Which listings tend to experience the most competition? Here's some quick insight into the most competitive Madison area real estate markets, based on our review of 2025 transaction data. 

Competition by community

This may come as a surprise to some, but the village of Shorewood Hills and the city of Monona stand out as the two communities with the highest percentage of competing offers. For both communities, well over 40% of all home sales involved multiple offers in 2025. 

Competition by price range

Across Dane County communities, homes priced under $400,000 receive the highest percentage of competing offers. Well over 35% of all sub-$400k listings received multiple offers in 2025. 

Caveats and tips for Madison area buyers in 2026

#1) It's important to know that new construction homes tend to have a much lower percentage of competing offers. If you're seeking to buy a home without extreme competition, you may want to learn more about your new construction options. 

#2) Within each community, competition can vary a lot by neighborhood. Even two adjoining neighborhoods within the same community can have varying levels of competition. 

#3) A listing in any price range -- even a home priced above $1M -- can experience extreme competition. 

#4) It's also important to note that competition varies a lot by time of year. The spring market, for example, is when multiple offers are most common. Your tactics for successfully buying in the springtime will in many cases be different than the tactics you use during other times of the year. 

As an aspiring home buyer, you can successfully navigate the nuances of our market by hiring a trusted buyer agent. If you don't already have a buyer representative, we would love to interview for this important job. 

Reach out when you're ready for a helpful consultation. It would be our pleasure to serve you and help you take your first steps toward your new dream home.