Posts in category 'For Buyers Amp Sellers'

Purchasing a condo in the Chicago area is an exciting milestone, and our real estate agents are here to make sure you go in fully informed. Understanding the homeowners' association (HOA) rules before you commit is one of the most important steps in the entire process.

What the HOA documents actually tell you

When you make an offer on a condo, the seller must provide a package of governing documents. These materials are not just formalities — they define how the building operates, what you can and cannot do with your unit, and what you are financially responsible for.

The declaration and bylaws

The declaration and bylaws are the foundation of any HOA. The declaration establishes the legal framework of the association: How the property is divided, what is considered a common area, and what rights unit owne...

Click Here to Read More...

Our real estate agents have always considered winter to be one of the most underrated times of year to list a home for sale. With a less crowded marketplace, this season offers an opportunity to put your home in front of serious buyers only. 

That being said, selling a home during the holidays can involve some additional challenges. This time of year, home staging is even more important. Here's what you need to know about staging your home for sale in Chicagoland during the holidays!

Holiday Home Staging 101

Deep Clean and Declutter

Cleaning is an important first step to home staging, and that's as true in winter as it is during any other season. 

• Hire pros. Even if you usually do all your own cleaning, home staging is a great opportunity to hire professional cl...

Click Here to Read More...

Our real estate agents are no strangers to wind and snow here in Chicagoland. In fact, we've learned more than a thing or two about how to keep your home safe, secure, and, above all, warm this winter. 

Heating and insulation tips for Chicago winters

Winter will be here before you know it, and your home will have to withstand all the challenges the season brings. Here's how to stay warm and avoid heat loss in your home in Chicagoland during the coldest months of the year. 

Update windows

Old windows are often extremely inefficient, and replacing them with modern windows can drastically improve your home's efficiency. Look for insulated double- or triple-pane windows that are Energy Star rated.

Find and seal air leaks

There are innumerable tiny and not-so-tiny places where cold...

Click Here to Read More...

Spring is one of the best times of year to sell your home in Chicagoland. With winter on the way out, more people will start their house hunt during this season than any other. Listing your home in the spring is a great way to get a jump on the competition during one of the busiest times of year in real estate. 

Holding an open house offers an opportunity to gain an advantage and show your home at its best, and our real estate agents are here to help. Use these tips to make your Chicago open house more successful in any season. 

• Let go of your emotions
  It can be hard to separate your feelings about the house you're about to sell from the reality of how to market it. Also, thinking of all the

Click Here to Read More...

Our real estate agents love every season in Chicago, but there's something truly special about the holidays. From the festive lights that illuminate the Magnificent Mile to the city's official Christmas tree in Millenium Park, there's always a lot to experience around Chicagoland this time of year.

If you want to bring some of that holiday cheer into your home, here's how to deck the halls in your Chicago home this December. 

• Up Your Candle Game
  'Tis the season to illuminate your home with candlelight. The warm glow of candles provides a warm holiday atmosphere, especially for family dinners. Choose some lively ornamental candle holders to pair with candles in holiday colors. If you're concerned about open flames, choose a battery-powered candle — many of them are al...

Click Here to Read More...