What To Know About A Home Warranty

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Home warranties can help you save money on appliance repairs and maintenance of your home, but they may not be right for everyone. So, if you’ve just bought a home, and are debating whether a home warranty is right for you, here’s what you need to know.

The Difference Between Insurance & Warranties

You may think that you’re covered because you have home insurance, but a warranty is a separate entity. Homeowners insurance covers unforeseen damage to your home, specifically weather related incidences, while warranties cover things breaking down within your home, like the HVAC, kitchen appliances, garbage disposals, washers and dryers and more.

How It Works

Once you sign up for a home warranty, if something breaks down, you will submit a claim to your provider. From there, the provider will set you up with a repair company, who will contact you to set up an appointment. The repair or replacement will take place, and you will cover either the service fee or repair, whichever is less.

Benefits of A Home Warranty

A home warranty provides you with piece of mind, especially for those who don’t consider themselves handy. When something breaks, you know someone will be there to fix it for you. A home warranty can also help you stay on budget, as there are fewer unanticipated costs that may arise.

The Cons of A Home Warranty

Not everything is covered by a home warranty plan. For instance, a warranty won’t cover something that has not been properly maintained. Also, you pay up front for the cost of your plan each year. So, if a year goes by with no issues or repairs, you will still have to pay the price of the premium.

As always, discuss your best course of action with your REALTOR®. Find a Chicago REALTOR here.

Habits That Will Save You Money on Utilities 

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We’re all looking for ways to cut costs and save money. According to Numbeo, the average price of utilities, including electricity, heating, cooling, water and garbage, in Chicago costs $163.52 per month for a 915 square foot apartment. However, there are small habits you can build into your day-to-day life that will add up to save you money in the long run.

Switch to LED Bulbs

LED bulbs use 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and can last up to 25 times longer. Not only will switching your bulbs save you money on your energy bill, but you will also save money by replacing bulbs less frequently.

Unplug Electronic Devices or Appliances

Electronic devices and appliances continue to use a small amount of energy even when they are plugged in, even if they’re not in use. Either unplug them or use a power strip that you can turn off to avoid spending additional money when these items are not in use.

Open Air Vents & Keep Them Clear

It may seem obvious, but when you turn on your air conditioning for the first time in the summer, check all of your vents to make sure they are open and air is moving through them. Also, it’s important to ensure no large pieces of furniture or other items are in front of your vents. These changes will help your air conditioner work less, thus saving you money!

Replace Your Filters

When your filters are full of hair, dust and dirt, your heating and cooling units have to work harder to maintain the temperature in your home. Keep your heating and air conditioning units running efficiently by replacing the filters quarterly.

Wash Your Clothes in Cold Water

Running cold water costs less than using warm or hot water, so switch your settings when you throw in a load of laundry!

Air Dry Your Laundry

Speaking of laundry, try air drying your clothes after a wash instead of using the dryer!

Utilize Your Ceiling Fans

If it’s not hot enough to turn on the air conditioning, but you want to cool down a room, utilize your ceiling fan! Fans can cool your room down by 10 degrees and use a fraction of the energy your air conditioning unit would.

By implementing these simple changes, you can save money on your utility bills and reduce your carbon footprint, which is a win-win for both your wallet and the environment!

Row of homes in snow

The Ultimate Winter Maintenance To-Do List

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As cold weather creeps in, it’s time to start looking at your winter maintenance to-do list. Use this list to start checking off your tasks to prepare for everything that comes with the wintry season.

Check for Drafts

Before Chicago temperatures drop consistently into the single and negative digits, save on your energy costs by addressing drafty entry points. You can save up to 20% each year, according to the U.S. Energy Department. Look for cracks in window caulking or doorway weatherstripping, which are two common causes of drafts.

Inspect Your Roof

Before the first snowfall, check for leaks in your roof! If you don’t know what to look for, a professional roof inspection can determine if there are any issues.

If you want to look for yourself, check for cracks or rust on flashing, warped shingles or build up of moss or lichen (which could mean decay below).

Clean Your Gutters

Clear debris from your gutters to avoid clogs which can lead to dangerous and damaging ice dams. Clogged gutters can cause expensive water damage! Follow these tips to clean your gutters.

Trim Tree Branches

Heavy snow can weigh down branches and even cause them to break off, and you don’t want them hitting and damaging your house! Make sure any limbs or branches around the outside of your home are at least three feet away.

Prep Your Pipes

Water expands when frozen, and if that water is in your pipes, it can cause them to burst. Avoid this by insulating pipes that run through unheated spaces like garages, crawl spaces, et cetera.

If the weather is expected to be particularly cold, consider setting your faucets to drip, which ensures water continues to move through the pipes and doesn’t grow stationary enough to freeze.

Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Get in the habit of checking your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors once a season to see if their batteries need to be replaced. These are important safety guards!

In the end, winter maintenance doesn’t have to be intimidating! With planning and foresight, your home will be ready for whatever winter brings.

couple working on a home renovation

The Home Renovations That Will Bring You Joy – & ROI

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Whether you’re doing a home renovation for your own pleasure, to update your space or to fix something that’s broken, home projects are always in demand. We’re breaking down the projects that bring the most joy to homeowners, and the ones that will make you the most money when you’re ready to sell.

Home Projects That Bring the Most Joy

Certain projects make you want to stay at home more, increase the enjoyment of your home or simply make a homeowner happy. According to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) and the National Association of the Remodeling Industry(NARI), these are the projects that bring the most joy for homeowners:

  • Painting your home’s interior, either just a room or the entire home
  • Adding a home office
  • Refinishing hardwood floors
  • Closet renovations
  • Insulation upgrades

Renovations With the Highest Cost Recovery

When it comes to choosing a project for your home, there are some renovations that will have a bigger pay off in the long run compared to others. Here are the home renovations NAR and NARI say you will recover the cost of the project when selling your home.

  • Refinishing Hardwood Floors
    On average, this project costs about $3,400, and $5,000 is the estimated cost recovery, making it a 147% cost recovery.
  • New Wood Flooring
    Typically, new wood floors cost $5,500, and $6,500 can be recovered, a 118% cost recovery.
  • Insulation Upgrade
    On average, this project costs about $2,500, and $2,500 is the estimated cost recovery, making it a 100% cost recovery.
  • New Roofing
    Typically, new roofing cost $12,000, and $12,000 can be recovered, a 100% cost recovery.
  • New Garage Door
    Typically, a new garage door cost $2,000, and $2,000 can be recovered, a 100% cost recovery.

The Ultimate Spring Maintenance Checklist

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Goodbye freezing cold, hello spring! It’s time to start looking at your spring maintenance to-do list. Use this as a resource to start checking off tasks and getting ready for warmer albeit rainier weather.

Scan For Termites

Starting in March, termites become more prevalent. Keep an eye on any exterior wood of your home (porches and patios are common culprits). If you notice a hole with a winged insect the size of a rice grain flying out, that’s likely a termite. Call a pest control company as soon as possible!

Keep Mosquitos at Bay

Mosquitos can be pesky nuisances, but there is one straightforward trick to keep the hordes away from your home: get rid of any standing water. Mosquitos lay their eggs on stationary water! With no place to lay eggs, you’ll see less flying around your santuary.

Clean Your Screens & Windows

Temperatures aren’t too hot or too cold come springtime, so it’s a popular time of year to enjoy open windows. How are those windows looking? Clean filth off the screens and wipe the grime off the glass so you can enjoy as much sunshine as possible.

Clear Your Gutters

Now that the weather has thawed, rainstorms are on their way. Part of your spring maintenance checklist should include clearing leftover leaves and debris so there are no drainage issues when spring deluges truly open up.

Get Your Air Conditioner Serviced

Take care of your air conditioning units with regular service checks by scheduling a visit before the summer temperatures truly crank up. Plus, you’ll save money and stretch out the lifespan of the unit.

Check Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Last, but certainly not least, get in the habit of checking your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors once a season to see if their batteries need to be replaced.

Cold Weather Tips for Safety and Prevention

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During the winter season, it’s important to be proactive in protecting your family and your home from the elements. Below are our tips to combat the cold weather and prevent larger issues in the future.

  • Increase your thermostat’s temperature 2 to 3 degrees on extra cold days
  • Leave cabinet doors open if pipes are inside
  • Ensure all windows are fully closed and locked
  • Use door sweeps to stop drafts
  • Run faucets at a slow drip if temperatures drop below 0 degrees

Also, space heaters are typically used more frequently in cold weather. remember that space heaters can be dangerous. The following types will help avoid the risk of fires or other potential harm:

  • Keep blankets and other fabrics at a distance
  • Invest in newer models, which tend to be safer
  • Avoid connecting them to extension cords, as they increase the risk of fires
  • Ensure fire detectors are working

Following these tips will help protect your building and tenants during Chicago winters.

woman on ladder cleaning around door

A Monthly, Quarterly & Yearly Home Maintenance Checklist To Keep In Your Back Pocket

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Maintaining your home’s value is important for when you potentially sell it in the future, and it can be vital for your personal health and wellness. Don’t feel daunted by this responsibility! Here’s your ultimate yearly home maintenance list for monthly, quarterly and yearly upkeep.

Monthly

  1. Clean kitchen disposal with diswashing detergent and a combination of salt and ice cubes. Follow these steps!
  2. Vaccuum out excess lint from the dyer vent. Follow these steps!
  3. Dust all of your surfaces. Your sinuses will thank you!
  4. Test the batteries in your fire and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they’re still working.
  5. Replace your air filter, or at least check whether it needs to be replaced, each month.

Quarterly

  1. Descale your coffee maker to remove any build up for a fresh brew. Follow these steps!
  2. Check the salt levels in your water softener.
  3. Clear out your gutters to remove and debris left from storms.
  4. Flush unused toilets and run water through unused sinks to avoid grime build up.
  5. Clean your windows and screens to keep the sun shining in dirt-free.

Yearly

  1. Service your air conditioning unit and hire a professional to remove dust and debris from your air ducts.
  2. Check for termites or bug infestation, especially in the attic or basement.
  3. Inspect your roof for leaks and damage and hire a professional to fix any issues.
  4. Check your faucets, toilets and pipes for leaks.

Every 5-10 Years

  1. Seal cracks in your driveway to make your exterior look better and avoid major safety issues down the road.
  2. Recaulk bathroom grout or window sealant to prevent mold, help save on energy an more.
  3. Paint your exterior to cover up external damage that can happen over time.

Download our yearly home maintenance checklist and keep it handy to keep up with your projects.

5 things to know about zoning

Five Things Every Homeowner Should Know About Zoning in Chicago

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What is zoning and what does it have to do with homeownership? “Zoning is a form of government regulation which determines how private property can be used by owners.”

In a simplified example, zoning means your neighbor cannot turn their condo unit into a public café or a daycare. Zoning might not feel important to you as a homeowner, but the extent of its influence may surprise you!

Here are five quick, must-know facts about zoning.

#1: Common Zoning Categories

Three common categories of zoning districts (also called use districts) are residential, commercial/business and industrial.

Just because you may be in a residential zone, does not mean every type of residential property is included in that district. In the case of residential zones, condominiums or other multi-family units may be specific to their own district and prohibited in others.

Homeowner Pro Tip: Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)

“First deemed illegal in 1957, the City of Chicago has reversed course [as of May 2021] – Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), also referred to as Accessory Conversion Units (ACUs), are now legal, following the passage of the ordinance in City Council.” LEARN MORE

#2: Watch Out For Use Restrictions

“Use restrictions” mean that even if a property falls in a specific zone, the actual code can include restrictions that specifically prevent that use. For example, historic designations are a common type of a use restriction.

historic boulevard zoning

Are You In A Historic Landmark/District Designation?

If your home falls in a Landmark District, carefully review the guidelines you may need to follow if you are remodeling. From formal municipal reviews to official certificates, there may be processes and extra approvals you must obtain before any work can be done.

A few famous Landmark Districts in Chicago are Old Town Triangle, Black Metropolis-Bronzeville, Printing House Row, Logan Square Boulevards, Old Chicago Water Tower and Pullman.

#3: Other Common Residential Zoning Restrictions

A residential zone includes restrictions that may affect your plans or dreams for your future property. Do not sign any paperwork until you’ve completed all your zoning research!

As stated above, the city of Chicago recently reversed its stance on ADUs which places strict guidelines on whether a homeowner could have “accessory units” or additional living units such as granny flats, a build-out space in the basement of a multi-unit or living space above a garage.

Other key terms to keep an eye out for as far as zoning restrictions go are lot coverage, easements, parking minimums, floor area ratios and lot setbacks.

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#4: Where To Look Up Your Zone

You can look up an area’s district at the local municipality or county. Ask for the zoning department! You can also look up the history of Chicago’s historic landmarks on their website.

Curious about how legislation is related to Chicago zoning? Learn more here.

#5: You Can Apply For A “Zoning Variance”

A zoning variance is granted by local governments that can permit you, the property owner, to use your property for something that varies from the official zone.

Follow Chicago’s stated application processes if you would like to apply for a zoning variance. Be advised— speedy turnaround times are not guaranteed! When in doubt, consult with your REALTOR® about how to handle a complex zone.

table with property tax appeals form

So You Want To Appeal Your Cook County Property Taxes

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Your property taxes are the taxes that you will pay on your home based on its value, including the land. Throughout Cook County, property taxes are determined by the Assessor and the Assessor’s office, who calculate the amount based on current market value.

However, it is possible the characteristics of your home are incorrect on your assessment, or for you to believe your home’s value is more than what it was assessed in your taxes. In these cases, make sure to file a property tax appeal.

If you are unsure of whether or not to file an appeal, Cook County suggests using this rule: “If the property characteristics on this notice are correct and the estimated market value is within 10 percent of what you think your home is worth then it is unlikely that an appeal would change your property’s assessed value enough to significantly affect its property tax bill.”

To Appeal Your Property Taxes, Follow These Steps

  1. Receive and review your property tax bill. For a calendar of when Cook County appeals are scheduled, click here.
  2. Prepare your appeal by following these official rules.
  3. File the appeal, which can be done online here.
  4. Receive your appeal decision, which will be sent by mail to your home.

What To Know About Appeals

  1. You only have 30 days to file an appeal once the assessments are mailed to your township. Click here for an appeals calendar.
  2. Visit the appeals portal online and prepare your information. You will be asked to provide information such as your home’s square footage, provide comparable properties, attach your assessment and photos of your home and more.
  3. If you’re unsuccessful, remember that you are not out of options. You can appeal once more through the Cook County Board of Review.
  4. If you miss the timeframe to file an appeal, make sure to do it the following year. Once you have appealed one time, you do not need to do so again unless your home’s characteristics have changed.

Access and download our 2021 infographic with these steps to review and share it with your peers!