Buying a house can feel overwhelming, especially when searching for the perfect home. In January 2025, 4,465 homes sold in Kentucky, showing many families are making this big decision. With the right research and focus on what truly matters, you can make a confident choice.
Choosing between three attractive Kentucky cities—Union, Franklin, and Florence—can make the decision even tougher. Each city offers its character, real estate market, and lifestyle benefits. This guide will help you navigate the process and choose the right home for your future.
Know What You Need
Start your house-hunting journey by setting clear priorities. Make two lists:
- Must-haves: Essential features like number of beds, commute time, or specific school districts.
- Nice-to-haves: Features you want but can live without, such as a finished basement, a big yard, or an upgraded kitchen.
As you make these lists, think about how your life may change in the coming years. Will you work from home more? Are you planning to grow your family or care for aging relatives? Do you prefer a quiet or a lively neighborhood? Consider both your current and future lifestyle needs to focus on homes that truly support your daily routines and future goals.
Study the Market Conditions in Each City
Making smart financial decisions requires understanding each city’s real estate market.
- Union: More expensive homes ~$510,500
- Florence: More affordable options ~$236,999
- Franklin: More historic homes ~$221,000
Kentucky’s overall home values increased by 3.4% since last year, but prices and inventory levels vary by city. Consider price per square foot, recent price changes, inventory levels, and property taxes. This helps set realistic expectations for your purchase and future resale value.
Explore Daily Life in Each Place
Your daily routine plays a crucial role in how happy you’ll be with your home. Plan your regular trips—work, school, groceries, and activities—from each city. If you’re looking for homes for sale in Union, Franklin, or Florence, consider the overall lifestyle and not just the house.
Visit each town at different times—weekdays, weekends, and evenings to feel the pulse of the neighborhood. Here’s what to look out for in each city:
· Union: Quiet, suburban neighborhoods with family-friendly parks
· Franklin: Has a historic, walkable downtown with unique shops and community events
· Florence: Suburban convenience with easy highway access
👉 Want to sneak a peek? Explore 190+ homes for sale in Florence on Houzeo, America’s best home-buying website. Filter through listings based on price, amenities, beds, and baths, etc., to find your perfect home.
Get Expert Help
Even if a home looks perfect, a thorough inspection is essential to avoid costly surprises. Professional inspectors can uncover hidden problems like leaks, electrical issues, pests, mold, or radon, especially in historical homes. Their reports help you negotiate repairs or price reductions—and in some cases, reveal issues serious enough to reconsider.
Work with local real estate agents who know the market well. They understand neighborhood trends, pricing, and hidden costs like HOA fees or property taxes. Talking to neighbors can offer honest insights about community life, noise levels, and ongoing issues, helping you make a fully informed decision.
How to Know Which City Fits You Best in 2025?
Perfect homes don’t exist, so focus on what’s best for you and your budget. If multiple homes qualify, trust your research and instincts to pick the right one. Remember you can renovate a home later, but you can’t move your lot or neighborhood.
- Union: Newer developments and peaceful suburban living with stable property values, but longer drives for some amenities.
- Florence: Affordable housing, good schools, and convenient access—great for families and commuters.
- Franklin: Historic charm and walkable neighborhoods, but requires maintenance of older homes.
👉 Looking to move soon? Explore homes for sale in Franklin on Houzeo, America’s best home buying app. Compare and save homes, contact agents, schedule showings, and even submit an offer, all from your phone.
