Every few months I take a close look at what the latest market data is telling us across the communities I serve. Here is what stands out as we move through late summer 2026.
The big picture
If I had to sum up the current market in one sentence, it would be this: conditions are shifting from a uniformly seller-favored market toward a more balanced picture, yet there is still strong demand for well-priced homes in the right communities.
Inventory has increased in several areas. Orland Park, for example, has seen listings rise over 50% since the beginning of the year. That gives buyers more choices than they had in 2024 or early 2025. Yet in communities where inventory remains tight like Frankfort, Mokena and Munster, buyers still face competition for the best homes.
What we are seeing in Illinois
Frankfort continues to show stability with median home values around $494,000 and typical days on market in the 25- to 45-day range. Homes priced well from day one are still attracting interest within the first month.
Orland Park is the most interesting story on the Illinois side. List prices are up roughly 8.8% year-over-year, yet inventory has expanded meaningfully. More choices for buyers, yet sellers who price strategically are still achieving strong results. The message here is clear: pricing matters more now than it did a year ago.
New Lenox remains somewhat competitive with homes receiving about 2 offers on average and a typical market time of about 3 to 7 weeks. Mokena's median sale price sits around $465,000, and the family-oriented demand that has long characterized the community continues.
What we are seeing in Indiana
Schererville stands out as the fastest-moving market in the Northwest Indiana area. Median sale prices are up about 3% year-over-year, and homes are selling in around 20 days. If you are a seller in Schererville, the conditions are still working in your favor.
Munster and Crown Point show steady, moderate conditions. Crown Point has seen roughly 3% annual appreciation. Munster's market remains somewhat competitive with consistent demand for move-in-ready homes. Both communities continue to attract buyers from across the state line who value the community feel and the lower property taxes.
Dyer's market scores as very competitive with homes selling in around 30 days. Valparaiso has the widest range in terms of market time, with some homes moving quickly and others taking longer depending on price point and condition. For buyers willing to be patient, Valparaiso offers more room to explore.
What this means for sellers
The days of list it and it sells are behind us in most communities, yet sellers who price competitively and present their homes well are still seeing strong results. The key difference is that pricing strategy matters more now. Overpricing in today's market carries more risk than it did a year ago because buyers have more options and they are comparing.
If you are considering selling, I recommend starting with a conversation about your specific neighborhood and home condition. The averages are useful, yet your situation is individual.
What this means for buyers
Increased inventory in several communities gives you more leverage than last year. Yet the best homes in the best neighborhoods still move quickly. The winning strategy is being prepared, knowing what you want, and being ready to act when the right home appears.
Interest rates remain a factor in everyone's decision making. Yet waiting for the perfect rate often means paying a higher price later. If you find a home that fits your needs and your budget, the math usually supports moving forward.
One more thing
I am licensed in both Illinois and Indiana, which means I can help you compare options on both sides of the state line. If you are wondering whether your budget stretches further in Northwest Indiana than in the South Suburbs, the answer is almost certainly yes. Let us run the numbers together.