By Dennis Norman, on March 26th, 2026 
In March 2026, St. Louis homebuyers are witnessing a favorable shift in mortgage rates, with the 30-year fixed rate decreasing to 6.48%, down by 0.07% from previous levels. This decline marks a continued easing in rates, offering potential savings for those entering the housing market. Similarly, the 15-year fixed rate has subtly reduced to 6.09%, providing additional options for buyers looking to pay off their homes more quickly. These rate reductions reflect a broader trend of falling interest rates across the board, including decreases in 30-year FHA and Jumbo loans, as well as adjustable-rate mortgages like the 7/6 SOFR ARM.
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By Karen Moeller, on March 21st, 2026 
Seller financing is one of those ideas that tends to get dismissed quickly. For many homeowners, the reaction is immediate. It sounds complicated. It feels uncertain. And in some cases, it raises concerns about what could go wrong if a buyer does not follow through. But like many things in real estate, the perception and the reality are not always the same.
What Seller Financing Actually Means
Seller financing simply means the seller acts as the lender.
Instead of receiving the full purchase price at closing from a bank-funded loan, the seller allows the buyer to make payments over time based Continue Reading →
By Karen Moeller, on March 21st, 2026 
From time to time, a question comes up that sounds more like a thought experiment than a real estate transaction, but recently, a St. Louis area buyer asked me whether it would be possible to purchase property using gold instead of dollars. It is not as far-fetched as it sounds. In fact, the short answer is YES. But the longer answer explains why it rarely happens in practice.
What the Law Allows vs. What the Market Uses
At its core, a real estate transaction is a contract. The buyer and seller agree to exchange something of value, known as consideration, Continue Reading →
By Karen Moeller, on March 21st, 2026 
Recent discussions in Missouri have focused on a proposed constitutional amendment that would gradually phase out the state income tax and shift more of the state’s revenue toward consumption-based taxes. If advanced, the proposal would ultimately be decided by Missouri voters through the ballot process.
While proposals like this often generate strong opinions, the details are still evolving. As with any policy change, the structure of the final legislation would determine how it plays out in practice.
From a real estate perspective, the more useful question is simple: how could a shift in how the state collects revenue influence buying, selling, Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on March 19th, 2026
As of March 19, 2026, St. Louis homebuyers are witnessing a continued upward trend in mortgage rates, with the 30-year fixed rate mortgage now reaching 6.36%, marking a 0.07% increase. This moderate rise in rates signifies a broader pattern of escalating costs for financing in the region. The 15-year fixed rate also experienced a slight uptick, now standing at 5.97%, an increase of 0.04%. These changes are part of a larger trend affecting various loan products, including the 30-Year FHA and Jumbo loans, as well as adjustable rate mortgages such as the 7/6 SOFR ARM, all of which have seen Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on March 17th, 2026 
I have been hearing a lot lately from buyers who think something major changed with credit score requirements this year. The short answer is no, there was no big overhaul that suddenly made it easier to qualify for a mortgage. If your credit was a problem last year, it is still a factor today.
That said, there have been a couple of changes on the conventional loan side that are worth understanding, especially if you are close to qualifying. They are not game changers for everyone, but they could make a difference for some buyers in the St. Louis market.
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By Karen Moeller, on March 15th, 2026 
One of the more common misunderstandings in real estate happens early in the home buying process. A buyer provides a preapproval letter from a lender and their agent suggests speaking with someone else as well. At that point many buyers understandably wonder: if I am already preapproved, why would I need to talk to another lender?
In many cases, the buyers asking that question are the ones who have done exactly what they were supposed to do. They took the time to speak with a lender before house hunting and arrived prepared. When an agent suggests another conversation, it can feel Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on March 12th, 2026
March 2026 is seeing a notable increase in mortgage rates in the St. Louis real estate market, with the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage climbing by 0.15% to reach 6.24%. This uptick marks a significant rise above the 6% threshold, indicating a challenging environment for potential homebuyers. Similarly, the 15-year fixed-rate mortgage has also increased by 0.15%, now standing at 5.84%. The upward trend is consistent across other mortgage products as well, including the 30-year FHA and VA loans, as well as the 7/6 SOFR ARM, all of which have seen significant hikes.
For St. Louis area buyers, these rising rates could Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on March 5th, 2026
In March 2026, St. Louis homebuyers are witnessing a significant shift in mortgage rates as the 30-year fixed mortgage rate has decreased to 6.07%, dropping by 0.06% since last reported. This downward trend offers a slight relief for potential homebuyers in the area, making it a more opportune time to lock in rates on long-term loans. However, the 15-year fixed rate saw a marginal increase to 5.73%, indicating a mixed movement in shorter-term loan options.
These fluctuations have notable implications for the St. Louis housing market. For buyers, the decrease in 30-year fixed rates could mean more affordable monthly payments, Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on February 27th, 2026
St. Louis homebuyers are witnessing a gradual climb in mortgage rates this February 2026, as the 30-year fixed rate ticks up to 6.00%, marking a modest 0.01% increase from the previous rate. This rise is part of a broader upward trend affecting various mortgage products in the region. The 15-year fixed rate has also seen an uptick, now standing at 5.62%, a 0.04% increase that could influence the decision-making process for potential buyers looking at shorter loan terms. Other products, including the 30-year FHA and Jumbo loans, as well as the 7/6 SOFR adjustable-rate mortgage, have similarly experienced rate increases.
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By Dennis Norman, on February 19th, 2026
February 2026 brings with it a slight rise in mortgage rates for the St. Louis area, with the 30-year fixed rate now standing at 6.05%, marking a 0.01% increase from previous levels. This upward movement is mirrored in the 15-year fixed rate, which also experienced a 0.01% uptick, now at 5.62%. These increases indicate a steady climb in borrowing costs, reflecting broader market trends and economic conditions.
For potential homebuyers in St. Louis, the gradual rise in rates means higher monthly payments, which could impact affordability and purchasing decisions. Sellers may also feel the effects, as rising rates could dampen Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on February 12th, 2026
February 12, 2026 – Homebuyers and sellers in the St. Louis area are seeing continued upward movement in mortgage rates as the 30-year fixed rate reaches 6.14%, marking an increase of 0.03% from previous figures. This trend reflects a broader rise in mortgage rates across various loan types, including the 15-year fixed rate which has edged up to 5.71%, and the 30-year jumbo rate now at 6.30%.
For St. Louis buyers, these rate increases mean potentially higher monthly payments, influencing the affordability of homes in the area. Sellers may also feel the impact, as rising rates could temper buyer Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on February 5th, 2026
As of February 5, 2026, St. Louis homebuyers are facing a steady climb in mortgage rates, with the 30-year fixed rate holding firm at 6.20%. This rate stability, despite the overall rising trend, indicates that the market is maintaining moderate levels just above the 6% mark. Meanwhile, the 15-year fixed rate remains unchanged at 5.76%, offering a slightly more affordable option for those looking to pay off their loans more quickly. In contrast, the 30-year Jumbo and FHA rates have seen increases, now at 6.36% and 5.84% respectively. The adjustable 7/6 SOFR ARM also rose, now sitting at 5.64%.
For Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on January 29th, 2026
As of January 29, 2026, mortgage rates in St. Louis reflect a rising trend, with the 30-year fixed rate inching up to 6.16%, marking an increase of 0.01% from the previous rate. Despite the modest change, this movement keeps rates at moderate levels above 6%, which may influence homebuyers to act sooner rather than later. Meanwhile, the 15-year fixed rate remains steady at 5.75%, providing an alternative for those looking to minimize interest payments over a shorter term.
For St. Louis area buyers and sellers, these rate changes may have significant implications. Buyers might face slightly higher monthly payments, which Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on January 22nd, 2026
The St. Louis real estate market is experiencing mixed movements in mortgage rates as of January 22, 2026. The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage has seen a slight decrease, now standing at 6.20%, down by 0.01%. In contrast, the 15-year fixed rate has edged up to 5.76%, reflecting a minor increase of 0.01%. These subtle shifts in rates can influence the decision-making process for both homebuyers and sellers in the region.
For prospective buyers in St. Louis, the marginal drop in the 30-year fixed rate presents a slight relief, potentially lowering monthly payments and overall interest costs. However, those considering a 15-year Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on January 15th, 2026
In the St. Louis real estate market, mortgage rates showcase a mixed yet predominantly falling trend as of January 2026. The 30-year fixed mortgage rate remains stable at 6.07%, maintaining its position slightly above the 6% mark. Meanwhile, the 15-year fixed mortgage rate has seen a slight decrease, now sitting at 5.58%. This subtle shift may provide some relief for prospective homebuyers looking to finance their homes over a shorter term.
The current market dynamics present both opportunities and challenges for St. Louis area buyers and sellers. While the stability of the 30-year fixed rate suggests a level of predictability Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on January 9th, 2026
St. Louis homebuyers can breathe a small sigh of relief as mortgage rates continue to trend downward, albeit slightly. As of January 8, 2026, the 30-year fixed mortgage rate has decreased by 0.01%, settling at 6.19%. This marks a modest but notable shift in the market, providing some relief for buyers facing higher borrowing costs in recent months. Meanwhile, the 15-year fixed rate also saw a decrease, down to 5.73%.
For those considering different mortgage options, the 30-year FHA rate is now at 5.80%, while the adjustable-rate mortgage (7/6 SOFR ARM) has decreased to 5.70%. However, the 30-year jumbo rate Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on January 1st, 2026
As the new year unfolds, St. Louis homebuyers and sellers are navigating a mortgage market characterized by rising trends, albeit with the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage holding steady at 6.20% as of January 1, 2026. This rate, while unchanged from its previous level, reflects a stable yet elevated plateau above the 6% mark, signaling ongoing challenges for those entering the housing market. Meanwhile, the 15-year fixed rate has inched upward to 5.76%, a slight increase of 0.01%, indicating a subtle upward pressure across the board.
For prospective homebuyers in the St. Louis area, these rates mean careful consideration of financial plans Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on December 26th, 2025
In a welcome holiday gift for St. Louis homebuyers, mortgage rates have edged lower in December 2025, continuing a downward trend that brings some relief amid persistent economic fluctuations. The 30-year fixed mortgage rate now stands at 6.21%, reflecting a slight decrease of 0.03% from earlier in the month. Meanwhile, the 15-year fixed rate has also dipped, albeit marginally, now at 5.74%, down by 0.01%.
These rate reductions, though modest, signal a positive shift for potential buyers in the St. Louis area, offering improved affordability in a market that had seen rates hovering at higher levels for much of the Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on December 18th, 2025
In December 2025, the St. Louis real estate market is witnessing a period of mixed movements in mortgage rates, with the 30-year fixed rate holding steady at 6.27%. Although this rate remains unchanged, the slight increase of 0.01% in the 15-year fixed rate to 5.76% indicates subtle upward pressure in the market. Meanwhile, the 30-year jumbo rate has climbed to 6.42%, reflecting a trend that may affect high-value property buyers. In contrast, the 30-year FHA rate has decreased to 5.87%, providing a slight relief for first-time homebuyers or those seeking government-backed loans.
For potential homebuyers and sellers in St. Louis, Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on December 12th, 2025
As December 2025 unfolds, the St. Louis mortgage market is experiencing a mixed bag of rate movements, providing both opportunities and challenges for prospective homeowners and sellers. The 30-year fixed mortgage rate has slightly eased by 0.05%, now settling at 6.30%. This slight decrease offers a glimmer of relief for those looking to lock in rates for their long-term home financing. Meanwhile, the 15-year fixed rate saw a marginal increase, rising by 0.01% to 5.80%, reflecting a modest upward pressure in the shorter-term borrowing market.
For St. Louis homebuyers, these rate changes emphasize the importance of staying informed and agile. 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 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 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 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.
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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 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 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 12th, 2025
St. Louis homebuyers received a bit of good news this October 2025, as mortgage rates have seen a slight decline. The 30-year fixed mortgage rate has fallen to 6.32%, marking a decrease of 0.06% from previous levels. Similarly, the 15-year fixed rate has dropped to 5.84%, down by 0.04%. This trend of falling rates extends across various mortgage products, including the 30-year FHA rate at 6.03% and the 30-year Jumbo rate at 6.25%. Adjustable rates, such as the 7/6 SOFR ARM, also saw a decrease, now sitting at 5.82%.
For potential homebuyers in the St. Louis area, these changes could Continue Reading →
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