Market Insights: 1st Quarter 2025 vs. 2024

At WERNER & CO., we bring you the latest Missouri real estate market update to keep buyers, sellers, and investors informed. Here’s how the housing market performed in Jefferson City, Lake of the Ozarks, and across Missouri during the first quarter of 2025.

The Jefferson City real estate market remains active and resilient, with both home sales and prices increasing year-over-year.

Despite homes spending slightly longer on the market, Jefferson City home prices posted strong gains in 2025.

The Lake of the Ozarks housing market saw some adjustments compared to 2024.

While Lake of the Ozarks home values declined slightly, the market remains healthy as inventory balances with buyer activity.

Statewide, the Missouri real estate market is showing signs of price strength while sales activity slowed slightly.

While total Missouri home sales declined slightly, average home prices in Missouri continued to rise, reflecting steady buyer demand.

Key Takeaways

• Inventory remains active across Missouri.

• Home prices in Jefferson City and Missouri statewide continue to rise.

• The Lake of the Ozarks real estate market is showing price stabilization after strong growth years.

• Days on Market increased slightly across all areas as the pace of sales cools modestly.

What This Means for Buyers & Sellers

For buyers:

This is a rare market window. In Jefferson City, prices are moving up, which means the longer you wait, the more you are likely to pay. The slight increase in days on market gives buyers more time and room to negotiate. In Lake of the Ozarks, prices are softening, which makes it a smart time to step in if you are eyeing a second home or an investment property.

Key Takeaways

    •    Jefferson City is a buy-now market

    •    Slower pace means better negotiation leverage

    •    Lake of the Ozarks offers strong value for long-term plays

For sellers:

Sellers still have the advantage in Jefferson City. Prices are strong and demand is steady. But strategy matters. Homes that are priced right and marketed well are still selling fast. In the Lake area, things have cooled slightly. Presentation and pricing need to be sharper to stay competitive.

Key Takeaways

    •    Sellers in Jefferson City should act now and price with confidence

    •    Lake area sellers need to stand out with great visuals and smart pricing

    •    Good strategy beats fast timing in this market

At WERNER & CO., we help buyers get ahead of rising prices and guide sellers to smart, profitable decisions. Whether you are building a portfolio or selling a home, we bring deep experience, strong market knowledge, and results that speak for themselves.

Ready to talk strategy? Let’s connect.