Let’s talk about one of the most misunderstood (and unfairly maligned) tags in real estate: Back on Market — aka BOM. For many buyers, seeing those three letters on a listing triggers a knee-jerk reaction:
“Yikes. What’s wrong with it?”
Totally fair question. But let me be your real estate decoder ring for a minute: a BOM home isn’t necessarily damaged goods. In fact, it might be the best house you haven’t seriously considered — yet.
What Does “Back on Market” Actually Mean?
All it means is this: the house was under contract with a buyer, and now it’s back in play. That’s it. It does not automatically mean there’s a crack in the foundation the size of the Mississippi, nor is it haunted by the ghost of contracts past. Sometimes, it’s just… life.
Common Reasons a Home Comes BOM:
Financing fell through
Inspection negotiations went sideways
The buyer bailed (cold feet, hot mess)
Home sale contingency collapsed
Let’s unpack these like the emotional baggage they sometimes are.
Financing Fumbles
Sometimes buyers get pre-approved and then make a few classic mistakes — like quitting their job, financing a car, or opening a store credit card to buy a couch for the home they don’t actually own yet. Lenders don’t love that.
Bottom line: when financing flops, it’s about the buyer’s wallet, not the house’s condition. The home itself? Still worth a look.
Inspection Drama
This one’s a little trickier, but not always catastrophic. Yes, some inspections reveal legitimate issues. But others? They read more like a grocery list of minor fixes. A leaky faucet. A loose doorknob. A GFCI outlet that works but not exactly how it should.
A good agent (👋 hi, that’s me) can walk you through what’s legit, what’s negotiable, and what’s just cold feet dressed up as contractor quotes.
Contingency Chaos
Sometimes a buyer’s offer is tied to the sale of their current home. And if that deal tanks? So does this one. It’s a domino effect — and the seller ends up right back where they started.
Again, it’s not about the house — just a case of wrong buyer, wrong time.
Cold Feet Syndrome
Buying a home is a big emotional leap. And some buyers… well, they just can’t do it. They get skittish. Grandma chimes in. Mercury goes retrograde. And poof — they’re out.
But here’s the good news: their indecision might just be your opportunity.
How Buyers Can Win with BOM Listings
Here’s the real estate reality: once a listing goes BOM, it loses a bit of its sparkle in the eyes of the market. It’s no longer “new and shiny” — which means…
👉 Less competition for you. 👉 More motivated sellers. 👉 Potentially better terms.
Here’s how to approach a BOM listing like a seasoned house hunter:
Ask the right questions: Why did the contract fall through? Is there an inspection report available?
Get the full picture: Were repairs made? Was the home appraised?
Be prepared: If it checks out and fits your goals, move quickly — this could be your moment to snag a great home without the bidding war circus.
The Bottom Line
Don’t let BOM scare you off. Let it make you curious. The key is working with an agent who knows how to dig deeper, separate the red flags from the red herrings, and help you seize opportunities that others might miss.
At MORE, REALTORS®, we help buyers think strategically, act confidently, and stay protected every step of the way. Curious to see how BOMs are trending in your area?
If you’re ready to house hunt like a pro — without losing your humor or your sanity — I’d love to help.
Because not every second chance is sketchy. Some are just waiting for the right buyer to come along.
Ready to Make a Move?
Whether you’re buying, selling, or just market-curious — let’s talk. I bring data, strategy, and a bit of charm to the process (because real estate doesn’t have to be boring).
If you want to understand the heart of a city, don’t just study the map — listen to the voices shaping the conversation. In St. Louis, those voices are increasingly coming from local influencers who are not just entertaining followers, but reflecting the dynamic, diverse spirit of our neighborhoods.
Whether you’re relocating, upsizing, or just considering your options, tapping into the content created by St. Louis’s most-followed personalities can give you a front-row seat to the lifestyle vibe that no MLS listing can capture.
Here are 10 standout social media figures helping to define St. Louis right now — and what their platforms might tell you about the communities you’re considering calling home.
✨Culture, Creativity, and Community — Through a St. Louis Lens
Sydney Thomas (@iamsydneythomas) After going viral as a ring girl during the 2024 Mike Tyson–Jake Paul fight, this recent University of Alabama grad has become a breakout personality on TikTok. Her meteoric rise shows how hometown pride and national visibility can go hand in hand — something we see echoed in St. Louis neighborhoods that blend local roots with modern energy.
Taylor Cassidy (@taylorcassidyj) With over 2.2 million followers, Taylor’s “Fast Black History” series blends education and storytelling, underscoring the importance of heritage and voice. Her work resonates deeply in historic St. Louis communities where culture is preserved and celebrated — think the Central West End or The Ville.
Meaghan Ranee (@meaghanranee) Known for her candid humor on parenting and everyday chaos, Meaghan brings a refreshingly unfiltered look at family life. Buyers exploring areas like Webster Groves, Kirkwood, or South City will find echoes of her relatable content in neighborhoods filled with playgrounds, porches, and personality.
Dr. Holden Stanfill (@dr.holdenstanfill) This viral chiropractor combines health expertise with digital charm — proof that professional services in St. Louis are evolving alongside its social scene. From sleek wellness hubs to historic buildings-turned-businesses, you’ll find communities ready for both innovation and tradition.
Nicole Paris (@realnicoleparis) Opera meets beatboxing? Only in St. Louis. Nicole’s eclectic artistry captures the city’s musical soul and its love for reinvention. Buyers seeking areas with rich creative energy — like Benton Park or Cherokee Street — will feel right at home.
Jess Bippen (@nourishedbynutrition) A registered dietitian focused on women’s wellness, Jess curates calm, clarity, and holistic balance — values you can see reflected in the growing demand for walkable, wellness-minded neighborhoods like Maplewood or Tower Grove.
Naye’ Gray (@naye.gray) With content rooted in empowerment and authenticity, Naye’ brings warmth and encouragement to the digital space. That same energy is what draws buyers to community-driven neighborhoods where diversity, connection, and self-expression are welcome.
Justin Barr (@stl_from_above) Justin’s drone footage of the city showcases St. Louis from a bird’s-eye view — literally. His work gives buyers a sense of layout, green space, and architectural charm, all from their phone screen.
Jen Cowan (@andhattiemakesthree) Through snapshots of parenting, lifestyle, and local events, Jen gives a well-rounded view of what family life in St. Louis really looks like. Her feed often feels like a live-in tour of family-friendly pockets throughout the metro area.
Psyche Southwell (@economyofstyle) Psyche’s fashion-forward take on affordable style is grounded in practicality and flair — a lot like St. Louis itself. Whether it’s charming bungalows in South Hampton or modern condos near Cortex, she speaks to buyers who want style without sacrifice.
🏡 What This Means for Buyers
These influencers do more than entertain — they help paint a portrait of what it’s like to live here. Their content offers valuable insight into everything from school districts and small businesses to street festivals and city parks. Watching their feeds can help buyers:
Get a feel for neighborhood energy (Is it buzzing or laid-back?)
Identify communities aligned with lifestyle goals (Walkability, diversity, wellness, art scenes)
Stay in the loop on local trends, businesses, and cultural moments
Picture themselves in the day-to-day rhythm of STL life
🤝 The Right Fit Starts with the Right Guide
When you’re buying a home, you’re not just investing in walls and windows — you’re choosing a lifestyle. The team at MORE REALTORS®understands that. Our agents don’t just know the market — we live in these communities, shop at the same farmers markets, and follow many of the same local voices you do.
Whether you’re drawn to a vibrant city block or a quiet street near the trails, we’ll help you navigate not just where to buy, but why it fits you.
Ready to find your place in the STL story?
Whether you’re buying, selling, or just market-curious — let’s talk. I bring data, strategy, and a bit of charm to the process (because real estate doesn’t have to be boring).
If you’re a homeowner prepping to sell, chances are you’ve peeked at your Zestimate and done some mental math about how much your place might fetch. But when the appraiser shows up with a clipboard and a calculator (okay, it’s probably a tablet these days), they’re playing by a very different rulebook.
Here are eight things that surprise even seasoned sellers when it comes to how a home is appraised — and why it pays to have a pro guiding you through it.
1. Your ZIP Code Carries More Weight Than You Think
Even if your home backs to the same park, sits on the same style lot, and has nearly identical upgrades as the neighbor two streets over, appraisers may only pull comps from your specific ZIP or subdivision. That means the value of your home could take a hit just because it’s technically on the “wrong” side of a map line. (Yes, it’s as frustrating as it sounds.)
2. Appraisers Don’t Use Zillow
Sure a Zestimate makes for fun cocktail party banter, but an appraiser won’t touch it with a ten-foot pole. They rely on real, recent, closed sales, and they’re hyper-local about it. So if your appraised value doesn’t match what you saw online, it’s not an error — it’s just how the sausage gets made.
3. Over-Improving Isn’t Always a Win
You might have the sleekest kitchen in the county, but if your home is now wildly outpacing others in your neighborhood, the appraiser may cap how much value those upgrades actually add. In short: just because you paid $70K for a home gym and wine cellar doesn’t mean you’ll get it back in the appraisal.
4. Cleanliness Doesn’t Technically Matter… But It Kind of Does
In theory, appraisers evaluate structure and condition — not whether the dishes are done. But homes that are tidy, well-lit, and feel taken care of tend to be perceived more positively. Mess can signal neglect, even if it’s just life happening.
5. Unpermitted Work Could Lower Value
That gorgeous finished basement or oversized deck? If it was done without permits or outside code compliance, the appraiser might exclude it from square footage — or worse, deduct value for potential risk. Always check your paperwork before you brag about that bonus living space.
6. Weird Floor Plans Can Tank Value
Appraisers look beyond square footage. If your layout feels awkward — like a bedroom that opens straight into the kitchen or a bathroom you have to reach through the laundry room — you may get dinged for function, even if the finishes are high-end.
7. Curb Appeal = Appraisal Appeal
Peeling paint, cracked walkways, or an overgrown yard won’t just turn off buyers — they can also nudge your appraisal down a notch. Even if the bones are good, deferred maintenance shows up in the numbers.
8. Appraisers Aren’t Mind Readers
They don’t know you installed a new roof last year or replaced every window in the house unless you tell them. Providing a clear, concise list of updates with dates and receipts can help ensure those investments are reflected in your appraisal.
Bottom Line? The Right Guidance Changes Everything.
Selling your home isn’t just about putting a sign in the yard — it’s about navigating a whole maze of value perception, market data, and strategic positioning. At MORE, REALTORS, we specialize in getting ahead of the appraisal curve: walking you through what matters, what doesn’t, and how to make the most of your home’s value — before the appraiser even pulls into the driveway.
📞 Ready to Make a Move?
Whether you’re buying, selling, or just market-curious — let’s talk. I bring data, strategy, and a bit of charm to the process (because real estate doesn’t have to be boring).
Let’s be honest — some home trends age like fine wine, and others… well, they start to feel like a VHS tape in a 4K world. And when it comes to your home’s curb appeal, especially in the ever-evolving St. Louis market, making smart design choices matters — not just for resale, but for loving where you live right now.
So, what exterior looks are heading out the door in 2025? Here’s what’s being quietly escorted off the style stage — and what’s stepping into the spotlight instead.
❌ The “Out” List: Trends Taking a Backseat This Year
1. All-White Exteriors That clean farmhouse white look? Still charming in small doses, but too much of it can come off cold and high-maintenance. Buyers are craving warmth and personality — and white-on-white doesn’t always deliver.
2. Cool Gray Everything If “Millennial Gray” had a good run on your block, you’re not alone. But 2025 is favoring warmer greiges, clay tones, and organic hues that feel more grounded and inviting.
3. Painted Brick (Especially White or Gray) A controversial one, I know. But we’re seeing a shift back toward natural, unpainted brick — with all its texture, variation, and historic character. Less maintenance, more authenticity.
4. Matchy-Matchy Monochrome Uniform siding, trim, shutters, and doors? Not anymore. Today’s curb appeal is all about thoughtful contrast — rich siding with creamy trim, or an unexpected pop on the front door. Let it breathe a little.
5. Boring Front Doors A beige door that fades into the siding? Pass. We’re leaning into color — deep navy, olive green, and even bold citrus tones that make your entryway stand out in the best way.
6. Stiff Landscaping Overly symmetrical gardens and high-maintenance hedges are giving way to looser, more natural designs. Native plants, layered textures, and low-water landscaping are not just trendy — they’re smart.
✅ So, What Is In?
We’re seeing a strong embrace of:
Nature-inspired palettes (hello, soft taupes, mossy greens, and warm browns)
Mixed materials (wood, stone, metal — all working together like a great charcuterie board)
Smart outdoor lighting (functional and dramatic? Yes, please)
Biophilic landscaping that connects your home to the environment around it
And the best part? These updates are just as practical as they are beautiful — especially important as St. Louis buyers become more style-savvy and sustainability-focused.
Bonus Insight: Why This Matters Now
Love It Or List It is not just a tv show. So, it is important to not DIY in the dark. If you are on the fence about whether to stay or go, let’s talk strategy. There’s a strong upswing in homeowners choosing to update instead of relocate. Investing in a few modern exterior touches can seriously boost your home’s value — and give you that “yes, I do live here” moment every time you pull into the driveway.
But when even the freshest facelift doesn’t rekindle the flame, it is time to List it.
Ready to Make a Move?
Whether you’re buying, selling, or just market-curious — let’s talk. I bring data, strategy, and a bit of charm to the process (because real estate doesn’t have to be boring).
As the spring market picks up speed, St. Charles and St. Louis counties are showing some interesting contrasts in real estate activity — and for both buyers and sellers, the opportunities (and strategies) vary depending on where you’re standing.
We dug into the most recent local data comparing February to March 2025, and here’s what you need to know:
🔻 Price Reductions Are Dropping — And That’s a Seller Signal
In both St. Charles and St. Louis, the number of listings with price reductions declined noticeably:
St. Charles saw a 24% decrease
St. Louis experienced a 20% decrease
That drop suggests sellers are pricing more confidently — or seeing stronger interest up front. If you’re a homeowner considering listing, this may be your cue to strike while competition remains tight and buyers are motivated.
📈 Inventory Is Up — Especially in St. Charles
After a long stretch of low inventory, the spring surge is real:
St. Charles listings jumped 51%
St. Louis listings rose 35%
Buyers now have more options to choose from — which is great news for anyone who felt boxed in during the winter slowdown. And for sellers, it means a more competitive landscape where staging, pricing, and timing matter more than ever.
✅ Accepted Offers Are Climbing
Demand isn’t slowing — even with more listings hitting the market. In March:
St. Louis saw a 31% increase in newly accepted contracts
St. Charles followed closely with a 29% rise
Homes are still moving quickly — especially those that are well-presented and priced right from the start.
🔁 Fewer Homes Are Returning to Market
Another sign of increasing buyer confidence and stability:
St. Charles saw a 4% drop in homes coming back on market
St. Louis saw a 2% decrease
Fewer fall-throughs means deals are sticking — a positive sign for sellers looking for smoother closings and buyers aiming to avoid bidding wars or financing hiccups.
💡 What This Means for Buyers and Sellers
Whether you’re navigating St. Louis or exploring opportunities in St. Charles, one thing is clear: the spring market is active, competitive, and filled with potential.
For Buyers: Now’s the time to make your move — more inventory gives you choices, but homes are still selling fast. A trusted agent (hi, that’s me 👋) can help you move quickly and confidently when the right one pops up.
For Sellers: The market is rewarding homes that are prepped, priced, and positioned well. With fewer price reductions and solid buyer demand, this could be your window to sell successfully.
Ready to Make a Move?
Whether you’re buying, selling, or just market-curious — let’s talk. I bring data, strategy, and a bit of charm to the process (because real estate doesn’t have to be boring).
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