Prices in the Chicago area have been rising steadily in the past year, but the increases have not been across the board. As always, everything in real estate is local. Cities and towns in McHenry County have been very favourable to homeowners, as prices are affordable, attracting a 4% increase in population and strong housing demand. Chicago is outpacing national trends, as prices rose 4% versus 2% nationally. Florida is seeing a substantial slowdown as prices are decreasing from 4-12% depending upon the market area, with inventory increasing 17% overall. Texas, Utah, and Arizona have also witnessed slower markets. Meanwhile, the Chicago area has shown stability and solid appreciation.