Madison Real Estate Market Trends: 
What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know in 2025

Real estate and rates: like it or not, they go hand in hand. While mortgage rates remain somewhat high, they’ve fluctuated minimally over the past year. Financial gurus report that Madison’s market remains stable and aligned with national trends, and our residential housing market is as strong as ever — thanks to our robust local economy, prime location and top-tier schools and services. At Sprinkman Real Estate, we’re seeing buyers and sellers ready to move forward. 

Your local real estate experts, we’ve always got a watchful eye on market trends in Madison and surrounding communities like Middleton, Monona and Waunakee. Buying or selling a home is a big decision, and we’re here to make it as effortless as possible. It’s our privilege to provide the resources and knowledge you need to act with confidence.

If you're looking to purchase a luxury penthouse condo at The Edgewater, sell your classic Cape Cod in University Heights, or simply explore current listings, let’s take a look at Madison real estate trends for 2025 — and how you can leverage them for success.

Condo Market Coming in Hot

Madison has long been a hub for growth. According to the Wisconsin Department of Administration, Dane County’s population is set to expand 40% by 2050 — making it the fastest growing county in the state. As a vibrant Big Ten college town + state capital, we boast world-class employers in corporate, education + healthcare, plus a thriving startup and small business scene. It’s no surprise that Madison condos are flying off the shelves. From academics + empty nesters seeking right-sized homes or second properties to millennials craving a dynamic urban lifestyle, condo living is topping the list for many of our clients.

Buyers – this means inventory may seem low around the Capitol Square + adjacent downtown corridors, prices may escalate and bidding wars may come to be. It’s best to be ready to act swiftly and prepare for potential competition. 

Sellers – setting the right price is crucial. Get a comprehensive market analysis with comparable sales, prices trends + transaction timelines to keep you informed and weigh terms + contingencies amidst multiple offers — and know just the right time to list on the MLS.

Sight-Unseen Offers on the Rise

Real estate listings are just a click away, no matter where you are! According to the National Association of Realtors, 90% of home buyers use the internet as their primary search tool, allowing them to make initial decisions before touring properties. While virtual options can’t fully replace boots on the ground, buyers are increasingly writing ‘sight-unseen’ offers – especially in times of lower inventory – to secure the first spot in line. At Sprinkman, we're seeing more Madison buyers making these offers, with in-person tours as a contingency.

Buyers – do your research. Gain access to coming-soon properties so you have first glance at desirable neighborhoods like Shorewood Hills, Dudgeon-Monroe or Middleton Hills and low-inventory properties like waterfront Monona, Maple Bluff + Stoughton. Plus find a savvy negotiator who can draft an air-tight offer that advocates for your best interests.

Sellers – do the same. You’ll want premium resources in photography, videography + marketing to give buyers comprehensive – and direct – access to everything needed to make an offer on your home. This includes on-point MLS descriptions, stunning photos, easy-to-navigate website, and buzzing social media platforms to spotlight your listing, neighborhood, and area dining, shopping + events.

Relocation Popular as Always

As a place to live, Madison simply can’t be beat. Consistently named among the most livable cities nationally, our quality of life is second to none. With award-winning schools, strong job market, top-tier healthcare, and exceptional natural surroundings, dining + culture, Madison earned #3 in the U.S. News 2024 rankings. And we haven’t even mentioned a local airport with numerous direct flights or Camp Randall game day! Relocation to our vibrant Isthmus is always steady — and 2025 is no exception. We’re seeing buyers from biotech startup innovators to newly-appointed UW-Madison faculty are eager to set roots here.

Buyers – in a busy relocation market, there’s often a lot of competition for desirable neighborhoods close to downtown, schools, parks + amenities. You’ll benefit from a deep knowledge of Madison real estate + extensive community connections, plus someone with a keen understanding of your timeline — so you can find home exactly when you need to. 

Sellers – relocations come with their special own set of parameters. Timing and information is everything. Staying flexible on property tours, inspections + closing terms and marketing your property with expansive resources + agent networking will make your chances of an effortless sale that much better. 

Lakes a Major Selling Point

Madison is nestled between four beautiful lakes – Mendota, Monona, Kegonsa and Waubesa – each with their own charm. Whether it's paddleboarding, kayaking, boating, biking, or ice fishing, our lakes + shorelines are a major draw year-round. As we kick off the year, we have countless buyers searching for local waterfront real estate, prioritizing the lifestyle that comes with living on the lake. With such a scenic playground right in our backyard, it's no surprise that Madison lakefront properties are a hot commodity for 2025.

Buyers – be prepared for potential competition. You’re not just buying a home, but also a highly desirable quality of life! Expert guidance from a top-selling lake team will help you navigate this specialty market, plus features like waterfront access, usage rights and other considerations. 

Sellers – know your timeline to make the most of your property sale. And the time to get ready is now! Buyers are always looking, but spring into early summer is historically a prime lake property selling season. Enlist the help of a lakefront real estate expert to highlight outdoor spaces, waterfront views + lifestyle features – plus price it competitively – to achieve success.

Start with Sprinkman to move forward, elevate your experience and come home to Madison’s best. We’d be honored to help, so let’s talk today. Find us on socials, link us in or simply give a call. We can’t wait to hear from you.