December 2025 Residential Market Update Highlights for the Kansas City Region

Market Pulse: December 2025

As the year closed and holiday schedules took over, Kansas City’s housing market shifted into a true winter rhythm. Activity slowed seasonally, but the underlying picture remained steady. Prices stayed above last year, buyer demand held up better than expected, and closings finished the year on a stronger note than November.

Prices: Still higher than last year, noticeably flatter

Median resale price: Holding above December 2024 levels

Year over year: +1.7%

Price growth moderated sharply as the year ended, reflecting normal winter dynamics rather than a loss of demand. The market moved from midyear momentum to year end stability, rewarding homes that were priced realistically and well prepared.

New Listings: Quiet finish to the year

New listings: 1,895

Year over year: −0.11%

December saw very few new sellers come to market, landing essentially flat compared to last year. This seasonal pause kept overall inventory in check and prevented any meaningful supply buildup heading into January.

Demand: Pendings and closings both improved

Contracts written (pendings): 1,859 (+6.35% YoY)

Closings: 2,654 (+4.28% YoY)

Despite the holidays, buyers stayed active. Pending contracts outperformed last year, signaling confidence moving into early 2026. Closings also finished higher year over year, showing that deals continued to move through the system even with fewer business days.

What this means for you

SellersPricing discipline matters more than ever. The market is stable, but not forgiving of overpricing.With fewer competing listings, well presented homes can still attract strong attention.Expect serious buyers, but ones who are thoughtful and data driven.

BuyersThe end of year slowdown creates opportunity with less competition.Homes that linger may offer room for negotiation on terms, repairs, or credits.Be ready to move quickly as new listings remain limited.

EveryoneKansas City closed 2025 in a balanced position, not overheated and not soft. As we head into early 2026, preparation is key. Whether buying or selling, having strategy, financing, and expectations aligned now will make the first quarter far more effective.

Engel & Völkers Kansas City

Kyle Niemann

913-900-0001

913-530-7596