Cape Girardeau, MO-IL

There is no doubt that the real estate market in the Cape Girardeau, MO-IL metropolitan statistical area (MSA) has been on a roller coaster ride over the past few years. After reaching record highs in 2006 and 2007, prices plummeted during the Great Recession and have only recently begun to rebound. Despite these ups and downs, there are some trends that seem to be emerging that could have a significant impact on the housing market in this region in the years to come.

One of the most notable trends is the increasing popularity of "tiny homes." These homes, which are typically less than 400 square feet, have become increasingly popular among young adults and retirees who are looking to downsize or simplify their lives. The Cape Girardeau MSA has seen a number of tiny home communities pop up in recent years, and it seems likely that this trend will continue as more people look for affordable and sustainable housing options.

Another trend that is starting to take hold in the Cape Girardeau MSA is the rise of "smart homes." These homes are outfitted with cutting-edge technology that allows residents to control everything from lighting and temperature to security and entertainment systems remotely. This convenience comes at a price, but as prices continue to drop and more people become aware of the benefits of smart home technology, it seems likely that this trend will gain even more traction in the coming years.

Finally, there is evidence that baby boomers are beginning to retire en masse, which could have a major impact on the housing market in this region. As more boomers enter retirement age, many will be looking to downsize or move closer to family or other amenities. This could create opportunities for younger families looking for larger homes as well as for developers who build age-restricted communities catering to retirees' needs.

These are just a few of the trends that seem poised to shape the future of real estate in the Cape Girardeau MSA. While it's impossible to say exactly how these trends will play out, it's clear that they could have a significant impact on both buyers and sellers in this region for years to come.