The latest data from the St Louis City real estate market shows a decrease in home prices compared to the same time last year. According to the chart below, exclusively available from MORE, REALTORS®, the median sold price for homes in the St Louis City update was $200,000 in February 2025, a 4.74% decrease from February 2024 when the median sold price was $209,950. This also represents a 10.91% decrease from January 2025, when the median sold price was $224,500.
In addition, the median list price for homes in the St Louis City update was $199,900 in February 2025, a 3.64% decrease from $207,450 in February 2024. This decrease in list price may indicate a more competitive market for buyers.
The number of home sales in the St Louis City update also saw a decrease in February 2025, with 171 home sales compared to 200 in February 2024, a 14.50% decrease. This could be due to a combination of factors such as low inventory and a slower market.
As a trusted real estate company in St Louis, MORE, REALTORS® is committed to providing accurate and timely market data to help buyers and sellers make informed decisions. Stay tuned for more updates on the St Louis City real estate market.
A growing number of real estate brokerages are steering sellers toward private listing networks rather than listing homes on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). According to a January 2025 Harris/Zillow poll, this shift is happening despite a lack of consumer awareness about what private listings mean—and how they can impact a home sale.
The survey of over 2,000 U.S. adults highlights an alarming trend: most sellers aren’t being given all the facts about listing options. Here’s what you need to know before deciding where to list your home.
Most Sellers Are in the Dark About Private Listings
According to the poll:
68% of Americans who worked with a real estate agent said their agent never explained the difference between the MLS and a private listing network.
63% of sellers who sold within the past five years were recommended to list privately—compared to just 18% of sellers more than five years ago.
This represents a massive shift in how homes are being marketed, with some brokerages choosing to keep listings hidden from the full buyer pool.
Does Keeping a Listing Off the MLS Help Sellers?
The answer is clear: not usually. While some brokerages argue that private listing networks help “control” a sale, the data suggests many sellers regret the decision:
43% of sellers who listed privately ended up switching to the MLS.
Only 35% stuck with the private listing approach, meaning more than half of sellers who used private listings weren’t satisfied with the results.
Why the change of heart? The reality is that homes listed on the MLS attract more buyers, leading to stronger offers and higher sale prices. Research from Bright MLS found that homes listed publicly sell for 17.5% more than those kept off the MLS.
Even when sellers initially preferred a private listing network, 44% changed their minds after learning this fact—a number that jumped to 56% among older sellers.
The survey also confirms what many in the industry already know: buyers want full access to listings.
86% of Americans believe all for-sale home listings should be freely available to buyers.
81% believe bidding wars are more likely when more buyers can view a listing—which is good news for sellers looking to drive up their sale price.
73% agreed that restricting access to listings could lead to discrimination, an issue that could create serious fair housing concerns.
This raises an important question: if consumers overwhelmingly want transparency in home sales, why are some brokerages pushing sellers in the opposite direction?
The Most Important Factor When Choosing an Agent
When sellers choose an agent, they’re looking for one thing above all else: exposure to the largest pool of buyers.
The survey found that:
52% of sellers said getting their home in front of the most buyers was the #1 priority.
Only 21% considered access to an exclusive buyer network important—the very selling point that private listing networks rely on.
In other words, the very reason some agents give for using private listing networks—”targeting the right buyers”—is the exact opposite of what most sellers want.
Bottom Line: Private Listings Benefit Agents, Not Sellers
The data makes one thing clear: private listing networks benefit brokerages more than sellers. They allow firms to keep listings (and commissions) in-house, but at the expense of sellers who could be leaving money on the table.
If you’re selling a home, make sure your agent is working for your best interests, not their brokerage’s bottom line. The MLS remains the best tool for maximizing exposure, generating competition, and getting top dollar for your property.
And if your agent recommends a private listing network? Ask why—then demand to see the data.
The real estate market in St. Louis County is continuing to show strong growth, with the median sold price for homes reaching $250,000 in February 2025. This represents a 13.64% increase from February 2024, when the median sold price was $220,000. The chart below, available exclusively from MORE, REALTORS®, illustrates this upward trend.
The median list price in February 2025 was also up, reaching $249,900. This is a 16.23% increase from the previous year, when the median list price was $215,000. Despite this increase, the market remains competitive and homes are selling quickly.
In February 2025, there were 641 home sales in St. Louis County, a slight decrease of 16.97% from February 2024 when there were 772 sales. This decrease in sales could be attributed to the limited inventory of homes available on the market.
Overall, the St. Louis County real estate market is showing promising signs of growth and stability. With the median sold price and list price both on the rise, now may be a good time for sellers to list their homes. And for buyers, working with a knowledgeable and experienced REALTOR, like those at MORE, REALTORS®, can help navigate the competitive market and find the perfect home.
Are you looking to buy or sell a home in the St. Louis metro area? If so, you’ll want to pay attention to the fastest selling zip codes in the region. According to recent data, the top three zip codes with the shortest average time on the market are 63021 in St. Louis, MO, 62095 in Madison-IL, IL, and 63050 in Jefferson, MO.
In 63021, homes are selling at lightning speed with an average of only 13 days on the market. This zip code also boasts an average list price of $527,146, making it a desirable location for both buyers and sellers. Coming in second is 62095 in Madison-IL, IL, with an average of 17 days on the market for its 7 listings. And in third place is 63050 in Jefferson, MO, where homes are selling in an average of 19 days among its 16 listings. For a complete list of the fastest selling zip codes in the St. Louis metro area, be sure to check out MORE, REALTORS®.
With the real estate market moving at a rapid pace, it’s important for both buyers and sellers to stay informed about the hottest zip codes in the area. Whether you’re looking to purchase your dream home or sell your current property, knowing which areas are in high demand can greatly benefit your real estate goals. So don’t miss out on the opportunity to make a move in these top selling zip codes in the St. Louis metro area.
The National Association of Realtors (NAR) is on the verge of making a pivotal decision about its controversial Clear Cooperation Policy (CCP)—a rule requiring listings to be submitted to a multiple listing service (MLS) within one business day of public marketing. Now, attorney Michael Ketchmark, lead counsel in the landmark Sitzer lawsuit, has issued a stark warning: if NAR brokers vote to maintain the rule, he may take legal action against them.
Ketchmark, in an interview with Inman News, made his stance clear: “It’s my expectation that after this meeting, when this comes to a NAR vote overall, that they’ll do the right thing and remove that policy and let the free market continue to work.” He added that if the rule remains, his firm will scrutinize the motivations of those involved and determine whether anti-competitive behavior is at play. “We’ll take the depositions of the people involved and figure out exactly why they did that and what was the motivation behind it, and then make a decision at that point on how to proceed,” Ketchmark told Inman.
Legal Pressure Mounts Against NAR’s Listing Rules
The Clear Cooperation Policy, introduced in 2020, was originally designed to increase listing transparency and prevent pocket listings, which some argue allow brokers to double-end deals at the expense of consumer choice. However, opponents—including brokers, agents, and consumer advocates—argue that the rule violates antitrust principles by forcing listings into MLSs, thereby restricting homeowner control over marketing strategies.
NAR’s recent $418 million settlement in the Sitzer and related lawsuits has already forced major industry changes, including the decoupling of buyer agent compensation from listing agreements. Now, Clear Cooperation is in the crosshairs as another rule that may not withstand legal scrutiny.
Ketchmark emphasized that his issue is not with NAR itself, which he acknowledged has upheld its obligations under the settlement. Instead, his focus is on individual brokers who would vote to uphold the rule. “I don’t want anybody to suggest or think that I’m threatening the National Association of Realtors,” Ketchmark said, “but what I am saying is that whoever is voting to continue and enforce this rule, if we believe that it is done with anti-competitive goals in mind, that we will take their depositions and will hold anyone who is involved in that responsible.”
A Better Alternative: ‘MLS Exclusive’ Listings
As the debate over Clear Cooperation continues, one practical alternative gaining traction is an “MLS Exclusive” listing category. This approach would require all listings to be entered into the MLS, ensuring maximum exposure to real estate professionals while addressing seller privacy and security concerns.
Unlike traditional “office exclusive” listings—where properties are only shared within a single brokerage—MLS Exclusive listings would still be accessible to every licensed real estate professional in the MLS. For example, in the St. Louis area, MARIS (Mid-America Regional Information Systems) serves over 16,000 real estate professionals, all of whom would have access to MLS Exclusive listings.
This means that a seller’s property could still reach a vast network of professionals actively working with buyers, without being publicly displayed on thousands of websites like Zillow, Realtor.com, or IDX feeds on brokerage sites. For sellers who value privacy—such as high-profile individuals, those facing personal security concerns, or those in sensitive situations like divorce or estate sales—this provides an ideal balance between market exposure and confidentiality.
This solution eliminates the anti-competitive concerns of private “pocket listings” while preserving the seller’s right to control how their home is marketed. It also ensures that real estate professionals remain central to the transaction, offering expert guidance to both buyers and sellers without unnecessary public exposure.
The Future of Clear Cooperation
With NAR expected to vote on the policy by the end of the month, the fate of Clear Cooperation—and potentially more lawsuits—hangs in the balance. If Ketchmark follows through with legal action, brokers who support keeping the policy may find themselves on the defensive in court. Meanwhile, the industry must consider whether MLS Exclusive listingsoffer a more viable solution that protects both consumer choice and market integrity.
Are you looking to buy or sell a home in the St. Louis metropolitan area? If so, you’ll want to pay attention to the fastest selling school districts in the region. According to recent data, the top three school districts with the fastest home sales are Valley Park in Valley Park, MO, Wood River-Hartford DIST 15 in Wood River, IL, and Crystal City 47 in Crystal City, MO.
In Valley Park, homes are flying off the market with an average of just 1 day on the market for 4 active listings. With an average list price of $239,475, this district offers a great opportunity for both buyers and sellers. Coming in at a close second is Wood River-Hartford DIST 15, with an average of 2 days on the market for 4 listings. And in third place is Crystal City 47, with 6 listings and an average of 16 days on the market. Families looking to move into these districts can rest assured that their home will sell quickly, making it a desirable location for both buyers and sellers.
For a complete list of the fastest selling school districts in the St. Louis metro area, be sure to check out MORE, REALTORS®. With their expertise and knowledge of the local market, they can help you navigate the fast-paced real estate market and find the perfect home or sell your current one in record time. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to live in one of the top school districts in the region. Contact MORE, REALTORS® today and start your home buying or selling journey.
The metro east real estate market continues to show steady growth in February 2025, with a median sold price of $180,000. This represents a slight increase of 0.06% from the same time last year, when the median sold price was $179,900. However, there was a decrease of 3.74% compared to January 2025, when the median sold price was $187,000.
The median list price in February 2025 was $189,900, a 5.56% increase from February 2024’s median list price of $179,900. This indicates a strong demand for homes in the metro east area.
According to the chart below, provided exclusively by MORE, REALTORS®, there were 459 home sales in February 2025, a 1.77% increase from February 2024’s 451 home sales. This further demonstrates the growing popularity of the metro east real estate market.
Overall, the metro east area continues to be a desirable location for home buyers, with steady growth in both median sold and list prices. For all your real estate needs in the metro east area, trust the experts at MORE, REALTORS®.
The real estate market in St Charles County continues to show strength, with a median sold price of $362,559 in February 2025. This represents a 1.87% increase from the same time last year, when the median sold price was $355,900. Additionally, February’s median sold price is up 2.13% from January 2025, when it was $355,000.
According to the chart below, provided exclusively by MORE, REALTORS®, the median list price also saw a slight increase, going from $359,800 in February 2024 to $360,000 in February 2025. However, there were 233 home sales in February 2025, a decrease of 18.25% from the 285 sales in February 2024.
These numbers indicate a stable and competitive market in St Charles County, with a slight increase in prices and a decrease in sales. As always, it’s important to consult with a reputable real estate agent, such as those at MORE, REALTORS®, for personalized advice and guidance in navigating the St Charles County real estate market.
Whether you’re buying or selling a home in St Charles County, now is a great time to make a move. Contact MORE, REALTORS® today to get started on your real estate journey.
As of February 2025, the St. Louis real estate market continues to show strong growth. According to data from MORE, REALTORS®, the median sold price for homes in the stl msa update was $250,000, a 5.71% increase from the same time last year when the median sold price was $236,500. However, this month’s median sold price also represents a slight decrease of 2.53% from January 2025, when the median sold price was $256,500.
The median list price for homes in the stl msa update was also on the rise, with a 4.21% increase from February 2024, reaching $250,000. This indicates a strong demand for homes in the St. Louis area.
Despite the increase in prices, there were 1821 home sales in the stl msa update in February 2025, a decrease of 11.94% from the same time last year when there were 2068 home sales. This could be due to a limited inventory of available homes.
For a visual representation of the data, please refer to the chart below, available exclusively from MORE, REALTORS®. With the St. Louis real estate market showing continued growth, now may be a great time to buy or sell a home in the area. Contact a MORE, REALTORS® agent today for expert guidance and assistance with all your real estate needs.
As of March 2025, the median sold price for homes in the Franklin County area was $255,500, according to the latest data from MORE, REALTORS®. This represents an 8.72% increase from February 2024, when the median sold price was $235,000. However, there was a 6.92% decrease from January 2025, when the median sold price was $274,500.
The median list price for homes in Franklin County was $258,500 in February 2025, a 12.39% increase from the previous year when it was $230,000. There were 67 home sales in February 2025, a 16.25% decrease from February 2024 when there were 80 sales.
The chart below, available exclusively from MORE, REALTORS®, illustrates the data for Franklin County home sales in February 2025. Despite the decrease in sales from the previous year, the market continues to show steady growth in both median sold and list prices. Stay tuned for more updates on the Franklin County real estate market.
January 2025 saw the lowest average number of showings before a home went under contract in over a decade—just 12 showings per pending sale. This marks a significant shift in the St. Louis real estate market, signaling strong demand and motivated buyers. To put this in perspective, the average number of showings needed in January has historically ranged from 13.1 in 2024 to as high as 15.9 in 2022 and 15.8 in 2015. This downward trend suggests that buyers are acting quickly and decisively, making it a prime time for sellers to enter the market.
For St. Louis homeowners considering selling, now is the time. With demand staying strong and homes requiring fewer showings before a sale, sellers are seeing faster results with serious buyers. If you’re thinking about listing your home, MORE, REALTORS® can help you navigate the market and get the best results.
The latest interest rates as of February 21, 2025, bring good news for homebuyers in St. Louis. The 30-year fixed rate has dipped to 6.89 making it more affordable for potential buyers to secure a mortgage. The 15-year fixed rate is now 6.37%, offering even more savings. Jumbo loans have seen a significant drop, with the 30-year jumbo rate7.7.227.22 by 0.08%. Adjustable-rate mortgages like the 5/1 and 5/6 SOFR ARM are relatively s5.52 with minor decreases. FHA and VA loans have also seen reductions, making them attractive options for For the St. Louis real estate market, these changes present opportunities for both buyers and sellers. Lower interest rates can entice more buyers to enter the market, potentially increasing demand for homes. Sellers might find this an opportune time to list their properties, as more buyers could mean quicker sales and potentially higher prices. It’s crucial for both buyers and sellers to stay informed and act swiftly to capitalize on favorable market conditions. As always, keep an eye on these rates, as they can fluctuate and impact affordability and market dynamics.fluctuate and impact affordability and market dynamics.
Stay tuned for more updates and insights into how these rates continue to shape the St. Louis real estate market.
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The St. Louis City real estate market continues to show strong growth in the new year. According to the latest data from MORE, REALTORS®, the median sold price for homes in the St. Louis City update was $224,000 in January 2025. This represents a 12.03% increase from January 2024, when the median sold price was $199,950. Additionally, last month’s median sold price of $224,000 saw a 1.21% increase from December 2024, when the median sold price was $221,325.
The median list price for homes in the St. Louis City update also saw a significant increase, rising to $225,000 in January 2025. This is a 14.21% increase from January 2024, when the median list price was $197,000.
Despite these price increases, there were 149 home sales in the St. Louis City update in January 2025, a slight decrease of 5.70% from 158 in January 2024. This could be attributed to the ongoing shortage of inventory in the area, making it a competitive market for buyers.
For a visual representation of the data, please refer to the chart below, available exclusively from MORE, REALTORS®. As we continue into the new year, we can expect to see continued growth in the St. Louis City real estate market, making it a great time for both buyers and sellers. Contact MORE, REALTORS® for all your St. Louis City real estate needs.
Zombie foreclosures—homes abandoned during the foreclosure process—remain a rare issue nationwide, according to ATTOM’s latest Q1 2025 report. Nationally, only one in every 14,700 homes sits vacant due to foreclosure, holding steady from last quarter and slightly improved from a year ago. While overall foreclosure activity has declined for five consecutive quarters, the share of zombie foreclosures remains a fraction of the U.S. housing market.
In Missouri, the number of zombie foreclosures rose 85% over the past year, from 27 to 50 homes, while St. Louisrecorded an 8.9% zombie foreclosure rate among properties in foreclosure. Peoria, Illinois, continues to see higher rates, with 15.5% of its foreclosures sitting vacant. Despite these localized increases, zombie foreclosures remain a small concern in Missouri and Illinois compared to past housing downturns.
At MORE Realtors INLINE TEXT Link – goes to agent website MORE, REALTORS®, we stay on top of market trends to help clients make informed real estate decisions. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or invest, our team provides expert guidance in a constantly evolving housing market.
The St Louis County real estate market saw a strong start to the new year, with a median sold price of $234,450 in January 2025. This represents a significant increase of 17.81% compared to January 2024, when the median sold price was $199,000. However, there was a slight decrease of 9.79% from December 2024, when the median sold price was $259,900.
The median list price also saw a substantial increase, reaching $235,000 in January 2025. This is a 20.51% increase from January 2024, when the median list price was $195,000.
Despite the high prices, there were 624 home sales in St Louis County in January 2025, a decrease of 2.65% from the previous year. This indicates a strong demand for homes in the area, as buyers continue to compete for limited inventory.
According to the chart below, exclusively available from MORE, REALTORS®, the St Louis County real estate market is showing signs of a seller’s market. With low inventory and high demand, now may be a great time to sell a home in St Louis County.
As always, for the most accurate and up-to-date information on the St Louis County real estate market, contact MORE, REALTORS®. Our team of experienced agents can help you navigate the current market conditions and make informed decisions for your real estate needs.
According to CoreLogic’s latest Home Price Index (HPI) Forecast, U.S. home prices are expected to rise 4.1% year-over-year through December 2025. Nationally, home prices rose 3.4% from December 2023 to December 2024, showing a steady upward trend despite affordability concerns. In Missouri, home values have already reached record highs, and with mortgage rates still elevated, local buyers and sellers should prepare for a competitive market.
In the St. Louis metro area, the median home price was $255,000 in December 2024. Applying CoreLogic’s 4.1% projected price increase, that would push the median home price to approximately $265,500 by December 2025. For homeowners, this reinforces real estate as a solid long-term investment. For buyers, rising prices could mean acting sooner rather than later to secure a home before affordability becomes more challenging.
Thinking about buying or selling in St. Louis? The experienced team at MORE, REALTORS® is here to help you navigate this shifting market and make the most of your real estate investments. Reach out today!
Are you looking to buy or sell a home in the St. Louis metropolitan area? If so, you’ll want to pay attention to the latest real estate data. According to recent statistics, the fastest selling zip codes in the area are 62035 in Madison-IL, IL, 63021 in St. Louis, MO, and 63055 in Franklin, MO.
In 62035, homes are selling at lightning speed with an average of only 15 days on the market. This district boasts 6 active listings with an average list price of $324,250. Close behind is 63021, where homes are selling in an average of 17 days. This highly sought-after area has 14 listings currently on the market. And in third place is 63055, with an average of 18 days on the market and 6 active listings. Families looking to buy or sell a home in these zip codes should act fast, as these homes are in high demand.
If you want to see the complete list of the fastest selling zip codes in the St. Louis metropolitan area, head over to MORE, REALTORS®. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to buy or sell a home in one of these hot zip codes. With homes selling in record time, you won’t want to wait!
The real estate market in Jefferson County, as of February 15, 2025, is showing promising signs of growth. According to the latest data from MORE, REALTORS®, the median sold price for homes in Jefferson County during January 2025 was $270,000, up 2.27% from the same time last year when the median sold price was $264,018. This also marks a 1.89% increase from December 2024, when the median sold price was $265,000.
The median list price for homes in Jefferson County also saw a significant increase, rising 4.69% from $257,900 in January 2024 to $270,000 in January 2025. This indicates a strong demand for homes in the area and suggests that sellers are able to command higher prices for their properties.
However, despite the increase in prices, the number of home sales in Jefferson County saw a slight decrease. In January 2025, there were 137 home sales, a 12.74% decrease from January 2024 when there were 157 sales. This could be attributed to a decrease in inventory or a shift in buyer preferences.
The chart below, available exclusively from MORE, REALTORS®, illustrates the data mentioned above. It is clear that the real estate market in Jefferson County is continuing to thrive, making it an attractive location for both buyers and sellers. Stay tuned for more updates on the Jefferson County real estate market.
Are you in the market for a new home in the St. Louis metropolitan area? As you search for the perfect place to call home, it’s important to consider the school district that your future home will fall under. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you and have compiled a list of the top three fastest selling school districts in the area.
Topping the list is Wood River-Hartford DIST 15 in Illinois, where homes are selling at lightning speed. With only 2 listings on the market, the average time on the market is just 4 days. This district boasts an average list price of $122,450, making it an affordable option for families looking to settle down. Coming in at a close second is Wolf Branch DIST 113, also in Illinois, with an average of 14 days on the market for its 3 current listings. And rounding out the top three is GERMANTOWN DIST 60, also in Illinois, with an average of 25 days on the market for its 2 listings.
For a complete list of the fastest selling school districts in the St. Louis metro area, be sure to check out MORE, REALTORS®. With our expertise and knowledge of the local market, we can help you find the perfect home in a top-rated school district. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to live in one of these highly sought-after areas. Contact us today to start your home search!
St. Louis, take a look at our live, interactive chart for January YTD home sales—a snapshot that tells quite a story. Here’s a breakdown of what the numbers are saying and why they matter to you.
A Look at the Data
January 2025:
YTD home sales came in at 1,674.
That’s an 8% drop from January 2024’s 1,820 sales.
Recent Year-Over-Year Shifts:
2020 to 2021: Sales surged from 2,060 to 2,539—a jump of roughly 23%.
2021 to 2022: A cooling set in with a decline of about 7.7% (from 2,539 down to 2,343).
2022 to 2023: We saw a dramatic plunge of around 27%, dropping from 2,343 to 1,707.
2023 to 2024: A modest rebound of roughly 6.6% brought us to 1,820, only for 2025 to dip again by about 8%.
Historical Averages Tell the Tale
Long-Term Average (1999–2025):
Over 27 years, January YTD sales have averaged about 1,755 homes.
Early years like 1999 and 2001 saw numbers in the 1,100–1,200 range, reflecting a very different market.
Past 10 Years (2016–2025):
The average here is a much higher 2,015 homes per January.
This recent decade witnessed a significant upswing, particularly with the 2021 spike.
Past 5 Years (2021–2025):
Averaging roughly 2,017 homes, these years remind us how exceptional 2021 was before the subsequent correction began in 2022.
What Does This Mean for You?
For Buyers:
The cooling trend after a record-setting 2021 means less frantic competition. More negotiating power could translate into better deals.
For Sellers:
The volatility signals a need to recalibrate expectations. Pricing strategies should reflect a market that’s shifted from its pandemic highs to a more balanced pace.
Overall Outlook:
The data suggests a market in transition. While the past decade raised the bar with double-digit figures, the recent downturns—especially the steep 27% drop in 2023—highlight that we might be entering a phase of adjustment. The fluctuations underscore the importance of staying informed and agile.
At MORE, REALTORS®
, our commitment is to provide transparent, client-focused insights that help you navigate these market shifts. Whether you’re buying or selling in St. Louis, understanding these trends can give you a competitive edge in making the best decisions for your future.
For a deeper dive, check out the live, interactive chart below. If you have questions or need tailored advice, reach out anytime—we’re here to help you turn data into strategy.
The real estate market in the Metro East area continues to show strong growth, with the median sold price for homes reaching $186,000 in January 2025. This represents a 13.59% increase from the same time last year, when the median sold price was $163,750. The chart below, available exclusively from MORE, REALTORS®, illustrates this upward trend.
In addition to the increase in sold prices, the median list price for homes in the Metro East area also saw a significant jump, reaching $187,450 in January 2025. This is a 14.51% increase from January 2024, when the median list price was $163,700.
The number of home sales in the Metro East area also saw a notable increase, with 444 homes sold in January 2025 compared to 408 in January 2024. This represents an 8.82% increase in home sales. With such a strong market, now is a great time to consider buying or selling a home in the Metro East area.
Stay tuned for future updates on the Metro East real estate market, brought to you by MORE, REALTORS®. Our experienced agents are dedicated to helping you navigate the ever-changing real estate market and find the perfect home or buyer for your property. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you with your real estate needs.
The real estate market in St Charles County saw a slight increase in median sold price during January 2025, according to the latest data from MORE, REALTORS®. Homes sold for a median price of $350,000, which is a 3.40% increase from the same time last year when the median sold price was $338,500. However, this also represents a 2.78% decrease from December 2024, when the median sold price was $360,000.
The median list price also saw an increase, rising to $350,000 from $339,999 in January 2024. This shows a 2.94% year-over-year increase in list price. In terms of sales, there were 257 home sales in St Charles County in January 2025, a slight decrease of 0.39% from January 2024.
The chart below, available exclusively from MORE, REALTORS®, illustrates the data for the St Charles County real estate market in January 2025. These numbers indicate a steady market for both buyers and sellers, with a slight increase in prices compared to last year. Stay tuned for more updates on the St Charles County real estate market from MORE, REALTORS®.
The real estate market in the St. Louis Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) continued to show strong growth in January 2025, according to the latest data from MORE, REALTORS®. Homes in the stl msa update sold for a median price of $256000, representing an 11.33% increase from January 2024 when the median sold price was $229950. This also marks a 0.39% increase from December 2024, when the median sold price was $255000.
The median list price for homes in the stl msa update was $250000, a 9.17% increase from January 2024’s median list price of $229000. Despite the increase in prices, there were 1753 home sales in the stl msa update in January 2025, a slight decrease of 3.68% from January 2024’s 1820 home sales.
According to the chart below, available exclusively from MORE, REALTORS®, the stl msa update has consistently shown positive growth in both median sold and list prices over the past year. This trend is expected to continue as the real estate market in St. Louis remains strong. For all your real estate needs in the stl msa update, trust the experts at MORE, REALTORS®.
A new interactive map making the rounds shows cities and counties across the country and whether it’s more affordable to buy a home or rent in 2025. So, how does the St. Louis metro stack up? Let’s break it down.
The data highlights three key counties in our area—St. Charles, St. Louis County, and St. Louis City—and in all three, buying is still the better financial move. However, affordability varies significantly:
St. Charles County
Median Home Price:$358,698
Home Affordability:40.6% of income
Rental Affordability:45.9% of income
Weekly Wages:$1,115
With solid wages and better affordability, St. Charles remains a strong market for buyers.
St. Louis County
Median Home Price:$235,000
Home Affordability:23.0% of income
Rental Affordability:24.9% of income
Weekly Wages:$1,392
Still a strong buying market, but home prices remain more affordable than in neighboring counties.
St. Louis City
Median Home Price:$190,000
Home Affordability:17.4% of income
Rental Affordability:28.1% of income
Weekly Wages:$1,436
The most affordable home prices in the metro area, but rental costs take up a bigger chunk of income.
What Does This Mean?
While housing costs have risen, owning still wins out over renting in St. Louis. Affordability looks strongest in St. Charles County, but even in St. Louis City, where wages are higher relative to home prices, buying is the better long-term move.
Big changes are coming to Austin’s real estate market, and while they might seem far away, they could signal future shifts in St. Louis. The Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR), which owns and operates Unlock MLS (formerly ACTRIS), has announced that starting in June 2025, real estate agents will no longer be required to be REALTOR® members to access the MLS. This means agents in Austin can now choose whether or not to join the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) while still being able to list homes on the MLS.
Could something like this happen in St. Louis? Not without a major decision from the REALTOR® associations that own MARIS. Unlike Austin’s MLS, which is controlled by a single association that made the decision to open access, MARIS is owned by multiple REALTOR® associations, including the St. Louis REALTORS®, St. Charles REALTORS®, and several others. For MARIS to follow Austin’s lead, these associations would need to collectively decide to remove the REALTOR® membership requirement for MLS access.
For buyers and sellers, Austin’s move could lead to lower costs, more competition, and different business models as some agents may no longer pay REALTOR® dues. Some argue this will create more options for consumers, while others worry about the potential impact on professional standards. While nothing is changing here in St. Louis yet, this move signals a shift in the industry that could eventually reach our market. Buyers, sellers, and investors should pay attention—real estate is evolving fast.
At MORE, REALTORS®, we stay ahead of industry trends so our clients get the best advice in an ever-changing market. If you’re thinking about buying or selling in St. Louis, let’s talk about how to navigate today’s market with confidence.
The real estate market in Franklin County, Missouri continued its upward trend in January 2025, with a median sold price of $280,000. This represents an impressive 18.64% increase from the same time last year, when the median sold price was $236,000. The chart below, available exclusively from MORE, REALTORS®, illustrates this significant jump in home prices.
Not only did home prices increase year over year, but they also saw a 13.15% increase from the previous month. In December 2024, the median sold price was $247,450, making January 2025 the third consecutive month of double-digit price growth. This is great news for homeowners in Franklin County, who are seeing their property values rise.
The median list price for homes in Franklin County also saw a significant increase, rising 12.04% from $249,900 in January 2024 to $280,000 in January 2025. This further demonstrates the strong demand for homes in this area and the overall strength of the real estate market.
Despite the high prices, there were 61 home sales in Franklin County in January 2025, only a slight decrease of 3.17% from the same time last year. This suggests that buyers are still eager to purchase homes in this desirable county.
Overall, the real estate market in Franklin County is thriving, with increasing home prices and steady sales. As always, for the most accurate and up-to-date information on the market, turn to MORE, REALTORS®. Our team of experienced professionals are here to help you navigate the ever-changing real estate landscape.
Homeowners in the St. Louis metro area might be hearing about skyrocketing insurance premiums, but there’s some good news—our region is in a much better position than many others. A new study from the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) shows that while homeowners insurance costs are up 33% nationwide since 2020, much of that increase is hitting high-risk disaster zones and areas heavily reliant on reinsurance. Unlike coastal states dealing with hurricanes and wildfires, Missouri and Illinois have far less exposure to these risks, and insurers here aren’t nearly as dependent on expensive reinsurance policies. That means while we’re seeing premium hikes, they’re not as extreme as in Florida, Texas, or California.
That said, insurance rates are still rising here, and not just because of climate-related disasters. The study points out that aging buildings—especially condos—are contributing to increased costs, as maintenance issues and structural concerns drive up claims and policy costs. This is something to watch for if you own or are looking to buy in an older community. The report also notes that inflation and supply chain issues are making home repairs and rebuilds more expensive, which insurers factor into premium pricing.
So, what does this all mean for St. Louis area homeowners? While we’re not immune to rate increases, we’re in a far more stable position than homeowners in disaster-prone states. Our insurance market is less volatile, and we don’t have the same exposure to extreme weather events that are driving massive price hikes elsewhere. Keeping an eye on property maintenance and being proactive about coverage can help keep costs in check. The full NBER report, Property Insurance and Disaster Risk: New Evidence from Mortgage Escrow Data, is available below.
Property Insurance and Disaster Risk: New Evidence from Mortgage Escrow Data
The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) recently released its 2024 Member Profile, offering valuable insights into the business activity of REALTORS®. One of the most compelling findings is in Chapter 2, particularly Exhibit 2-6, which sheds light on the number of residential transaction sides completed by agents. Here’s what the data reveals and why it matters.
Residential Sides: A Snapshot of REALTOR® Activity
In 2023, the median number of residential transaction sides completed by REALTORS® was 10, a decline from prior years, reflecting the challenges of the current housing market. The breakdown of residential sides highlights the disparity in activity levels:
27% of REALTORS® completed 1 to 5 transactions.
22% completed 6 to 10 transactions.
15% completed 11 to 15 transactions.
19% reported 21 to 50 transactions.
Only 3% completed 51 or more transactions.
Agents with 16 years or more of experience reported a higher median of 12 transactions, compared to just 2 for those with 2 years or less experience. This highlights the significance of experience in navigating market complexities and building a robust client base.
Key Factors Influencing REALTOR® Productivity
The report identifies several factors impacting residential business activity:
Lack of Inventory and Housing Affordability: Both factors tied for the top reason REALTORS® cited as limiting client transactions, with 26% of respondents selecting these challenges. The tight housing market, combined with rising home prices and interest rates, continues to constrain transaction opportunities.
Mortgage Rate Expectations: The expectation that mortgage rates might drop was another factor, cited by 19% of REALTORS®. This suggests that both buyers and sellers are hesitating, waiting for more favorable conditions.
Referral and Repeat Business: Experienced agents benefit significantly from their established networks. REALTORS® with 16 years or more experience derived a median of 42% of their business from repeat clients and 29% from referrals. In contrast, agents with less than two years of experience reported little to no repeat or referral business.
Why These Numbers Matter
For REALTORS®, understanding the trends in transaction sides and business sources provides actionable insights for strategizing in a competitive market. Key takeaways include:
Building Relationships is Critical: Referral and repeat business remain foundational for sustained success. Newer agents should prioritize networking and client relationship management to establish a long-term pipeline.
Adapting to Market Challenges: The constrained inventory and affordability issues demand innovative strategies, such as leveraging off-market opportunities and sharpening negotiation skills to help clients navigate the tough market.
The Value of Experience: The data underscores the advantages of experience, not just in transaction volume but also in accessing repeat and referral business. Mentorship and learning from seasoned agents can accelerate the growth of newer REALTORS®.
This data, outlined below, highlights the importance of continuous improvement and innovation in real estate. At MORE, REALTORS®, we pride ourselves on equipping our agents with the tools, training, and proprietary resources they need to excel. By fostering a culture of learning and providing cutting-edge solutions, our agents consistently outperform the market average, delivering exceptional service to clients and driving greater business success.
NAR 2024 Member Profile – Transaction Sides by Agents
(click on table below to view all information from report)
As wildfires devastate parts of Los Angeles, it’s a sobering reminder to St. Louis homeowners to assess their own fire insurance coverage. While wildfires aren’t a concern here, house fires caused by electrical malfunctions, kitchen accidents, or lightning strikes are an ever-present risk. Ensuring you have the right coverage in place can make all the difference in protecting your home and your financial future.
What to Know About Your Homeowners Insurance Policy
Fire damage is typically covered by most homeowners insurance policies, but understanding the details of your coverage is critical:
Policy Limits: Are the coverage limits sufficient to rebuild your home at today’s construction costs? Many homeowners discover too late that their policy’s limits are outdated or inadequate.
Replacement Cost vs. Actual Cash Value: Ensure your policy provides replacement cost coverage, which pays the full cost to replace damaged property. Policies with actual cash value coverage will only pay the depreciated value, leaving you with a significant out-of-pocket expense.
Personal Property Coverage: Check the limits for furniture, electronics, and other personal belongings. What about unique items like heirlooms or jewelry? And don’t forget—cars parked in the garage aren’t covered under homeowners policies but require separate auto insurance.
Extensive Damage Scenarios: In the event of a catastrophic fire, some homeowners are left with a burned-out shell of a property. Will your policy cover demolition and debris removal? And what about the cost of living elsewhere while your home is rebuilt?
Protecting Yourself Further
If you’re unsure whether your coverage is adequate, Lou Darden of Kreismann Bayer Insurance Agency can help. With years of experience in the St. Louis area, Lou specializes in guiding homeowners through the complex world of insurance to ensure they’re fully protected. For more details or to connect with Lou, visit this page.
For homeowners caught in a difficult situation—like being left with a lot and a destroyed home after a fire—having a knowledgeable real estate agent on your side can be invaluable. At MORE, REALTORS®, we’ve helped many clients navigate these challenges, whether it’s finding a buyer for a fire-damaged property or assisting in rebuilding efforts.
The real estate industry’s relationship with the National Association of Realtors faces mounting challenges as multiple lawsuits emerge nationwide. Texas broker Lou Eytalis recently joined others in challenging NAR’s mandatory membership requirements for MLS access (see lawsuit complaint below), with similar cases in Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Louisiana. These suits coincide with controversy over NAR’s Standard of Practice 10-5, which has sparked First Amendment challenges from both brokers and agents who argue the rule improperly restricts speech by banning hate speech and discriminatory language on personal social media accounts.
These legal challenges come amid a turbulent period for NAR, which faces scrutiny over sexual harassment allegations, spending practices, and commission lawsuits. The Free Speech Coalition, representing real estate professionals across multiple states, argues that NAR’s speech restrictions exceed their authority and violate constitutional rights. Meanwhile, Eytalis and others contend the mandatory membership issue extends beyond fees – it’s about forcing change within an organization they believe has lost touch with members’ needs. While NAR maintains local organizations control MLS access rules, their intervention preventing Phoenix Realtors from offering membership-free MLS access suggests otherwise. The convergence of these suits – challenging both membership requirements and speech restrictions – represents growing industry pushback against NAR’s regulatory reach.
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