Should You Sell Now or Wait Until 2026? A Central Illinois Market Breakdown

When it comes to selling your home in Tazewell, Peoria, or Woodford County, timing isn’t just a factor — it’s the whole game. Homeowners across Central Illinois are asking the same big question right now: “Should I sell in 2025, or wait until 2026?”

It’s a fair question. And like any good real estate pro (that’s me), I’ll give it to you straight: There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but for many sellers in today’s market, waiting could cost you more than you realize.

Let’s break it down by the key factors affecting your bottom line — and your peace of mind.

Interest Rates: Don’t Bank on the Perfect Drop

While many sellers are waiting for interest rates to drop further, it’s dangerous to gamble on rate timing. The Fed’s actions have been inconsistent, and rates remain historically moderate compared to the sky-high peaks of the 1980s or the rock-bottom lows of 2020-2021.

Buyers have adjusted, and many are entering the market now instead of waiting — especially in Central Illinois, where home prices are still within reach for most families compared to major metro areas.

If you wait for a 1–2% drop in rates, you might see more buyers competing… but also more sellers flooding the market. That means more competition and downward pressure on your asking price.

Inventory Levels: Still in Your Favor (For Now)

In Peoria, Tazewell, and Woodford counties, inventory is still tight — particularly for homes priced under $300,000 and move-in ready properties.

Low inventory means less competition for your home and more leverage in negotiations. We’re seeing multiple offers again in some neighborhoods, especially in places like Dunlap, Morton, and East Peoria. Once more homes hit the market, you lose your seller’s edge.

If you’ve got a home that shows well and is priced right, now is a great time to capture serious buyer attention before the fall slowdown or the spring 2026 rush.

Buyer Motivation Is Up

Today’s buyers are more serious than they’ve been in years. They’re better educated, they’ve done their homework, and they’re ready to move for real reasons — job changes, growing families, downsizing, or relocating for lifestyle.

If you wait until next year, you may find yourself negotiating with less motivated or pickier buyers in a more crowded market. Right now, motivated buyers are out there shopping, not window shopping.

Pricing Outlook: Don’t Assume Values Will Climb

Home values in Central Illinois have increased modestly, but we’re not seeing double-digit annual growth like during the pandemic years. Appraisers are cautious, and buyers are too.

Delaying your sale could mean sitting in your home for another year just to squeeze out a few thousand dollars more — while continuing to pay property taxes, utilities, maintenance, and possibly mortgage interest.

If you need to sell to make a move, your profit may already be waiting for you. The math often favors action over hesitation.

Your Personal Timeline Matters Most

Every homeowner’s situation is unique. If you’re ready to downsize, relocate, or simply want to cash out while the market is favorable — waiting may not improve your position.

What’s your real reason for waiting?

If it’s because you’re unsure what your home is worth — I can fix that.
If it’s because you’re worried about where you’ll go next — I’ll help you find your next place too.
If it’s because the idea of selling feels overwhelming — I’ll guide you every step of the way.

Don’t base your decision on national headlines. Central Illinois is a local market, and you need local guidance.

The Bottom Line

Selling in 2025 might be your best opportunity to take advantage of favorable market conditions before 2026 brings more competition, price uncertainty, and shifting buyer behavior.

Let’s crunch the numbers together. I’ll give you a free, no-pressure home evaluation, walk you through the process, and help you decide if now is the time to sell.

📞 Real Estate? Call Duvall!
Jack Duvall, REALTOR®/Broker
Jim Maloof/REALTOR®
📱 309-200-5480
🌐 CallDuvall.com