7 trends that will make you want to sell your home in Kirkwood, MO

7 trends that will make you want to sell your home in Kirkwood, MO

Have you been thinking, “Is now the right time to sell my house in Missouri?” If your home is in Kirkwood, MO, you might be sitting on an excellent opportunity. With real estate trends shifting and home values increasing, sellers in Kirkwood are in a great position to maximize their return on investment.

Kirkwood has long been one of the most desirable suburbs in the St. Louis metro area, thanks to its strong sense of community, top-rated schools, and charming neighborhoods. Whether you’ve outgrown your current home, want to relocate, or are looking to capitalize on the market’s momentum, now could be the perfect time to sell.

Let’s look at the current trends shaping Kirkwood, MO real estate and why they might just convince you to list your home today. We’ll also discuss what Missouri homebuyers look for to make your property more appealing to buyers.

OVERVIEW OF “THE QUEEN OF ST. LOUIS SUBURBS”

Kirkwood, often referred to as the “Queen of the St. Louis Suburbs,” is a picturesque town with a rich history dating back to 1853. Known for its tree-lined streets, historic homes, and lively downtown, Kirkwood offers a blend of small-town charm and modern amenities.

Situated just 15 miles west of downtown St. Louis, Kirkwood is convenient to major highways, including I-44 and I-270. This prime location enables residents to enjoy a tranquil suburban lifestyle while remaining within easy reach of the city’s job market, shopping centers, and cultural attractions.

With a population of approximately 28,000, Kirkwood perfectly balances tight-knit community living with modern conveniences. Its well-maintained infrastructure, outstanding public services, and vibrant local economy make it a highly sought-after place to call home.

WHAT MAKES BUYERS WANT TO SETTLE IN KIRKWOOD, MO

Kirkwood’s appeal is undeniable, attracting homebuyers looking for a high quality of life and a strong sense of community. Here’s what makes this St. Louis suburb stand out:

1. Kirkwood boasts top-rated schools

   Education is a significant factor for many buyers, and Kirkwood exceeds expectations. The Kirkwood School District is consistently ranked among the best in Missouri, offering excellent academic programs, extracurricular activities, and strong community support. Kirkwood is ideal for families looking to settle in a community with high-quality educational opportunities.

2. Kirkwood has a vibrant and walkable downtown

   With locally owned boutiques, excellent restaurants, and cozy coffee shops, the town offers a lively, small-town atmosphere. The historic Kirkwood Train Station adds to the town’s unique character, providing a nostalgic yet functional hub for the community. The Magic House is a favorite family attraction.

   Here are some popular destinations downtown:

   Dining:

   • Billy G’s
   • Café Provencal
   • Citizen Kane’s Steakhouse
   • 4 Hands Brewing Co.
   • Jimmy John’s
   • Kaldi’s Coffee

   Shopping:

   • Chocolate Chocolate Chocolate
   • Alpine Shop
   • Blush Boutique
   • Forty Elephants
   • Books & Beyond
   • Head to Toe Dancewear

   Upcoming events in Kirkwood:

   • Kirkwood Coffee Klatch
   • Kirkwood Arbor Day
   • Summer Concert Series
   • Kirkwood Route 66 Cars and Guitars Festival
   • Downtown Kirkwood Sidewalk Sale

   For a complete list of Kirkwood events and activities, click here

3. Kirkwood is near St. Louis

   While Kirkwood offers all the benefits of suburban living, its location near St. Louis provides residents access to big-city job opportunities, professional sports teams, world-class entertainment, and major employers. This balance of suburban tranquility and urban convenience is why buyers want to call Kirkwood home.

4. Kirkwood boasts outdoor and recreational opportunities

   Kirkwood features green spaces and recreational opportunities for all ages. Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center covers 112 acres of tranquil oak-hickory forest, featuring calming walking trails, wildlife observation, and educational displays. Kirkwood Park is the community’s recreational hub, showcasing scenic hiking trails, athletic fields, picnic pavilions, an ice rink, a playground, and a community garden. For those who appreciate golf and upscale amenities, Greenbriar Hills Country Club boasts a pristine 18-hole golf course, tennis courts, a swimming pool, and fine dining.

THE CURRENT HOUSING MARKET CONDITIONS IN KIRKWOOD, MO

Sellers will be pleased to know that Kirkwood’s housing market remains highly competitive. With strong buyer demand and low inventory, homes are selling quickly – often above asking price and with multiple offers.

Market trends in Kirkwood

• Fast sales. Homes in Kirkwood sell in an average of 18.5 days. Some particularly well-priced, move-in-ready residences go under contract in as little as four days.
• Competitive offers. Many properties receive multiple offers, and some buyers waive contingencies to make their offers more attractive.
• Rising home prices. On average, residences sell for roughly 1% more than the list price, with highly desirable properties fetching up to 4% more.
• Increased demand. Approximately 36.8% of homes sell above the asking price, a 16.8 percentage point increase year over year.
• Fewer price reductions. Only 22.9% of homes saw price drops – a 10.4% point decrease compared to the previous year, indicating strong seller confidence and sustained demand.
• Sale-to-list price ratio. Homes in Kirkwood are selling for 98.2% of their asking price, a slight 1.6% point decrease from last year but still reflective of a strong market.

What does this mean for buyers and sellers?

• FOR SELLERS: Now is a prime opportunity to list your home and potentially secure offers above the asking price. Low inventory and high demand mean you can sell quickly and at a great price.
• FOR BUYERS: Buyers should be prepared to act quickly. With competition high, working with a knowledgeable real estate agent can help you navigate bidding wars and secure your ideal home.

Whether you’re looking to sell for top dollar or find the perfect home in Kirkwood, understanding current market trends can help you make informed decisions.

Kirkwood migration and relocation trends

Here’s a quick look at recent relocation patterns:

• Staying local. From December 2024 to February 2025, 69% of Kirkwood homebuyers searched for homes within the metropolitan area, showing strong regional demand.
• Moving out. About 31% of buyers considered moving out of Kirkwood and exploring opportunities in other cities.
• People moving in. Although only 0.41% of homebuyers nationwide looked for properties in Kirkwood, there is still interest from other metro areas. Los Angeles, Seattle, and New York were the primary sources of incoming buyers.
• Top relocation destinations. People who move out of Kirkwood, MO are relocating to other parts of Missouri. Popular out-of-state destinations are Chicago and Houston. 

7 TRENDS THAT WILL MAKE YOU WANT TO SELL YOUR HOME IN KIRKWOOD, MO

Considering listing your home? These trends might make you decide there’s no better time to do so than now.

1. Smaller cities and suburban areas are booming

   Over the past few years, there has been a major shift in where people want to live. With remote work becoming more common, many people are leaving crowded urban centers in favor of smaller cities and suburban communities like Kirkwood.

   Most buyers want more space, a better quality of life, and a stronger sense of community. Kirkwood, with its charming small-town atmosphere and proximity to St. Louis’s job market and amenities, is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend. This demand presents an excellent opportunity to meet eager buyers willing to pay a premium for your home.

   Sell your home in Kirkwood, MO with The Wallner Home Selling Team 

2. Housing affordability remains a priority

   Housing affordability continues to be a major factor in real estate trends. Kirkwood provides a high standard of living but offers diverse housing options at various price points.

   First-time buyers, young professionals, and families looking to upgrade are actively searching for homes in the area. If your house is priced competitively, you can expect multiple offers, potentially even above the asking price. With demand showing no signs of slowing down, sellers are in an excellent position to negotiate favorable deals.

   Sell your home in Kirkwood, MO with The Wallner Home Selling Team 

3. Home prices in Kirkwood have risen significantly

   One of the most compelling reasons to sell now is the surge in property prices. Kirkwood’s median home sale price has increased by approximately 40% year-over-year, showing high demand and limited supply on the market.

   For homeowners, this means the potential for significant profits. Whether you’ve lived in your home for a few years or decades, current appreciation rates make now an ideal time to cash in on your investment.

   Sell your home in Kirkwood, MO with The Wallner Home Selling Team 

4. Kirkwood boasts top-rated schools, a walkable downtown, and community appeal

   Buyers prioritize education, lifestyle, and convenience when looking for their dream homes. Kirkwood meets all these criteria, making it one of Missouri’s most desirable real estate markets. In Kirkwood, you’re not just buying a house – you’re living in a warm, friendly community with excellent schools and attractions nearby. This enhances the appeal of properties in the area, ensuring sellers can quickly find interested buyers.

   Sell your home in Kirkwood, MO with The Wallner Home Selling Team 

5. Low inventory means less competition

   The number of homes for sale in Kirkwood, MO is currently lower than in previous years. When supply is limited, competition among buyers intensifies, leading to faster sales and better offers for sellers.

   Many buyers are willing to make competitive bids and even waive contingencies to secure a home. This seller-friendly environment means you could close a deal faster and at a higher price than in a more balanced market.

   Sell your home in Kirkwood, MO with The Wallner Home Selling Team 

6. Opportunities to downsize, relocate for work, or seek a different home style

   If you’ve been thinking of downsizing, moving for a job, or simply craving a change of scenery, now may be the perfect time. With homes selling quickly and for premium prices, you can explore new opportunities without worrying about your property sitting on the market for months.

   Sell your home in Kirkwood, MO with The Wallner Home Selling Team 

7. Changing interest rates motivate buyers

   With fluctuating mortgage rates, many buyers are eager to secure a home before interest rates climb further. This urgency creates a strong pool of motivated buyers ready to make competitive offers, reducing the likelihood of prolonged negotiations or price reductions.

   Sell your home in Kirkwood, MO with The Wallner Home Selling Team 

10 FEATURES BUYERS LOOK FOR IN A MISSOURI HOME

When searching for the ideal Missouri home, buyers have a list of must-have features that influence their decision-making process.

Here are 10 features buyers want in a Missouri property and some tips on incorporating them into your own.

1. Spacious kitchens with modern upgrades

   Buyers view the kitchen as the heart of the home and want a space that is functional, stylish, and ready to move in. Features such as granite or quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, custom cabinetry, and large kitchen islands top their wish list. Open-concept kitchens that connect seamlessly to the dining and living areas are also highly sought after.

   Sellers can:

   • Upgrade to matching stainless steel appliances if theirs are outdated.
   • Paint cabinets in a neutral color for a fresh, modern look.
   • Replace old hardware and install a trendy backsplash for an affordable refresh.
2. Energy efficiency and smart home features

   Rising energy costs have made energy-efficient homes more attractive to Missouri buyers. Features like double-pane windows, proper insulation, energy-efficient appliances, and smart thermostats are now must-haves. Many buyers also prefer smart home technology, including automated lighting, voice-activated assistants, and security systems.

   Sellers can:

   • Seal gaps around doors and windows to improve insulation.
   • Install a programmable thermostat.
   • Replace traditional bulbs with LED lighting for energy efficiency.
3. Ample outdoor living space

   With Missouri’s beautiful seasons, buyers are looking for homes with usable outdoor spaces such as large backyards, patios, decks, and outdoor kitchens. Fire pits, built-in seating areas, and well-maintained landscaping can make these spaces even more attractive. 

   Sellers can:

   • Power wash and seal decks or patios to make it look new.
   • Add potted plants, patio furniture, or string lights for an inviting touch.
   • Install a simple fire pit or pergola to boost appeal without breaking the bank.
1. Functional home office or study space

With more people working remotely, buyers seek dedicated office spaces or quiet work areas. Even if your home doesn’t have a designated office, creating a study nook or repurposing a bedroom can be a major selling point.

Sellers can:

• Stage a spare room or corner as an office with a desk and chair.
• Add built-in shelving or floating shelves for extra storage.
• Use neutral wall colors and good lighting to create a productive workspace.
4. Open floor plans
   

   Home sellers in Kirkwood, MO, can enhance their property’s appeal by showcasing open floor plans that cater to modern buyers’ preferences

   Modern buyers favor open, airy spaces that allow for better flow between the kitchen, dining, and living areas. This layout makes homes feel larger and is ideal for entertaining.

   Sellers can:

   • Remove non-structural walls to improve flow.
   • Use light-colored paint and mirrors to create a more open feel.
   • Arrange furniture to maximize space and highlight connectivity.
5. Primary suites with high-end bathrooms

   Buyers want relaxing, spa-like primary suites with features like walk-in closets, double vanities, soaking tubs, and walk-in showers. High-end finishes like heated floors, custom tile work, and rainfall showerheads make these spaces feel more luxurious.

   Sellers can:

   • Upgrade to modern faucets and light fixtures for an affordable facelift.
   • Replace old showerheads with a rainfall or multi-function showerhead.
   • Add plush towels, candles, and neutral décor to create a spa-like feel.
6. Finished basements or bonus rooms

   Missouri buyers love extra living space, whether it’s a finished basement, a playroom, a home gym, or a guest suite. A well-lit, properly insulated basement adds value and versatility to the home.

   Sellers can:

   • Paint the basement in light, neutral colors to brighten the space.
   • Use strategic lighting to make it feel less like a basement.
   • Stage the space as a functional area, like a media room or gym.
7. Storage space and functional layouts

   Buyers want homes with ample storage and smart organization solutions, including walk-in closets, mudrooms, and built-in shelving. A functional layout that maximizes space without feeling cramped is popular.

   Sellers can:

   • Install closet organizers to showcase efficient storage.
   • Add hooks, racks, and cabinets in entryways or mudrooms.
   • Use multi-purpose furniture to show off storage potential.
8. Proximity to schools, parks, and amenities

   Location is a major factor in home-buying decisions. Buyers prefer homes near top-rated schools, parks, shopping centers, restaurants, healthcare facilities, and entertainment hubs. Walkability and a strong sense of community are also key considerations.

   Sellers can:

   • Highlight nearby schools, parks, and amenities in their listing.
   • Include photos of neighborhood attractions to showcase lifestyle benefits.
   • Provide a list of community events and features buyers will love.
9. Curb appeal and well-maintained exteriors

   First impressions matter. To attract buyers, a home’s exterior should look clean, well-maintained, and inviting. Missouri buyers appreciate fresh landscaping, charming entryways, and quality exterior finishes.

   Sellers can:

   • Power wash the home’s exterior, driveway, and walkway.
   • Add fresh mulch, flowers, and greenery to boost curb appeal.
   • Paint the front door and shutters for a quick and affordable refresh.

SELL YOUR KIRKWOOD, MO HOME WITH A TOP LOCAL REALTOR

Selling your home in Kirkwood, MO, can become an exciting and rewarding journey into another phase in your life.

To ensure you make the right selling decision, The Wallner Team, led by Rodney and Jen, will expertly market your home, guiding you to a seamless and successful conclusion.

As one of the top-producing teams at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Select Properties, we combine market expertise with exceptional customer service to help you sell your Kirkwood, MO home for the best possible price. At the same time, we can help you search for your next home in the many communities we serve nearby.  Explore our website for details.

Get started on your home-selling journey today. Call 314.810.7652 or send us a message here.