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The Global Insight

Is it a good time to buy a condo in Chicago?

Author

Robert Miller

Updated on March 16, 2026

Unless they have personal or financial reasons to hold off, now is a great time to buy a property in the Chicago housing market. With sales prices up and interest rates still low, buyers who are on the fence should make their move. Currently, the inventory remains relatively higher in the city of Chicago.

How long before property is considered abandoned in Illinois?

In Illinois, property is generally presumed abandoned after five years of inactivity by the presumed owner. However, this time limit varies depending on the type of property involved. Once abandoned property is turned over to the state by a business, an individual then has the burden of reclaiming it from the state.

How much notice does a landlord have to give a tenant to move out in Illinois?

Notice Requirements for Illinois Landlords A landlord can simply give you a written notice to move, allowing you 30 days as required by Illinois law and specifying the date on which your tenancy will end.

Is it worth it to buy condo in Chicago?

For many aspiring homeowners in Chicago, buying a condo is a way to break into the market without breaking the budget. Condos offer the rewards of ownership with less maintenance than a single-family home, and they’re often the best option for those looking to buy in highly desirable neighborhoods.

Why are condos in Chicago so cheap?

Really only housing costs are cheap. Condo prices are all out of whack due to massive overbuilding by crazed developers that ran rough shod over Chicago during the “boom times”. Lots of developers grossly overestimated demand in a city that has traditionally favored single family detached homes.

What is the squatters law in Illinois?

In Illinois, squatters are not required to pay property taxes in order to claim adverse possession. However, if they are paying property taxes, they may be able to make an adverse possession claim in as little as 7 years, rather than the regular 20 years of continuous occupation required.

How many condos are on the market in Chicago?

Condos in Chicago. There are currently 5565 condos for sale in Chicago at a median listing price of $350K. Some of these homes are “Hot Homes,” meaning they’re likely to sell quickly. Most homes for sale in Chicago stay on the market for 79 days and receive 1 offers.

What’s the forecast for the Chicago housing market?

Here is Zillow’s housing forecast for Chicago, Cook County, and Chicago MSA until Feb 2022. Chicago is expected to see strong home price gains in 2021. According to their forecast, the supply and demand dynamics will likely push prices north again over the next 12 months. Chicago housing market will favors sellers over buyers.

Where are the best places to buy a house in Chicago?

Most homes for sale in Chicago stay on the market for 54 days and receive 1 offers. Popular neighborhoods include Lincoln Park, Bronzeville, South Loop, Evergreen Park, Logan Square, Wicker Park, Bridgeport, Norwood Park, Ravenswood, Lincoln Square, Portage Park, Humboldt Park, Albany Park, West Loop, and Pilsen.

What kind of housing is there in Chicago?

Chicago has a mixture of owner-occupied and renter-occupied housing units. According to Neighborhoodscout.com, a real estate data provider, one and two-bedroom large apartment complexes are the most common housing units in Chicago.