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For the First-Time Home Buyer: FAQs Answered
After saving up diligently for years, it’s finally time to purchase your very first home. A first-time home purchase is a big milestone, and one to truly celebrate and cherish. But it’s also a decision that requires careful research. While there may be a litany of...
5 Real Estate Pricing Myths Sellers Need to Know
When it comes to selling homes, the price is very often the “hot topic” whether you are the seller or buyer. The process involved in determining the appropriate listing price isn’t always what one might think, though. In fact, it ultimately comes down to a position...
The Best of Chicago Winter Traditions
Chicago goes through a sort of metamorphosis as winter takes a firm grip over the city, bringing cold weather and incredibly short days. But don’t feel bad making runs to the local convenience store in sweatpants and slippers — during the coldest winter days, it takes...
Five Reasons Chicago is a Great Investment for Home Buyers
Legendary American author Mark Twain once famously quipped to a reporter that news of his death had been greatly exaggerated. Similarly, we Chicagoans frequently find ourselves in the position, these days, of having to remind others that our city is not only still...
7 Ways to Give Back Across Chicagoland
As the holidays approach, giving back is a great way to kick off the season. Whether you’re looking to give back in the form of time or monetary donations, there are many organizations across the Chicagoland area that could benefit from extra support. Read on to learn...
Five Things to Do During Thanksgiving Break in Chicago
Old Man Winter arrived in the Chicago area early this year — certainly well before friends and relatives show up for Thanksgiving celebrations. But holiday visitors will quickly learn that Chicagoans won’t let the bitter windchill stop us from enjoying ourselves....
The Future of Gold Coast Luxury Real Estate
Sales numbers from the last few years paint the picture of a down market in the Gold Coast – the upscale lakefront pocket that has long been known for ultra high-end condos and co-ops. But another evident trend that sales reveal is a wide gap between new construction...
A Taste of Fall in Chicagoland
The fall season is in full swing, bringing arguably the best flavors of the year to Chicagoland’s food and beverage scene. Whether you’re looking for the very best cinnamon, apple or pumpkin treats, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite seasonal sweets to enjoy...
Tips for Showing Your Home During the Fall
When it comes to buying and selling a home, the final months of the year present some unique advantages in the marketplace (think less competition and motivated buyers). If you’re selling your home this fall, here are a few tips to make the most of the season. Boost...
Fall into Autumn with These Festive Activities
Fall is officially here, and fortunately there’s no shortage of fun activities to make the most of the season. Whether you’re in the mood for antiquing, sipping warm apple cider, picking pumpkins or watching football, there are plenty of opportunities to embrace all...
How To Prepare Your Living Space for Fall
There are many ways to spruce up your home as you transition from summer to autumn. And with countless trends and festive decorating ideas, it can be overwhelming trying to figure out where to begin to get your home into the spirit of the season. One tip is to...
How to Prep Your Home for Showings
You only get one chance to make a first impression – and that’s especially true when your home hits the market. If you’re thinking about listing your property, here are a few tips to ensure it’s in optimal showing condition. Tidy Up This goes without saying… make the...
How to Create the Ultimate Outdoor Entertaining Space
Summer may be winding down, but there is still time to sneak in a few outdoor gatherings before the temperature drops. We’ve talked about maximizing small outdoor spaces and important patio prep tips, and now we’re sharing an assortment of décor pieces and accessories...
Pro’s and Con’s of Different Types of Home Exteriors
There are pro’s and con’s to everything, even your home’s exterior. With a variety of options, we’ve honed in on the most popular exteriors to share the pro’s and con’s of each. Whether you’re interested in brick, stucco, wood, vinyl or stone, get the scoop...
Mortgage Rates in the 3’s a Welcome Surprise
Just about everyone expected mortgage interest rates to rise in 2019. But after reaching 5% last November, the average 30-year mortgage rate is back in the 3% range, the lowest it has been in over 2 years. This latest development is welcome news not only to homeowners...
Beat the Heat: Chicago’s Best Ice Cream
Summertime is arguably Chicago’s best season, complete with neighborhood festivals, sunny skies and an extreme desire for cool, tasty treats. To help you beat the heat, we’ve put together a list of some of Chicago’s essential ice cream shops. In no particular order,...
7 Unique First Home Housewarming Gift Ideas
Finding unique housewarming gifts is tricky, especially when it comes to first-time homeowners. Long gone are the days of cliche toasters and cheese boards. So what should you bring if you’re invited to a housewarming party? Here are just a few gift ideas for the...
5 Tips to Maximize a Small Outdoor Space
For city dwellers, having outdoor space is the ultimate goal. If your urban home is equipped with a tiny yard, balcony, or rooftop, maximize every inch to create your own metropolitan oasis. A few tweaks can turn the tiniest outdoor space into a livable, beautiful...
Renovation Loans Open the Door for First-Time Buyers
Homes that are financially within reach for first-time buyers are often in need of updates. Fortunately, there are a number of home-loan products that offer an affordable financing solution by allowing rehab costs to be included in mortgage payments. “Fixer-uppers...
Near North Chicago Market Update April 2019
The Chicago Near North real estate market continues to show strong numbers, with nearly a $100,000 increase in average sales price of all types of single family homes compared from April 2016 to April 2019. That said, more homes have entered the market over the...