Arey Real Estate is an independently owned Columbia brokerage founded by Tracy Arey in 1989 and now a true family operation with wife Beth and son Bennett also active in the business. In 2024, the brokerage celebrated 25 years of helping Columbia families buy and sell homes — a milestone that speaks to the kind of trust that only comes from decades of honest service.
Tracy has 19 years of experience as a licensed agent and has closed 163 transactions in the Columbia market over just three years. The family approach means clients get genuine personal attention — you're not a number in a large corporate pipeline. You're working with people who've watched Columbia neighborhoods grow and change, who know the difference between Grindstone and Old Southwest, and who care about your outcome as if it were their own.
Arey Real Estate serves buyers, sellers, and investors across Columbia and Boone County, with particular strength in mid-range residential and established neighborhoods.
A Columbia original — family-run, 25+ years strong, and still independently owned.
Photo: from Arey Real Estate's website. Owners can request removal or replacement at support@rootedcomo.com.
Arey Real Estate is listed on Rooted CoMo under Real Estate Agents.
Arey Real Estate is listed at 5217 South Cowan Rd, Columbia, MO 65203.
Hours aren't listed for Arey Real Estate yet. Call (573) 876-7754 before you visit to check when they're open.
You can call (573) 876-7754, email hello@areyrealestate.com or visit areyrealestate.com.
Arey Real Estate is with Arey Real Estate (Independent).
Listed specialties: Buyer representation, seller representation, residential, established neighborhoods.
General questions about Real Estate Agents in Columbia, MO (not specific to this business)
Columbia's housing market has remained relatively stable compared to many U.S. cities, supported by consistent demand from MU faculty, staff, students, and healthcare workers. Median home prices in Columbia have risen over the past several years but remain more affordable than comparably sized university cities. The market is competitive — well-priced homes in desirable Columbia neighborhoods often receive multiple offers.
Look for agents who are active specifically in the Columbia market and have recent transaction history in the neighborhoods you care about. Ask about their experience with buyers or sellers (depending on your need), their average days-on-market vs. list price ratios, and their communication style. Many Columbia agents are Realtors (members of the National Association of Realtors) — you can search the Columbia Board of Realtors member directory.
Columbia has several distinct neighborhoods appealing to different lifestyles. Downtown Columbia is walkable and vibrant, popular with young professionals. The Old Southwest neighborhood features historic homes near downtown. South Columbia (Forum area) has newer developments and is popular with families. North Columbia offers more affordable housing with good access to I-70. The East Campus area near MU attracts university affiliates. Each area has its own character and price range.
Real estate commissions in Columbia, MO are negotiable. Traditionally, a 5–6% commission split between buyer's and seller's agents has been standard. However, following industry changes in 2024, buyers now typically negotiate their agent's compensation directly. When selling a Columbia home, expect 2.5–3% for the listing agent and a negotiated amount for the buyer's agent. Flat-fee and discount brokerage options are also available in Columbia.
Columbia's rental market is heavily influenced by MU's enrollment cycle — vacancies peak in May and June as students move out, and demand surges in July and August before fall semester. For non-student renters, year-round availability is better in South and West Columbia. Average Columbia rent for a 2-bedroom apartment runs $900–$1,300/month. The City of Columbia has a rental inspection program for multi-family properties, which provides some quality assurance for renters.
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