Understanding these pros and cons can help you make a more informed decision about whether selling to a Chicago house-buying company is the right move for you.
Option 2: Hire a top Chicago real estate agent
Even when the clock is ticking on your home sale in Chicago, enlisting the help of a top real estate agent can be a game-changer. “It may seem easier to sell your home without the inconvenience of doing showings and preparing the home, but you have to know that convenience comes at a hefty cost — sometimes $50,000–$100,000,” explains Diana Matichyn, an agent in the Chicago metro area who sells homes 66% faster than average agents in her market.
A skilled agent brings an in-depth understanding of the Chicago housing market to the table, ensuring your sale is both speedy and profitable. From expertly staging your home to mastering the negotiation process, an experienced agent can be greatly beneficial to your selling experience, maximizing your returns even under tight deadlines.
Scroll on to read about the current state of the Chicago real estate market, the undeniable advantages of partnering with a professional, and how to connect with a leading real estate agent in the Chicago area.
How fast are homes selling in Chicago?
Ultra-low inventory in the Chicago Metro area is causing homes to sell for more money. The inventory of homes for sale plummeted 16% in June 2026 compared to the same period in 2025, while prices rose rose 7%.
According to a report by the Illinois REALTORS®, the typical home in the Chicago metro area spent 20 days on the market — one day more than in June 2025. (Note: This figure doesn’t include the time it takes for a buyer to close on a purchase loan, which can add an average of 43 days to your selling timeline.)
The median sales price amounted to $459,900, up from $430,000 the previous year. The number of closed single-family home sales increased by 4.3% in June 2026 compared to the same period a year earlier.
Here’s a snapshot of current housing market indicators in the Chicago Metro Area:
| As of June 2026 | |
| Days on market (average time from list to contract) | 20 days* |
| Days to close conventional home loan | 43 days |
| Median home sale price | $459,900 |
| Inventory | -16% |
| Number of closed home sales year over year | 4.3% |
*Does not include time for buyer to close the loan
Data source(s): Illinois REALTORS®, HomeLight
Benefits of selling with a top Chicago agent
Leveraging the expertise of a top Chicago real estate agent can speed up your home sale, combining local market savvy with proven sales strategies. “I have had many situations where homes were full of belongings or were in original condition since the 60s, and we were still able to get multiple offers and a much higher price,” says Matichyn.
Here are a few reasons why hiring an experienced real estate agent can help you sell your home quickly and for a sizeable profit:
