December 2025 Chicago Real Estate: What the Numbers Really Mean for Buyers and Sellers
You may have a hard time believing this, but December might actually be one of the best times to make your move in Chicago real estate.
I know — conventional wisdom says to wait until spring. But after 30 years in this market, I’ve learned that the best opportunities often come when others are sitting on the sidelines.
Let me walk you through what I’m seeing right now.
The December Chicago Housing Market Numbers at a Glance
Here’s what the data is telling us:
→ Median sale prices are up 1.2% year-over-year, showing continued stability in our market
→ Buyers are paying 97.6% of asking price — which tells me well-priced homes are still commanding strong offers
→ Average market time is 52 days — good properties are not on the market for long
→ Inventory is down 12.1% compared to last year — fewer options means more competition for the right home
Yes, new listings are down 37.4% month-over-month and 10.7% year-over-year. That’s typical seasonal slowdown. But here’s what most people miss: fewer listings also means less competition if you’re a seller.
What This Means If You’re Buying in Lincoln Park or Bucktown
If you’re looking at townhomes in Lincoln Park, duplexes in Bucktown, or single-family homes anywhere on the Near North Side, here’s my advice:
- Don’t wait for spring. The buyers who are out now are serious. So are the sellers. That often leads to smoother transactions.
- Get access to off-market properties. About 20% of real estate never hits the MLS — it’s called shadow inventory. Through my Top Agent Network (invitation-only for the top 10% of realtors) and access to 3,200+ agents through the Agent App, I can show you properties most people don’t even know exist.
- Be ready to move. With homes selling in 52 days on average and buyers paying close to asking price, the right property won’t wait.
What This Means If You’re Selling Your Chicago Home
If you’ve been thinking about listing but waiting for “the right time,” consider this:
→ Less competition. Fewer homes on the market means your property stands out more.
→ Serious buyers. The people looking in December aren’t casual browsers — they’re motivated.
→ Strong pricing. Year-over-year price appreciation shows the market is holding steady.
I recently had a conversation with a client who was planning to wait until spring. After looking at the data together, they decided to list now — and I’m confident it was the right call.
Off-Market Properties: The 20% Most Buyers Never See
Real estate is always local. National headlines don’t tell the whole story of what’s happening in Lincoln Park, Bucktown, Old Town, or the Gold Coast.
What I can tell you from being on the ground every day: good properties are moving, serious buyers are active, and the market rewards those who are prepared.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer excited to find your place in the city, a growing family looking for more space, or an empty nester ready to downsize — the key is having the right information and the right access.
That’s what I’m here for.
Let’s Talk
Thinking about buying or selling in 2026? I’d love to start the conversation — no pressure, just information.
Drop a comment with your neighborhood, DM me, schedule a call, or reach out anytime. I’m here when you’re ready.
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