SIZE MATTERS… And When It Comes To Real Estate…
In Chicago, our standard lot size is 25 feet wide by 125 feet deep, so the length is literally 5 times the width! So intuitively, width is clearly more valuable. Inside the properties widths are about 19 feet, but keep in mind you have staircases eating up lots of space, so on narrower lots you start seeing dining room tables encroach on fireplaces. With narrower spaces, it can start to look and feel like a bowling alley, and less like a home.
Why Does Local Market Expertise Matter?
“Location, location, location” – what does this really mean? Even within a neighborhood, location matters, and can often be a matter of feet, not miles. There are nuances on value from one block to the next, transportation resources, landmark districts, school differences, and proximity to entertainment areas, hospitals and busy streets comes into play.
The Power of Home Ownership
You can make 32% on average on your investment when buying vs renting. You make money over three different time periods: 1. Positive cash flow or reduced expense, 2. Mortgage interest expense & property tax, 3. Principal pay down & appreciation
When Is The Best Time To List My Home In West Town?
We’ve all heard that “spring” is the optimum time to sell a home. “Well, what about ‘fall’?” There are the optimal windows of time for listing your home and your area’s seasons will affect your market timing. Seasonal market timing and prep to sell are both critical factors for successful home sales.
How To Pay Less Property Tax In Chicago
Lowering your Chicago property taxes requires two things: challenging what the city assesses you and taking all the exemptions for which you are eligible. There are some nuances to each of these tactics.
The Work Top Realtors Do AFTER The Property Is Under Contract
Getting the contract is just the beginning – how do you make sure the deal will close? There are more hurdles to clear before the deal is done including inspections, appraisal, and final walk-thru.
To Maximize Sales Price, Your Property Has To Appraise
Making sure your Chicago property appraises for the desired sales values requires two things: Understanding the appraiser’s methodolgy and having a savvy local realtor who knows the neighborhood and current home values better than the appraiser.
How To Renovate Your Home in a Profitable and Fun Way
A home renovation can earn back as much as $3 in resale for every $1 spent if done right. Doing it successfully depends on what you decide to renovate, who does the work, and how the work is performed. How do you determine the scope and budget for your rehab?
Utilizing Prep To Sell To Maximize Selling Price
Chicago’s Moldy Secret? Split Face Block
During the 90s and 2000s, Chicago experienced an unprecedented condo boom. Split face block was heavily used and it is an unsuitable building material for Chicago’s climate!