estate goals and explore how you can make the most of the market in 2025.
At St. Louis Real Estate News, powered by MORE, REALTORS®, we’re committed to keeping you informed and connected to the latest market trends, insights, and opportunities. Whether you’re ready to make a move or just starting to explore your options, our team wishes you a happy, healthy, and successful new year! Here’s to making 2025 a year of new beginnings and exciting ventures in real estate.
Cheers to a prosperous year ahead! 🎉
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has filed a federal lawsuit against Rocket Homes Real Estate LLC and the Jason Mitchell Group, alleging violations of the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA). The complaint, filed in the Eastern District of Michigan, accuses the defendants of participating in a scheme involving kickbacks and steering practices that compromised the trust consumers place in their real estate agents.
According to the CFPB’s allegations, Rocket Homes pressured real estate agents and brokers to steer clients toward its affiliate, Rocket Mortgage, and other related services, often at the expense of offering clients competitive alternatives. The agency contends that such practices not only violated RESPA’s prohibition on kickbacks but also led to higher mortgage rates and fees for clients compared to those who shopped around independently. Additionally, the Jason Mitchell Group is accused of prioritizing referrals from Rocket Homes in exchange for providing referrals to Rocket Mortgage and Amrock, Rocket’s title and escrow service.
The full complaint, which provides detailed allegations and examples, is available for review below. For St. Louis area buyers, this case underscores the importance of working with agents who prioritize transparency and your best interests. If you’re looking for a dedicated team, MORE, REALTORS® is here to assist you in navigating the complexities of the market.
As we approach this special time of year, we want to wish all our readers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy Hanukkah. May your celebrations be filled with joy, warmth, and the love of family and friends.
Here’s to a season of peace, happiness, and prosperity for you and your loved ones. Thank you for allowing us to be part of your journey this year, and we look forward to serving you in the year to come!Christ
The median list price for homes in the St Louis City update also saw an increase, rising to $209,000 in November 2024, a 4.55% increase from $199,900 in November 2023. Despite these increases, there were 215 home sales in the St Louis City update in November 2024, a 5.70% decrease from 228 in November 2023.
Overall, the St Louis City real estate market remains strong and competitive, with increasing median sold and list prices. This data is a promising sign for both buyers and sellers in the St Louis area. Stay tuned for more updates on the St Louis City real estate market, exclusively from MORE, REALTORS®.
According to the chart below, exclusively available from MORE, REALTORS®, the median list price for homes in St Louis County was $269,900 in November 2024. This represents a 17.40% increase from November 2023, when the median list price was $229,900.
Despite the increase in prices, there were 853 home sales in St Louis County in November 2024, a decrease of 16.21% from the same time last year. This could be due to a decrease in inventory or a decrease in demand.
Overall, the St Louis County real estate market remains strong and is a great place for buyers and sellers alike. If you’re looking to buy or sell a home in St Louis County, trust the experts at MORE, REALTORS® to guide you through the process.
The survey, conducted in October 2024, highlights generational and financial divides in perceptions. Younger generations and households with lower incomes are more likely to fear a downturn, while higher-income earners and older respondents appear less concerned. With headlines still buzzing about affordability challenges and mortgage rates, these results suggest lingering worries about market stability.
As always, whether the market soars or dips, having an experienced professional on your side is key. If you’re looking to buy or sell in the St. Louis area, the team at MORE, REALTORS®
can guide you through today’s market with confidence.
The full LendingTree survey results are available below.
Percentage of Americans who think the housing market is at risk of crashing in the next year (by demographic)
(click on image below to be taken to live, interactive chart)
With only 11 active listings and an average of 30 days on the market, 63043 takes the top spot for the fastest selling zip code in St. Louis. And with an average list price of $273,836, it’s an attractive option for both buyers and sellers. Coming in at a close second is 63074, with 10 listings and an average of 31 days on the market. And for those looking to buy or sell in Illinois, 62095 in Madison-IL offers a competitive market with 9 listings and an average of 38 days on the market.
If you’re interested in seeing the complete list of the fastest selling zip codes in the St. Louis area, head over to MORE, REALTORS®. Our team of experienced agents can help guide you through the process and find the perfect home for you and your family. Don’t miss out on these hot zip codes – start your search today!
The real estate market in Jefferson County continued to show strong growth in November 2024, with the median home price increasing by 6.78% compared to the same time last year. According to the latest data from , homes in the Jefferson County area sold for a median price of $260,000, up from $243,500 in November 2023.
While this represents a significant increase in home prices, it is important to note that there was a slight decrease compared to the previous month. In October 2024, the median sold price was $276,000, making November’s median price a 5.80% decrease. However, this is still a positive sign for the Jefferson County housing market, as it shows a steady and consistent growth in home prices.
The median list price also saw an increase in November 2024, rising by 6.25% from $240,000 in November 2023 to $255,000. This indicates that sellers are confident in the market and are able to list their homes at higher prices.
Despite the increase in home prices, there was a slight decrease in the number of home sales in November 2024. There were 205 home sales in Jefferson County, a 4.21% decrease from the 214 sales in November 2023. This could be attributed to the holiday season, which typically sees a slowdown in the housing market.
Overall, the Jefferson County housing market remains strong and continues to show positive growth. For more information and a detailed breakdown of the data, please refer to the chart below, available exclusively from . If you are looking to buy or sell a home in Jefferson County, now may be the right time to make a move. Contact for expert guidance and assistance in navigating the market.
St Louis New Home Building Permits – October 2024
(click on table below for live interactive charts and more data)
But Wolf Branch DIST 113 isn’t the only school district with a quick turnaround time. Coming in at a close second is Jefferson Co. R-VII in Unincorporated, MO, with an average of 30 days on the market for its 5 listings. And just a bit further down the list is MOUNT OLIVE DIST 5 in Illinois, with an average of 34 days on the market for its 5 active listings. To see the full list of the fastest selling school districts in the St. Louis metro area, visit MORE, REALTORS® for more information. Don’t miss your chance to buy or sell in these sought-after areas.
