Yes, You Can Still Buy a Good Home at a Good Price — Smart Strategies for Today’s Buyers

With all the headlines about rising home prices and higher mortgage rates, it’s easy to assume that buying a home right now is difficult.But recent data suggests something different — there are still great opportunities for prepared buyers to purchase quality homes at favorable prices.

Let’s look at four key reasons why this market may actually be working in buyers’ favor.

🔎 4 Reasons It’s Still a Good Time to Find a Great Deal

1️⃣ About 20% of Listings Have Already Reduced Their Prices

Nationwide, roughly 1 in 5 homes (20.2%) on the market has had at least one price cut.This means sellers are increasingly open to negotiation, especially when interest slows after the initial listing period.

In other words, the first asking price isn’t always the final price.With the right strategy and timing, buyers can often negotiate significantly better terms than the list price.

2️⃣ Homes Sitting Longer on the Market Offer More Negotiation Power

If a home has been listed for a long time, it may signal that the seller is growing more motivated to close a deal.Fewer competing buyers and longer market exposure create opportunities for negotiation on price, closing costs, or even repairs.

In today’s environment, targeting “price-reduced” or “long-on-market” listings can be one of the smartest strategies available.

3️⃣ Fall and Early Winter Markets Favor Serious Buyers

After the busy summer season, the real estate market typically quiets down.Fewer active buyers mean less competition — and sellers often become more flexible to secure a sale before year-end.

During this period, many sellers are willing to offer incentives such as:

• Price reductions

• Closing cost credits

• Repair or renovation allowances

• Home warranty or maintenance support

That means you’re not just “buying a home” — you could be buying under better overall conditions.

4️⃣ Careful Shoppers Can Save Thousands Below Market Value

Even a modest 5–6% discount off the listing price can translate into tens of thousands of dollars in savings on a mid-priced home.In markets like Chicago and the surrounding suburbs, where price ranges vary widely, those savings can have an even greater impact.

💡 Practical Advice for Buyers in the Chicago & Illinois Market

• Look beyond new listings. Ask your Realtor to help you find homes that have been on the market for a while or recently dropped in price. These properties often offer more room to negotiate.

• Don’t assume list price = final price. Especially toward the end of the year, many sellers are open to covering closing costs, repair credits, or small discounts to get the deal done.

• Be financially prepared. Secure your pre-approval, estimate property taxes and maintenance costs, and plan for the long term.

  
  

  The goal isn’t just to buy “cheap” — it’s to buy smart and ensure lasting value.

• Work with a trusted local Realtor. An experienced agent who understands market dynamics, listing histories, and neighborhood trends will help you secure better terms.

🎯 Don’t Miss the Opportunity

Today’s housing market shouldn’t be viewed only as “expensive and difficult.”For well-prepared buyers, it can be a period of strategic opportunity — especially in Chicago and the surrounding suburbs, where timing and readiness make all the difference.

By acting thoughtfully and efficiently, you can secure a better home and stronger terms within your current budget.

If you’d like a personalized consultation or buyer strategy, feel free to reach out — I’ll help you make the most of this market.

Chicago Real Estate – Sangchul Han

📞 773-717-2227

✉️ ChicagoBDB@gmail.com