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holiday home safety tips for traveling residents

The holiday season is upon us, and for many, that means packing up and heading out to spend quality time with loved ones. Whether you're escaping to a wintery destination or soaking up the sun on a beach, it's essential to ensure the safety of your home while you're away. We understand the importance of having peace of mind when it comes to your home, so we've compiled a list of safety tips to help our traveling residents enjoy a worry-free vacation.

check all doors on the property.

Let's start from the basics, with checking all the doors around your home. Before you head on your holiday trip, take a walk around your property to make sure all doors and windows are securely locked. Think about…

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understanding home inspections: what buyers and sellers need to know.

Home inspections are a vital component that can influence the outcome of your real estate transaction. It's important to get an idea of what goes into the process and what to expect from a buyer's and seller's standpoint. Read on to learn more about how to be prepared for an inspection and what occurs after.

the purpose of a home inspection.

So, why are home inspections conducted? For buyers, a home inspection is an opportunity to assess the property's condition thoroughly. This process helps identify potential issues, both major and minor, which can influence the buying decision and negotiations. 

the home inspector's role.

Home inspections are typically conducted by…

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how to prep your home for the fall

Fall has arrived in Chicagoland, and we are here for it! Read our 10 tips for what to do this fall to get your home ready for the season.

1. clean + cover your outdoor patio/furniture.

We know - it's still nice to have a fall bonfire or two before you start wrapping up. We recommend to at least start cleaning early, so when the chilly weather comes in for good and it's time to put the covers on you're not overworked. Try to cover up all the furniture so it stays well maintained when the cold weather and rain hits.

2. check the roof.

Your roof may show no signs of problem all summer; then, when snow starts collecting suddenly you see a leak! Give your roof an overall checkup to make sure you won't run…

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why fall is a great time to sell your home

While spring often takes the spotlight, there are compelling reasons why fall is a great time to sell your home. Fall often has more serious buyers, unique staging possibilities, and many other advantages. Read on to learn more on how to embrace the fall market.

1. less competition in the market.

While spring might be the most popular time to list homes, fall sees a decrease in the number of homes available for sale. Even with an already low number of homes available, this decrease can be an ever greater advantage for sellers. The fewer the options on the market, the more your home can stand out and attract more potential buyers. 

2. homebuyers are typically more serious.

During the fall,…

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where is the market moving?

With high interest rates, low inventory, and competition in the market not letting up, what should buyers and sellers really be doing now? Here's our analysis for approaching the market with what's best for you.

the unpredictability of interest rates

Even though we see extensive forecasting and analysis on interest rates from experts, nobody truly knows what lies ahead. Time and again, predictions have been made, and the outcomes have not matched expectations. Recently, economic strategists have mentioned the possibility of an intentional pushing of rates to generate a controlled recession. This strategy aims to prevent inflation from spiraling out of control. While this would mean rate could remain higher for the…

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summer outdoor living trends to enhance your home's exterior.

As the temperatures rise and the days grow longer, it's time to transform your home's exterior into a summer oasis. Whether you have a spacious backyard or a cozy balcony, there are several trending outdoor living ideas that can elevate your outdoor space and make it a stylish and inviting extension of your home. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the top summer outdoor living trends that will help you create a stunning outdoor area where you can relax, entertain, and soak up the sun.

1. use an organic modern style.

The organic modern style, which has been a prominent trend in interior design, has now transitioned to the exterior of the home. Embrace natural textures and…

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A look at the summer real estate market

The housing market is a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape, influenced by various factors such as economic conditions, demographic shifts, and buyer/seller behaviors. As we look ahead to the summer, it's natural to wonder what lies in store for the real estate industry. In this blog, we delve into some of the predictions and insights offered by experts in the field, to gain a glimpse into the possible trajectory of the housing market in the coming months.

1. continued demand and tight inventory.

One key trend anticipated in the housing market is the continuation of buyer demand, even if it's lower than the previous year. The supply of available homes is expected to remain tight, which still creates…

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5 simple ways to increase your home resale value

Getting top dollar on your home is a real thing, and some mistakes can cost you tens of thousands in earnings (browse our blog for stories). Here are 5 simple ways to make sure you get it right.

1. maximize the usable value of each room.

Take advantage of every inch of your home by maximizing the usable value of each room. Consider removing bulky furniture, adding functional storage solutions, and creating multi-functional spaces that can serve multiple purposes.

2. stage through the buyer's eyes.

Stage it correctly. That doesn’t always mean renting furniture — and it definitely doesn’t mean leaving out cookies and welcome signs. What it does mean is arranging your space and decor to…

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how to boost your home's energy efficiency this spring

Increasing the energy efficiency of your home not only reduces your carbon footprint, but also helps to save money on energy costs. Below are some tips to help make your home more sustainable this spring.

1. clean your refrigerator's coils.

Doing this simple task will allow your fridge to draw less power when cleaned from dust and grime.  As a result, your fridge will run more efficiently and last longer.

2. insulate wall, ceilings, and windows.

Insulation is crucial in keeping your home warm during the colder months and cool during the warmer months. Insulating your home helps to keep the heat in and saves you energy costs. Consider using eco-friendly insulation materials, such…

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what you get when you work with a REALTOR®

Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial transactions you'll ever make. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned real estate investor, it can be a complex and overwhelming process. That's where a REALTOR® comes in. They are licensed professionals who can provide you with expert guidance and support throughout the entire real estate transaction. In fact, NAR data shows that a median REALTOR®-listed home sold for $120k more than by owner last year. Read on to learn more about all the key benefits of working with an agent.

1. experience you can't beat.

One of the main benefits of working with a REALTOR® is building your wealth with a foundation valuable of market experience.…

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