In this issue, we’re focusing on luxury real estate across Chicagoland and why the high end of the market continues to move even as conditions stay tight. Inventory remains limited and interest rates are still weighing on buyers, but demand for luxury homes has not slowed in a meaningful way. In our cover feature, we look at what is driving that activity and how agents are positioning themselves to win in this segment.

Beyond the cover story, this issue highlights several shifts shaping the broader market. Cook County homeowners have seen property taxes rise 182% over the past 30 years, adding long-term pressure to ownership costs. MRED announced it is expanding its MLS nationwide, giving any licensed real estate agent access to its platform and Private Listing Network. Compass International Holdings has already committed to sharing its nationwide inventory through the PLN.

At the same time, the National Association of REALTORS® has reached a $52.25 million settlement to resolve homebuyer claims, a change that could affect how agents approach transactions going forward.

We also look at the spring 2026 housing market, where steady activity and modest price growth are creating a more balanced environment.

In this month’s Top Coach column, Patrick Ferry focuses on luxury sellers and how AI is shaping which agents get recommended. He breaks down why agents competing in the high-end space need to be intentional about their digital presence so that they show up when those referrals are made.

It’s exactly the kind of shift Chicago Agent continues to cover for navigating today’s luxury market and real estate industry as a whole.