The state of Illinois, like many states, has a rigorous process for those wishing to enter the real estate profession. As with any regulated profession, there are specific requirements to be met and procedures to follow. Let’s dive into the details of acquiring a real estate license in Illinois and contrast it with some general […]
Category: Moving
Schaumburg Takes the Crown as America’s Most Affordable ‘City-Like’ Suburb
Is Schaumburg the next Chicago? Americans have long looked toward the suburbs for more space, better schools, and a higher quality of life. These qualities, however, often come with a hefty price tag. Fortunately, Illinois residents are in luck. According to a new ranking online, half of the country’s ten most affordable and amenity-rich suburbs […]
The U.S. Cities Where Home Prices Have Surged the Most in 2025
In 2025, home prices in many parts of the United States will have gone up fast, faster than most experts expected. Between January and July, the median home list price climbed about 10%, which equals roughly $39,000 more for the average home. That increase brings the market close to the record highs seen during the […]
How ICE Raids and Immigration Crackdowns Could Affect Renters and Landlords in Chicago
When federal immigration raids increase in a major city like Chicago, the effects reach far beyond immigration itself. The housing market, rental prices, and even new construction can all be influenced by how communities react to fear and instability. While some people might not notice these changes right away, the impact can slowly reshape neighborhoods […]
Critics Warn Home Sale Tax Would Hurt Buyers and Sellers in the Suburbs
Lawmakers in Illinois have been debating a new idea to raise money for struggling public transit systems in the Chicago area. The proposal calls for adding a new tax on home sales in the suburbs. The plan would charge $3 for every $1,000 of a home’s value when a property is sold. For example, if […]
Top 10 Peoria Area Communities with Rapidly Rising Home Prices
Last month, the average home value across the United States was $359,402, according to Zillow. This represents an increase of almost $4,000 from March, where the average was $355,696. Compared to April of last year, this is a 4.4% rise. Local Home Prices in Peoria and Surrounding Counties In Peoria County, the median home listing […]
Real Estate in Illinois: How Chicago, Aurora, and Naperville Compare
Illinois is home to many different housing markets, but the three largest cities, like Chicago, Aurora, and Naperville, stand out the most. Each has its own lifestyle, housing prices, and challenges. Let’s look at how real estate differs in these cities. Chicago: Big City, Big Variety Chicago is the largest city in Illinois and has […]
Chicagoland Home Supply Struggles to Keep Up With Buyers
When people in Chicago real estate talk about the market right now, most of them focus on one issue: inventory. Over half of agents say that the number of homes available to buy is the most important factor this year. Interest rates and prices matter too, but they don’t compare. The lack of enough homes […]
Chicago’s Housing Market Faces the Challenge of High Rent
Why is rent so high? As the curtain fell on 2023, the cost of renting mid- to high-end apartments in the Chicago metro area saw an uptick, according to news outlets. This real estate firm evaluates properties based on their design, features, location, and various certifications, providing a comprehensive snapshot of the current market conditions. […]
Chicago Rent Prices Are Climbing While Wages Stay Flat
Many people who work full-time jobs in Chicago are finding it almost impossible to rent a decent apartment. Even with a steady income, once taxes, bills, and basic expenses are paid, there’s not much left to cover high rent prices. People are being forced to choose between unsafe living conditions and paying more than they […]
Unpacking the Affordable Housing Crisis in Illinois
In recent years, Illinois has grappled with a growing affordable housing crisis. This challenge has prompted lawmakers to take action, aiming to build a long-term, sustainable solution to the state’s housing troubles. Their focus lies in creating an environment conducive to affordable housing development, supported by tax incentives and increased homelessness services. The “Build Illinois […]
Get Rid of Bad Sewer Smell in Your Bathroom: A Complete Guide
The bathroom is one of the most frequently used rooms in the house, but it can also be one of the most unpleasant when it smells bad. A bad smell in your bathroom can be caused by a variety of factors, such as poor ventilation, mold, mildew growth, or a sewer smell. In this article, […]