Let’s be honest {{first_name}}, the Bears are actually good. There’s a foundation in place, real momentum, and the first offseason in years that feels more about building than fixing. That sense of confidence—measured, earned, and forward-looking—is showing up in the Lake County housing market too. Less chaos, fewer knee-jerk decisions, and a lot more intentional moves.
Right now, this is a market that rewards preparation and patience. Not slow. Not stalled. Just healthier.
Here’s what you can get through in about three minutes this week.
The Housing Market, Right Now
Detached homes:
Buyer interest is steady, but urgency has softened. Well-priced homes still move, but buyers are taking a breath before making decisions—and that’s creating more balanced negotiations.
Attached homes:
Condos and townhomes are seeing consistent activity, especially from first-time buyers and downsizers. This segment feels practical right now: fewer bidding wars, more room for thoughtful offers.
Luxury homes:
The luxury segment remains selective. Buyers are active, but expectations are higher, pricing matters more, and homes that feel truly dialed-in continue to stand out.
If you want the full breakdown and what this means heading deeper into the year, I put it all together here: Lake County, IL Housing Market Outlook for 2026
Credit Score Myths (That Still Hold Buyers Back)
One thing that keeps coming up in conversations lately:
“I’d love to buy, but my credit isn’t good enough.”
That belief alone is keeping a lot of would-be buyers on the sidelines—especially here in Lake County. The truth is, the bar isn’t nearly as high as most people think, and there are more options than ever for buyers who assume they’re “not ready.”
I broke this down in plain English here:
The Credit Score Myth Holding Lake County Buyers Back
If you—or someone you know—has been waiting because of credit concerns, this is worth a quick read.
The Private List
Coming Soon
This home is currently available off-market or quietly circulating before broader exposure:
225 Walker Pl, Mundelein — A strong option for buyers who value convenience, solid layout, and the opportunity to move early before competition ramps up.
If one of these catches your eye—or if you’d like access to homes before they officially hit the market—just reply “Private List” and I’ll share details.
Buyer Needs
Investor cash buyer — AS-IS, Lake County area
Wadsworth buyer — 4+ bedrooms, 3-car garage, Warren schools
Gurnee area townhouse - under $245,000, +2 bed
And if you know someone who might be a fit for one of these situations, feel free to pass this along. A quick introduction can make a big difference for both sides.
Spotlight: Jay’s Comics
This week’s spotlight goes to a Lake County classic: Jay’s Comics in Grayslake.
Whether you’re into comics, graphic novels, collectibles, or just appreciate a long-standing local business that genuinely knows its customers, Jay’s is one of those places that’s been part of the community fabric for years.
If you need a low-key winter stop, a gift idea that isn’t another candle, or just an excuse to support local, this one’s worth a visit: https://www.jayscomicsonline.com
Supporting businesses like this is one of the underrated perks of living in Lake County.
One Last Thought
Markets change. Headlines change. Teams rise. What doesn’t change is the value of good information and timing your move around your life—not the noise.
If a move is on your radar for 2026, or if you just want clarity without pressure, I’m always happy to talk it through.
Until next week,
