January 27, 2026 market brief. This U.S. real estate update tracks Chicago through the lens of verified supply, pricing, financing, and delivery signals.

Existing-home sales remain a key signal for resale liquidity, bargaining power, and how quickly realistic listings move.

• NAR reported 2024 existing-home sales at 4.06 million, the lowest annual level since 1995.
• Higher mortgage rates and limited affordability kept many buyers cautious.
• Inventory improvement can help buyers, but neighborhood-level supply still matters most.

Buyer note: Confirm title documents, delivery timelines, service-charge assumptions, and payment milestones before making any deposit. Diaspora buyers should use documented escrow and independent legal review.

Source note: This brief is based on market monitoring and primary reference material from National Association of Realtors.