Blog: Real Estate Transactions
- Chicago Real Estate Market Update, August 2023
Feb 23, 2026
As we move out of the busy summer season, it’s a good time to take stock of the Chicago real estate market. Here’s what’s happening… Moderate Dip in Sales Coupled with Price Uptick Illinois has witnessed a moderate decline in home sales, with figures down approximately 20% compared to the preceding year. However, coupled with this sales dip is an upswing in home prices, marking an increase of around 4.5% year-on-year. Low Supply Influences Pricing...Read More - Why We Are Grateful For Our Team
Feb 23, 2026
Having just celebrated our Ten Year Firm Anniversary, we’re taking some time to reflect on all that we are grateful for as we approach this holiday season. As many of you already know, we (Stephanie and Michelle) started out as friends before forming our partnership. Over the past decade of being business partners, we’ve always kept our friendship and respect for each other at the forefront. We believe that is why we have been able...Read More - Real Estate Plans to Be Grateful For
Feb 23, 2026
With Thanksgiving around the corner, it’s that time of year when we begin reflecting on what we are truly thankful for. You might feel grateful for family and friends like we are, or maybe you’re thankful for a warm home as we near winter. Speaking of homes, if you are purchasing or selling your home, then a streamlined process and a real estate plan should be added to your gratitude list. If you’re lucky and...Read More - What to Expect From Your Real Estate Closing
Feb 23, 2026
“Closing” in real estate is the process when ownership of the property officially transfers from the seller to the buyer. It’s an exciting moment, but one that’s not well-understood. So whether this is your first closing or your fifth closing (and you’re looking for a reminder!), we are going to discuss what you can expect as both a seller and a buyer. The Process of Closing for Sellers As a seller, you generally do not...Read More - Quick Tips for Buying a Home in this Market
Feb 23, 2026
As many people are aware, the real estate market right now is a seller’s market. In many markets there is limited inventory and some sellers are able to get top dollar for their homes. The hot market does not mean you cannot or should not purchase a home right now. If you are thinking of buying a home, do not be discouraged and, instead, focus on being informed. Keep reading to learn more about buying...Read More - Quick Tips for Selling a Home in this Market
Feb 23, 2026
What you have heard is true – right now is a seller’s market. Inventory is low and home prices are high. However, selling a home is still not easy and requires careful planning. As you consider selling your home, check out the following tips to ensure you and your home are prepared to enter the market. Six tips for selling your home in this market: Prepare your home. Just because it is a seller’s market...Read More - Contingencies Home Buyers Should Be Aware Of
Feb 23, 2026
When submitting an offer to purchase a home, many buyers are, understandably, excited and nervous. When entering into a contract as a buyer, it’s important to be aware of and understand the terms of the contract and your obligations. Most real estate contracts contain certain contingency provisions or clauses that allow you, as a buyer, to terminate the contract if a particular contingency is not met and get your earnest money back. When you submit...Read More - Is a Land Trust Right for You?
Feb 23, 2026
When it comes to holding title to real property, you have many options. One option is to use a land trust. Similar to a revocable living trust, which we covered in our previous blog, a land trust involves a trustee (typically a corporation) who holds the title to the property. Meanwhile, the beneficiary(ies) of the land trust use the property and hold all responsibility for it. Also like a revocable living trust, the beneficiary(ies) of...Read More - Key Considerations When Buying a Vacation Home
Feb 23, 2026
Summer is basically here and with it comes the desire to get away on a vacation! Many people purchase a secondary or vacation home during the summer months. Like any real estate transaction, purchasing a vacation home is a significant financial investment but also a source of great joy. Here are some things to keep in mind when buying a vacation home: Financial Implications Buying a vacation home involves various financial considerations: Affordability: Assess your...Read More - Legal Aid Providers to Give to this Holiday Season
Feb 23, 2026
Pro Bono organizations offer free or reduced-rate representation in civil legal matters for clients who lack the resources to hire an attorney on their own. The legal system in Illinois strives to provide equal justice to all citizens. Still, it can be too complex for litigants to navigate independently, and hiring a lawyer can be prohibitively expensive. Pro bono organizations strive to bridge the gap and provide education, outreach, and legal representation to historically marginalized...Read More