By Dennis Norman, on January 17th, 2026 
The St. Louis metropolitan area has witnessed a subtle shift in its housing market dynamics this year, with a total of 34,383 homes sold through December 2025. This figure marks a slight decrease of 0.60% from the 34,590 homes sold during the same period last year. Despite this modest reduction, the market remains robust, reflecting a stable environment for both buyers and sellers. The consistency in sales figures over the past year suggests a balanced market, offering opportunities for families looking to settle in this vibrant region spanning counties in both Missouri and Illinois.
For those interested in the most Continue Reading →
By Karen Moeller, on January 17th, 2026 
When a multi‑billion‑dollar development is proposed a few blocks from someone’s front porch, it stops being a business headline and becomes a neighborhood story.
The newly unveiled plan to transform the historic Armory and the adjacent former Macy’s/Famous‑Barr warehouse into what developers are calling the Armory Innovation District is one of the largest private development proposals the region has seen in years. It includes renovation of the Armory into office space and construction of a hyperscale data center on the warehouse site, with a stated goal of positioning St. Louis as a serious player in the national tech and AI Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on January 17th, 2026 
The SLT Market Chart below, available exclusively from MORE, REALTORS®, shows a full monthly history of St. Louis MSA home sales since 1999, and if you’re a data geek (like me) or just trying to get a real read on where this market is going, this chart is gold.
Here’s what stands out immediately: 2021 was the peak, no debate. In September 2021, the 12-month rolling total for home sales in the St. Louis metro hit 48,633 homes, an all-time high. For the calendar year 2021, sales totaled 48,328. Nothing before or after even comes close.
Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on January 16th, 2026 
In the dynamic real estate market of the St. Louis metropolitan area, certain zip codes are experiencing rapid sales, making them hotspots for both buyers and sellers. Leading the pack is a zip code in St. Clair, Illinois, where homes are flying off the market in just 19 days on average. With five active listings, the average list price stands at an attractive $54,580, presenting a unique opportunity for families looking to settle in a vibrant community.
Close behind is a zip code in Clinton, Illinois, where properties spend an average of 37 days on the market, followed by a Continue Reading →
By Karen Moeller, on January 15th, 2026 
How Entry-Level Homes Got Bigger, Fancier and Harder To Afford
Ask three different generations what a starter home looks like and you will get three very different answers.
Your grandparents might picture a 2-bedroom bungalow with 1 bath, wood paneling and a carport. Your parents might think of a 3-bed, 1.5-bath ranch that needed wallpaper scraped and a deck added someday. A lot of today’s buyers walk into their first place looking for an en suite bath, walk-in closets, an attached garage and a kitchen that is already Instagram ready.
Starter homes have not disappeared in St. Louis, but 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 Karen Moeller, on January 15th, 2026 
The City of Ballwin will officially expand its municipal boundaries in April after city officials approved plans to annex two residential neighborhoods and a school currently located in unincorporated St. Louis County.
Annexations are far less common today than they were decades ago, which makes Ballwin’s decision notable. While modest in scale, the move offers insight into how municipalities across St. Louis County are quietly rethinking governance, service delivery, and long-term planning.
Annexation is the legal process by which a city brings nearby land into its municipal boundaries. While it once played a major Continue Reading →
By Karen Moeller, on January 15th, 2026 
When people talk about what drives home values, the same factors tend to dominate the conversation. Interest rates. Inventory. Schools. Taxes.
What receives far less attention is public park investment, even though in communities like Eureka, it plays a meaningful role in shaping buyer behavior and long-term market stability.
This is not about trendy amenities or short-term demand spikes. It is about how permanently protected land, trail systems, and outdoor infrastructure function as a form of market stability that does not fluctuate with economic cycles.
Parks as Fixed Infrastructure
Route 66 Park Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on January 15th, 2026 
In December 2025, the Jefferson County real estate market saw notable activity, with homes selling at a median price of $277,450. This marks a 4.01% increase from December 2024, when the median price was $266,750. However, compared to November 2025, there was a slight decrease of 0.91% from the previous median price of $280,000. The market also experienced a significant rise in the median list price, reaching $334,100, which is a 16.11% increase from $287,750 in December 2024.
The number of home sales in December 2025 totaled 240, reflecting an 11.11% increase from the 216 homes sold in December 2024. Continue Reading →
By Karen Moeller, on January 12th, 2026 
When a federal housing official publicly tells homebuilders to “build more,” it sounds simple enough. More homes should mean more supply, and more supply should ease affordability pressures.
That logic works at a national level. On the ground in the St. Louis region, the story is far more complicated.
Recently, **Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Bill Pulte called on builders to accelerate construction on lots they already control, arguing that housing affordability will not improve without increased production. The message was clear and widely shared.
What matters just as much is where Continue Reading →
By Karen Moeller, on January 12th, 2026 
If you want a quick snapshot of how people feel about change in Kirkwood, you do not need a formal survey. You just need to scroll for a moment. Reactions to the newly approved downtown apartment project range from enthusiastic to uneasy, with plenty of thoughtful pause in between.
That mix of responses makes this a good moment to step back and look at what was approved, what it replaces, and why this particular project is sparking conversation.
First, a quick clarification
This project is separate from the previously discussed development planned between South Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on January 12th, 2026 
Home buyers and sellers in the St. Louis metropolitan area, encompassing both Missouri and Illinois, are witnessing a dynamic real estate market, particularly in school districts where homes are selling rapidly. Leading the charge is the Bayless School District in St. Louis, boasting 14 active listings that typically spend just 38 days on the market, with an average list price of $209,571. This district’s swift turnover highlights its appeal to families seeking a vibrant community with accessible amenities.
Following closely is the Wolf Branch DIST 113 in St. Clair, Illinois, where properties average 42 days on the market, reflecting strong Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on January 9th, 2026 
The Metro East real estate market experienced notable shifts as of January 2026, with homes selling for a median price of $191,500 in December 2025. This represents a 4.93% increase from the median price of $182,500 in December 2024. However, this figure also marks a 10.93% decrease from November 2025, when the median sold price was $215,000. The median list price for December 2025 was $215,000, showing a 4.88% rise from $205,000 in December 2024.
In terms of sales volume, there were 611 home sales in December 2025, a slight decrease of 0.33% from the 613 homes sold in 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 Karen Moeller, on January 9th, 2026 
You may have seen recent news about the federal Radiation Exposure Compensation Act, often referred to as RECA. For many St. Louis–area families, this is not an abstract policy discussion. It is personal.
The challenge is that most people do not know what the law actually covers, who it applies to, or whether it is worth looking into at all. This article is not about fear, speculation, or legal advice. It is about practical, factual guidance.
What RECA is and what it is not
The Radiation Exposure Compensation Act is a federal compensation program, Continue Reading →
By Karen Moeller, on January 8th, 2026 
Housing affordability has returned to the national conversation. Recently, a senior White House economic adviser said the entire Cabinet is working on ideas to address housing challenges across the country. No formal policy has been released yet, but the statement itself has prompted questions in local markets like St. Louis.
The most important question for homeowners, buyers, and builders here is not what Washington is saying today, but what could realistically change looking ahead to 2026.
St. Louis Has Housing. The Issue Is Fit.
St. Louis does not face the same inventory crisis as Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on January 8th, 2026 
The St. Charles County real estate market continues its upward trajectory as of January 2026, with homes selling for a median price of $369,500 in December 2025. This marks a 5.59% increase compared to December 2024, when the median sold price was $349,950. Additionally, the December 2025 median sold price reflects a 2.64% rise from the previous month of November 2025, which had a median sold price of $360,000.
The median list price in December 2025 was $439,750, showcasing a significant 22.15% increase from $360,000 in December 2024. The market also experienced a boost in activity, with 474 homes sold Continue Reading →
By Karen Moeller, on January 7th, 2026 
Because changing the messenger doesn’t change the message.
When a home doesn’t sell, the most tempting explanation is also the simplest one.
“It must be the agent.”
That conclusion feels productive. Change the sign. Change the outcome.
But in the St. Louis market, most stalled listings aren’t suffering from a marketing problem. They’re stalled because a hard decision hasn’t been made yet.
Price versus reality.
I recently worked with a seller who had already tested the market once. When we looked at the data together, one Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on January 7th, 2026 
The St. Louis MSA real estate market demonstrated notable resilience as 2025 came to a close. In December 2025, homes in the region sold for a median price of $275,000, marking a 5.77% increase from December 2024, when the median price was $260,000. However, this figure represents a slight dip of 3.51% from November 2025, when the median sold price was $285,000. The median list price also saw a significant rise, reaching $299,000 in December 2025, up 6.41% from $281,000 the previous year.
The volume of home sales in December 2025 was 2,816, a 1.99% increase from the 2,761 homes 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 January 1st, 2026 
Happy New Year! As we step into 2026, I want to take a moment to wish you and your family a very Happy and Blessed New Year. Whether 2025 brought you joy, challenges, or a little of both, today marks a fresh start filled with new opportunities and possibilities. Here’s to health, happiness, and success in the year ahead!
If you’re thinking about making a move in 2026, whether it’s buying your first home, moving up, downsizing, or investing—this is a great time to start planning. The real estate market is always shifting, and having an experienced, knowledgeable team on Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on December 26th, 2025 
The most expensive home sold in the St Louis metro area in 2025 (based on MLS data reported to MARIS) was the former home of St Louis Cardinals outfielder Jim Edmonds. Located at 16 Bridle Lane in Frontenac, this 17,200 square foot estate sold in May for $7.75 million, making it the top sale price for the year.
Built in 2020 and sitting on nearly 3 acres in the Ladue School District, this contemporary-style home features 7 bedrooms, 11 baths, a wine cellar that opens into the dining room, an 8-car garage, private putting green, resort-style pool, firepit, and even 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 25th, 2025 Wishing you and your family and loved ones a very Merry and Blessed Christmas!
“And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.” Luke 2:6-7
By Dennis Norman, on December 24th, 2025 
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has weighed in on the Davis v. Hanna Holdings case with a formal Statement of Interest, and it’s a clear signal to the real estate industry. The DOJ argues that real estate trade association rules, specifically those requiring sellers to offer compensation to buyers’ agents, may violate antitrust laws and deserve full scrutiny. For anyone who thought the pressure on commission practices might let up, this filing confirms the opposite.
What makes this noteworthy is the DOJ’s insistence that rules created and enforced by associations like the National Association of REALTORS® are not exempt Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on December 21st, 2025 
The St. Louis City real estate market saw a significant increase in home prices during November 2025, with homes selling for a median price of $250,000. This marks a 25.00% rise from November 2024, where the median sold price was $200,000. Additionally, last month’s median price reflects a 12.16% increase from October 2025’s median of $222,900. Despite the rising prices, the market experienced a decrease in the number of home sales, with 211 homes sold in November 2025, down 14.57% from 247 sales in November 2024.
Interestingly, while sale prices have surged, the median list price saw a decline. In Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on December 20th, 2025 
The Franklin County real estate market experienced notable changes in November 2025, as highlighted by the chart below, available exclusively from MORE, REALTORS®. Homes sold for a median price of $251,000, marking a 5.24% increase from the median price of $238,500 in November 2024. However, this figure also represents a 7.89% decrease from October 2025, when the median sold price was $272,500.
The median list price surged to $301,445, which is a 13.75% increase compared to $265,000 in November 2024. Despite the rise in prices, the number of home sales in Franklin County decreased to 85 in November 2025, down Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on December 19th, 2025 
A newly pre-filed bill in the Missouri House, HB 2077, aims to stop institutional investors, think hedge funds, private equity firms, and large REITs, from purchasing most residential properties in Missouri starting August 28, 2026. Known as the “End Hedge Fund Control of American Homes Act,” this bill would force institutional investors to divest any 1 to 4-family homes they already own within three years and ban them from acquiring new ones altogether.
There is no doubt this proposal will generate buzz, especially among real estate investors and professionals who have seen institutional capital change the landscape of the single-family Continue Reading →
By Dennis Norman, on December 19th, 2025 
The St. Louis County real estate market experienced notable shifts in November 2025, as reflected in the latest data. Homes sold for a median price of $260,000, marking a slight decrease of 0.10% from November 2024’s median of $260,263. This figure also represents a significant decline of 10.68% from October 2025, when the median sold price was $291,100.
In terms of listing prices, the median list price in November 2025 was $225,000, showing a substantial decrease of 18.92% compared to $277,500 in November 2024. Additionally, the number of home sales in St. Louis County stood at 955, a 6.65% drop Continue Reading →
By Karen Moeller, on December 19th, 2025 
*A new federal reporting requirement affects certain entity and cash transactions nationwide, including St. Louis.*
Not every change in real estate shows up in market statistics or price charts. Some changes are procedural, happening quietly behind the scenes, and only become noticeable when a transaction suddenly feels more complicated than expected.
A new federal reporting rule from the U.S. Treasury Department’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, commonly referred to as FinCEN, falls squarely into that category. While it has been discussed for some time at the national level, it is now close enough to implementation Continue Reading →
|
Recent Articles
Helpful Real Estate Resources
|
