Chicago & Suburban Market Update: What’s Really Happening With Sales and Showings Right Now

As we move through the current real estate cycle, both in Chicago and across the surrounding suburbs, one thing is clear: activity is shifting — and it’s impacting both buyers and sellers in meaningful ways. Whether you’re thinking about selling your home or preparing to buy, understanding these trends will help you make smarter decisions in the weeks ahead.

📉 Showing Activity: A Noticeable Slowdown

Across most neighborhoods in Chicago — particularly within the city limits — showing activity has slowed significantly. Homes that would have expected steady foot traffic in years past are now seeing fewer booked appointments. Some listings are experiencing long stretches with no showings at all.

Why this matters:
Showings are the lifeblood of the market. When fewer buyers are walking through homes, it’s a direct signal that buyer urgency has cooled. This doesn’t mean properties aren’t selling — it simply means sellers need to price strategically and understand the current pace of the market.

In the suburbs, showing activity is also down, but not quite as sharply as in the city. Suburban homes continue to attract solid attention, especially in areas known for strong school districts or turnkey properties.

🏡 Home Sales Activity: Still Moving, But More Selectively

Despite fewer showings, homes are selling — but today’s buyers are more selective and price-sensitive. Overpriced homes are sitting. Well-presented and competitively priced homes are still drawing strong interest and in some cases multiple offers, especially in high-demand areas.

Some key trends:

• City listings are taking longer to secure showings, which leads to extended days on market.

• Suburban properties remain more resilient, particularly move-in ready single-family homes.

• Commercial and multi-unit sales have slowed, with many investors waiting for better rates or more stable market conditions.

• Renovated homes outperform non-renovated homes, which is a consistent pattern in both city and suburban markets.

📊 Pricing Strategy Matters More Than Ever

In this market, pricing is no longer about what you want — it’s about where the buyers are. Sellers who adjust early based on showing feedback and market data are having the most success.

A few important takeaways:

• If a listing has no showings in the first 2–3 weeks, it’s a red flag that the price may be too high.

• Email inquiries and online views are not enough — physical showings are the true indicator of market strength.

• Price reductions have become more common and, when done correctly, they re-energize a listing.

📌 What Buyers Should Know

If you’re a buyer, this market presents real advantages:

• Less competition than the past few years

• More negotiating power on homes that have been sitting

• An opportunity to secure a home before activity picks up again in spring

Many sellers are more flexible today than they were even a few months ago.

📌 What Sellers Should Know

If you’re planning to sell:

• Condition, presentation, and pricing must align

• Expect more days on market than earlier this year

• Your first 2–3 weeks are the most critical window

• Strong marketing is essential, but even the best marketing can’t overcome an unrealistic list price

Homes that are well-prepared and strategically priced are still moving — and moving well.

📞 Thinking About Buying or Selling? Let’s Talk.

The market is changing week by week, and having the right guidance is more important than ever. If you’re wondering what your home is worth, or you want to explore buying options in Chicago or the suburbs, I'm here to help.

Frank Campobasso – Century 21 Circle
📲 773-425-6265
🌐 www.camposellshouses.com
⭐ Client Reviews: https://profile.realsatisfied.com/Frank-Campobasso