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Why this is worth 3 minutes today

A quick “Holiday” snapshot of where the Lake County market stands right now, plus one timely read on why January can quietly favor buyers. If a 2026 move is even a maybe, this is useful early context.

Message of the Moment

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This week has that familiar holiday rhythm — fewer meetings, more layers, and a little extra time carved out for the things we always make time for anyway.

Around here, that includes the holidays… and the Chicago Bears. We’re a loyal bunch. We show up, we believe, and we proudly wear the colors — because hope, optimism, and tradition are kind of our thing. And honestly, that’s part of what makes being a Bears fan great.

Real estate tends to mirror that same energy this time of year. The pace slows a bit, but the intention sharpens. Buyers think more clearly about what they actually want. Sellers start planning instead of rushing. And the conversations feel more grounded — which usually leads to better outcomes.

Below is a simple snapshot of where the Lake County market stands as the year winds down, along with a few things worth keeping in mind if a move is part of your 2026 game plan.

However you’re spending this holiday week — watching football, hosting family, or enjoying a quieter moment — I hope it’s a good one.

~ Michael

The Market Report

Below is a quick snapshot of where the Lake County market stands right now. The pace has eased slightly for the holidays, but pricing and inventory still clearly favor sellers — with buyers taking a bit more time and sellers gaining clarity instead of urgency. If a 2026 move is even remotely on your radar, this is the context worth knowing.

Here’s how this breaks down right now:

Residential - Detached

Median Price

Market Time

Months Supply

Market Type

$440,000

42

1.7

Seller

Residential - Attached

Median Price

Market Time

Months Supply

Market Type

$290,000

35

1.4

Seller

Luxury

Median Price

Market Time

Months Supply

Market Type

$970,000

55

2.6

Seller

Bottom line: inventory remains tight across all segments, but buyers are taking a bit more time — which is creating opportunity for those who are prepared.

News, Blog & Socials

If you’re debating whether to move now or wait until spring, this breakdown explains why January can quietly favor buyers — especially here in Lake County.

The Private List

A behind-the-scenes look at homes I have coming up and buyers I’m helping right now. Interested in either of these? Just reply to this email or book a quick call.

Coming Soon
  • 912 Highgate Ln, Grayslake: An upcoming Grayslake listing I’m preparing now. If you’re looking in this area, this is a good one to raise your hand on early. It’s a 4 bed, 3.5 bath townhouse with a walkout basement.

Buyer Needs
  • Looking for a home in Wadsworth within the Warren school district.

The Spotlight

The Year-End Moves No One’s Watching

Markets don’t wait — and year-end waits even less.

In the final stretch, money rotates, funds window-dress, tax-loss selling meets bottom-fishing, and “Santa Rally” chatter turns into real tape. Most people notice after the move.

Elite Trade Club is your morning shortcut: a curated selection of the setups that still matter this year — the headlines that move stocks, catalysts on deck, and where smart money is positioning before New Year’s. One read. Five minutes. Actionable clarity.

If you want to start 2026 from a stronger spot, finish 2025 prepared. Join 200K+ traders who open our premarket briefing, place their plan, and let the open come to them.

By joining, you’ll receive Elite Trade Club emails and select partner insights. See Privacy Policy.

The Weekly Residence - Santa Edition

A little holiday fun before we wrap up this week…

Spotted this week at the North Pole 🎅 — because even Santa needs a home!
👉 Track Santa’s house and live updates: https://www.noradsanta.org/

Let’s Connect

Have a question about your home, the market, or your 2026 plans?