The median homebuyer age recently hit a historic high — 56 — as reported by the National Association of REALTORS®. And this is apparent in the Chicago suburbs, too, according to new data from Mainstreet REALTORS®.

“As home prices continue to rise, we’re seeing more mature buyers really trying to hone in on a home they can afford and reside in for longer than we’ve seen in the past,” Mainstreet President Connie Vavra said in a press release, reflecting on October sales.

During that month, the average time on market for attached suburban homes increased 43.5% year over year, hitting 33 days. It held steady for detached homes, however, at 38 days. Meanwhile, attached sales increased 5.1% year over year, hitting 1,206 sales; detached sales were up 2.7% with 2,444 sales.

Sales prices were also up. The median price for an attached home increased 7.2%, reaching $242,500, while the median price for a detached home hit $380,000: a 9.2% increase.

There were, however, areas where detached prices fell significantly. In order: Thornton (down 54.6%); Calumet Park (down 51%); Willow Springs (down 38.6%); Stone Park (down 31.9%); Oak Brook and Winthrop Harbor (both down 30.5%); Burnham (down 25.2%); and Harvey (down 25%).

“While there are certainly challenges with inventory and affordability that are driving the average age of homebuyers up, we are seeing homes in Chicagoland move at a more normal pace than they were during the pandemic,” Vavra said. “That is making it easier for buyers to do their due diligence and find a home that will last.”

“The pace of the market is becoming less frenzied, and there is a lot of good work being done to improve affordability and inventory,” agreed Mainstreet CEO John Gormley.