CHICAGO, IL – Realtor June Allen-Smith is sharing insights into January 2026 housing market conditions as sellers experience increased visibility and motivated buyers encounter less competition across the southwest Chicago suburbs and surrounding Chicagoland communities.
June Allen-Smith, a REALTOR® with CARMARC Realty Group, serves buyers and sellers throughout the Chicago metropolitan area. A 20-year U.S. Army Veteran and SRES-designated agent, June specializes in helping Veterans, seniors, first-time homebuyers, and LGBTQ+ individuals navigate real estate with clarity, confidence, and compassion. Known for her education-first approach and community advocacy, June is committed to being “a Realtor for everyone,” ensuring every client feels seen, supported, and empowered to achieve their homeownership goals.
As of January 2026, 30-year fixed mortgage rates are hovering just below six percent. While rates remain higher than historic lows, they have stabilized, and buyers are adjusting by focusing on long-term goals, creative financing strategies, and potential refinancing opportunities in the future.
Housing prices across the Chicagoland area have largely remained steady. Rather than experiencing sharp declines, the market is seeing price normalization, giving buyers more room to negotiate while requiring sellers to price homes accurately to attract serious interest. Seasonally, winter months tend to bring lower inventory and reduced competition, creating opportunities for prepared buyers and offering sellers increased visibility before spring inventory rises.
“In the Chicagoland area, activity slows during the holidays but begins to rebound in January,” said June. “We often see the spring market take off after the Super Bowl, making late January and early February an ideal time for motivated buyers and for sellers seeking early exposure before competition increases.”
June Allen-Smith emphasizes that education and local market knowledge are more important than ever. Exploring communities such as Shorewood, Illinois, one of the areas she serves, can be a strategic move for buyers. Shorewood offers a strong mix of newer construction, established neighborhoods, and convenient access to major highways, making it attractive to growing families and those relocating within the region.
“Shorewood offers a small-town feel with convenient access to Joliet and major highways,” June added. “Homes that are priced strategically and well maintained continue to perform well, particularly for families and relocating buyers.”
June Allen-Smith currently represents a winter listing in Monee, Illinois, showcasing her active footprint in the southwest suburbs. The property, located at 5332 W. Mulberry Lane, is a move-in-ready three-bedroom home with recent major system updates and no homeowners association, reflecting continued demand for well-maintained suburban homes.
About Own With June
Own With June is the personal real estate brand of June Allen-Smith, a REALTOR® licensed with CARMARC Realty Group. Serving buyers and sellers across Chicago and surrounding suburbs, including Naperville, Plainfield, Joliet, Aurora, Shorewood, Bolingbrook, Romeoville, Minooka, Lockport, Crest Hill, Channahon, New Lenox, and Wheaton to name a few. Own With June reflects June’s commitment to inclusive, client-centered real estate services where every client feels seen, supported, and empowered throughout the homeownership journey.
Media Contact
Company Name: Own With June
Contact Person: June Allen-Smith
Email: Send Email
Phone: 815-995-9786
Address:1879 N. Neltnor Blvd, Suite 131
City: West Chicago
State: IL 60185
Country: United States
Website: ownwithjune.com