By Dennis Norman, on December 6th, 2025 
Real estate investors accounted for a record-high 33% of all single-family home purchases in the U.S. during the second quarter of 2025, according to the latest Investor Pulse™ Report from BatchData. This marks the highest share in five years and reflects a growing trend of investor activity in the housing market, particularly from “mom-and-pop” buyers who now own over 90% of all investor-held homes. In contrast, large institutional investors have been net sellers for six straight quarters. Despite this national trend, Missouri’s investor footprint remains relatively modest, coming in just under the national average, based on visual analysis of the Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on December 4th, 2025 
St. Louis homebuyers received a bit of relief this December as mortgage rates saw a slight decline across the board, reflecting a favorable trend for those in the market for a new home. The 30-year fixed mortgage rate has fallen to 6.23%, down 0.07% from the previous rates, while the 15-year fixed rate also saw a decrease, now standing at 5.75%. This drop in rates provides a much-needed breather for potential buyers who have been facing the pressure of high borrowing costs in recent months.
The slight dip in rates is expected to invigorate the St. Louis housing market as Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on November 27th, 2025
As the St. Louis housing market heads into the final months of 2025, mortgage rates continue their upward trajectory, affecting both potential homebuyers and sellers in the region. The 30-year fixed mortgage rate has risen to 6.22%, marking an increase of 0.02% from last week. Similarly, the 15-year fixed rate saw a hike, now standing at 5.78%, up by 0.03%. Other loan types, including the 30-Year FHA and 30-Year Jumbo, also experienced rate increases, indicating a broader trend of rising rates across various mortgage products.
For St. Louis area buyers, these rate hikes mean higher monthly payments, potentially impacting affordability Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on November 27th, 2025 
While Thanksgiving has become a well-established American tradition, many people may not realize that it wasn’t always a national holiday. That changed in 1863, when President Abraham Lincoln issued a proclamation during the heart of the Civil War, calling on Americans to observe a national day of Thanksgiving on the last Thursday of November. This historic act laid the foundation for the holiday as we know it today.
Lincoln’s proclamation came at a time of deep division and suffering. Yet, he noted the many blessings still enjoyed by the nation: peace with foreign powers, growing industry and agriculture, and an Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on November 24th, 2025 
If you’re a landlord renting out a condo in Missouri, you need to understand a key risk that can cost you, even if your mortgage is current. Missouri Statute 448.3-116 gives the condo association an automatic lien for unpaid assessments or fines. This lien attaches from the moment the debt becomes due and can be foreclosed like a mortgage. And yes, this applies even when the tenant is the one supposed to be paying the fees.
The statute goes further. If the unit owner is more than 60 days delinquent on assessments, the association has the right to demand that Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on November 21st, 2025 
The St Louis City real estate market showed a dynamic shift in October 2025, with homes selling for a median price of $223,000. This marks a 6.19% increase compared to October 2024’s median of $210,000. However, it also reflects an 8.98% decrease from September 2025, when the median sold price was $245,000. The median list price for homes in October 2025 was $205,000, representing a 10.87% drop from $230,000 in October 2024. Additionally, home sales totaled 255, down 16.12% from 304 sales in October 2024.
The chart below, available exclusively from MORE, REALTORS®, illustrates these market trends and provides further Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on November 20th, 2025
In November 2025, St. Louis homebuyers are seeing a slight reprieve in mortgage rates as the 30-year fixed rate dips to 6.36%, down by 0.02% from previous levels. This decrease, along with a minor reduction in the 15-year fixed rate to 5.85%, reflects a downward trend in the market, offering potential buyers a modestly improved borrowing cost environment. The 30-year Jumbo and FHA loans also experienced slight declines, with rates at 6.44% and 5.99%, respectively. However, the 30-year VA rate saw an increase, demonstrating a mixed bag for specific loan products.
For those considering entering the St. Louis housing market, Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on November 20th, 2025 
The Franklin County real estate market continues to show robust growth as we move into November 2025. Homes in the area sold for a median price of $273,500 in October 2025, marking a 7.25% increase from the previous year when the median price was $255,000. This upward trend also reflects a 2.43% rise from September 2025’s median price of $267,000.
The median list price in October 2025 was $303,000, a significant 14.34% jump from $265,000 in October 2024. The number of home sales also saw a notable increase, with 133 homes sold in October 2025 compared to 112 in Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on November 19th, 2025 
The St. Louis County real estate market saw notable changes in October 2025, with homes selling for a median price of $292,950. This marks an increase of 4.63% compared to October 2024, when the median sold price was $280,000. However, this figure represents a slight decrease of 0.69% from September 2025, when the median sold price was $295,000.
The median list price in October 2025 was $239,999, showing a significant decrease of 13.51% from $277,500 in October 2024. Despite this drop in list prices, the number of home sales increased, with 1,246 homes sold in October 2025, up 7.51% from Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on November 17th, 2025 
As we approach the end of October 2025, the St. Louis metropolitan area has witnessed the sale of 28,890 homes, marking a slight decline of 0.85% compared to the 29,137 homes sold during the same period last year. This stable market environment presents both challenges and opportunities for potential home buyers and sellers. For those considering entering the market, this minor dip in sales may suggest a more balanced market, offering a window of opportunity for families to explore available housing options without the intense competition seen in previous years.
Despite the slight decrease from last year, the market remains Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on November 16th, 2025 
The St. Louis metropolitan area is seeing a surge in real estate activity, with certain zip codes standing out for their rapid home sales. Leading the pack is a zip code in St. Clair County, Illinois, where homes are selling at lightning speed. With an average of just 23 days on the market, this area boasts six active listings with an average list price of $62,167, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers looking for quick transactions.
Following closely are two zip codes in St. Louis, Missouri. The first, with 57 active listings, sees homes spending an average of Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on November 16th, 2025 
The Jefferson County real estate market continues to show positive trends as of November 2025. In October 2025, homes in the area sold for a median price of $290,000, reflecting a 1.31% increase from the median price of $286,250 in October 2024. This price also remained stable compared to September 2025, with no change in the median sold price, indicating a consistent market performance.
Furthermore, the median list price for homes in Jefferson County rose significantly to $329,900, marking a 15.75% increase from $285,000 in October 2024. This rise in list prices suggests a strong demand for homes in the Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on November 13th, 2025
In November 2025, St. Louis homebuyers are seeing a favorable shift in mortgage rates as the trend continues downward. The 30-year fixed mortgage rate has decreased to 6.29%, a slight drop of 0.05% from last week. This reduction offers a slight reprieve in what has been a challenging market for prospective homeowners. Similarly, the 15-year fixed rate has decreased to 5.80%, down by 0.04%, providing additional options for those looking to finance or refinance their homes.
These falling rates are a positive development for the St. Louis market, potentially easing monthly payments for buyers and improving affordability. Sellers may also Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on November 12th, 2025 
In the dynamic real estate market of the St. Louis metropolitan area, understanding which school districts are experiencing rapid home sales can provide a competitive edge for both buyers and sellers. Currently leading the pack is Wolf Branch DIST 113 in St. Clair County, Illinois, where homes are being snapped up in an average of just 28 days. With 7 active listings and an average list price of $366,943, this district is attracting families looking for both quality education and a swift home-buying process.
Following closely is the Wood River-Hartford DIST 15 in Madison County, Illinois, with homes on the Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on November 9th, 2025 
The Metro East real estate market continues its upward trajectory as of November 2025, with significant gains in both home prices and sales volume. In October 2025, homes in the Metro East area sold for a median price of $220,000, marking a 7.32% increase from the previous year when the median was $205,000. This also represents a 2.33% rise from September 2025’s median sold price of $215,000. The median list price reached $232,500, a notable 13.41% increase from October 2024’s $205,000.
The market’s vitality is further highlighted by the 678 home sales recorded in October 2025, a 7.45% increase compared Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on November 8th, 2025 
The St. Charles County real estate market demonstrated steady growth in October 2025, with homes selling for a median price of $365,000. This marks a 1.39% increase from October 2024, when the median sold price was $360,000. Additionally, the current median sold price reflects a 2.82% rise compared to September 2025’s $355,000. The median list price also saw a significant increase, reaching $437,163, up 21.77% from $359,000 in October 2024.
The market activity in St. Charles County remained strong, with 517 homes sold in October 2025, a 1.77% increase from the 508 homes sold during the same period last year. Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on November 7th, 2025 
The St. Louis Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) real estate market continues to show robust growth as of November 2025. Homes in the region sold for a median price of $290,000 in October 2025, marking a 3.57% increase from the $280,000 median price recorded in October 2024. This upward trend is further highlighted by a 1.75% rise from September 2025, where the median sold price was $285,000.
The median list price for homes also saw a significant increase, reaching $300,000 in October 2025. This represents a 7.14% growth compared to October 2024, when the median list price was $280,000. Additionally, Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on November 6th, 2025
In November 2025, mortgage rates for the St. Louis real estate market have continued their upward trajectory, presenting new challenges for prospective homebuyers and sellers. The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage has increased to 6.37%, up by 0.04% from previous levels. Meanwhile, the 15-year fixed rate saw a more significant rise of 0.06%, now sitting at 5.86%. These increases reflect a broader trend of climbing rates, with the 30-year FHA and Jumbo loans also experiencing hikes, reaching 6.09% and 6.40%, respectively. Notably, the adjustable-rate mortgage (7/6 SOFR ARM) has risen to 6.03%, further narrowing the options for those seeking lower initial payments.
Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on October 30th, 2025
As of October 30, 2025, St. Louis homebuyers are seeing a consistent upward trend in mortgage rates, with the 30-year fixed mortgage rate rising by 0.14% to reach 6.27%. This significant increase signals a shift in the St. Louis real estate market, where rates have consistently moved higher. The 15-year fixed rate also saw a rise, now at 5.82%, marking a 0.10% increase. These changes reflect broader economic trends impacting borrowing costs.
The implications for buyers and sellers in the St. Louis area are considerable. With higher mortgage rates, potential homebuyers may face increased monthly payments, prompting some to reconsider Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on October 30th, 2025 
A pending bill in the Illinois Senate, HB3564, aims to limit rental fees and increase transparency, but it raises real concerns for landlords and property managers. While I’m fully in favor of transparency and clear disclosure of fees, this bill adds unnecessary restrictions that could reduce housing availability and create inequities in how different types of tenants are treated.
The bill would prohibit landlords from charging move-in fees on top of security deposits and would require that any non-optional fees be listed on the first page of the lease. It also limits background check fees to the **actual cost or Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on October 23rd, 2025
As October 2025 progresses, the St. Louis mortgage market is experiencing mixed movements in interest rates, offering both opportunities and challenges for potential homebuyers and current homeowners. The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage remains stable at 6.17%, maintaining its position at a moderate level above 6%. Meanwhile, the 15-year fixed-rate mortgage saw a slight decrease, dipping by 0.02% to stand at 5.73%. These subtle shifts highlight a market in flux, where buyers can still find favorable conditions depending on their financial strategy.
For St. Louis buyers, the unchanged 30-year fixed rate presents an opportunity to lock in a long-term mortgage at a Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on October 23rd, 2025 
Good news for Missouri home sellers and real estate agents. On Monday (October 20th), the U.S. Supreme Court refused to hear a long-running lawsuit that could have changed how listings are marketed. The lawsuit, filed by a Columbia, Missouri-based home designer, claimed that a real estate brokerage broke copyright law by posting a floorplan online to help sell a home. After years of back and forth, the courts decided that using a floorplan in this way is legal under the “fair use” rule. That decision now stands for good.
So what does this mean for you? If you’re selling your Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on October 21st, 2025
The St. Louis metropolitan area is witnessing a dynamic real estate market, with certain zip codes standing out for their rapid home sales. Leading the pack is zip code 63119 in St. Louis, MO, where homes are flying off the market in an average of just 4 days. With 55 active listings, this area boasts an average list price of $488,575, making it a hot spot for both buyers and sellers looking to make swift transactions. The appeal of 63119 lies in its vibrant community and convenient location, attracting families and professionals alike.
In Illinois, the pace is brisk in Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on October 21st, 2025
The St. Louis City real estate market continues to show dynamic changes as of October 2025. Homes sold for a median price of $245,000 in September 2025, marking an impressive 11.36% increase from the median price of $220,000 in September 2024. This upward trend also reflects a 4.26% rise from August 2025, when the median sold price was $235,000.
Interestingly, while the median sold price has increased, the median list price in September 2025 was $220,000, down 4.35% from $230,000 in September 2024. Additionally, the number of home sales in St. Louis City decreased by 9.93%, with 245 homes sold Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on October 20th, 2025
The Franklin County real estate market continues to show dynamic changes as of October 2025. Homes sold for a median price of $267,000 in September 2025, marking an 8.54% increase from the median price of $246,000 in September 2024. However, this represents an 8.87% decrease from the previous month’s median of $293,000 in August 2025. The median list price for September 2025 was $295,000, which is an 11.45% rise compared to $264,703 in September 2024.
Home sales in the county saw a significant boost, with 117 homes sold in September 2025, a substantial 34.48% increase from the 87 homes Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on October 20th, 2025
The St. Louis County real estate market continues to show robust growth as of October 2025. In September 2025, homes sold for a median price of $295,000, marking a significant increase of 9.26% from September 2024, when the median price was $270,000. This upward trend also reflects a 1.72% rise from August 2025, where the median sold price was $290,000.
Interestingly, while the median sold price has climbed, the median list price has seen a decline. In September 2025, the median list price was recorded at $235,000, a decrease of 14.55% compared to $275,000 in September 2024. Despite this Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on October 16th, 2025
In a positive shift for the St. Louis real estate market, mortgage rates have continued their downward trend, offering some relief to prospective homebuyers. As of mid-October 2025, the 30-year fixed mortgage rate has decreased to 6.27%, dropping by 0.04%. The 15-year fixed rate has also seen a slight reduction, now standing at 5.82%. This consistent decline across various loan types, including FHA, Jumbo, and VA loans, indicates a broader easing in borrowing costs.
For St. Louis buyers and sellers, these rate reductions could signal a more favorable environment for purchasing and refinancing. Lower rates can enhance affordability, potentially boosting Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on October 15th, 2025
The Jefferson County real estate market has shown notable activity as of October 2025. In September 2025, homes in the area sold for a median price of $290,000. This marks a 5.96% increase from September 2024, when the median sold price was $273,700. However, this also reflects a slight decrease of 3.33% from August 2025, when the median price was $300,000. Additionally, the median list price in September 2025 was $280,000, a 3.74% rise from $269,900 in the previous year.
The county saw a total of 241 home sales in September 2025, which is a 9.55% increase from the 220 Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on October 14th, 2025 
Missouri Insurance Department halts cancellations for storm-damaged homes
If your Missouri home was damaged in the spring 2025 storms and you’re still working through repairs, your insurer cannot cancel or non-renew your policy because of the storm damage or related claims. In a new directive, DCI ordered companies to keep coverage in force for storm-affected residential properties statewide for weather losses occurring after March 1, 2025. The department also told insurers to reverse any cancellations or non-renewals already sent out for this reason. Normal exceptions still apply, such as cancellations for non-payment and properties that weren’t damaged. The bulletin notes Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on October 12th, 2025
In the bustling St. Louis metropolitan area, finding a home in a top-performing school district can be a competitive endeavor. Currently leading the charge is the Wood River-Hartford DIST 15 in Illinois, where homes are being snapped up in an average of just 18 days. With seven active listings, the average list price stands at an attractive $117,814, making it a hotspot for families looking to settle quickly in a vibrant community.
Not far behind, the Bayless district in Unincorporated, Missouri, boasts 15 listings with homes averaging 25 days on the market. Meanwhile, BUNKER HILL DIST 8 in Illinois Continue Reading →
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