When Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway makes predictions about the housing market, people listen. Recently, Berkshire’s real estate division sounded the alarm: agent-led home sales are expected to decline sharply in 2025. With fewer agents, slower sales, and rising mortgage rates, the traditional way of selling a house is starting to crumble.
So what does that mean if you own a house in Rockford, Illinois?
Let’s break it down — and more importantly, show you the options that still work today.
The Big Picture: What’s Changing in the Market
According to Berkshire Hathaway’s real estate division, we’re heading into a major shift:
- Fewer real estate agents: As profits shrink, many agents are leaving the industry.
- Slower home sales: High mortgage rates are making it harder for buyers to qualify.
- Low inventory: Fewer listings mean less movement in the market.
- Affordability crisis: Prices remain high, even though demand is softening.
In Rockford and other Illinois cities, this trend is already playing out. Inventory remains tight, but buyers are hesitant. Homes sit longer. Agents are struggling to keep up.
Why This Matters for Rockford Homeowners
If you’re thinking of selling, the old “list it and wait for top dollar” strategy may not be your best bet anymore. Here’s why:
- You may struggle to get showings, especially if your home needs work.
- Traditional buyers rely on financing, which is harder to get with current mortgage rates.
- You could be stuck waiting months, only to get lowball offers or deal cancellations.
In a market where agents are leaving and listings are stalling, your best option may be to sell directly to a cash buyer.
Cash Buyers Solve the New Problems
This shift in the market isn’t all bad. In fact, it creates opportunity for sellers who want speed, simplicity, and certainty.
At Modern Times Homes LLC, we buy houses in Rockford as-is, with no need for repairs, showings, or agent fees. That means:
- No waiting on a buyer to get financing.
- No worrying about cleaning, staging, or inspections.
- No commissions or hidden fees.
Just a fair, no-obligation offer — and a closing timeline that works for you.
Need to relocate for a job? Want to retire without the stress of listing? Dealing with a house that’s outdated or inherited? We can help.
What Local Sellers Can Do Now
Here’s how to stay ahead of the trend:
- Know your options. Listing with an agent isn’t the only way to sell.
- Check your equity. Many homeowners in Rockford have built up value they can tap into now.
- Talk to a cash buyer before spending money on repairs or upgrades.
- Act quickly if you know you need to sell in the next few months. The market may tighten further.
Final Thoughts: It’s Time to Get Proactive
Berkshire Hathaway isn’t predicting a market crash — but they are warning that the old model is fading fast. Agent-led sales are slowing. And in a market like Rockford, that means smart sellers will look for faster, simpler alternatives.
We’re here to help.
📞 Call 815-974-0359 or request your free offer here.
We buy houses in Rockford, Belvidere, Machesney Park, and surrounding areas. No repairs. No waiting. No stress.
Want to learn more about the advantages of selling without listing? Read our guide: Selling Your Outdated House in Rockford.