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May Flowers and the May Market!
Happy May! Chicago → North Shore → Near NW Suburbs
Spring 2026 is increasingly not just relying on momentum alone!
You may have seen recent headlines describing buyer activity in neighborhoods like Lincoln Park and Lakeview as “absolutely insane.” While competition remains strong—particularly for well‑located, move‑in‑ready properties—the reality on the ground isn’t chaos; it’s selectivity. Bidding wars are happening where condition, location, pricing line up.
Chicago
Chicago’s market continues to be driven largely by condos, and buyer behavior reflects that. Well‑priced, updated units in desirable locations are attracting immediate offers, especially those with healthy HOAs, and solid reserves. Buyers are focusing on price and monthly carrying costs, building financials, and long‑term resale value. There are still not enough listings to ease competition for the best units. Condos that show well and are priced with wisely are moving fast; those that look dated or overly ambitious on their price are being quietly passed over.
North Shore
The North Shore continues it’s steady strength, particularly in the $500K–$1M range. Condition remains the deciding factor. Homes that are updated, ideally staged, are selling fast, while properties that feel tired are spending more time on the market, even as buyer interest remains consistently high!
Near Northwest Suburbs
Communities like Arlington Heights, Morton Grove and nearby suburbs maintain high demand, and competition is strong for homes that meet even basic expectations. Realistic pricing and photo presentation are still key. And easy access. About 50% of showings are last minute and no less valuable because of it.
Where Are We Now?
Mortgage rates have moved out of the headlines and into the background that buyers factor into their decisions. Buyers are adapting rather than waiting, and sellers are seeing the strongest results with the right preparation and pricing.
Ask Me Anything!
Curious how this market affects your plans?
I’m always happy to talk about your real estate needs —call me anytime.
Warm regards,
Robin
April 2026 Snapshot: Spring Energy Continues To Take Hold
Chicago → North Shore → Northwest Suburbs April’s brought the market’s Spring energy into full bloom. Activity is high across Chicago and surrounding suburbs, not because conditions suddenly became “easy,” but buyers are moving forward anyway.
Chicago
In the city, pricing remains firm and upward‑leaning as spring listings hit the market—but not in volumes big enough to shift leverage. Inventory is still constrained, especially for move‑in‑ready homes in desirable neighborhoods, and well‑priced listings are drawing immediate attention.
Buyers are cautious but committed. Most are arriving pre‑approved, numbers crunched, expectations adjusted. Days on market remain compressed for homes that show well and are positioned correctly, while anything overpriced is quietly passed over. Mortgage rates hovering just above 6% have slowed some decisions, but they haven’t stopped the market—they’ve simply made buyers more selective.
North Shore
The North Shore feels especially energized this month. Showings are up across most price points, with consistent strength between $400K–$600K and $600K–$1M, and active interest continuing in the low‑luxury and luxury tiers where inventory is thin.
Buyers remain extremely sensitive to condition. Homes that are updated, staged, and thoughtfully priced are still selling quickly—often within days—while properties that feel tired or aspirational priced are lingering longer than sellers expect. Even as more listings come online in towns like Glenview, Deerfield, and Highland Park, demand continues to outpace supply, keeping competition intact.
Near Northwest Suburbs
The northwest suburbs—particularly Arlington Heights and nearby communities—continue to post some of the strongest fundamentals in the region. Homes are moving steadily, multiple offers remain common, and sale‑to‑list ratios are holding firm near asking price.
This area continues to benefit from its blend of value, livability, and commuter‑friendly locations. Buyers priced out of closer‑in options are looking west with intent, not hesitation—and that’s keeping pressure on inventory.
Rates, Reality, Ready!
This spring confirmed what we’ve been seeing all year: buyers are no longer waiting for perfect conditions. Mortgage rates didn’t settle into the mid‑5s as optimists hoped, but buyers adapted. They’re refinancing projections, adjusting purchase prices slightly, or putting more cash down—and moving on.
The result is a market that’s active, strategic, and very much alive.
Across Chicago, the North Shore, and the northwest suburbs, Spring is rewarding preparation.
- Sellers: pricing precision and presentation are everything.
- Buyers: strategy, flexibility, and speed win deals.
Homes that are well‑prepared and well‑positioned are still selling fast. The difference now is that success isn’t accidental—it’s intentional.
Ask Me Anything!
Curious how this market affects your plans? I’ve been helping buyers and sellers navigate Chicago and the North Shore since 1996, offering a boutique, high‑touch approach backed by real market insight. I’m always happy to talk strategy—call me anytime.
2026 Starting Out With a Bang!
2026 Chicago and Suburbs Market Update: Prices Still Climbing in 2026
Chicago’s housing market continues to defy national trends. While many U.S. metros are cooling, Chicago home prices are projected to keep rising through 2026.
🔹 Prices Expected to Rise 4.4% in 2026
Realtor.com forecast shows Chicago home prices increasing at nearly double the national pace. Limited new construction remains the biggest driver—Chicago consistently ranks near the bottom of major U.S. cities for new housing production.
🔹 Volume May Dip
Sales activity expected to fall about 2.3% as buyers compete for scarce inventory.
🔹 Chicago Leads Nation in Recent Price Growth
Chicago posted the fastest home‑price growth of all major U.S. metros, prices up 5.83% year-over-year—far above the 1.36% national rate.
🔹 Mortgage Rates Ease Slightly
Rates expected to average 6.3%, down from 6.6%. While not a dramatic drop, buyers largely adjusted to rates above 6%.
🔹 Downtown Poised for a Comeback
Gold Coast, River North, the Loop may see renewed demand in 2026 as buyers look for value and convenience.
🔹 North Shore Continues Strong Momentum
High-end suburbs—especially Winnetka, Highland Park, surrounding areas—projected to keep rising, fueled by lifestyle amenities and continued interest.
🔹 Affordable Areas Heating Up
Lower-cost neighborhoods are seeing some of the strongest price appreciation as buyers seek affordability. Investors and owner‑occupants are active.
Bottom Line
- Sellers: It’s still a strong pricing environment—especially if your home is move‑in ready and well‑located.
- Buyers: Expect competition, but opportunities remain in downtown and emerging neighborhoods.
- Overall: Chicago continues to show steady, resilient growth, bucking the national slowdown.
Broadway Giveaway!
Enter my giveaway for FREE tickets to see The Phantom of the Opera in Chicago – for my clients and online friends! Just click the link below to enter!
I’ll send you and a guest to experience “The Music of the Night” firsthand, so don’t miss your cue! The giveaway ends on September 30.
The Phantom of the Opera (87 winners) 🎭
Cadillac Palace Theatre | December 11, 2025 | 7 pm CT
Message me if you have any questions! Link is below!
👇
🍁 3 Mistakes Sellers in the North Shore Should Avoid This Autumn
🍁 3 Mistakes Sellers in the North Shore Should Avoid This Autumn
Autumn on Chicago’s North Shore and Western Suburbs is more than just sweater weather and pumpkin spice—it’s prime for selling your home. But even in this cozy, golden-hued market, sellers can fall into seasonal traps that slow down their sale or shrink their offers.
Here are 3 common mistakes to avoid if you’re listing your home this fall:
1. Letting Curb Appeal Fall Flat
Just because the summer blooms are gone doesn’t mean your home’s exterior should look like it’s winding down for winter. Buyers still judge a book by its cover—and a messy yard or bare porch can send the wrong message.
Quick Fix: Keep leaves raked, bushes trimmed, and add seasonal charm with mums, pumpkins, or a tasteful wreath. A warm welcome starts at the curb.
2. Skipping Seasonal Maintenance
Fall buyers are tuned into comfort. Drafty windows, a chilly interior, or a funky furnace smell can make your home feel less than move-in ready.
Quick Fix: Service your HVAC system, seal up drafts, and consider upgrading to a smart thermostat. Bonus points for cozy lighting and subtle seasonal scents (think cinnamon, not potpourri explosion).
3. Pricing Like It’s Still July
Summer may have been sizzling, but fall brings a shift. Overpricing based on peak-season comps can lead to fewer showings and longer days on market.
Quick Fix: Work with a local expert (👋 that’s me!) to price your home strategically for autumn buyers. The goal? Competitive, compelling, and ready to move.
🍂 Ready to Sell Smart This Fall?
Selling in autumn can be a win—if you avoid seasonal slip-ups.
Want help with a successful sale? Let’s chat! I’ll bring the market insights—and maybe a pumpkin latte.
Chicago Housing Market – late Spring 2025
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Sellers’ Market:The current low inventory of homes for sale, coupled with continued demand, is driving a seller’s market. This means that there are more buyers than sellers, leading to increased competition and potentially higher prices.
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Rising Home Prices:Median home prices in the North Side are projected to continue to rise, with some neighborhoods experiencing double-digit increases in median sales prices.
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Low Inventory:Inventory levels are historically low in several neighborhoods, contributing to the seller’s market conditions. This means there are fewer homes available for sale, making it more challenging for buyers to find suitable properties.
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Neighborhood Variations:While the overall market is trending towards a seller’s market, individual neighborhoods may experience variations in sales trends and price increases. Some neighborhoods may see more sales activity and price increases than others.
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Multiple Offers:With limited inventory and strong demand, multiple offers are likely to be common, and sellers can expect to receive competitive offers for their homes.
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Interest Rate Sensitivity:While not explicitly stated in the provided search results, interest rate fluctuations can also play a role in the housing market. Fluctuating interest rates may slightly cool buyer enthusiasm but could also motivate serious buyers to act quickly.
- Near North Side: The Near North Side, known for its high Months of Supply Index (MSI), experienced a significant decrease in MSI.
- Lakeview: Lakeview saw an increase in inventory levels, but the overall market remains a seller’s market.
- North Center: North Center saw no change in inventory levels.
- Lincoln Park: Lincoln Park reported a decrease in inventory levels.
- Uptown: Uptown experienced a significant increase in sales.
- Lincoln Square: Lincoln Square also saw an increase in sales.
- Rogers Park: Rogers Park also experienced an increase in sales.
- Edgewater: Edgewater saw an increase in sales.
- West Ridge: West Ridge experienced a decrease in sales.
- Median Home Price Increases: Median home prices rose in several neighborhoods, with some experiencing double-digit increases.
Spring in the Chicago North Shore suburbs
- Price Appreciation: the median sale price in the North Shore reached approximately $596,000, marking a 14.5% increase year-over-year. Specific areas like Deerfield saw median prices rise to $705,000 (up 16.2%), while Evanston reached $889,000 (up 17%).
- Inventory Constraints: There remains a significant shortage of homes for sale, with inventory levels down 24.3% compared to 2024. This scarcity is contributing to competitive bidding and rapid sales, especially for properties priced under $1.5 million.
- Seller’s Market Dynamics: Communities such as Northbrook and Glenview are experiencing strong seller markets, with demand outpacing supply and the Market Action Index indicating upward pricing pressure.
- Glencoe’s Market Surge: The 60022 ZIP code in Glencoe was the hottest housing market in the Chicago metro area at the end of 2024, with an average sale price of $2.1 million.
- Golf Mill Mall Revitalization: In Niles, the $440 million redevelopment of Golf Mill Mall aims to introduce new retail spaces and luxury housing, potentially boosting the local real estate market.
- Current market conditions in the North Shore suburbs suggest continued price growth and competitive buying scenarios, particularly in the mid-range segment.
- However, the luxury market is experiencing a slowdown due to high construction costs and selective buyers.
- Potential shifts in mortgage rates and broader economic factors could influence future market dynamics.
Chicago and North Shore Real Estate Update: April 2025
Chicago and the North Shore’s real estate market continues to thrive as a seller’s market. Home prices remain elevated due to low inventory and strong buyer demand. The North Shore is experiencing similar trends, with prices and sales activity showing consistent growth.
In my own sales activity, every home I have listed and sold this Spring has sold in under 3 days, with multiple offers.
Takeaways:
- Seller’s Market: Chicago and the North Shore remain largely seller’s markets, with low inventory and strong demand pushing prices upward. This trend is expected to persist throughout the year, making it an opportune time for sellers to capitalize on their investments.
- Price Appreciation: Home prices are expected to continue their upward trend in 2025, with increases ranging from 2-3%, as indicated by various reports. This steady appreciation reflects the robust demand and limited supply in the market.
- Low Inventory: Low housing inventory, particularly in the North Shore, is a key factor driving the seller’s market conditions. Market experts highlight that the scarcity of available homes is contributing to the competitive environment, where buyers are often willing to pay a premium.
- Factors Influencing the Market: Several factors are shaping the housing market here. The return-to-work trend, fluctuating interest rates, and broader economic conditions are all playing significant roles. As more people return to in-person work, the demand for housing in desirable locations like Chicago and its suburbs continues to rise.
- North Shore Trends: The North Shore is experiencing very strong growth in home prices and sales. The median sale price per square foot has increased by 5.1% since last year. This underscores the appeal plus the ongoing demand for properties here.
Contact me anytime for an up to the minute market report in your area or in any area you’re interested in exploring.
March 2025 Chicago to the North Shore 🏡
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Chicago’s North Shore continues to attract buyers seeking a peaceful environment near the city.
Here’s what’s happening in 2025:
- Evanston, Highland Park and Glencoe are experiencing more sales and great prices for updated, move-in ready homes.
- With hybrid work common, areas with Metra access, such as Wilmette and Kenilworth, remain in high demand. Buyers prioritize easy access to public transit and major highways for their downtown commutes.
- Highland Park & Lake Forest: Properties over $2M are selling well.
- Evanston & Wilmette: There’s a surge in demand for $800K-$1.5M near top-rated schools.
- Glencoe and Northbrook offer potential for buyers willing to undertake minor/moderate renovations. Fixer-uppers in desirable locations attract both investors and long-term owners.
City of Chicago Market Trends
- Home values in Chicago are expected to rise 1.2% this year. This follows a 5.4% increase in 2024.
- Bidding wars are happening in the $500,000 to $600,000 price range and everything I am showing over $750,000 to $1.1M has had multiple offers in the first few days. It’s been a great month to be a seller.
Downtown Chicago sales have been stronger in 2025, with buyers focused on modern amenities and proximity to key locations.
March 2025 Newsletter
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Real Estate Updates | Area Reports | January 2025
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