You’ve found the right home, negotiated an offer and are ready to close. Before you get the keys, there’s one more important piece to plan for: closing costs. Closing costs are the fees and expenses you pay to finalize your mortgage and officially transfer ownership of the property. They typically range from 2% to 5% […]
Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make, and the journey often starts before you even set foot in an open house. One of the smartest first steps you can take is getting pre-approved for a mortgage. Pre-approval gives you a clear picture of your budget, shows sellers you’re a […]
Fall in Chicago is all about crisp mornings, colorful leaves and getting ready for cooler days ahead. It’s also the perfect season to take care of important home maintenance tasks before winter arrives. A little effort now can save you from costly repairs later and help keep your home safe, warm and energy efficient. Here’s […]
When you buy your first home, you’ll likely hear a lot of new terms for the first time, including the word “escrow.” Escrow plays a key role in both the homebuying process and in your ongoing homeownership. Let’s break it down. Escrow During the Home Purchase In a real estate transaction, escrow refers to a neutral […]
When you’re preparing to buy a home, your credit score is one of the most important numbers lenders will look at. In addition to influencing whether you’ll qualify for a mortgage, your credit score affects the interest rate and loan terms you’ll be offered, which can impact your monthly payments for years to come. What […]
You found the perfect home, your offer was accepted and the contract is signed—congratulations! But before you pop the champagne, there’s still a critical stretch of the homebuying journey ahead: the closing process. Between contract signing and getting the keys, several important steps must be completed to ensure the deal moves forward smoothly. Here are […]
You’re ready to purchase a home. The next step is to interview REALTORS® and negotiate a written agreement that includes the services they will provide and the compensation they will receive. Here’s what you need to know about negotiating an agreement with a REALTOR®. When will I be able to negotiate? REALTORS® are required to get […]
Veterans and active servicemembers often have unique needs when looking for a home, and REALTORS® are committed to helping ensure those needs continue to be met following the real estate practice changes that went into effect on August 17, 2024. Here is what you need to know: I’d like to take advantage of my Department of Veteran […]
When you begin working with a REALTOR® and touring homes, you will be asked to sign a written buyer agreement. But what if you are just attending an open house? Here’s what you should know: I am attending an open house without a REALTOR®. Do I need a written buyer agreement in order to tour the […]
