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    <guid>https://www.arhomerealty.com/blog/buying-vs-renting-what-to-consider-when-making-your-decision.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.arhomerealty.com/blog/buying-vs-renting-what-to-consider-when-making-your-decision.html</link>
        <author>assistant@arhomerealty.com (arhome realty)</author>
        <title>Buying vs. Renting: What to Consider When Making Your Decision</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



buying vs. renting: what to consider when making your decision


Deciding whether to buy or rent a home is a significant financial choice that can impact your lifestyle and long-term goals. In this blog post, we'll review the pros and cons of both buying and renting to help you make an informed decision that aligns with your unique circumstances.


1. financial considerations.


When it comes to finances, buying a home often involves a substantial upfront investment, including a down payment, closing costs, and potential taxes. On the other hand, renting oftentimes requires a security deposit and the first month's rent. Before making your decision, it's crucial to compare monthly mortgage payments to rent costs while also considering additional expenses like maintenance, property taxes, and homeowner's insurance for buyers and utilities for renters. Do keep in mind that with each mortgage payment, you're not just covering the cost of accommodation; you're also pitching into equity in an asset—something that isn't happening when you're renting.


2. flexibility and commitment.


Buying a home signifies a more long-term commitment to a specific location, as opposed to renting, which gives you more flexibility. I f you already plan to put roots down somewhere, buying can be a great way to start building equity instead of losing money to rent. Exploring how this equity could contribute to your overall financial stability is a key consideration in your decision. But, depending on your current situation, the flexibility with renting is a very important consideration, since you have the freedom to relocate without the complexities and potential financial losses of selling a property too soon after purchasing it.


3. maintenance responsiblities.


Renters are typically not responsible for major maintenance and repair costs, as landlords typically handle these issues. Homeowners, however, need to budget for maintenance and repairs. The trade-off is that homeownership allows you to personalize your space and make changes according to your preferences, something renters often have restrictions on. As you navigate this choice, consider your comfort level with maintenance responsibilities and how it aligns with your desire for a personalized and well-maintained living space.


4. lifestyle and future planning.


Assessing your current lifestyle and future plans is crucial in this decision-making process. Are you ready to settle in one location for an extended period, or does your lifestyle demand more flexibility. Additionally, consider how homeownership or renting aligns with your broader financial goals, such as investing for the future. Homeownership, with its potential for long-run property appreciation, can serve as a tangible asset. Renting, on the other hand, may free up more immediate funds for the moment.



In the &quot;Buying vs. Renting&quot; decision, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. It ultimately depends on your individual circumstances, financial situation, and personal preferences. Take the time to weigh the pros and cons, consider your long-term goals, and make a decision that aligns with your unique situation. As always, we are here to assist you.



talk to an arhome agent





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    <pubDate>Thu, 26 Feb 2026 15:21:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.arhomerealty.com/blog/what-an-as-is-sale-really-means-in-real-estate.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.arhomerealty.com/blog/what-an-as-is-sale-really-means-in-real-estate.html</link>
        <author>assistant@arhomerealty.com (arhome realty)</author>
        <title>Understanding “AS-IS” Home Sales: What Buyers and Sellers Should Know</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



understanding &quot;as-is&quot; home sales: what buyers and sellers should know


“AS-IS” sales have become a common part of today’s real estate market — not just in competitive times, but as a practical option for both buyers and sellers. Sellers often choose to list a home “AS-IS” to simplify the process and avoid repair negotiations, while buyers may use it to streamline their offer and stand out as serious contenders.


But what does that actually mean for you?


1. what is an &quot;as-is&quot; sale?


An “AS-IS” sale is a common way of saying that the buyer and seller include a contract clause where the buyer promises that after doing the home inspection, the buyer won’t be asking the seller for any repairs or money. This does NOT waive the buyer’s right to do an inspection (unless that was waived in another clause, but that’s a separate topic). It also does NOT waive the buyer’s right to back out of the deal if you don’t like the inspection results and if your contract has that option. It’s just a way of making your offer easier on the seller, because you’re promising no repair requests should you decide to move forward post-inspection.


2. common misconceptions about &quot;as-is&quot; sales


A home that’s asking for &quot;AS-IS&quot; offers doesn’t always have to be in bad shape It just means that the seller is not interested in working on any repairs that might come up, however minor. A lot of times the homes that are in worse shape end up selling &quot;AS-IS,&quot; because it just wouldn’t make sense for the seller to fix up an entire fixer-upper that the buyers are looking to remodel anyways. But sometimes, homes that are in GREAT shape sell as-is because it’s inconvenient for the seller or they simply by choice don’t feel like taking on repairs. And that’s completely normal, especially when the market is competitive.


3. the seller's liabilities


&quot;AS-IS&quot; does NOT mean the seller is free from liability as to the condition of the house. In Illinois, sellers (with some exceptions) are required to answer a list of legally binding questions regarding the condition of a property and give it to the buyer before the contract is binding. As long as a seller isn’t exempt (talk to an agent to find out more about this) a buyer may rely on those answers. If the seller lies in any of them there can be consequences.



**the above is information is general info and not legal advice. Your individual situation may vary. No agency or attorney relationship is formed. This info based on the standard multiboard 7.0 contract used in Illinois. If you use a different contract, modify that contract or are transacting in a different state, this information might not apply. Contact a real estate agent or attorney to review your specific situation.**

 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Mon, 02 Feb 2026 22:46:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.arhomerealty.com/blog/2026-real-estate-market-outlook.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.arhomerealty.com/blog/2026-real-estate-market-outlook.html</link>
        <author>assistant@arhomerealty.com (arhome realty)</author>
        <title>2026 Real Estate Market Outlook</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



2026 real estate market outlook


As we step into the new year, the real estate market continues to evolve, presenting both challenges and opportunities.  For both buyers and sellers, understanding these evolving trends is crucial to making informed and successful decisions.


1. lower mortgage rates


Mortgage rates have already begun to dip, and the downward trend is expected to continue. The National Association of REALTORS® are predicting rates to even hit 6 soon. Even a slight decline could activate a wave of buyers currently waiting on the sidelines. These falling rates may also give homeowners with low locked-in rates the confidence to finally list their properties. This anticipated surge in market activity has sparked a sense of renewed optimism across the industry.


2. rising supply of homes


The inventory of homes for sale continues to grow, marking a turning point the industry has long anticipated. Falling mortgage rates are encouraging hesitant homeowners to finally list their properties, while a rising supply of new construction adds even more options. To further assist buyers, many builders are offering unique incentives that make purchasing a brand-new home more accessible than ever.


3. steady price growth


While home prices continue to climb, the pace of growth has begun to moderate compared to the record-breaking surges of recent years. This slowdown, combined with steady wage growth, offers much-needed relief for buyers who have struggled with affordability. For sellers, this shift represents a stabilizing market where home equity is expected to remain firm. Ultimately, as more inventory enters the market, price appreciation should maintain this more sustainable, slower pace.


4. 2026 market: what it means for buyer and sellers


As we head into 2026, the market is moving toward a much-needed balance. For buyers, the combination of expanded inventory and lower rates provides more breathing room, allowing for more negotiating power. For sellers, equity remains secure, but it's important to still focus on competitive pricing and excellent presentation to attract strong offers. Partnering with a knowledgeable real estate professional is crucial for navigating these dynamics successfully.



While predicting the exact trajectory of the housing market is a challenging task, industry experts offer valuable insights that help us anticipate potential trends and changes. As we look ahead, lower mortgage rates, a slower rise in home prices, and a growing inventory of homes are some key factors to consider. It's essential for prospective buyers and sellers to stay informed, work with knowledgeable professionals, and adapt to market conditions in order to navigate the ever-changing landscape of the housing market successfully.




talk to an arhome agent




Contact us for a free market analysis.


Sources: National Association of REALTORS®
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 31 Dec 2025 11:14:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.arhomerealty.com/blog/important-home-safety-tips-before-traveling-for-the-holidays.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.arhomerealty.com/blog/important-home-safety-tips-before-traveling-for-the-holidays.html</link>
        <author>assistant@arhomerealty.com (arhome realty)</author>
        <title>Important Home Safety Tips Before Traveling For The Holidays</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Important home safety tips before traveling for the holidays


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.


1. 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 the doors and windows you don't often use, and can potentially miss during your routine checks. This simple step can significantly reduce the risk of break-ins and unauthorized access.


2. install a home security system.


Consider investing in a home security system if you haven't already. Many modern systems allow you to monitor your home remotely through smartphone apps, providing real-time updates and alerts. This added layer of protection can deter potential intruders.


3. set timers for lights.


A dark and unoccupied home can attract unwanted attention. Set timers for lights, both indoors and outdoors, to create the illusion that someone is home. This small trick can help maintain the appearance of normalcy.


4. hold mail and packages.


An overflowing mailbox or a pile of packages on your doorstep is a clear sign that no one is home. Contact your local post office to hold your mail and ask a neighbor or friend to collect any packages that may arrive in your absence.


5. unplug electronics.


Save energy and reduce the risk of electrical fires by unplugging non-essential electronics before you leave. This includes chargers, small appliances, and electronic devices. 


6. check smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.


Safety should always be a top priority. Before leaving, test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are working correctly. Replace batteries if needed to guarantee they are in optimal condition.


7. temperature control.


Depending on the season, adjust your thermostat to a temperature that will prevent pipes from freezing or the house from becoming too hot. This not only safeguards your property but also helps save energy.


8. secure valuables.


Consider storing valuable items, such as jewelry and important documents, in a secure location. If you have a home safe, use it to protect your most precious possessions.


9. check insurance coverage.


Confirm that your homeowner's or renter's insurance is up to date and provides adequate coverage. Knowing you are protected in the event of an unforeseen incident can offer peace of mind during your travels.



As you prepare for your holiday getaway, taking the time to implement these home safety tips can make a significant difference in ensuring a worry-free vacation. We hope these suggestions contribute to a secure and enjoyable holiday season. Safe travels
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Mon, 01 Dec 2025 17:22:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.arhomerealty.com/blog/selling-your-home-in-the-fall-market-what-you-need-to-know.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.arhomerealty.com/blog/selling-your-home-in-the-fall-market-what-you-need-to-know.html</link>
        <author>assistant@arhomerealty.com (arhome realty)</author>
        <title>Selling Your Home in the Fall Market: What You Need to Know</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



selling your home in the fall market: what you need to know


If you’re preparing to sell your home, it’s important to understand how the season can impact your experience. While spring often gets the most attention, fall has its own unique advantages for sellers. Fall often has more serious buyers, unique staging possibilities, and many other advantages. Here’s what you need to know about the fall market:


1. less competition in the market.


Fall typically has a decrease in the number of homes available for sale. This decrease can be a great 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, the group of homebuyers may consist of more serious and motivated individuals. Many buyers aim to complete their purchases before the holiday season and before the harsh winter weather sets in. This could mean that the buyers you encounter are genuinely interested and ready to make a decision quickly.


3. you can add autumn accents to enhance the staging.


Fall provides an opportunity to showcase your home with cozy and inviting seasonal decor. Warm colors, tasteful fall wreaths, seasonal curb appeal, and other autumn-themed touches can create a welcoming atmosphere that resonates with potential buyers. This enhanced staging can help them visualize themselves living in the space.


4. you're likely to get a quicker closing date.


Fall homebuyers are often motivated to wrap up the buying process promptly, resulting in a quicker closing timeline. This promptness is beneficial for both sellers and buyers alike. A smoother and faster closing process can reduce the uncertainty and stress associated with selling a home.



While spring may be the traditional peak season for selling homes, the fall has its own set of advantages that can make it a favorable time to list your property. The combination of motivated buyers, reduced competition, and the chance to create an inviting ambiance can all contribute to a successful home-selling experience during this season.


Contact us for a free market analysis
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 30 Sep 2025 19:41:00 -0500</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.arhomerealty.com/blog/preparing-your-home-for-a-fall-sale.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.arhomerealty.com/blog/preparing-your-home-for-a-fall-sale.html</link>
        <author>assistant@arhomerealty.com (arhome realty)</author>
        <title>How to Prepare Your Home For A Fall Sale</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



how to prepare your home for a fall sale


If you're planning to sell your house this fall, now is the perfect time to start preparing. With cooler weather, beautiful autumn colors, and motivated buyers hoping to move before the holidays, fall can be a good time to list your home. There are several steps you can take to ensure your home stands out and attracts potential buyers during this season. Read on for a comprehensive checklist to get your home ready for a fall sale.


1. boost curb appeal.


First impressions matter, and the exterior of your home is the first thing potential buyers will see. In the fall, curb appeal means keeping leaves raked, walkways clear, and your entryway warm and inviting. Consider adding a seasonal touch like a fall wreath or mums by the front door, but avoid going overboard with decorations that may distract from your home itself. An experienced agent can also review your home’s exterior and advise on upgrades. Remember -- sometimes a small change can make a world of a difference, but sometimes, it could hurt more than help


2. declutter and depersonalize.


Buyers want to envision themselves living in your home, which can be challenging if it's filled with clutter or personal items. Prior to showing your home, consider removing personal photographs, clearing counters, shelves, and closets of excess clutter. You'll also want to ask a real estate professional on the best way to arrange your furniture for a high-profit sale. Sometimes, small changes can make your space look larger and more open for buyer's imaginations.


3. make repairs and updates.


A well-maintained home is more appealing to buyers and can justify a higher asking price. Take time to address any visible repairs, especially ones that might become more noticeable during the fall season. But remember -- if you're going to fix anything, make sure it's done professionally so you can in good faith avoid future issues down the line. 


4. stage your home.


Staging your home can help buyers visualize themselves living there and make your space feel more inviting. But staging has to be done well to help and not hurt your home's appeal. Sometimes, too much seasonal decor can appear fake and uninviting, and the wrong staging items may clash with your existing style and create chaos. Likewise, overcrowding a room with furniture can make it feel cluttered, while too little furniture might leave buyers confused about each room’s purpose. Make sure you consult with an experienced real estate professional who can oftentimes use what you already have to maximize the potential of your space. 



How you go about selling your property can really impact how much money ends up in your pocket when all is said and done. At arhome realty, we take a fresh, top tech and marketing approach to your home sale, as you would expect; but more than that we go above and beyond with our expert staging and review to prepare your home for its absolute top-dollar sale. With a couple extra steps in prepping your home while working with a knowledgeable real estate agent, you can maximize your chances of selling quickly and for the best possible price this fall.



talk to an arhome agent





 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 29 Aug 2025 11:07:00 -0500</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.arhomerealty.com/blog/simple-strategies-to-help-your-home-sell.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.arhomerealty.com/blog/simple-strategies-to-help-your-home-sell.html</link>
        <author>assistant@arhomerealty.com (arhome realty)</author>
        <title>Simple Strategies to Help Your Home Sell</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



simple strategies to help your home sell


If your home stands out (in a good way), it attracts more buyers, gets more traffic, and that typically results in more interest, more offers and a higher end sale. It's important to make sure your home is truly ready for a home sale, to make the most of its market debut and get more buyers to fall in love with it. And while we generally don't recommend any major projects (exceptions abide - ask an arhome agent for the most profitable approach), the good news is there's a lot that you can control when it comes to making your home above-average. 


Here are some uncommon ways that actually make a big difference in your home sale.


1. avoid &quot;fake staging&quot;


We don't mean to avoid staging in general - staging is an amazing, powerful tool if used correctly and tactfully. But sometimes you can go overboard with it. Little displays or signs for the buyers, treats, or other obvious for-buyers-only displays will send the &quot;for sale&quot; message more than they will send the &quot;picture yourself in this home&quot; message. Avoid making your home appear like you're luring buyers in, like there's many people traveling through the home, or simply highlighting that the house is &quot;trying to sell.&quot; Staging should be well-planned, but mimic a real home. Our staging experts can help you do that right.


2. actually remember curb appeal


Curb appeal is one of those obvious checklist items that somehow gets overlooked in the end. Of course, it's important to focus on the interior of your home - but first you need to make a home shopper want to come inside. Not only that, but when a potential buyer pulls up to your home, it's the very first impression they will get - that walk to your front door. Are you proud of it? Is it tidy, cleaned up, well-kept? First impressions stick, and whatever they see outside will stay with them as they walk through the rest of your home.


Don't overlook it. But if you plan to do any sprucing up (especially if it will cost you anything), make sure to ask us for the right advice on what will give you a good return.


3. declutter the right way


Seems obvious enough? Maybe not. When we live in our homes, certain things in certain places feel normal (they should). But setting up your home for a good sale is a completely different situation. What may seem like an organized home to you, for your daily living, will not translate the same way to a potential buyer who knows nothing about your life. For best results (the kind that get your home sold for the highest price), we really do recommend talking to an agent to give you an objective for-sale organization plan. You may be surprised at what what can stay and what needs to be removed for showings. Our agents will give you a professional perspective from the eyes of a buyer (trust us, we work with buyers all the time too). Your home will stand out from others that don't have this taken care of the right way.


4. neutralize smells even if you don't think they are bad


Smells can be very personal and emotional to people. While this can be great if you happen to score the right smell, the odds of this happening to all your home shoppers across the board is quite unlikely. Which leaves you with the possibility of unnecessarily deterring buyers. For one, they may be unable to make themselves feel &quot;at home&quot; among the unfamiliar aroma. We recommend making sure your home has a fresh, neutral smell during showings - so that nothing distracts buyers from picturing themselves making your home theirs. If you're not sure what to do, ask our agents for how to navigate this.


5. have a good attitude - it can make or break your sale


What? How does this have anything to do with your home? A lot more than you think, actually. Part of the buying process requires setting up home tours, and sometimes buyers make last minute plans, or are off schedule, or otherwise don't give you on the dot scheduling notice. A buyer's experience with trying to set up a viewing of your home will set the tone for the showing. If your schedule is very restrictive, requires lots of early notice, and the buyers have to wait a long time to hear back if you'll work with their schedule or they have to try a few times to get in, that might impact their mood or approach while viewing your home. That's one thing you don't want to be remembered for. If you resolve to stay flexible through the scheduling process, and mentally prepare yourself to keep your home show-ready as much as possible (we admit it's not that easy), you'll set a great tone for the buyers before they even step foot into your home.



There you have it - our simple tips for making your home stand out to buyers as a potential &quot;yes&quot; For the best ways to implement these tips and really do them right for a high-profit sale, talk to an arhome agent - it's what we're here for.

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    <pubDate>Fri, 01 Aug 2025 14:14:00 -0500</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.arhomerealty.com/blog/summer-outdoor-living-trends-to-enhance-your-homes-exterior.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.arhomerealty.com/blog/summer-outdoor-living-trends-to-enhance-your-homes-exterior.html</link>
        <author>assistant@arhomerealty.com (arhome realty)</author>
        <title>Summer Outdoor Living Trends To Enhance Your Home's Exterior</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



summer outdoor living trends to enhance your home's exterior


Summer is here, and it’s the perfect season to elevate your outdoor space. Whether you have a spacious backyard or a cozy balcony, there are several different outdoor living ideas that can elevate your outdoor space and make it a stylish and inviting extension of your home. Here’s what’s trending in summer 2025 for outdoor living.


1. nature-inspired design


Homeowners are gravitating toward natural materials and earthy design in their outdoor spaces. Sustainable wood decking is rising in popularity, along with stone and pebble walkways that seamlessly blend the home with its natural surroundings. Earth-tone color palettes—such as sage green, terracotta, and sandy neutrals—are trending in everything from furniture to exterior paint, creating an effortless blend between the built and natural environments..


2. connecting indoor and outdoor spaces


Designs that blur the line between indoor and outdoor living are taking center stage. Large sliding or folding glass doors and expansive windows are popular features, inviting natural light in and offering seamless views of the surrounding landscape. Many are using consistent flooring materials or coordinating colors between indoor rooms and outdoor patios to help create a smooth transition that visually expands the living space. This seamless flow enhances both everyday comfort and entertaining options, making the home feel larger and more connected to nature.


3. garden-to-table living


The trend of cultivating fresh homegrown produce is gaining momentum. Vertical gardens, raised beds, and herb walls are becoming common features, providing not only sustainability but also fresh ingredients right at your doorstep. Even in a smaller outdoor space or a balcony, there are many options for growing a garden. For those seeking year-round gardening options, compact greenhouse kits offer an effective solution regardless of climate, making garden-to-table living an option during the colder months.


4. fire pits as a focal point


Fire pits continue to be one of the most popular outdoor features. Whether built-in or portable, fire pits add warmth, ambiance, and a natural gathering spot. Many are choosing sleek gas fire tables, natural stone surrounds, or even custom-built fire features with integrated seating. These elements extend the usability of outdoor spaces well into the evening and cooler months, creating a cozy atmosphere for entertaining.


5. smart outdoor technology


Smart technology continues to make outdoor living more convenient and efficient. WiFi-enabled lighting, weather-resistant speakers, cameras, and irrigation systems are some popular options, allowing for enhanced control and convenience. Automated irrigation systems optimize water use by adjusting watering schedules based on weather conditions, helping to conserve resources while keeping the landscape healthy. Outdoor cameras and motion sensors provide peace of mind by monitoring your property in real time.



There are numerous options when it comes to enhancing your outdoor living space: from natural materials and seamless indoor-outdoor transitions, to edible gardens, cozy fire features, and smart tech upgrades. The trends for summer 2025 offer fun options for different styles and needs. Whether you're looking to create a peaceful retreat or a lively space for entertaining, these ideas can help you transform your exterior into a true extension of your home—one that’s both beautiful and functional all season long.

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    <pubDate>Tue, 01 Jul 2025 10:50:00 -0500</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.arhomerealty.com/blog/summer-2025-real-estate-market-outlook.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.arhomerealty.com/blog/summer-2025-real-estate-market-outlook.html</link>
        <author>assistant@arhomerealty.com (arhome realty)</author>
        <title>Summer 2025 Real Estate Market Outlook</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



summer 2025 real estate market outlook


As we head into Summer 2025, the real estate market continues to evolve. After a period of rapid appreciation and limited inventory, we're seeing signs of a more balanced, yet still competitive, market. For both buyers and sellers, understanding these evolving trends is crucial to making informed and successful decisions.


1. mortgage rates: holding steady


While we won't be returning to the historically low rates seen during the pandemic, the dramatic swings of the past few years seem to be settling. Experts predict the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage will largely hover in the mid-6 range.


2. homes for sale: a slow climb for more choices


Good news for buyers in Illinois: the number of homes for sale is slowly increasing. After a long period of very few homes on the market, we're seeing more options pop up. Even though the market still remains competitive, an increase in inventory may give buyers a little more flexibility. While the new tariffs will likely impact homebuilding and inventory, there is still uncertainty on what to expect.


3. home prices: still rising, but more slowly


Home prices continue to rise, but the pace of growth is slower compared to previous years of record numbers. This moderation is good news for buyers who have been grappling with affordability challenges. For sellers, this means your equity is predicted to remain stable. As more inventory of homes enters the market, home prices should rise at a slower pace than before.


4. summer market: what it means for buyer and sellers


Buyers will likely find more options and potentially more negotiating power due to increased inventory and moderating price growth. Sellers, while still at an advantage, should focus on competitive pricing and excellent presentation to attract strong offers. Partnering with a knowledgeable real estate professional is crucial for navigating these dynamics successfully.



While predicting the exact trajectory of the housing market is a challenging task, industry experts offer valuable insights that help us anticipate potential trends and changes. As we look ahead, stabilizing mortgage rates, a slower rise in home prices, and a growing inventory of homes for sale are some key factors to consider. It's essential for prospective buyers and sellers to stay informed, work with knowledgeable professionals, and adapt to market conditions in order to navigate the ever-changing landscape of the housing market successfully.




talk to an arhome agent




Contact us for a free market analysis.


Sources: Illinois REALTORS®, National Association of REALTORS®, Newsweek, Fannie Mae, Bankrate
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Mon, 02 Jun 2025 09:06:00 -0500</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.arhomerealty.com/blog/zillow-and-redfin-announce-new-rules-why-you-need-a-realtor-now-more-than-ever.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.arhomerealty.com/blog/zillow-and-redfin-announce-new-rules-why-you-need-a-realtor-now-more-than-ever.html</link>
        <author>assistant@arhomerealty.com (arhome realty)</author>
        <title>Zillow and Redfin Announce New Rules: Why You Need A REALTOR® Now More Than Ever</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Zillow and Redfin announce new rules: why you need a REALTOR® now more than ever


The real estate industry is buzzing with the recent responses of Zillow and Redfin to the National Association of Realtors® (NAR)'s updated listing policy. Under the new policy, home sellers will now have the option to instruct their brokers to market their properties without immediately listing them on the large-scale Multiple Listing Service (MLS) or Participant Listing Network (PLN) within the first 24 hours of marketing. The move allows Sellers to have more control and decision power in how their property is advertised, from both a privacy and strategy point of view. In a significant reaction, both Zillow and Redfin have announced that they will ban any listing that is ever advertised anywhere if it is not submitted to the large-scale MLS feeding to all real estate websites within 24-hours of any advertisement.


What does this pivotal change mean for the future of the real estate market, and more importantly, why is the expertise of a real estate agent more critical than ever?


Why real estate professionals are crucial amidst these changes


These recent platform bans underscore the fundamental importance of comprehensive MLS data. Without a complete view of all available properties, buyers who rely solely on popular self-search platforms may encounter an incomplete picture of the market. This is precisely where experienced real estate professionals–your trusted REALTORS®–step in. A knowledgeable agent can provide you with full access to properties are currently on the market, including those that might not yet (or ever) be visible on major online portals. The shift in how listings are disseminated is significant. Previously, properties listed in the PLN would typically appear on Zillow and Redfin once they were activated in the MLS. Now, according to the new policy and the subsequent response from Zillow and Redfin, if a property is marketed publicly for more than 24 hours before being entered into the MLS, even if it was initially in the PLN, it faces a permanent ban from these major platforms. This change creates a real possibility that buyers exclusively using public search portals might completely miss out on numerous available homes.


How the Zillow and Redfin ban affects home sellers


For home sellers, navigating this evolving landscape requires strategic guidance, and a trusted agent becomes an invaluable asset. An experienced real estate agent can advise you on the optimal strategy for marketing your property, from determining the right pricing and timing to deciding where and how it is best advertised amidst the changing online polices. With these new bans in effect, it's more critical than ever to have a professional who deeply understands how to navigate both traditional real estate marketing channels and the changes in real-time.


If your preference is to explore listing your property privately, an experienced agent can ensure your home is marketed effectively and discreetly, regardless of the ongoing changes in platform policies and MLS regulations. They can leverage their network and understanding of private real estate listings to connect you with potential buyers.


The real estate landscape is indeed shifting rapidly. With ongoing policy changes, platform bans impacting listing visibility, and potentially more properties being marketed behind the scenes, both homebuyers and sellers are in greater need of a skilled professional who can help them navigate this complex industry. Now, more than ever, the expertise and comprehensive market knowledge of a REALTOR® are essential to achieving your real estate goals.



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    <pubDate>Fri, 02 May 2025 18:03:00 -0500</pubDate>
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