01/30/2026
Long post alert, but if you are interested in buying or selling a home in 2026, please read on.
Thinking about making a move in Greater Lafayette or the surrounding counties? The market is shifting as we kick off the new year. Whether you’re in Lafayette, West Lafayette, or nearby communities, here is what you need to know to navigate our local housing market.
📈 The Market at a Glance
Over the last year, we’ve moved away from the "frenzy" of years past toward a more balanced, healthy pace.
Mortgage Rates: Rates have stabilized significantly. Currently, 30-year fixed mortgages in Indiana are averaging around 6.19% to 6.3%. While higher than the pandemic lows, they are much more predictable than the volatility we saw in 2024–2025.
Inventory: Supply is slowly improving. Tippecanoe County inventory is up roughly 20% year-over-year, though it remains a "Sellers' Market" with about 2.8 months of supply.
Home Prices: Prices in Tippecanoe County continue to climb, with a median sale price now around $285,000 to $290,000 (up ~3.6% from last year).
🔑 Advice for Buyers
1. Don’t Wait for a "Crash": Prices in Indiana, especially Tippecanoe County, are still rising faster than the national average due to strong demand and limited supply. If you find a home that fits your budget, today’s rates offer much more predictability for your monthly payment. 2. Leverage the "Days on Market": Homes are sitting on the market longer (averaging 38–41 days compared to just 13 days last year). Use this to your advantage! You likely have more room to negotiate repairs or closing costs than you did six months ago. 3. West Lafayette remains highly competitive (median price ~$443,000), while Lafayette and surrounding rural counties offer more breathing room and affordability.
💰 Advice for Sellers
1. Pricing is Everything: The days of "list it and they will come" are over. Buyers are more selective due to higher borrowing costs. Homes priced at or slightly below market value are still seeing multiple offers, while overpriced homes are sitting for 70+ days. 2. Preparation Pays Off: With more inventory on the market, your home needs to stand out. Minor updates and staging are no longer optional—they are essential to maximize your sale price.
The Bottom Line: The Tippecanoe County market is resilient. We aren't seeing a "crash," but a return to a more balanced market where both sides have a seat at the table.
Ready to find your next home or get a free valuation on your current one? Send me a message or shoot me a text. I am happy to help!
