Why 2025 Might Be the Smartest Time to Buy in Franklin County—Here’s the Data
Why 2025 Might Be the Smartest Time to Buy in Franklin County—Here’s the Data
Someone asked me recently: “Should I wait another year to buy a home around Union, Washington, or St. Clair?” My answer? 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most opportune windows in recent memory—if you move smart. At Dolan REALTORS, we track local metrics daily. Here’s what we’re seeing, and how you can act ahead while the market still gives you leverage.
Market Signals You Can’t Ignore
Let’s run through the indicators flashing “Buy Now”—not later.
- Home sales are rising: Franklin County’s activity continues gaining momentum even as prices soften. See our listings in the Franklin County listings.
- Days on market stabilizing: Houses that might have sat still last year are moving faster this season. Buyers are getting more visibility on value.
- Tax changes favor sellers—but buyers benefit too: Recent legislation eliminated the MO capital gains tax on all individual investments—including real estate. That lowers the risk cost for buyers holding homes long term. (Dolan blog covers the legislation in depth.)
- Mortgage rates level off: While we’re not back to pandemic lows, rates have plateaued compared to last year’s volatility—great for locking in now.
Why Franklin County Has Unique Advantages
Union, Washington, St. Clair, Gerald—they all share strengths that many buyers overlook:
- Commute balance: You’re close enough for amenities and work, but far enough to avoid metro pricing premiums.
- Land & acreage options: Rural and semi-rural properties, farms, and space are still more affordable here.
- Strong rental and investment demand: Given nearby growth and local institutions, property management opportunities are solid. Learn about our leasing & property management services.
How to Win When You Buy in 2025
You won’t just “buy anything” and hope for the best—you want a strategic, defensible acquisition. Here’s how:
- Get pre-approved early so offers land stronger.
- Work with local agents (like ours) who read neighborhood trends—not generic data.
- Negotiate smart—incentives, closing credits, inspection windows.
- Leave room in your margins: repair, staging, landscaping could move value further.
- Think long game: Plan 5–10 years ahead. Capital gains taxes won’t eat your upside now.
Case Study: Washington County Home That Paid Itself Off Fast
A client bought a 3-bed home in Washington in early 2024. We timed updates to align with neighborhood comps. By late 2025, its value rose 12%—and monthly rent would already cover mortgage. That kind of doubling effect comes from timing + smart improvements.
Possible Risks—and How to Mitigate Them
- Rate spikes: Use fixed-rate mortgages not ARMs if you can.
- Overpaying on upgrades: Ask your agent before remodelling big.
- Inventory dips: Be ready to move quickly once you find the right home.
Your 90-Day Homebuyer Game Plan
- Check your credit & down payment path.
- Talk to Dolan REALTORS for a neighborhood tour.
- Get preapproved and set alerts in your target areas.
- Visit 3–5 homes a week (don’t wait for perfection).
- Lock a strong offer while the market still bends toward buyers.
Why Go With Dolan REALTORS?
We’ve been serving Franklin County and surrounding areas since 1908. We don’t just close sales—we guide people through generations of real estate. Whether for residential, commercial, farm, or leasing, we understand the microtrends here. Read more about who we are on our About page.
Thinking of jumping into the market this year? Let’s walk smart together. Contact us today or browse active listings in Missouri homes.
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