What's really happening inside the real estate industry right now?

In this episode, we sit down with Jeffrey T. Baker, CEO of Illinois REALTORS®, for an inside look at the forces shaping today's housing market—from policy and regulation to ongoing inventory challenges and what to watch next.

We touch on the current market, key shifts behind the scenes, and what it all means for agents, buyers, and sellers moving forward.

Whether you're an agent, investor, or homeowner, this conversation offers valuable perspective on how decisions at the top are impacting the market on the ground.

If you found this helpful, like, subscribe, and share with someone who wants to stay ahead.

Every year, the housing market follows a predictable pattern — a surge of new listings hits right after spring break.

Why does this happen?

In this episode, I break down why so many sellers wait until after spring break to list their homes and what that timing means for both buyers and sellers in today's market. More importantly, I walk through how to actually prepare if you're thinking about selling.

We get into how to properly determine your home's value, why overpricing can hurt you even in a low-inventory environment, and what it really takes to make your home stand out. I also cover the importance of having the right information before going live, why professional marketing and presentation matter more than ever, and how to handle showings the right way.

On top of that, we talk through offer strategies when multiple bids are on the table and how to properly prepare for closing once your home goes under contract.

If you're thinking about selling this year, this episode will give you a clear roadmap on how to prepare and navigate the spring market the right way.

Learn how to win a real estate bid battle in today's competitive housing market. In this video, we break down proven strategies buyers can use to stand out in multiple-offer situations, including offer structure, contingencies, escalation clauses, and tips that can help your offer get accepted. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or experienced buyer, these insights will help you compete and secure the home you want.

Is selling your home after the Super Bowl a smart move — or a costly mistake?

Every year, the real estate market shifts right after the Super Bowl. Buyer activity increases, new listings hit the market, and the spring housing season officially begins. But is this timing right for you?

In this video, we break down: • Why the Super Bowl marks the start of the spring real estate market • What happens to inventory and buyer demand in February and March • The pros and cons of listing before vs. after the Super Bowl • How to position your home to stand out as competition increases • What sellers in today's market need to know

If you're thinking about selling this spring, timing matters more than ever. Watch before you list.

Have questions about your specific situation? Reach out — we're happy to help you build a strategy.

The Chicago spring real estate market starts earlier than most people think—and in 2026, it begins in January. In this video, we break down why inventory and buyer demand ramp up right after the new year, what it means for pricing and competition, and how buyers and sellers can take advantage of the early spring market. #ChicagoRealEstate #ChicagoHousingMarket #ChicagoRealtor #ChicagoHomes #ChicagoHomeBuyers #ChicagoHomeSellers #SpringMarket #SpringMarket2026 #RealEstateMarketUpdate #RealEstate2026 #HousingMarket2026 #ChicagoMarketUpdate #IllinoisRealEstate #ChicagoCondos #ChicagoLuxuryRealEstate #LaricyLive #LaricyTeam #RealEstateTips #HomeBuyingTips #HomeSellingTips #MarketUpdate #InventoryShortage #NewListings #InterestRates #RealEstateInvesting

This week on Laricy Live, Matt Laricy breaks down the Q4 2025 real estate market data and what it reveals about where the housing market is headed. He analyzes key metrics including closings, months of inventory, days on market, and sales prices, and explains how this data is shaping buyer and seller behavior. From pricing strategy and timing to negotiation tactics, this episode shows how to turn year-end numbers into a smarter game plan and gain an advantage heading into 2026. Whether you're a buyer, seller, or real estate professional, you'll get clear insights and honest analysis—Laricy style.

What will the housing market look like in 2026?

In this video, Matt Laricy shares his expert housing market predictions for 2026, covering home prices, interest rates, inventory, and buyer demand. Learn what buyers, sellers, and real estate investors should expect — and how to prepare for what's coming next.

If you're planning to buy, sell, or invest in real estate in 2026, this outlook will help you stay ahead of the market.

👍 Like, subscribe, and comment with your 2026 housing market questions.

Get a full 2025 real estate market recap with insights on Chicago housing trends, pricing, inventory, and what shaped the market this year. The Laricy Team breaks down key wins, challenges, and what buyers and sellers should expect moving forward in Chicago real estate. #ChicagoRealEstate #RealEstateMarket2025 #ChicagoHousingMarket #LaricyTeam #RealEstateTrends2025 #ChicagoRealtor #HousingMarketUpdate

Thinking about buying a home in Chicago during the holidays but feeling nervous about the market? You're not alone. Every winter I talk to buyers who are scared of overpaying, unsure about rates, and waiting for "the right deal." Here's the truth: the holiday season can be one of the best times to buy Chicago real estate—if you know what to look for. 👍 Like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for weekly Chicago market updates.

In this Laricy Live episode, Matt Laricy shares a timely Chicago real estate market update for the holiday season. Learn how the winter housing market in Chicago typically shifts between Thanksgiving and New Year's, including changes in buyer demand, home inventory, pricing trends, and days on market. Matt breaks down what serious holiday home buyers and sellers in Chicago should expect right now, why showings and new listings slow down in December, and how these seasonal patterns can create unique opportunities for both buyers and sellers. If you're wondering whether it's a good time to buy a home in Chicago during the holidays or list your property in the winter market, this video offers clear, data-driven insight and practical advice for navigating Chicago's year-end real estate trends.