Detached home sales across Chicagoland suburbs held pace in September, signaling a market that remains steady on the surface but new data from Mainstreet REALTORS® shows widening differences below. A total of 2,341 detached homes sold last month, nearly unchanged from 2,312 sales a year earlier. However homes spent more time on the market, rising to an average of 41 days versus 33 while median prices continued their gradual climb, up 3.9% from $385,000 to $400,000. “While area-wide data has remained consistent for a number of months now, hyperlocal data can paint a very different picture,” said Kinga Korpacz, president of Mainstreet REALTORS®. “We’ve seen suburbs double their amount of inventory over the past six months, leading to more sales, while inventory levels in other suburbs stagnate or decrease. Each city is its own microcosm.” Pending sales for detached homes were strong last month. There were 2,683 homes under contract, a 7.3% increase from last September when 2,500 homes were under contract. This continued buyer demand suggests interest remains resilient, particularly in suburbs where inventory has increased. “It’s incredibly important buyers and sellers work with Mainstreet REALTORS® who have access to city-level data and know their local markets,” said John Gormley, CEO of Mainstreet REALTORS®. “This information helps sellers determine list price and strategy, while helping buyers put together appealing offers and so much more.” Meanwhile, the sale of attached homes in the Chicagoland suburbs was up 10.5% in September, from 1,111 homes sold last year to 1,228 last month. Time on market held at an average of 31 days, and prices increased 3.0% from $267,000 last year to $275,000 last month. Not as strong as detached homes, pending sales for attached homes were up 1.5%, from 1,245 last year to 1,263 last month. “Buyers should target areas with higher inventory if they want a better negotiating position,” added Korpacz. “And negotiate on both price and terms, particularly when there are no competing offers.” Several suburban communities experienced notable upticks in detached home sales in September 2025 compared to the same month in 2024, signaling areas where inventory may be loosening and buyer opportunities could be expanding. Particularly strong year-over-year gains were seen in: Calumet City (100.0% increase) Dolton (69.2%) Montgomery (69.2%) Fox Lake (120.0%) Glenwood (266.7%) Matteson (45.5%) Markham (85.7%) Park Forest (25.0%) St. Charles (33.3%) West Chicago (38.9%) Warrenville (57.1%) Wadsworth–Old Mill Creek (50.0%) Zion (53.3%) Connect with your Mainstreet REALTOR® who has access to on-the-ground data and is an expert in your local market. They can help you shape your buying or selling strategy.

If you're shopping for a home in the Chicago suburbs, you've probably considered well-known communities like Naperville, Oak Park or Hinsdale. But while these suburbs offer plenty to love, they also come with premium price tags and highly competitive markets. For buyers who want to find value and long-term investment potential without sacrificing access, schools or quality of life, there are lesser-known gems waiting to be discovered. Across suburban Chicagoland, there are a number of underrated towns that are seeing significant appreciation in home values. These up and coming Chicago suburbs represent strong opportunities for both first-time homebuyers and investors looking for the best value suburbs Chicago has to offer. Thanks to revitalized downtowns, improved transit, a wave of new buyers and increased remote work flexibility, these communities are quietly transforming into Chicagoland property investment hot spots. Here’s a data-driven look at some of the hidden gems where property values are on the rise—and where the window of opportunity may be closing fast. 1. Addison: Growth, Location, and Livability Addison, located in DuPage County, is quietly seeing a surge in buyer interest. With its proximity to major expressways, low commercial vacancy rates and community investment in public amenities, Addison offers great accessibility and livability. According to Mainstreet REALTORS® data, detached home sales in Addison rose more than 19% year-over-year in August 2025 alone. Median home prices are rising steadily yet Addison still remains more affordable than many surrounding towns. Addison is also home to an active park district, a recently renovated library and excellent access to employment centers in Oak Brook and Elk Grove Village. For families and professionals seeking a blend of affordability and convenience, Addison is a standout. 2. Homewood: A South Suburban Star Homewood has emerged as one of the most desirable south suburban communities, thanks in part to its award-winning schools, historic homes and robust downtown redevelopment. With walkable amenities, proximity to the Metra and a diverse, engaged community, Homewood offers big-city connectivity with small-town charm. In August 2025, Mainstreet REALTORS® reported a 44% year-over-year jump in detached home sales in Homewood. Property values are on the rise, yet prices remain attainable for families, first-time buyers and downsizers alike. As more people discover Homewood’s potential, it’s rapidly moving from underrated to in-demand. 3. Streamwood: Suburban Comfort with Rising Appeal Located in northwest suburban Cook County, Streamwood offers a strong housing stock, easy access to forest preserves and excellent value for the price. Its location near I-90 and proximity to employment hubs in Schaumburg and Hoffman Estates make it a favorite for commuters and remote workers alike. Home sales in Streamwood increased more than 14% year-over-year this summer, according to Mainstreet REALTORS® data. As prices in neighboring suburbs climb higher, Streamwood is increasingly attractive to buyers seeking space, schools and affordability. 4. Woodridge: Steady Growth and a Strategic Location Just south of Downers Grove, Woodridge is a suburb with a lot going for it: proximity to I-355 and I-55, excellent park systems and a strong sense of community. The village is investing in infrastructure and public amenities, including park and trail enhancements and downtown redevelopment. With home sales doubling between August 2024 and 2025, Woodridge is a rising star in the western suburbs. The area offers a mix of mid-century homes and new construction, giving buyers a range of options at price points that are still accessible compared to nearby hot spots. 5. Zion: Affordable Lakeside Potential Located in Lake County and close to the Wisconsin border, Zion offers a unique mix of affordability and access to Lake Michigan. While historically overlooked, Zion is seeing renewed interest from buyers attracted to its scenic surroundings, improving infrastructure and potential for appreciation. Mainstreet REALTORS® data shows a 9% increase in year-to-date detached home sales in Zion. Home values are steadily rising but the area remains one of the most affordable near-lake communities in the region. With lakefront parks, beaches and recreational trails nearby, Zion’s appeal is growing fast. 6. West Chicago: Industry Meets Livability Often overshadowed by its more well-known neighbors, West Chicago is building momentum as a hub for families and working professionals. The area features a strong industrial base, commuter rail access and continued reinvestment in schools and infrastructure. Mainstreet REALTORS® reported an 18% increase in home sales in West Chicago year-to-date in 2025, but momentum is expected to continue as more buyers seek value in DuPage County and investment continues in West Chicago. With a range of housing types and solid civic infrastructure, West Chicago is another hidden gem with strong long-term potential. 7. Round Lake: Community-Centered and Growing Fast In central Lake County, Round Lake has long been popular with first-time buyers—and now it's starting to get attention from investors and move-up buyers as well. The area boasts family-friendly amenities, highly rated schools in several subdivisions and a growing reputation as a great place to live and work. Sales activity rose nearly 27% year-over-year in August, according to Mainstreet REALTORS®. With multiple parks, community festivals and access to forest preserves and lakes, Round Lake delivers big on livability while still offering relatively low home prices. Why These Hidden Gems Matter As the housing market continues to evolve, more buyers are widening their searches and reassessing what a "great location" really means. Proximity to downtown Chicago remains important for some but for many others, remote work, budget considerations, and quality of life are top priorities. These up and coming Chicago suburbs offer the best of both worlds: affordability today and strong potential for appreciation tomorrow. Whether you're a first-time buyer looking for the best value suburbs Chicago has to offer or a savvy investor focused on Chicagoland property investment, these communities are worth serious consideration. These trends are playing out in real time. As inventory remains tight and interest in suburban living continues, the time to explore these emerging markets may be now. Find a REALTOR® on ChicagolandHomes.com to discuss investment opportunities in these up-and-coming areas.

Detached home sales across Chicagoland suburbs held pace in September, signaling a market that remains steady on the surface but new data from Mainstreet REALTORS® shows widening differences below. A total of 2,341 detached homes sold last month, nearly unchanged from 2,312 sales a year earlier. However homes spent more time on the market, rising to an average of 41 days versus 33 while median prices continued their gradual climb, up 3.9% from $385,000 to $400,000. “While area-wide data has remained consistent for a number of months now, hyperlocal data can paint a very different picture,” said Kinga Korpacz, president of Mainstreet REALTORS®. “We’ve seen suburbs double their amount of inventory over the past six months, leading to more sales, while inventory levels in other suburbs stagnate or decrease. Each city is its own microcosm.” Pending sales for detached homes were strong last month. There were 2,683 homes under contract, a 7.3% increase from last September when 2,500 homes were under contract. This continued buyer demand suggests interest remains resilient, particularly in suburbs where inventory has increased. “It’s incredibly important buyers and sellers work with Mainstreet REALTORS® who have access to city-level data and know their local markets,” said John Gormley, CEO of Mainstreet REALTORS®. “This information helps sellers determine list price and strategy, while helping buyers put together appealing offers and so much more.” Meanwhile, the sale of attached homes in the Chicagoland suburbs was up 10.5% in September, from 1,111 homes sold last year to 1,228 last month. Time on market held at an average of 31 days, and prices increased 3.0% from $267,000 last year to $275,000 last month. Not as strong as detached homes, pending sales for attached homes were up 1.5%, from 1,245 last year to 1,263 last month. “Buyers should target areas with higher inventory if they want a better negotiating position,” added Korpacz. “And negotiate on both price and terms, particularly when there are no competing offers.” Several suburban communities experienced notable upticks in detached home sales in September 2025 compared to the same month in 2024, signaling areas where inventory may be loosening and buyer opportunities could be expanding. Particularly strong year-over-year gains were seen in: Calumet City (100.0% increase) Dolton (69.2%) Montgomery (69.2%) Fox Lake (120.0%) Glenwood (266.7%) Matteson (45.5%) Markham (85.7%) Park Forest (25.0%) St. Charles (33.3%) West Chicago (38.9%) Warrenville (57.1%) Wadsworth–Old Mill Creek (50.0%) Zion (53.3%) Connect with your Mainstreet REALTOR® who has access to on-the-ground data and is an expert in your local market. They can help you shape your buying or selling strategy.

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