Jim Schmidt - RE/MAX Realty Associates

06/19/2026

Today reminds us of the importance of equality, progress, and continuing to build a better future together.

06/17/2026

If you spend enough time online, you'd probably think home prices are crashing or they’re about too.

But the data tells a different story.

According to Realtor.com, home prices are still rising in 71% of housing markets across the country.

That's the majority of markets.

Yes, some areas are seeing slight price declines. But they're the exception, not the rule.
That's why it's important to be careful about where you're getting your housing market information.

The internet loves dramatic headlines. The data usually tells a more complete story.

Want to know what's actually happening with home prices in our area? Send over a message.

Jim Schmidt | REALTOR®
REMAX Realty Associates
217-840-0788
cu4realestate.com

06/17/2026

If affordability has been the biggest thing standing between you and a home, there’s a little bit of good news.

Asking prices have started to ease – the typical asking price this May came in under where it was a year ago.

And these lower prices are good news for your move – not a sign the market’s in trouble. It points to a market that’s rebalancing with more realistic seller expectations and a little more breathing room for buyers again.

So, if you’ve been waiting for an opening, let’s connect. I’ll help you see what that looks like in our area.

Jim Schmidt | REALTOR®
REMAX Realty Associates
217-840-0788
cu4realestate.com

06/15/2026

A few years ago, sellers could say "no" to just about everything a buyer asked for.

No repairs.
No concessions.
No negotiation.

Today? The market looks a little different.

Zillow says 67% of sellers pay some or all of their buyer's closing costs.

That doesn't mean every seller should do it. But it does mean the most successful sellers today understand something important:

The market has shifted. And that's means negotiation is back on the table.

Sometimes helping with closing costs makes sense. Sometimes another concession is the better move. But it’s normal for today’s market to require some give and take.

The key is knowing what buyers are asking for in your area, and which compromises are actually worth making.

Want to know what sellers in our area are negotiating right now? Send a message or drop a comment below.

Jim Schmidt | REALTOR®
REMAX Realty Associates
217-840-0788
cu4realestate.com

06/15/2026

Happy Birthday Army!

06/14/2026

JUST SOLD in Champaign IL

I ❤️ connecting buyers and sellers! If you or someone you know is looking to buy or sell, let's chat 📲 217-840-0788.

Jim Schmidt | REALTOR®
REMAX Realty Associates
cu4realestate.com

06/12/2026

Could waiting until later this year work out? Sure. But it's important to understand what you may gain by moving now too – that way you have the full picture before you decide.

If a 2026 move is on your radar, let’s connect and talk about what matters most to you. Depending on your priorities, Summer could be your moment.

Jim Schmidt | REALTOR®
REMAX Realty Associates
217-840-0788
cu4realestate.com

A lot of people who want to move are telling themselves the same thing: "Maybe I'll just wait until later this year once things calm down."

06/10/2026

Moving this Summer, and not sure where to start? The new Summer Guides for buying or selling a home have your answers. For your free digital copy, let’s connect.

Jim Schmidt | REALTOR®
REMAX Realty Associates
217-840-0788
cu4realestate.com

06/10/2026

If affordability has been your top concern, the recent dip in prices is an opening. Want to see what that looks like in our area? Let’s connect.

Jim Schmidt | REALTOR®
REMAX Realty Associates
217-840-0788
cu4realestate.com

If affordability has been the biggest thing standing between you and a home, there's a little good news.

06/08/2026

Smaller homes are having a moment.

That’s because affordability is tight and, for many buyers, smaller is what fits the budget. And builders are listening.

Newly built homes have been trending smaller since 2014 – and that’s on purpose.

They're more affordable than larger homes. And many come with built-in community amenities like walking trails, fitness centers, and even co-working spaces, so less space still delivers.

If you've been feeling priced out of bigger homes, a smaller one could fit your budget and your lifestyle. And with brand-new everything, it may not feel like as much of a compromise as you think.

DM me to walk through what's available in our area.

Jim Schmidt | REALTOR®
REMAX Realty Associates
217-840-0788
cu4realestate.com