FSBO in the Gateway City
St. Louis has one of the most affordable housing markets among major US metros, with median prices of $230,000–$320,000. Missouri's no-transfer-tax environment and no-attorney-required closings make FSBO straightforward.
Step 1: Price Using St. Louis County Data
The St. Louis County Assessor (stlouisco.com/assessor) provides recent sales data. St. Louis City is a separate jurisdiction from St. Louis County — check the appropriate assessor. Use Zillow and Redfin for market timing. Clayton, Ladue, and Kirkwood command premiums; north St. Louis County and the Belleville IL suburbs are more affordable.
Step 2: Missouri Disclosure Requirements
Missouri Statute §339.730 requires a Missouri Seller's Disclosure Statement (DSC-8000). Provide before or upon offer; buyers have 3 days to rescind.
Also: lead paint for pre-1978 homes.
Step 3: Flat Fee MLS on MARIS
St. Louis uses MARIS MLS (Mid America Regional Information Systems). Use a flat fee service that covers MARIS. Budget $300–$425.
Step 4: Title Company — No Transfer Tax
Missouri has no real estate transfer tax. Title companies handle closing.
What FSBO Saves You in St. Louis
On a $285,000 home at 5%: