Your Fall Home Maintenance Checklist

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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 a checklist of key fall home maintenance tasks:

1. Clear Out Gutters and Downspouts

Falling leaves may be pretty, but they can clog gutters quickly. Clean out debris so water drains properly and doesn’t pool near your foundation. Check downspouts to ensure they direct water away from your home.

2. Inspect Your Roof

Chicago winters can be tough on roofs. Look for missing, loose or damaged shingles and schedule repairs before snow and ice settle in. This prevents leaks and protects your home’s structure.

3. Service Your Heating System

Before you turn on the heat for the season, schedule a furnace inspection and replace filters. A tuned-up system runs more efficiently, helps lower energy bills and ensures you’ll stay cozy when temperatures drop.

4. Seal Windows and Doors

Drafts can drive up heating costs. Check the weatherstripping around windows and doors, and re-caulk if needed. Adding storm windows or using thermal curtains can also help keep warmth inside.

5. Winterize Outdoor Plumbing

Drain garden hoses, shut off exterior faucets and cover spigots to prevent frozen pipes. If you have an irrigation system, have it blown out before the first freeze.

6. Prep Your Fireplace and Chimney

If you plan to use a fireplace, schedule a chimney cleaning to remove buildup and ensure it’s safe to operate. Don’t forget to stock up on firewood and test your fireplace damper.

7. Check Safety Devices

Replace batteries in smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Test each device to make sure it’s in working order before heating season begins.

8. Clean and Store Outdoor Furniture

Give your patio furniture a quick wash, then store it in a shed or garage to extend its life. If you don’t have storage space, use weatherproof covers to protect items from snow and ice.

9. Refresh Landscaping

Rake leaves, aerate your lawn and plant bulbs for spring. Fall is also a great time to prune trees and shrubs, especially branches close to your roof or power lines.

Stay Ahead With Seasonal Maintenance

Completing these tasks now will help you avoid bigger problems once winter sets in. Regular upkeep also preserves your home’s value.

What Is Escrow and Why Does It Matter?

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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 third party that holds money, documents and instructions until all conditions of the sale are met. Depending on the state, this role can be filled by a title company, escrow company, attorney or another licensed professional. In Illinois, it’s most common for the title company or your real estate attorney to handle escrow, making sure funds, contracts and closing documents stay secure until every part of the agreement is complete.

Think of it as a safety measure for both the buyer and the seller. For example:

  • The buyer’s earnest money deposit is placed in escrow to show good faith.
  • Funds are only released once the agreed-upon terms are completed, such as inspections, appraisals and loan approval.

This ensures neither side has to commit until everyone has done what they promised fully.

Escrow After You Buy: The Escrow Account

Escrow doesn’t end at closing. Many homeowners have an escrow account managed by their lender. Each month, part of your mortgage payment goes into this account. The lender then uses the funds to pay key homeownership costs on your behalf, like:

  • Property taxes
  • Homeowner’s insurance
  • In some instances, mortgage insurance

Having an escrow account helps break these large bills into manageable monthly amounts. It also provides peace of mind, since your lender is making sure these critical bills are paid on time.

Why Escrow Matters

Escrow protects buyers and sellers in the home-buying process by keeping money secure until the deal is final. Once the sale is completed, an escrow account protects you as a homeowner by making it easier to budget and preventing missed payments on taxes or insurance.

Escrow may sound like industry jargon, but it’s really a safeguard. Whether you’re buying a home or managing monthly costs, escrow helps keep the process smooth and secure.

Understanding Credit Scores and Their Role in Homebuying

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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 Is a Credit Score?

A credit score is a three-digit number that reflects your history of borrowing and repaying money. It’s based on factors like how much debt you carry, how reliably you pay bills and how long you’ve had credit accounts open. In general, higher scores signal lower risk to lenders, while lower scores may suggest greater risk.

How Your Credit Score Affects Your Ability to Buy a Home

Mortgage lenders use credit scores as a way to measure trustworthiness. Having a higher score usually means you’ll qualify for a lower interest rate, saving you money over the life of the loan. On the other hand, having a lower score can mean higher rates or even additional requirements, like a larger down payment. That’s why it’s worth taking the time to strengthen your credit before applying for a loan.

What Influences Your Score

While credit scoring models can vary, the following tend to carry the most weight:

  • Payment history: Consistently paying bills on time is the single most important factor.

  • Credit utilization: How much of your available credit you’re using.

  • Length of credit history: Having older accounts open shows you’ve managed credit responsibly over time.

  • Types of credit: The different types of credit lines you have open, such as an installment loan (like a car loan) or revolving credit (like credit cards), can impact your score.

  • New credit inquiries: Opening several accounts in a short time can temporarily lower your score.

Improving Your Credit Before Buying

Even if your credit isn’t perfect, you can take steps to strengthen it:

  • Pay down balances. Aim to use less than 30% of your available credit.

  • Pay on time, every time. Even one missed payment can hurt your score.

  • Avoid opening new accounts right before applying. Lenders prefer stability.

  • Check your reports. Errors do happen—you can get free reports at AnnualCreditReport.com and dispute mistakes.

  • Build positive history. If your credit is thin or damaged, consider secured cards or small installment loans and pay them off responsibly.

The Bottom Line

Your credit score plays a major role in your homeownership journey. Understanding how it works — and taking steps to strengthen it — can help you secure a better mortgage rate and save money in the long run.

A trusted REALTOR® can connect you with local lenders, financial resources and strategies to prepare for buying. When you’re ready to begin your home search, your REALTOR® will be by your side to help you take the next step with confidence.

What Happens Between Contract Signing and Closing?

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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 the key milestones every buyer should expect during this phase, plus helpful tips to keep things on track.

Entering Escrow

Once your offer is accepted and the contract is signed, both parties typically enter escrow. Escrow is a neutral holding arrangement where a third party manages funds and documents until the transaction is finalized. 

During this time, you’ll deposit earnest money—a good-faith payment showing you’re serious about the purchase. This money is usually credited toward your down payment at closing. 

✅ TIP: Confirm the escrow instructions and timeline with your REALTOR® so you don’t miss any deadlines.

The Appraisal

If you’re financing the purchase, your lender will require a home appraisal to determine the property’s market value. A licensed appraiser will assess the home based on factors such as: 

  • Condition and age 
  • Location 
  • Renovations 
  • Sales of similar nearby properties 

If the appraisal matches or exceeds the agreed-upon price, you’re one step closer to closing. If the home appraises for less, you may need to renegotiate or cover the difference. 

📖 What to expect during an appraisal 

✅ TIP: Ask your agent to run recent comps before the appraisal so you have a sense of what to expect and can be prepared to negotiate if needed.

Securing Insurance

Before your lender gives final approval, you’ll likely need to secure homeowners insurance. Depending on the property’s location, other types of coverage—like flood, earthquake or liability insurance—may also be required. 

Even if it’s not mandated, insurance is critical to protecting your investment and peace of mind. 

✅ TIP: Start gathering insurance quotes early so you can compare coverage and rates before your lender’s deadline.

Getting a Home Inspection

A home inspection isn’t always required, but it’s highly recommended—and often included as a contingency in your contract. A qualified inspector will evaluate the home’s structure, systems and safety. 

If the inspection uncovers major issues, you’ll have options: negotiate repairs, request a credit or, if needed, walk away without penalty. 

📖 What to expect during a home inspection 

✅ TIP: Attend the inspection if possible. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions and learn more about the home’s maintenance needs.

The Final Steps

Once the appraisal, inspection and insurance are squared away, your lender will issue final approval, and you’ll schedule your closing day. On that day, you’ll review and sign documents, pay your remaining costs and—finally—get the keys. 

📖 Steps between signing and closing 

✅ TIP: Do a final walkthrough the day before closing to confirm the home’s condition matches what was agreed upon—and that any requested repairs were completed. 

The Bottom Line

Signing the contract is a big milestone, but it’s just the beginning of the final leg of your homebuying journey. Knowing what to expect—and working closely with your REALTOR®—can help ensure a smoother, more confident path to homeownership. 

Apply For A First Time Homebuyers Home Warranty Grant This June

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In celebration of Homeownership Month this June, we’re offering 10 first-time homebuyers a chance to receive a $250 reimbursement grant toward their home warranty.

To Chicago REALTORS®:

 

Nominate one of your first-time homebuyer clients for this special, limited-time reimbursement grant! We’ve made it easy. Share this blog on social media with this  downloadable graphic (to the right). Click here to download.

OR, complete the nomination form for clients you already know are qualified for this grant.      

Click To Apply Online

 

To Applicants:

You did it! You closed on your very first home! CONGRATULATIONS!

One of the ways you can, and have, protected your investment is through a home warranty purchase. Between closing costs, down payments and moving expenses, out-of-pocket expenses can add up.

This year, the Chicago Association of REALTORS® Foundation is proud to help ease the burden of homeownership costs by offering Chicago REALTOR® clients the chance to obtain a $250 reimbursement grant for purchasing a home warranty package.

Criteria For Applicants

To be considered, you must meet the following criteria:

  • Applicant must have closed on the home within six months of the application submission date.
  • Applicant must be one of the primary homeowners.
  • Applicant must be a first-time home owner.
  • Application must include a 150 word statement on “what owning my first home means to me.”
  • NOTE: Homes purchased in underinvested communities will be given priority consideration.

Click Here To Apply Online

Cool, Clean & Covered: Home Maintenance for A Stress-Free Summer

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As springtime slips away and we make way for long summer days, don’t forget about these important measures you can take to make sure your home is protected and operating efficiently all season long.

  • CHECK FOR CRACKS AROUND DOORS & WINDOWS

    The money you spend on keeping your home cool can slip through the cracks if you’re not careful. Check your windows, doors and vents for any loose fittings that could leave you paying to air condition the outdoors. Install or upgrade weatherstrips to reduce leakage or try a window insulation kit.

  • REVERSE YOUR CEILING FAN DIRECTION

    Switching your ceiling fan from clockwise to counterclockwise removes strain from your air conditioning unit by pushing cold air down, away from the ceiling and circulates it to areas where you need a breeze the most.

  • CHECK FOR MOLD AFTER SPRING SHOWERS

    Plentiful spring rains can also mean leaks and wetness in basements and attic spaces. Venture into these areas to see if you can spot any visible mold, feel an unnatural level of humidity in the space or smell something funky brewing. These are all signs you should act quickly before a small issue impacts your home in big ways.

  • CLEAN OUT GUTTERS & DOWNSPOUTS

    Springtime changes can also mean leaves, petals or other plant matter getting snug in your gutters and rain spouts. Tackle this chore on your own—ideally with the help of a friend or family member—or pay for a pro to clean your tracks and keep your gutters functioning properly.

  • TEST SMOKE & CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS

    While the recommended frequency for testing smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors is every month, the batteries should be switched out annually. And what better time to make sure you’re protected from smoke and fumes than bonfire and cookout season? It’s also important to replace the entire detector unit every 10 years, so if you’re new to your home or unsure of the last time your detectors were refreshed, be on the safe side and swap out the unit.

A few simple steps today can help you stay safe, cool and stress-free all summer long.

Negotiating Written Buyer Agreements: What To Know

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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 a written buyer agreement before you tour a home with them, whether that tour is in-person or a live virtual tour. These agreements help ensure both you and your REALTOR® are clear about roles, responsibilities and REALTOR® compensation. If you are simply visiting an open house or asking a real estate professional about their services, you do not need to sign a written buyer agreement. Learn more about written buyer agreements here, and learn more about open houses and tours here.

What can I negotiate?

Agreements with your REALTOR® are negotiable, including terms about the services your REALTOR® will provide, how much your REALTOR® will be paid, how long your agreement will last and more. You and your REALTOR® will work together to reach an acceptable agreement that allows you to get the value and services you need in the homebuying process, while also enabling your REALTOR® to pursue fair compensation for their work. Remember: compensation is fully negotiable and not set by law. You should consult an attorney if you have any questions or concerns regarding an agreement.

How is my REALTOR® compensated?

REALTOR® compensation can take many forms, such as a flat fee, a percentage of the purchase price or an hourly fee. REALTORS® cannot agree to an open-ended amount or range of compensation such as “the REALTOR’S® compensation will be whatever amount the seller is offering” or “between X and Y percent.” You can also ask the seller to offer compensation to your REALTOR®, which can be sought in the purchase agreement.

What types of services can my REALTOR® provide?

REALTORS® may offer many types of services such as finding and showing you homes that meet your criteria, accompanying you to showings, sharing their analysis of available properties, negotiating on your behalf and more. For more, read the 183 Ways A REALTOR® Makes The Real Estate Transaction Easier For You.

How do I start the conversation?

You may want to talk to a few REALTORS® to find the best match to help you on your homebuying journey. Start by asking questions about the options available to you. If you are working with a REALTOR®, they are bound by a Code of Ethics to have open and transparent conversations with you about your options.

What if we can’t agree?

You don’t have to sign an agreement that you don’t agree with, and you or the REALTOR® can walk away from a negotiation at any time. Keep looking for the right fit—another REALTOR® may be able to better meet your needs.

Can we change the terms of the agreement after we make it?

Yes. You and your REALTOR® can mutually agree to change the terms of your agreement. But your agreement and/or state law may govern when it can be changed or terminated. Read your agreement closely and speak with your REALTOR® if you would like to change or exit your agreement.

What Veterans Need to Know About Buying a Home

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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 Affairs (VA) Home Loan benefit. Am I allowed to pay for a REALTOR® under VA rules?

Yes. On August 10, 2024, the VA enacted a temporary policy allowing buyers with VA home loans to pay for REALTOR® representation.

Why is the policy only temporary?

The VA will decide if a formal rulemaking is necessary to make this policy permanent.

Why am I being asked to sign a written agreement?

Written buyer agreements lay out the services your REALTOR® will provide and what they will be paid for those services. The practice changes require written agreements for many REALTORS® nationwide. You are in the driver’s seat with these agreements, which are fully negotiable. You should not sign anything that includes terms you do not agree with or do not understand. For more information on written buyer agreements, click here.

How does my buyer’s agent get paid?

This is determined in your written buyer agreement. Methods of paying a buyer’s agent may include, but are not limited to, the seller or their listing broker offering to compensate the buyer’s agent, the buyer requesting that the seller pay the buyer broker as part of the purchase offer, or the buyer paying their agent directly out of pocket.

Why should veterans and active servicemembers work with a REALTOR®?

REALTORS® are obligated under NAR’s Code of Ethics to work in your best interest. Additionally, many REALTORS® have obtained NAR’s Military Relocation Professional (MRP) certification to better prepare them to work with veteran buyers. Find a REALTOR® who has earned the MRP certification here.

Open Houses & Written Agreements: What You Need to Know

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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 home?

No. If you are simply visiting an open house on your own or asking a REALTOR® about their services, you do not need to sign a written buyer agreement.

Is a REALTOR® who is hosting an open house required to enter into written agreements with the potential buyers who attend the open house?

No. In this case, since the REALTOR® is only there at the direction of the listing broker or seller, the REALTOR® is not required to have a written agreement with the buyers touring the home.

When will I be asked to sign an agreement with a REALTOR®?

After you begin “working with” a REALTOR® and at any point before you tour your first house together.

What does “working with” a REALTOR® mean?

A buyer is “working with” a REALTOR® as soon as the REALTOR® begins to provide services, such as identifying potential properties and arranging tours. REALTORS® who are simply marketing their services or speaking to a buyer—at an open house or by providing a buyer access to a house they have listed—are not considered to be working with the buyer.

What does it mean to “tour” a home?

Under the terms of the settlement, a “tour” is when a buyer who is working with a REALTOR® enters a home that is for sale or directs their REALTOR® to enter the home on their behalf. This includes when the buyer’s agent provides a live, virtual tour to a buyer not physically present.

What is the purpose of written buyer agreements?

Clarity and transparency. Written buyer agreements lay out the services your REALTOR® will provide and what they will be paid. Buyers should not sign anything that includes terms they do not agree with or do not understand. These agreements are fully negotiable.

Where can I learn more about buyer agreements?

Click here for everything you need to know.