Thinking about selling your Washington home this year? You are not alone. Local demand has been steady, and well-prepared listings can still move quickly. In this guide, you will get a clear market snapshot, the best timing to list, smart pricing steps, a practical prep checklist, and what to expect with costs and disclosures. Let’s dive in.
Washington market snapshot
Portal data shows a wide range for city medians, which is normal. In January 2026, the Washington median sale price on Redfin was about $195,000, with low double-digit days on market and a strong sale-to-list ratio in the high 90s. Several homes saw multiple offers and quick sales in recent months, according to the Redfin Washington market page.
By comparison, a December 2025 snapshot on Realtor.com showed a median list price near $279,900 and a median of about 28 days on market for Washington. You can see those details on the Realtor.com Washington overview.
Why the gap? Each portal uses different data windows and methods. Redfin’s figure reflects recent sold prices. Realtor.com’s figure reflects asking prices. Geography can differ too. Treat these as helpful context, then use a fresh, MLS-based CMA to set your price.
County context
At the county level, Zillow’s ZHVI shows a typical Tazewell County home value around $177,000 as of January 31, 2026. Washington neighborhoods often price above that county median. See the trend on Zillow’s Tazewell County ZHVI.
Who is buying in Washington
Census estimates point to a strong owner market. Washington’s owner-occupancy rate is about 80 percent, the median owner-occupied home value is around $216,700, and the median household income is about $91,360. These figures reflect a stable, single-family market with solid local incomes. Review city stats on U.S. Census QuickFacts.
Local buyers often look at school access and community amenities as part of their decision. Washington Community High School (District 308) is a frequent reference point for moves that consider high school zoning, and Five Points Washington is a popular community hub for activities and events. You can learn more about the high school at the District 308 site.
Inventory and timing
Competitive conditions come and go, but recent Redfin indicators for Washington have shown a high Compete Score and many homes selling near list price. That means well-presented homes can move fast when priced right. See the latest signals on Redfin’s Washington page.
Seasonally, many Midwestern markets see stronger buyer activity in late spring. Large national analyses find that listings in late April through May often sell faster and for slightly more than off-peak months. If your schedule allows, target a polished spring launch. For national timing data, review this roundup on the best time to sell.
Smart pricing steps
Pricing well is the single biggest lever for your net proceeds. Here is a simple, effective approach:
Start with a local CMA. Use the portals for context, not a list price. For example, Redfin’s January 2026 Washington median sold was about $195,000, while Realtor.com’s December 2025 median list was about $279,900. Your home’s true value will come from recent, similar closed sales in your immediate area.
Cross-check by price per square foot. Recent snapshots place Washington’s range in the $130 to $140 per square foot band. Use this as a quick test alongside three to five recent sold comps, adjusting for condition, finished basement, lot, and recent upgrades. See current context on Redfin’s market page and the Realtor.com Washington overview.
Choose a tactic that matches your goal:
- Want a fast sale in a tight market? Price at or just below the best recent comps to generate more showings and possible multiple offers.
- Want top-line price and can wait? Price at or a touch above realistic comps, then watch days on market and adjust quickly if activity lags.
- Expect financing? Avoid terms that create appraisal gaps. Use appraisal-aware pricing based on the loan mix you are seeing locally.
Pre-listing checklist
A focused prep plan can shorten time on market and boost your net. Most sellers can complete these steps in two to eight weeks.
Legal and disclosures. Complete the Illinois Residential Real Property Disclosure Report and update it if anything changes before closing. Homes built before 1978 also require the federal lead-based paint disclosure. Review the Illinois disclosure act on Justia’s IL statute page.
Optional inspections and tests. Consider a pre-listing home inspection to reduce buyer surprises. In our region, a radon test is also wise, and you should disclose known test results. Learn about local radon guidance from the Peoria City/County Health Department.
Condition and presentation. Fresh neutral paint, deep cleaning, decluttering, and simple curb-appeal updates go a long way. Tighten up kitchens and baths with caulk and updated hardware where needed. Book professional photos and a floor plan. A polished presentation helps you capitalize on Washington’s competitive conditions noted on Redfin’s local market page.
Marketing and showings. Highlight practical location benefits, school access, Five Points, and any major updates or energy improvements. Aim to go live midweek so you catch peak weekend traffic. National research suggests Thursday launches can boost weekend showings, as summarized in this timing analysis.
Local issues buyers ask about
Severe-weather history. Washington experienced a major EF-4 tornado in November 2013. Many buyers ask about repairs, rebuilding standards, or insurance improvements that followed. If your home was repaired or rebuilt, gather permits, insurance records, and contractor warranties to instill confidence. Read a summary of the event on the Washington, Illinois page.
Radon and air quality. Central Illinois has elevated radon potential, so buyers often ask for a test or mitigation details. If you have past results or a mitigation system, have that documentation ready. Regional guidance is available from the Peoria City/County Health Department.
Closing costs and taxes
Seller costs vary by deal, but common line items include brokerage commission, prorated property taxes and HOA dues if applicable, title and closing fees, and any buyer credits you agree to. These costs are negotiable and depend on your contract.
Illinois also charges a state real estate transfer tax of $0.50 per $500 of sale price, which equals 0.1 percent. Counties may charge an additional stamp and recording fees, so confirm your exact total with your closing agent. See state transfer tax details from the Illinois Department of Revenue.
Example: on a $200,000 sale, the Illinois state transfer tax is $200. Add your title, recording, prorations, and any negotiated items for a complete net sheet from your closing agent.
Suggested timeline
- Weeks 1–2: Meet with your agent, order a CMA, map your pricing strategy, and line up any repairs. Start decluttering and touch-up painting.
- Week 3: Complete repairs, deep clean, yard work, and light staging. Schedule professional photos and a floor plan.
- Week 4: Go live midweek, monitor showings and feedback, and review weekend activity.
- Weeks 5–6: Evaluate offers, negotiate terms, and select the best balance of price and certainty.
- Contract to close: Most financed deals target 30–45 days, depending on appraisal and title timelines.
Ready to position your Washington home for a smooth, successful sale? Get a data-backed price, a tailored prep plan, and professional marketing that showcases your property. Connect with Carolyn Catton to get started and Get Your Free Home Valuation.
FAQs
What is the current median home price in Washington, IL?
- Portal snapshots vary. Recent city figures ranged from about $195,000 for median sold price to roughly $279,900 for median list price depending on source and month. Use a fresh MLS CMA for your exact number.
When is the best time to list a home in Washington, IL?
- Late April through May often sees stronger buyer activity in Midwestern markets. If your timeline allows, prepare now and target a polished spring launch.
How long do homes take to sell in Washington, IL?
- Recent portal data shows low double-digit days on market for some sold listings and around four weeks for active listing medians, depending on the data source and month.
What should Washington, IL sellers disclose before listing?
- Complete the Illinois Residential Real Property Disclosure Report, and provide the federal lead-based paint disclosure for homes built before 1978. Update disclosures if anything changes before closing.
Should I do a pre-listing radon test in Washington, IL?
- It is a smart move. Central Illinois has elevated radon potential, and sharing test results or mitigation details can reduce friction during inspections.
How should I price a recently renovated home in Washington, IL?
- Start with a local CMA, then cross-check price per square foot against recent neighborhood sales. Adjust for condition, finished spaces, lot, and updates, and monitor activity to fine-tune quickly.
