Six Ways to Maximize the Tax Benefits of Homeownership
here are many benefits to owning a home, including the stability, security, and sense of place it gives individuals and families. Of course, beyond these intangible benefits are the tangible financial advantages homeowners can realize on an annual basis and
Eight Essential Tips for First Time Homebuyers
Purchasing a home is a major milestone for anyone, let alone a first-time homebuyer. The process is certainly exciting, but it can also be confusing or stressful – and sometimes all of the above. Here are eight tips to ensure
Resolve to Keep Your Home Clutter-Free and Healthy in 2023
We tend to think of New Year’s resolutions as something that will have a meaningful impact on our minds and bodies. But they can just as easily improve your home and have a positive effect on overall well-being. Decluttering, enhancements,
The Time to Think Spring (Market) is Now
Historically, the last few weeks of the year aren’t the most active on the real estate calendar. But the spring market, which can begin as early as mid-January, brings a spike in activity from both buyers and sellers. Changing market
Open House Essentials that Lead to Another Look
In the frenzied market of the past two years, few sellers felt compelled to hold open houses. But as the market slows, that age-old device is regaining popularity. An open house is a good way to showcase a home to
Prepare Your Home for Winter with these Tips and Tricks
It won’t be long before brisk fall days give way to overnight frost and freeze advisories. Avoid the potential toll a Midwest winter can take on your biggest investment by planning ahead and following these important tips for winterizing your
Getting (and Staying) Organized Amid Back-to-School Season
For parents, mid-August and early September mark the glorious return of back-to-school season. It’s also a popular time of year to move, especially for families looking to settle into their new surroundings before that first school bell rings. While it’s always
Real Estate as an Inflationary Safe Haven
From the grocery store to your energy bills, inflation has become a reality of everyday life. And while June’s inflation reading of 9.1% – a 40-year high – has caused many people to reexamine their budgets, hard assets like real estate
6 Tips for Getting Your Offer Over the Finish Line When the Competition is Fierce
In addition to planning ahead, a little creativity can go a long way when submitting an offer to purchase a new home, especially when inventory remains low amid intense buyer demand. Assuming your offer is competitive financially, here are a
10 Local Non-Profits Supporting Women in Chicago
As we continue to celebrate Women’s History Month, this week we’re highlighting non-profits doing meaningful work to support women throughout Chicago. Between providing sports-centric programming for young girls to offering professional coaching and mental health services to marginalized groups, there