The real estate market in Walworth County has been slowing down as price increases have moderated, market times have extended, sales numbers have been flat, and inventories are increasing. But homes are selling, and demand is still strong in a more buyer-friendly market.

Year to date, 787 homes have been sold compared with 785 for the same period in 2024. The inventory of homes for sale is increasing dramatically, with the number of single-family homes for sale year to date increasing by 53%. Year-to-date median prices have increased by 4.8%. More sellers are lowering prices as the ratio of list price to sold price fell from a high of 97.8 in May to 93.2 in September. The number of days it takes to sell a home increased from 54 in September of 2024 to 63 in the same month in 2025.

Nationally, the demand for homes continues to be driven by the amazingly resilient US economy. Gross Domestic Product grew in Q2 by 3.8% and according to the GDPNow forecast by the Atlanta Federal Reserve, Q3 is expected to also grow at 3.8%. Manufacturing was up 2.7% in Q2, and durable goods orders were up 5%. The S&P 500 stock index has risen 30% since its low in April, primarily driven by increased spending on AI. Unemployment is historically low at 4.3% but job growth has fallen back. In August, only 22,000 new jobs were created, and according to FactSet, there were about 50,000 jobs created in September. Compared to average monthly job gains of 186,000 in 2024, these numbers are concerning. Still, wages grew a healthy 4% year to date, well ahead of 2.7% inflation.

Because of concerns over the low job numbers, the Federal Reserve lowered interest rates by .25% in their September 17th meeting. Mortgage rates for 30-year conventional loans are hovering around 6.5%. Most economists expect interest rates to fall further and predict the housing market will benefit from a more balanced spring market that offers buyers more inventory and increased affordability.

Now is the perfect time to make your move in real estate. Let our experience guide you to success—contact Starck today to get started.