Year-End Market Wrap: North Shore Real Estate 2025

As 2025 comes to a close, one thing is clear: the North Shore remains one of the most resilient and sought-after markets in the Chicago area. From historic charm to award-winning schools and lakefront living, demand stayed strong — and the data tells a compelling story.

If you want a personalized analysis of how these trends impact your home or future plans, you can always connect with me at https://alliepaynegroup.com.

Top-Selling Towns of 2025

This year, Wilmette, Lake Forest, and Winnetka led the North Shore in sales activity. Single-family homes were the standout category, especially in neighborhoods offering:

• Top-tier school districts

• Access to Metra lines and CTA

• Walkable downtowns

• Proximity to Lake Michigan

Condos also saw steady demand, particularly from empty nesters and city professionals craving low-maintenance living.

Curious about activity in your specific town? You can request a custom market update anytime at https://alliepaynegroup.com.

2025 Pricing Trends

Home prices across the North Shore rose at a healthy, moderate pace — a sign of continued stability.

• Single-family homes: ↑ 4–6% YOY

• Condos: ↑ 3–4% YOY

Lake Forest saw some of the strongest appreciation, driven by increased relocation interest and larger-lot homes offering exceptional value compared to Chicago.

Glencoe and Kenilworth stayed steady but competitive, attracting luxury buyers seeking architectural character and community amenities.

Want to know what your home is worth after this year’s appreciation? Get a complimentary value analysis at https://alliepaynegroup.com.

Inventory & Buyer Behavior

Inventory remained tight throughout 2025, creating a fast-moving market where well-prepped homes stood out. Sellers who invested in staging, curb appeal, and strategic pricing often sold quickly and near asking price.

Buyers, meanwhile, took a more strategic approach — making early, strong offers on homes that checked all their boxes.

If you’re preparing to list in early 2026, I can guide you through Compass’s pre-market strategies and home prep services: https://alliepaynegroup.com.

Looking Ahead to 2026

Early indicators for 2026 show:

• Continued strong demand

• Slightly more balanced pricing

• Possible shifts as interest rates and lending conditions evolve

For Buyers:

• Get pre-approved early

• Watch town-by-town micro-trends

• Be prepared to move quickly on well-priced homes

For Sellers:

• Presentation and pricing are everything

• Pre-list repairs, staging, and curb appeal remain key

• Market timing should align with your long-term goals

Want a personalized 2026 game plan based on your town and property type? Start here: https://alliepaynegroup.com.

Bottom Line

The North Shore real estate market in 2025 was defined by steady growth, strong demand, and competitive inventory — and those trends set the stage for a promising 2026.

Whether you’re thinking about buying, selling, or simply staying informed, I’m here to help you navigate every step with confidence.
Let’s talk about what this year’s trends mean for your next move:
👉 https://alliepaynegroup.com