Monthly Market Report
Chicagoland Real Estate Market Update
January 2026 — reporting December 2025 activity
I break down what's really happening in the Chicago and Northwest Side real estate market. No fluff — just the key trends that matter so you know when to move, hold, or make your next smart real estate decision.
Chicagoland Market at a Glance — January 2026
Median Sale Price
$365,000
+5.8% year-over-year
Values continue to hold despite seasonal slowdowns
Avg. Days on Market
55 days
0% year-over-year
Buyers have more breathing room; sellers still rewarded for correct pricing
Inventory Level
2.6 months
+8.3% year-over-year
Still below a fully balanced market, but more choice than earlier in the year
Closed Sales
80,922
-2.3% year-over-year
Normal December pattern as activity slows around the holidays
Current mortgage rate: 6.19% — Buyers are adjusting to the new normal. Well-positioned properties continue to attract serious interest.
Data note: All market figures are based on MRED's Chicagoland PMSA data reported through InfoSparks. December 2025 data is always released in January. Figures reflect all property classes, all property types, and all construction types — including resale and new construction — across the Chicagoland region.
What These Numbers Mean for You — January 2026
The Chicagoland market remains resilient, but it's clearly settling into a more balanced winter pace. Median prices rose to $365,000 — up 5.8% year-over-year — showing that values continue to hold despite seasonal slowdowns.
Homes are taking longer to sell, averaging 55 days on market, giving buyers more breathing room while still rewarding sellers who price correctly. Inventory has increased to 2.6 months, which is still below a fully balanced market but offers more choice than earlier in the year.
Closed sales declined modestly — a normal December pattern as activity slows around the holidays. Mortgage rates are currently hovering around 6.19%, and buyers are adjusting to the new normal. Well-positioned properties continue to attract serious interest.
The takeaway is simple: this market favors preparation and strategy. Ready buyers can negotiate more effectively, and sellers who understand pricing and timing can still command strong results.
What Should You Do Next? — January 2026
If you're selling
If you're thinking about selling, this winter market still favors well-prepared sellers. Inventory is tight, and motivated buyers are still out there.
Get a free home valuationIf you're buying
If you're buying, this is a good window to look before activity ramps back up in early spring.
Search Chicagoland listingsWhen you're ready, I'll give you a clear roadmap — no pressure, just real guidance based on today's market.
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