Real estate investors are on a buying spree in the Midwest, with new data revealing a surprising trend. The latest numbers from the Realtor.com 2024 Q1 Investment Report show that investors snapped up 14.8 percent of homes in the region in the first quarter of the year – the highest percentage on record since tracking began in 2001.
What’s even more striking is the concentration of investor activity in Missouri, where three cities – Springfield, Kansas City, and St. Louis – rank in the top five for the highest share of investor purchases. In Springfield, a staggering 20.5 percent of homes were bought by investors, highlighting a significant shift in the real estate landscape.
According to Realtor.com’s senior economic research analyst Hannah Jones, investors are making a strategic move back into the market after pulling out in 2023. The allure of affordable properties combined with strong rental demand has made the Midwest an attractive destination for those looking to diversify their portfolios and secure steady rental income.
With skyrocketing house prices in other parts of the country, the Midwest offers a more affordable alternative for both investors and home-buyers. The region’s resilience to natural disasters further enhances its appeal, making it a viable option for long-term investment and growth.
As small investors dominate the market and rental prices continue to rise, the Midwest’s real estate sector is poised for further expansion and innovation. This influx of investment not only transforms the housing market but also reflects broader trends in the industry, shaping the future of real estate in the heart of America.