Urban Aire Realty

06/16/2026

Bret Derrickson, 630-697-2600,

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.

06/16/2026

🏡 ACTIVE UNDER CONTRACT | 📍 29w710 Cambridge Court, Warrenville, IL 60555
💲 3,100 | 🛏 2 bed 🛁 3 bath

06/16/2026

Bret Derrickson, 630-697-2600,

Home Prices Are Rising in 71% of Markets

Even though you may be hearing talk about prices crashing online, it’s not true nationally. While some areas are seeing slight declines, prices are still going up in 71% of markets. That means the majority are seeing prices rise, not fall. So, don’t believe everything you hear online. If you want the truth, lean on the pros.

06/15/2026

Bret Derrickson, 630-697-2600,

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.

06/15/2026

Bret Derrickson, 630-697-2600,

Should You Pay for Your Buyer’s Closing Costs? What Sellers Need To Know.

The sellers having the most success today are the ones who understand the market has changed and are adapting to meet it where it is.

Sometimes that means negotiating on closing costs. Sometimes it means offering something else. The key is knowing which concessions are worth it for our local market.

If you’re wondering what's normal in our area, what's worth negotiating, and where it makes sense to stand firm, let’s connect.

A few years ago, sellers could get away with saying "no" to just about everything.

06/11/2026

Bret Derrickson, 630-697-2600,

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

But before you decide, make sure you understand what you could be giving up too. Because moving this Summer does have its advantages.

For buyers, it could give you more options in your price point. Historically, there are over 30% more fresh listings in the Summer compared to the rest of the year.

For sellers, it can mean a better sales price. Data shows, on average homes sell for 4% more in the typical Summer month compared to usual month in the Fall or Winter (when demand typically falls off).

The point isn't to rush into anything. It's just to make sure you have the full picture before deciding whether waiting is really your best move.

DM me if you want to talk through your options. No pressure, just perspective based on years of experience.

06/11/2026

Bret Derrickson, 630-697-2600,

Two Big Reasons To Move This Summer

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.

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

Bret Derrickson, 630-697-2600,

Lower Asking Prices Are a Win for Today’s Buyers

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.

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

06/10/2026

Bret Derrickson, 630-697-2600,

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.

06/09/2026

Bret Derrickson, 630-697-2600,

Moving this Summer? Whether you're buying or selling, you probably have questions.

My new Summer Buyer & Seller Guides have the answers.

Inside, you'll find out what higher inventory means for you, what’s going on with affordability right now, what strategies for buying or selling are actually working this season, and more.

Stop guessing and start moving forward with confidence. DM or drop a comment with "BUYER" or "SELLER" below to get your free digital copy.