Thinking About Buying or Selling a Home in DeKalb? Here's What You Need to Know Right Now
As of September 2025, the DeKalb housing market continues to be one of the most competitive in Illinois. With only 0.82 months of inventory, we’re deep in a seller’s market. Homes are scarce, demand is intense, and both buyers and sellers need to be ready to move quickly.
Inventory is Critically Low: 0.82 Months
Let’s start with what this means. A healthy real estate market typically has 5 to 6 months of inventory. DeKalb currently has less than one month. That’s historically low.
Compared to previous periods:
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Inventory is down 29% from last month
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Inventory is down 45% from this time last year
This steep drop means buyers have fewer choices, and sellers have more leverage than ever before.
What This Means for Sellers in September 2025
If you’re a homeowner considering listing your property, now is a strong time to act. The conditions are in your favor, and the numbers support it.
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Homes are selling fast, with a median of just 6 days on market
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Sale prices are averaging 100% of the asking price
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Demand is creating multiple-offer situations across several price ranges
In short, sellers can expect quicker closings and stronger offers, provided the home is priced correctly and shows well.
Seller Tip: Preparation still matters. Clean, stage, and price your home competitively to attract serious offers right out of the gate.
What Buyers Need to Know Right Now
Buyers in this market are up against low supply and high demand. It’s not impossible to find the right home, but it requires a strategy.
Here's what buyers should expect in September 2025:
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Competition is strong across nearly all price points
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Homes are selling at or above list price
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New listings receive offers quickly—sometimes within 24 hours
To compete, buyers must:
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Be fully pre-approved before touring homes
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Move fast when a property fits their needs
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Be flexible on terms to present strong offers
The Median Sale Price: $320,000
In DeKalb, the current median sale price sits at $320,000. This figure gives both buyers and sellers a useful reference point.
For sellers, this represents a solid baseline for pricing, assuming the home is in average-to-good condition. For buyers, it highlights the need to budget realistically for this market and prepare to pay close to, if not slightly above, asking price for well-located properties.
Why DeKalb's Market is So Active
Several factors are fueling this competitive landscape:
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Continued growth in population and job opportunities
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Proximity to Chicago, making it ideal for commuters
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Strong demand from both first-time buyers and investors
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Influence of Northern Illinois University and local economic development
With limited new construction and rising demand, DeKalb continues to be one of the most sought-after markets in the region.
Quick Snapshot of the DeKalb Market – September 2025
| Key Metric | September 2025 | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| Active Inventory | 0.82 months | Extremely low – favors sellers |
| Monthly Inventory Change | -29% | Fewer homes listed than last month |
| Yearly Inventory Change | -45% | Long-term supply is shrinking |
| Median Days on Market | 6 | Homes are selling very quickly |
| Sale-to-List Price Ratio | 100% | Homes are selling for asking price |
| Median Sale Price | $320,000 | Benchmark price point for the area |
What Should Sellers and Buyers Do Right Now?
For Sellers:
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Don't wait for spring. Conditions are excellent right now.
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Prep your home thoroughly. Presentation still impacts pricing.
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Work with a real estate team that knows how to price and market your home for maximum exposure and return.
For Buyers:
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Get your financing in place before you start house hunting.
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Stay alert to new listings and act immediately on strong options.
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Partner with a knowledgeable agent who can help you structure a winning offer.
FAQs: DeKalb Real Estate Market – September 2025
Is now a good time to sell in DeKalb?
Yes. With low inventory and fast-moving homes, sellers have a clear advantage right now.
Are homes still selling for full asking price?
Yes. The average sale-to-list price ratio is 100%, and some homes are exceeding that.
How long does it take to sell a home in DeKalb?
The median is just 6 days, meaning homes are selling almost as fast as they’re listed.
Is it smart to buy in this market or wait?
If you’re financially ready and find the right home, buying now makes sense. Prices and interest rates may rise, and competition shows no sign of slowing down.
Get Local Support from The Kombrink Team at One Source Realty
In a market this competitive, the guidance of experienced professionals is essential. The Kombrink Team at One Source Realty has deep roots in the DeKalb market and a proven track record of helping both buyers and sellers succeed—even in challenging conditions.
Whether you need a home valuation, want to explore listings, or are ready to list your property, their local expertise and personalized service can give you a major advantage.
What's Next for DeKalb Real Estate?
The DeKalb real estate market in September 2025 shows no signs of cooling down. Inventory remains tight, demand continues to surge, and homes are changing hands at record speed.
Whether you're preparing to sell at top dollar or planning to buy your next home, understanding the current conditions is the first step. The second step? Partnering with a trusted local team to help you navigate it all.
Need help buying or selling in DeKalb?
Start with The Kombrink Team at One Source Realty.
Your next move starts with the right strategy.