02/23/2026
Feather’s Family Farm; Homestead Newsletter-FEB 2026
Greetings! As we shake off the winter frost and head into February 2026, Southwest Missouri is showing why it remains one of the most resilient and vibrant regions in the country. From a stabilizing housing market to a busy local social calendar, there’s plenty to keep an eye on this month.
1. Southwest Missouri Real Estate Market Update
The 2026 market is officially entering a "Stability Phase." After years of rapid fluctuations, we are seeing a shift toward a more balanced environment that offers a bit more breathing room for buyers while maintaining strong equity for sellers.
Springfield Snapshot: Springfield remains a seller’s favorite, with a tight 1.9-month supply of inventory. However, price growth is moderating to a healthy 2-4% annual increase, making it easier for buyers to plan. Homes are currently moving in an average of 17 days.
Branson Trends: Branson is seeing a unique surge in value, with the median sale price reaching approximately $339,000. While the volume of sales has dipped slightly, the demand for vacation rentals and scenic retreats remains high.
Interest Rates: Regional mortgage rates are hovering around an average of 6.3%. This stabilization, combined with rising local wages, is improving the "affordability index" for the first time in several seasons.
The Bottom Line: If you're selling, your equity is likely at an all-time high. If you're buying, you’ll find more active listings (up nearly 9% year-over-year) and fewer "bidding war" headaches than in 2024 or 2025.
2. Local Events & Festivals
Looking for a reason to get out of the house? Southwest Missouri has a fantastic lineup for February:
The Regency Society Ball (Joplin): February 28, 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM. Step into a "Bridgerton-inspired" evening at 124 S. Main St. This immersive gala features Regency-style dancing, high-fashion costumes, and scandalously good fun to benefit the Dream Theatre Company.
Route 66 Centennial Traveling Exhibit (Springfield): February 6. Celebrate the "Mother Road" as the centennial kickoff begins! Look for special exhibits at local museums and the Great Southern Bank Arena later this spring.
Paris Week at Empire Market (Joplin): February 14, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM. A romantic Valentine’s Day themed market featuring local artisans and treats.
Live at the Gillioz (Springfield): Catch country stars 49 Wi******er on February 7 or comedian Stavros Halkias on February 19 for a mid-winter night out.
Off-Season Branson Magic: February is the "locals' secret" in Branson. Enjoy the Titanic Museum or Dolly Parton’s Stampede without the summer crowds, or warm up with the Comedy Jamboree at Grand Country Music Hall.
3. Seasonal Recipe: Ozark "Cabin Fever" Beef Stew
SEE THE IMAGE BELOW!
4. Homesteading Updates
Life on the homestead is never dull — and this month proved it once again. We said a tender goodbye to one of our sweet kittens (a reminder that farm life comes with both joy and heartbreak), discovered a fence that clearly underestimated the determination of curious critters, and may soon be welcoming tiny hooves to the pasture if our ewe’s growing belly is telling the truth! Between mending wire, keeping a closer eye on the barn, and watching for the first signs of lambing season, it’s been a beautiful mix of grit, grace, and gratitude. Homesteading keeps us humble, keeps us busy, and always keeps us expecting the unexpected — and honestly, we wouldn’t have it any other way.
If you have been wanting to start gardening, hobby farming or homesteading but just don't know where to start, send me a dm! I would love to get you started off on the right foot!
And, if you are looking to buy a piece of property where you can hobby farm/homestead, reach out and let's get your search started today!
Send a message to learn more
