What to Know About Finding a Home in Joplin, MO
Joplin, MO, offers a variety of affordable housing, meaning everyone is sure to find that perfect home that fits their style and budget. Kyle Lewis, a local broker and salesperson for PRO 100 Inc. REALTORS, shares his expert advice on navigating the Joplin, MO, housing market.
How affordable is Joplin, MO, when it comes to buying or renting a home?
I think Joplin is historically an affordable portion of the country. Home values here have appreciated at a far more sustainable rate of 5% to 7% per year since 2023.
What are the different home options available in Joplin, MO?
This area has a very diverse set of options. We have a lot of new construction. There are locally owned contractors developing new subdivisions that cater to the entry-level homebuyer market all the way up to custom luxury homes.
Which neighborhoods are particularly attractive to families?
Joplin has many parks and schools throughout the entire city. Woodsonia Real Estate Inc. has plans to build a huge new development featuring an indoor sports complex, a trail with a water feature, retail space, a grocery store, a 350-unit multifamily housing development and a hotel. Families looking for historic homes with lots of character are likely drawn to Murphysburg and Roanoke. The Northern Highlands subdivision has entry level homes as well as mid-level and luxury homes. South Joplin boasts entry-level homes in Cedar Ridge, and Summit Ridge offers luxury homes for growing families.
Are there popular neighborhoods for young professionals?
There are vast options for young professionals in the Joplin area, from apartment complexes close to our local colleges to high-end luxury lofts available for someone looking for a more glamorous lifestyle, while still being affordable. Most rental units allow pets. We also have many areas around the city that have houses that would qualify for first-time homebuyer grants.
How do you recommend someone go about finding a new home, whether they are looking to rent or buy in Joplin, MO?
If you were in the market for a home in the Joplin, MO, area, whether buying or renting, I would recommend starting online. Google reviews are a helpful tool to compare different neighborhoods. I would also recommend reaching out to a licensed Realtor or real estate company that can help you navigate the available options as well as negotiate contracts.
What tips and tricks do you suggest when going through either process?
The best trick I recommend to all people is to get a Realtor that you know and trust to help navigate the process. Buying a home is complex, and a knowledgeable Realtor can help explain and lead you through the process.
What was it like for you buying a home in the Joplin, MO, area?
The homebuying process is a mixture of excitement, stress, anxiety and joy. I believe communication is key to making this process as low stress as possible. When working with a Realtor, start by clarifying what you are looking for, setting realistic purchasing expectations and reviewing the steps to closing. Next is the fun part – viewing homes. This is the part of the process that I enjoy the most. In my opinion, the most stressful portion of the process is the negotiation process. This can fill potential homebuyers with anxiety. Keep the lines of communication with your Realtor open so you can receive updates at every step. It will all be worth it when you’re handed the keys to your new home.
How has Joplin’s affordability benefited you?
Joplin’s affordable housing helps newcomers feel comfortable making decisions on where they want to live. Affordable housing in Joplin, MO, has helped me personally purchase more house than I could if I looked only an hour away in Springfield or northwest Arkansas. I consider myself lucky to live in one of the most affordable areas in the country.
Why would you recommend people rent or buy a home in Joplin, MO?
This area is full of friendly people. The Joplin region is close to larger metropolitan areas, so you get the affordability and feel of a small town with the conveniences of big-city culture. We also have a rich cultural arts scene, including the Cornell Complex, where we get national touring acts. Joplin provides great health care options, like the ACCESS Family Care Clinics as well as two major hospitals and surgery centers.
The region’s colleges offer specialty trade programs that are affordable and provide education in person and online. Joplin was voted one of the best places to live for remote workers due to the quality of our community infrastructure and internet options. Not to mention, the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce has won multiple awards for all the value that it provides to businesses. Overall, if you are looking for a friendly, affordable place to live, check out Joplin.
This article is sponsored by Choose Joplin, which is actively supported by the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce and the City of Joplin.