The Institute for Housing Studies at DePaul University’s Illinois Housing Market Annual Forecast provides a 12-month outlook for home sales and pricing trends across the state and the Chicago metropolitan region. As Illinois heads into 2026, the forecast suggests a market defined by stability, moderation, and opportunity for informed decision-makers.
Statewide, home sales are projected to increase modestly compared to 2025, while prices are expected to continue rising at a slower, more sustainable pace. In the Chicago metropolitan area, sales activity is forecasted to grow more strongly, reinforcing the region’s role as a key driver of Illinois housing demand.
Despite improving inventory levels, affordability remains a central challenge for many households. Mortgage rate uncertainty, pricing pressures, and localized supply constraints mean that outcomes will vary significantly by submarket.
For buyers and sellers, this environment rewards realistic pricing, strong market intelligence, and a clear understanding of neighborhood-level conditions. For investors, developers, and public-sector stakeholders, the forecast reinforces the importance of disciplined underwriting, market feasibility analysis, and alignment with long-term community and policy goals.
At Ware Realty Group, we believe data is only useful when it is translated into action. Our approach combines regional market insight with localized analysis to help clients make informed real estate, investment, and planning decisions in evolving market conditions.
We will continue monitoring these trends throughout 2026 and sharing insights as conditions evolve.
If you would like to read the report in its entirety, you can find it here: 2026 Illinois Annual Forecast
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