Local Info • The Home Market • April 23, 2026

Will Home Prices Drop in 2026? What Experts Say (and What It Means for Northern Indiana)

by Michele Burkheimer

If you’ve been watching the headlines, you’ve probably seen a lot of mixed messages:
“Prices are dropping!”
“Prices are still rising!”
“Crash coming!”

So what’s actually true?

Let’s break down what the experts are really saying—and what you can expect right here in Northern Indiana.

📊 The Big Picture: Are Home Prices Dropping?

Short answer: No major drop is expected.

Most national experts agree on one key point:
👉 Home prices are still rising—but much slower than before.

Forecasts show price growth around 1%–4% nationally in 2026
Some projections are even more modest—around 1.6% growth on average
In some overheated markets, prices may dip slightly—but not crash

💡 Translation:
We’re not seeing a crash… we’re seeing a cooling and normalization.

🧠 What Experts Are Watching Right Now

1. Mortgage Rates

Rates are hovering around the 6% range, which is higher than pandemic lows but stabilizing

Higher rates = less buyer pressure
Less pressure = slower price growth

2. Inventory Is Slowly Increasing

More homeowners are starting to list again, which gives buyers more options.

Inventory is rising slightly nationwide
More supply helps reduce bidding wars and price spikes

3. Affordability Is Improving (Slowly)

Even though prices aren’t dropping dramatically, affordability is improving because:

Wages are rising
Monthly payments may stabilize or even decline slightly

📍 What This Means for Indiana (and Northern Indiana)

Here’s where it gets interesting—because real estate is local.

Indiana is NOT a crash market

Home prices in Indiana are up about 4% year-over-year
Forecasts show continued price growth in 2026, not declines
Some projections suggest 2%–6% appreciation depending on the area

Midwest markets are actually strong

Experts are pointing to the Midwest (including Indiana) as a more stable and in-demand region because of:

Affordability
Job stability
Lower cost of living

🏡 What About Northern Indiana Specifically?

While every city is different (Goshen, Elkhart, South Bend, etc.), Northern Indiana generally follows these trends:

✔️ Prices are still rising—but slower

No sharp drops expected—just more balanced growth

✔️ Homes are sitting a little longer

Buyers have more time
Less urgency than 2021–2022

✔️ More negotiating power for buyers

Price reductions are more common
Sellers are more flexible

✔️ Still a supply issue (especially under $300K)

Affordable homes are still competitive

🚫 Will There Be a Housing Crash?

Highly unlikely—unless there’s a major economic event.

Why?

Inventory is still relatively low
Lending standards are much stricter than 2008
Demand is still strong (especially in affordable markets like ours)

Even experts who predict “declines” are talking about minor corrections—not a crash.

🔮 What to Expect Moving Forward

Here’s the real outlook for 2026:

👉 Prices: Slightly up or flat
👉 Inventory: Slowly improving
👉 Buyers: Gaining more control
👉 Sellers: Still benefiting from equity

💬 Final Thoughts

The market isn’t crashing—it’s resetting to normal.

And honestly? That’s a good thing.

Buyers finally have options again
Sellers still have strong equity
The market is becoming healthier and more predictable

Home Buyers • Local Info • April 14, 2026

Why You Should Move to Elkhart County, Indiana

by Michele Burkheimer

If you’re considering a move to Northern Indiana, Elkhart County deserves a top spot on your list. Known for its strong sense of community, affordable living, and growing opportunities, this area offers the perfect balance of small-town charm and modern convenience.

Whether you’re relocating for work, looking for a better cost of living, or simply wanting a fresh start, Elkhart County has something for everyone.

A Strong Sense of Community

One of the biggest reasons people love living in Elkhart County is the people. From neighborhood events to local festivals and farmers markets, communities like Elkhart and Goshen are built on connection.

Neighbors know each other here. Schools, churches, and local organizations create a welcoming environment where families can truly feel at home.

Affordable Living Without Sacrificing Quality

Compared to many parts of the country, Elkhart County offers a significantly lower cost of living. Housing is more affordable, property taxes are manageable, and everyday expenses stretch further.

Whether you’re buying your first home or upgrading to your dream home, communities like Middlebury and Nappanee offer beautiful housing options with great value.

A Growing Economy with Opportunity

Elkhart County is known for its strong manufacturing base and steady job growth. Major employers in RV manufacturing, healthcare, education, and small business sectors continue to fuel the local economy.

This stability makes the area especially attractive for families and professionals looking for long-term growth and security.

Great Schools and Family-Friendly Living

Families moving to the area appreciate the strong school systems, extracurricular opportunities, and safe neighborhoods. Whether public or private, schools across Elkhart County focus on preparing students for success.

Parks, recreational programs, and youth sports leagues also make it easy for kids to stay active and connected.

Easy Access and Great Location

Elkhart County offers the best of both worlds—peaceful living with convenient access to larger cities like South Bend, Chicago, and Fort Wayne. You can enjoy quiet evenings at home while still being close to major travel routes, entertainment, and employment hubs.

Final Thoughts

Elkhart County continues to grow in popularity for a reason. It offers affordability, opportunity, and a strong community feel that’s hard to find elsewhere.

If you’re thinking about making a move, this could be the perfect place to start your next chapter.

Home Buyers • April 7, 2026

Before You Fall in Love with a House, Do This First.

by Michele Burkheimer

Be honest. Have you started looking at homes online yet? If you have, it’s already time to get pre-approved. Because here’s what not enough people know.

If buying a home is on your radar – even if it’s more of a someday plan than a right now plan – you don’t want to wait until later on in the process to tackle this step.

No matter what you’ve heard, pre-approval isn’t about commitment. It’s about clarity.

And here are the two big ways pre-approval sets you up for success.

You Know Your Numbers Up Front

During the pre-approval process, a lender will walk through your finances and tell you what you can borrow based on your income, debts, credit score, and more. And once you have that number, your search becomes a lot more focused.

With a mortgage pre-approval, you know what you can borrow, so it’s easier to figure out your ideal price point, and what you can actually afford. And that clarity is key.

Because if you just start browsing online and just guess at your price point, you run the risk of falling for a house that’s outside of your price range – or missing out on ones that aren’t.

You want this number to be clearly defined before your search. Here’s why.

You Can Move Quickly When You Find the One

This is how a lot of home searches go today. You scroll through listings just to see what’s out there, and then it happens. You fall in love with something you’ve seen online.

If you’re already pre-approved? You’re probably in great shape.

But if you’re not…

Instead of being able to jump on that house and quickly make an offer, you have to scramble to get a lender, gather the financial documents, and then submit the necessary pre-approval paperwork first. And while you’re waiting to hear back from your lender, someone else who’s more prepared could beat you to the house. As Bankrate explains:

“The best time to get a mortgage preapproval is before you start looking for a home. If you find a home you love but don’t have a preapproval in hand, you likely won’t have time to get preapproved before you need to make an offer . . .”

And that’s avoidable, with the right prep.

Because while you can’t control when the right home shows up, you can be ready for it. Think of it like showing up to the starting line with your shoes tied and your warm-up done – while everyone else is still looking for parking.

It’s not about rushing your timeline. It’s about removing the delay between finding the right home and being able to move on it.

One Thing You Need To Know About Pre-Approvals

Speaking of timing, pre-approvals do have an expiration date. So, be sure to ask your lender how long it’s good for. The Mortgage Reports explains:

“Mortgage preapproval letters are typically valid for anywhere from 30 to 90 days. However, a preapproval can be updated and extended if the lender re-checks your information.”

Doing the right prep and knowing this information can make the whole process a lot smoother.

You don’t have to be ready to buy to be ready to buy.

Getting pre-approved doesn’t mean you’re committing to buy right now. It just means you’ve taken a step to understand your numbers. And when a home catches your attention, you’re prepped and good to go.

Bottom Line

Ask yourself this: if your perfect home popped up tomorrow, would you be ready to make a move?

If the answer is no and you want to buy, it may be time to get pre-approved. You don’t feel behind before your search even officially kicks off.

Local Info • March 31, 2026

🌷 Spring Into Fun: Events Happening in Elkhart County Now Through May

by Michele Burkheimer

As the weather warms up, there’s no better time to explore everything happening across Elkhart County. From charming small-town festivals to live entertainment and family-friendly activities, spring is packed with opportunities to get out, connect, and enjoy the community.

Here’s your guide to some of the best events happening now through the end of May 👇

🌼 April Events You Don’t Want to Miss

Spring kicks off with community favorites and local experiences that make Elkhart County feel like home.

🎶 Goshen First Fridays (April 3 – Rhythm & Hues)

Downtown Goshen comes alive with live music, local art, shopping, and food. Each month has a unique theme, and April’s focus on music and art makes it a perfect night out.

🏛️ Free Family Sunday

Enjoy free admission to historic homes like Ruthmere Museum on select Sundays. It’s a great way to mix culture, history, and a relaxing afternoon.

🌎 Earth Day Celebration (April 25)

Celebrate Earth Day with free trees, family activities, and outdoor fun at the Elkhart Environmental Center—perfect for families and nature lovers.

🥞 Wakarusa Maple Syrup Festival (April 24–26)

One of the county’s most beloved traditions! Think pancakes, parades, demonstrations, and small-town charm in Wakarusa.

🌸 May Events to Kick Off Summer Vibes

May brings even more energy with festivals, performances, and outdoor experiences.

🌿 Goshen First Fridays (May 1 – Green Day Celebration)

Celebrate sustainability and outdoor living with vendors, activities, and a vibrant downtown atmosphere.

🎭 Frozen The Musical (Early May)

Catch a live performance at the historic The Lerner Theatre—a great night out for families or date night.

🚗 Classic Car Cruise-In (Weekly starting May)

Car lovers will enjoy vintage vehicles, food, and community vibes at this weekly gathering in nearby Middlebury.

🇺🇸 Elkhart Memorial Day Parade (May 25)

A meaningful and festive way to honor the holiday with the community in downtown Elkhart.

🌺 Quilt Gardens along the Heritage Trail (Begins May 30)

A must-see regional attraction featuring over a million blooms and stunning quilt-inspired designs across multiple towns.

🦸 Hall of Heroes Comic Con (May 30–31)

Perfect for families and fans of comics, cosplay, and pop culture—this event brings excitement to the end of May.

🌟 Why Spring Is the Perfect Time to Explore Elkhart County

Spring in Elkhart County is more than just a season—it’s an experience. Whether you’re strolling through downtown events, enjoying live performances, or spending time outdoors, there’s something happening almost every weekend.

It’s also a great reminder of why so many people love calling this area home—strong community, local charm, and plenty to do year-round.

💬 Thinking About Making a Move?

If you’ve been out enjoying these events and thinking, “I’d love to live here,” you’re not alone. Spring is also one of the busiest times in real estate—and the perfect time to explore your options.

If you ever want to talk about homes, neighborhoods, or what’s happening in the market here in Elkhart County, I’m always here to help.

Home Sellers • The Home Market • March 27, 2026

The Best Week To List Your House Is Just Around the Corner

by Michele Burkheimer

While the Spring season consistently offers up some of the best conditions for home sellers, Realtor.com says there’s one window where the stars really seem to align year after year. And it’s coming up fast.

Based on their analysis of historical trends, the ideal week to put your house on the market this year is: April 12–18.

And here’s why this window stands out as being particularly seller-friendly:

Buyers Are More Active. According to the research coming out of Realtor.com, homes listed during this week typically get about 16.7% more views than in a normal week. And in a market where buyers have options, getting that extra attention can set the tone for your entire sale.

Sales Happen Faster. Realtor.com also explains the added demand from buyers sets you up for a faster process. While homes have been taking longer to sell lately, homes up for sale this week were on the market for 17% less time than usual. And that’s a difference you’ll be able to feel.

A Better Price for Your House. Since the number of homes for sale has grown, it’s normal for buyers to ask for credits, repairs, and price adjustments today. But, during this early Spring window, about 18.9% fewer homes do a price cut. That gives you a better chance of getting your full asking price.

More Profit in Your Pocket. According to the study, well-prepped homes listed this week can command a price that’s about $5,300 more than the average week (and $26,000 more than homes at the start of the year).

And what seller doesn’t want more eyes on their house, getting an offer in hand sooner (rather than later), and their best shot at selling for top dollar?

What You Need To Do To Get Ready

If you’re already thinking about selling and you want to take advantage of this sweet spot, your next step is shockingly simple. Just talk to a local agent.

Their expertise on your area is going to be key over the next few weeks. Because these trends are going to vary by state, city, and even neighborhood. And your agent will use that insider knowledge to help you figure out what you need to do now to get your house ready. Including:

What you’ll want to spruce up before listing

How to prioritize any repairs (and contractors that can help)

Quick wins that’ll have a big impact

What buyers care most about today

For some sellers, that’s a few easy fixes they can knock out in the next couple of weeks. A fresh coat of paint. Some new mulch. Or some light Spring cleaning.

For others, it’s worth taking another month or so to make some minor updates before listing. And that’s okay. Because while this mid-April window may give sellers an advantage, it’s not your only opportunity to sell.

Zillow says the best time to list is in May. And that means the golden window for sellers isn’t closing after this one week. It’s open all season long.

Bottom Line

Getting your house on the market in mid-April may give you an extra edge, but the bigger opportunity is the Spring season as a whole. The real question is:

Do you know what you need to do before you can list?

Because it’s officially go-time for any seller planning a Spring move.

If you want your house to hit the market this week (or even this season), let’s talk about what it’ll take to get it ready.

Home Sellers • March 18, 2026

Buyers Notice the Small Details — Even More Than You Think

by Michele Burkheimer

When you think about selling a home, it’s easy to focus on the big-ticket items: a fresh coat of paint, new appliances, or updated countertops. But what often gets overlooked are the small details — and those are the things buyers notice first.

Why Small Details Matter

Buyers form emotional connections with a home within minutes of walking in. A lingering smell, a flickering light bulb, or scuffed walls can distract from all the hard work you’ve put into staging your home. On the flip side, thoughtful attention to small details can make your home feel well cared for, inviting, and move-in ready.

Some small details that buyers notice:

Lighting – Burnt-out bulbs or dim lighting can make spaces feel neglected.
Cleanliness – Sparkling sinks, spotless floors, and dust-free shelves create a welcoming impression.
Repairs – Leaky faucets, squeaky doors, or cracked tiles can raise red flags for buyers.
Clutter – Even small clutter on counters or in closets can make spaces feel smaller and less appealing.
Odors – Pets, cooking, or musty smells can subconsciously turn buyers away.

The Emotional Impact

A home that looks and feels cared for builds trust with buyers. They start imagining themselves living there rather than worrying about hidden problems or future repairs. Those emotional decisions can directly impact how much a buyer is willing to offer.

Pro Tips for Highlighting the Details

Walk through like a buyer – Pretend you’ve never seen your home before. What would stand out to you?
Hire a professional cleaner – A spotless home shows you care about maintenance.
Fix minor repairs – The cost is small compared to the potential increase in offer price.
Stage thoughtfully – Remove clutter, organize closets, and let natural light shine in.
Add subtle touches – Fresh flowers, a bowl of fruit, or new towels can make a space feel inviting.

Bottom Line

Selling a home isn’t just about the big updates — it’s about the whole experience a buyer has when they walk through your door. Paying attention to the small details can make a big difference, helping your home stand out, feel loved, and sell faster.

Home Buyers • Home Prices • Home Sellers • March 10, 2026

Why So Many Buyers Are Moving to Elkhart County

by Michele Burkheimer

Why So Many Buyers Are Moving to Elkhart County

If you’ve been paying attention to the local real estate market, you may have noticed something: more and more buyers are choosing to move to Elkhart County.

From first-time homebuyers to families relocating from larger cities, this Northern Indiana community is attracting people for several great reasons. If you’ve been considering a move yourself—or thinking about selling your home—it’s helpful to understand what makes this area so appealing.

Affordable Home Prices

One of the biggest reasons buyers are moving to Elkhart County is affordability. Compared to many parts of the country, home prices here remain relatively accessible.

Buyers are often able to get:

More square footage
Larger yards
Newer or updated homes

For many families, that means the opportunity to own a home that fits their lifestyle without stretching their budget.

More Space and Room to Grow

Another major draw is space. Many buyers relocating from larger metropolitan areas are looking for a slower pace of life and more room to breathe.

Homes in communities like Goshen and Elkhart often offer:

Spacious neighborhoods
Larger lots
Quiet streets
Family-friendly environments

For buyers seeking comfort and flexibility—especially those working remotely—this added space makes a big difference.

Strong Communities

People moving to the area frequently comment on the sense of community they find here. Neighborhoods feel welcoming, and residents take pride in where they live.

Local events, parks, schools, and small businesses all contribute to the strong community atmosphere that makes Elkhart County such a desirable place to live.

The Perfect Balance of Small-Town Living

Many buyers are searching for a lifestyle that offers the charm of a small town while still having access to everyday conveniences.

That’s exactly what they find here.

Cities like Goshen and Elkhart provide:

Shopping and dining
Healthcare services
Entertainment and local attractions
Easy access to surrounding areas

It’s a balance that allows residents to enjoy a relaxed lifestyle without sacrificing convenience.

What This Means for Home Sellers

Because more buyers are discovering the benefits of living in Elkhart County, well-priced homes can sell quickly. Demand from both local buyers and people relocating to the area continues to create opportunities for homeowners who may be considering selling.

If you’ve been wondering what your home might be worth in today’s market, now could be a great time to explore your options.

Thinking About Buying or Selling?

Whether you’re considering moving to the area or selling your current home, having the right strategy makes all the difference.

Home Buyers • Home Prices • Local Info • March 4, 2026

Thinking About Moving to Goshen, Indiana? Here’s What You Should Know!

by Michele Burkheimer

If you’re considering a move to Northern Indiana, let’s talk about one of the area’s hidden gems: Goshen. It’s the kind of place where people wave from their front porch, local businesses know your name, and you can get across town in under 10 minutes.

As someone who works with buyers here every day, I can tell you — homes don’t sit long, and once people move here, they tend to stay.

Here’s what you should know before making the move.

🏡 The Housing Market Moves Fast

Inventory in Goshen — especially under $350,000 — moves quickly. Well-priced homes often get showings within days.

If the home is:

Near the schools
Close to downtown
Updated and move-in ready

…it’s likely going to attract strong attention fast.

Having a local agent who knows the neighborhoods and pricing trends makes a big difference when you’re competing.

🎓 Strong Schools & Community Feel

Goshen is served by Goshen Community Schools, and the community is deeply invested in education and local involvement.

You’ll find:

Active youth sports
Community events year-round
Neighbors who actually know each other

It’s a town where Friday nights still mean something and community pride runs deep.

🌳 Outdoor Spaces & Things To Do

Goshen has a great balance of small-town charm and outdoor access.

You can:

Bike or walk the Pumpkinvine Trail
Explore parks and green spaces
Spend time near the Elkhart River

And if you love local events, the Elkhart County 4-H Fair brings huge community energy every summer.

🍽️ Local Restaurants & Downtown Charm

Downtown Goshen has grown beautifully over the years. You’ll find:

Local coffee shops
Unique boutiques
Restaurants that people drive in from out of town to try

The downtown area feels vibrant without being overwhelming — just enough activity to feel alive, but still easy and relaxed.

📍 Location, Location, Location

Goshen is:

About 20 minutes from Elkhart
Roughly 45 minutes from South Bend
Within a couple hours of Chicago

You get affordability and space — without feeling disconnected.

💰 Cost of Living

Compared to larger metro areas, Goshen offers:

More house for your money
Lower property taxes than many urban markets
A manageable overall cost of living

For many families, it’s the sweet spot between affordability and quality of life.

The Honest Truth

Goshen isn’t a big city — and that’s exactly why people love it.

It’s steady. It’s community-focused. It’s growing in the right ways without losing its character.

If you’re thinking about moving to Goshen, the key is being prepared. Homes here don’t always wait around.

And if you want to talk about neighborhoods, pricing, or what your budget really looks like here — I’m happy to help.

Home Sellers • February 25, 2026

Online Estimates Tell Me Exactly What My Home Is Worth

by Michele Burkheimer

If you’ve ever typed your address into a home search site and instantly received a value, you’re not alone. Websites like Zillow and Realtor.com make it easy to get a quick estimate of what your home might be worth.

But here’s the truth: that number is only an estimate — not an exact value.

Why Online Estimates Can Be Inaccurate

Online home values are created using automated algorithms. These systems analyze public records, recent sales in the area, property size, and other data to generate a price range. While that technology is helpful, it has some big limitations.

Automated systems can’t see the things that truly impact your home’s value, such as:

Recent upgrades or renovations
The overall condition of the home
Unique features or finishes
The exact location within the neighborhood
Current buyer demand in your local market

For example, two homes with the same square footage may show similar estimates online, but one might have a brand-new kitchen while the other needs major updates. The algorithm can’t always tell the difference.

The Risk of Relying Only on an Online Number

I’ve seen online estimates be off by tens of thousands of dollars — sometimes higher than the market and sometimes much lower.

If the estimate is too high, a home may be priced above market value and sit unsold for longer than expected.

If the estimate is too low, homeowners could miss out on equity they’ve built over the years.

Either way, relying solely on an automated estimate can lead to costly mistakes.

What Determines Your Home’s True Value

The most accurate way to determine your home’s value is through a detailed market analysis that considers:

Recent comparable home sales
The condition of your property
Upgrades and improvements
Local neighborhood trends
Current buyer demand

A local real estate professional can evaluate all of these factors to give you a much clearer picture of what your home could sell for in today’s market.

The Bottom Line

Online estimates are a great starting point, but they aren’t the final answer.

If you want to know what your home is truly worth in today’s market, the best approach is to work with a local expert who understands your neighborhood and current buyer demand.

If you’re curious about your home’s value, I’d be happy to help you get a more accurate picture. Sometimes the number is higher than homeowners expect — and that can open the door to new opportunities.

Home Sellers • February 17, 2026

Real Estate Myth: Should You Time the Market or Prepare for It?

by Michele Burkheimer

When it comes to selling a home, one of the most common myths I hear is: “I should try to time the market instead of prepare for it.”

Let’s clear that up — this is definitely a myth.

The sellers who truly win in real estate aren’t the ones guessing when the market will peak. They’re the ones who are prepared long before their home hits the market. Preparation creates confidence, stronger negotiating power, and often better financial outcomes.

So what does preparation actually look like?

It starts with understanding your home’s value so you know where you stand in today’s market. Next, it means knowing your numbers — from potential equity to estimated closing costs — so there are no surprises. Most importantly, it involves creating a clear, strategic plan before you ever list your home.

Here’s something many homeowners don’t realize: even if you are 6–12 months away from selling, starting early gives you a major advantage. Early planning allows time for small repairs, decluttering, staging, and positioning your home to attract the strongest offers possible.

Waiting and trying to “hit the peak” can lead to rushed decisions. But planning ahead? That puts you in control.

If you’re thinking about selling someday, now is the perfect time to start the conversation. Let’s build a plan today so you can move with confidence later.

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