How Area Trends Affect the Homebuying Market
1. Buyers Are Still Active—With Less Competition
While spring historically draws many homebuyers, the housing market in Missouri and Springfield is showing signs of extended momentum beyond the usual peak season. Nationally, pending home sales are starting the year slowly but are projected to bounce back by spring, indicating sustained buyer interest throughout the year.
Moreover, institutional investor activity in Missouri has dropped by 13%, reducing competition from cash-heavy buyers and opening more opportunities for families and first-time homeowners to secure deals.
2. Local Market Snapshot: Springfield, MO
Current market data for Springfield shows a mixed, but promising, landscape:
- Zillow reports an average home value of approximately $240,047, up 0.5% over the past year, with homes typically going pending in just 12 days.
- Redfin presents a slightly different angle: the median sale price is around $205,000, down 4.7% year-over-year as of July, with a median time on market of 13 days.
- Realtor.com shows a higher median listing price, around $287,000 as of August, with a stable year-over-year trend.
- Movoto notes that in August, homes sold for a median of $280,000 and took 88 days on market, though this contrasts with other data and may reflect differences in methodology.
- In Greene County, May 2025 saw a median sale price of $236,727, down 7.5% from the previous year.
Key takeaway: While prices have softened slightly year-over-year, listing and sale timelines remain relatively quick. Fall represents a sweet spot – less competition than spring, but still enough buyer activity to keep your listing moving.
3. Construction Slowdown = Strengthened Seller Position
Springfield is seeing a major slowdown in new housing completions. In 2025, projected completions dropped 71%, significantly reducing the risk of oversupply. This decrease in competition supports stabilized prices and strong occupancy rates. In fact, rent growth in the area is outpacing national averages – up 4.3% – with occupancy holding steady around 95–96%.
4. Broader National Trends Hold Sellers Accountable—but Favor Prepared Ones
Turning to national data, Zillow forecasts a nearly 2% decline in home listing prices by the end of 2025, driven by high mortgage rates and increasing inventory. Similarly, national indices like S&P Case-Shiller reflect that home price growth is slowing, with even some markets seeing declines.
What does this mean for smart sellers in Springfield? Price your home competitively and present it attractively to stand out in a trend toward a more balanced, or even buyer-favoring, market.
Why Fall Works for Your Sale
- Stronger Buyer Presence With Less Seller Clutter
Many homeowners wait for spring. By listing in the fall, you sidestep crowded markets while still tapping into an active pool of motivated buyers. - Reduced Competitive Pressure from New Homes
With new construction dropping sharply, fewer homes are entering the fray—preserving your home’s value and appeal. - Good Timing Relative to Broader Price Trends
While prices may soften in the wider market, in Springfield’s more stable environment, being proactive can help you lock in favorable outcomes before trends shift further.
Need a Tailored Strategy? Let’s Chat!
Fall offers a strategic and often overlooked window to launch your sale. If you’re considering listing soon – or just want a custom walk-through of what today’s Springfield market means for your home – feel free to reach out! I’m happy to provide a detailed market analysis, staging tips, or personalized guidance to make your listing stand out.
