In recent months, buyers across the US have been facing the highest monthly housing costs we've seen in over a year—monthly payments have now reached $2,600 by late Q3. This climb is mainly due to higher mortgage rates, paired with steady median sale prices, and it’s certainly adding pressure to affordability. The national median home-sale price rose about 2% year-over-year to around $399,000, which has helped keep pending sales steady month-over-month but still lower compared to last year.
I’ve noticed, both in our local neighborhoods and across the country, that effective seller strategy is making a difference. Around 21% of active listings cut prices recently, and sharper, realistic pricing is drawing attention, while homes priced too high tend to sit and cause hesitation among buyers. Even with the seasonal dip in new listings through the holidays, active supply is up about 2% year-over-year, now sitting at 1.5 million homes and almost four months of inventory—still not quite a balanced market but a small improvement.
With over 20 years of experience in Lake, McHenry, and Cook Counties, as well as southern Wisconsin, I keep a close eye on these trends to help my clients make well-informed decisions—whether you’re searching for a new home for your family or evaluating an investment property. Navigating today’s market takes local expertise, thoughtful strategy, and an understanding of how shifts in pricing and inventory can impact your next move.
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