Mary, Mary, Quite Contrary, How Does Your Garden Grow– especially in the city with very limited space? Do you think just because you live in downtown Chicago, you can’t grow your own garden in the city and have beautiful vegetables or flowers? Think again! You don’t need a large yard to plant a summer garden. You just need a little space, sun, soil, water, and a little creativity! With a little research and these five tips, you can let your inner farmer shine!
1. Find the Sunshine for your Garden
Whether it’s through a window, on your deck, front stoop, or patio, figure out where you get the most sun exposure. Most plants need about six to eight hours of sun light a day. However, if you have limited access to sunshine, don’t let that stop you. Look for plants that do well in the shade!
2. Where Does your Garden Grow?
Next, consider the size of your space. If your yard is small or non-existent, use containers and window boxes or grow your vegetables vertically.
Containers
Containers come in all sizes and can go anywhere! Place them inside next to your window or outside on a patio, deck, porch step, rooftop, or windowsill. If you have an open space with sunlight, use it! Containers are perfect for herbs, as well as larger plants like tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers. Smaller containers can also be moved around to follow the sun. For larger produce, look for containers that are at least five-gallons and 14 – 22” in diameter. Larger containers can hold more plants and moisture. You don’t need to break the bank purchasing your containers. Be creative and recycle old pots, wagons, colanders, laundry baskets, tires, old toys, etc. Just make sure the items have proper drainage. Search Pinterest for some more great ideas.
Vertical Gardening
Vertical Gardening allows you to make the most of your small space. Use stands to stack containers or plant produce in hanging baskets! You can also purchase or build a trellis or planter wall. You can even use an old ladder. These items work well for cucumbers and other vining vegetables, just make sure you have plenty of soil at the base for root systems. You can also use tomato cages to corral the vines. It’s important to stake or cage your vertical produce when you plant so they don’t get out of hand as they grow.
Window Boxes
Window boxes right outside your kitchen window are ideal for herbs like basil, oregano, and rosemary, as well as chives and lettuces, etc. Add in a box of brightly colored annuals and ivy and enjoy beauty and purpose all in one!
3. Size Does Matter!
Review information about plants before you buy them. Consider how much light and water the plants will need and also how big the plant will grow. You don’t want to go to all the expense and time of planting your garden and then realize your vegetables will quickly outgrow their space! Search for tags that describe produce as compact, pixie, baby, tiny, dwarfin, or patio.
4. Sharing is Good for Plants too!
Many plants grow well together sharing their need for sunlight and shade. Produce like shade tolerant basil and lettuce will do well next to taller sun-loving plants like tomatoes that can provide a respite from the direct sun. Also, consider planting early harvest vegetables with slower growing produce like broccoli or bell peppers. That way, you’ll get two for one in the space!
5. Special Tools and Tips to Grow your Own Garden in the City
Once you’ve found the perfect spot for your vegetables, follow these tips to ensure your harvest is bountiful!
When using containers, look for soil balanced specifically for vegetable container gardening, as well as organic moisture retaining potting soil. These may include slow-release fertilizer already in it.
If you’re planting on your deck or balcony in your Chicago condo or townhome, remember Chicago is the Windy City! Make sure your containers are secure. Weigh down your containers with or rocks or weights.
You know yourself and whether or not you’ll remember to water your plants every day. Take advantage of self -watering spikes or globes to ensure your plants are watered and won’t wither when we do get higher temps!
Some vegetables and flowers work well together. Consider planting a few annuals to compliment your summer produce.
Ask Questions! Visit your local Garden Center or Farmer’s Market and don’t be afraid ask questions! Take your time to read the tags to determine the best fit for your garden and your space.
So, Can You Grow Your Own Garden in Chicago?
Certainly! Remember, space doesn’t need to hinder your green thumb. Whether you live in a highrise condo with a balcony, a townhome with a deck, or a single-family home with a front porch or small back yard, you can have a beautiful garden and enjoy fresh, homegrown produce. Remember, you already have access to sunshine and water. All you need now is good potting soil and your imagination!
Do you have a green thumb? We would love to see photos of your city garden! Help inspire others to start growing! Post them on our Facebook page or tag us on Instagram (@terribusemanrealtor).
Terri Buseman is Chicago’s expert realtor with resources and insights to help you make the best of your residence in Chicago. Reach out if we can help.
THIS ARTICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED AT: https://www.terribuseman.com/tips-grow-your-own-garden-in-the-city/
Sunday, August 25, 2019
Saturday, August 24, 2019
Ready to Remodel Your Kitchen? 5 Tips to Help You Spring into Action!
Has spring got you in the mood to upgrade? Tired of your current kitchen design? Or, just want to remodel your kitchen? If you’re looking for some innovative and functional ideas, here are a few of the top trending designs to get you started!
1. Start with Color
There are two ways to go about this. While the clean, white kitchen will never go out of style, you may want to change it up a little.
You can do this by adding pops of color with your appliances, curtains, trim, etc., or you can go all out and use vibrant colors for your cabinetry, island, and counter tops. Top colors for 2020 are those associated with nature, including navy blue and emerald green.
2. Mix it Up
We all love traditional stainless steel until you see the handprints! Consider matte alternatives like black stainless steel. Use nickel with a brushed or satin finish for hardware or faucets. Matte finishes are also great at hiding those tiny fingerprints and messy spots. Forget the glossy and switch to matte for your flooring, countertops or tile. Look for sustainable, natural materials with warm tones for flooring. Options include eco-friendly and remarkably strong bamboo, as well as cork which is also anti-microbial. If you’re looking for more of an industrial design, consider durable concrete flooring or recycled rubber for your kitchen. Both are available in lots of warm color schemes and stains.
3. Think Smart
With all the state-of-the-art technology available, why not bring some of it into the kitchen! Anyone can be top chef with the latest cooking devices and appliances. Advanced sensors in ovens can now identify what’s being cooked and then determine cooking time and temperatures. In addition, refrigerators and freezers are now designed for specific food groups. Called Column refrigerators and freezers, one could be for meats, etc., while others might concentrate on fresh fruit and vegetables. Smart technology can also play a role with items like touch-free faucets, as well as lighting and appliances that can be controlled via voice or apps.
4. Accessibility and Storage
Let’s face it – space is a premium when living in the city. We need to make the most of every inch! But of course, we still want it to look nice and it should be accessible for people of all ages and heights! It’s wonderful to have a lot of cabinets, but we all know what it’s like to have items in the back that you never see. Pull-out drawers and shelving can be game changers. Using all available space and hidden storage for items like baking pans, cookie sheets, cutting boards, and lids can make organization a breeze.
5. Don’t Break the Bank
Remodeling your kitchen can be a costly venture. And, if you’re thinking of selling in a few years, you want to make sure that you will get a return on your investment. If you don’t want to go all out, but want to make some simple changes, there are some simple enhancements you can make. Start with painting your kitchen or your cabinets. Change out your hardware. Revamp your faucets. You can also update your lighting. Pendant lights or a linear fixture will give your kitchen a whole new feel. If your appliances are on their last leg, consider splurging on statement appliances or hoods.
Remodeling your kitchen can be expensive. Research all your options and then determine what you can afford. Don’t just make choices thinking you will get a huge return on your investment. Consider how long you want to stay in your current home. If it’s for the long term, then choose options that will make you happy. If it’s short term, and you’re thinking about selling your home in the near future, then lean towards neutral and classic styles for better resale value. Also, don’t forget that often just minor improvements can have a big impact. If you have a tight budget, a new coat of paint, switching out cabinet doors and hardware, and updating appliances may be of more value than a complete redesign. Spend your time and money wisely so you can fully enjoy the updates you make to your home!
Have you recently remodeled your kitchen? Share your experience and tips with us!
Is Kitchen Remodeling is Right for You?
If you are thinking about selling your home and would like to know if remodeling is right for you as you prepare to sell your home, give me a call. I would be happy to help you assess what is best for selling your home.
THIS ARTICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED AT: https://www.terribuseman.com/tips-to-remodel-your-kitchen/
Friday, August 23, 2019
How Sellers and Buyers Can Navigate Multiple Offers
This month marks the start of spring and a spring into real estate sales! While people buy and sell homes year-round, the warmer months bring buyers out in force and the potential of multiple offers increases.
Tips to Ease the Stress of Bidding Wars!
A multiple offer situation can be quite stressful for buyers, especially if they have their heart set on a specific home. And, for sellers, if not handled smartly and respectfully, all those offers could fall through. That’s why it’s important to have an experienced and knowledgeable realtor on both sides– one who knows current market trends and can help you negotiate. It is important to know the comps — What price did similar properties sell for in the recent past? What is the price of similar properties under contract? What is the price of similar properties currently on the market? It’s also essential to know that a seller’s asking price is just that – an asking price. Offers in response may come in at that price, below, or even above. So, if you find yourself in a multiple offer situation, here are a few straightforward tips for sellers and buyers to help you get through the process and successfully sell your property or find your dream home!
10 Tips to Ease the Stress of Multiple Offers
Sellers Tips
- Ask all buyers to give their highest and best offer by a certain deadline.
- Consider the financial strength of the buyer. A larger down payment can mean a stronger buyer. Make sure the buyer has a letter of approval from a reputable lender.
- Does the closing date work for you?
- What are the contingencies? Does the buyer need to sell their home first?
- Don’t just focus on the highest price. Remember, the home still needs to appraise for that amount if the buyer needs financing. Lenders will only loan money for the appraised value. This could kill the deal.
Buyers Tips
- In an environment of multiple offers, once a property that appeals to you hits the market, be vigilant about viewing that property as soon as possible. See it as soon as it hits the market. Don’t wait until the weekend when you might have more time. Be on guard at this point of your search.
- Let the seller know you are serious. Come in with your best offer. The less contingencies, the better. Be flexible with the closing date. Get pre-approved for a loan and have a letter of approval prepared to be submitted with your offer.
- Include a letter with your best offer. It may not always help, but it certainly doesn’t hurt. Letters can add a more personal, emotional touch.
- Only offer as much as you can afford and what the market can bear. Remember for you to get financing, the property has to be appraised. Don’t lose sight of your budget and goals. This means sticking with your financial plan, the one you made before there were multiple offers. It is easy to get caught up in the frenzy of a bidding war – want to win at all costs, at the same time forgetting your financial objectives.
- Don’t be discouraged if your offer is not selected. Sometimes multiple offers fall through and then sellers contacts the next in line. And, if that’s not the case, another property will come along.
Are you ready to sell your property or begin your search for your new home? Let me help you start this exciting journey! Contact me today to navigate your purchase or sale. I’m passionate about helping every client succeed in every aspect of the buying and selling process.
THIS ARTICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED AT: https://www.terribuseman.com/how-sellers-buyers-navigate-multiple-offers/
12 Tips to Keep Your Home in Selling Condition for Winter
Baby, it’s cold outside! I mean really cold! But that doesn’t stop real estate from selling! People buy and sell property every month of the year. So, it’s important to keep your home in good shape year round. With each season there are specific things you can do to ensure your property is at its best for showings. The following is a list of 12 things every homeowner should do, especially during the winter months. Whether you live in a single family home, townhome, condo or loft, keeping up with home maintenance will save you money in the long run and keep your home in good selling condition!
Routine Maintenance Checks
- Heating/ AC – Once a year, check your heating/AC system. Make sure it’s in good working order. Change your filters every season to optimize efficiency. Make sure you have proper ventilation and insulation.
- Fireplace – Look for and remove fire hazards like creosote buildup, cracks or debris (leaves, birds nests, etc.) in the chimney. Have it cleaned by a chimney sweep. If you have a ventless fireplace, make sure you have proper ventilation.
- Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors – Check batteries in all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors once a month. Make sure all are in working order and that you have at least one on every level of your home. Ideally, carbon monoxide detectors should be placed at least at nose level of sleeping people.
- Sump Pump – The typical life span of a sump pump is about 10 years. Check it each year by testing it to ensure the pump turns on!
- Hot Water Tank – Make sure your hot water tank is insulated during colder months. Also insulate your pipes to prevent them from freezing and bursting. Insulate pipes near windows, doors, and unheated areas. Don’t forget to disconnect your garden hose from outside faucets.
- Check Your Roof – Look for loose shingles, leaks, debris, etc. Take care of any problems right away.
Winter Maintenance Tips
- Protect Your Entryway. Snow, ice, and salt can take a toll on your floors. Have a place in your home where visitors can take off their shoes. Keep a boot tray to collect the mess! Make sure you use the boot tray too! You don’t want dirty footprints throughout your home. If you live in a condo building, the main entryway and hallways can help get rid of some of the snow and ice, but it can still linger. If you don’t have room in your entryway, consider putting a chair or bench right outside your door. Don’t leave your wet boots, coats, hats, etc. in your front hall. Find a place that’s out of sight for showings.
- Keep sidewalks clean and provide safe access to your home. Always keep salt or eco-friendly substitutes on hand. Also don’t forget to shovel and salt access to your back yard, garage, deck, etc. In addition, check your roof and gutters for ice dams and icicles. Rake snow off the roof if necessary.
- Take care of your windows. Windows can get really dirty in the winter months. Do your best to keep them clean. In addition, check for air leaks, foggy windows, etc. Use weather stripping and/or caulking to keep your home warm and cozy.
- Keep it clean. We stay inside more during the winter. Cleaning becomes even more important. In addition, be aware of odors. Try not to use strong seasonings when cooking. Keep your home smelling fresh!
- Show off the outdoor areas. It may be cold outside, but buyers still want to dream about warmer months. Provide photos of what your deck, balcony, or backyard looks like in the summer.
- Add more lighting. The winter days can be grey and dreary. Make sure your home is well lighted. Add floor or table lamps to brighten a room.
THIS ARTICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED AT: https://www.terribuseman.com/12-tips-to-keep-your-home-in-selling-condition-for-winter/
5 Essential Tips to Sell Your Home in the Winter
Trying to sell your home in the winter? Not sure if the time is right?
You might be surprised to learn that there are some major reasons why selling your home in the winter is a smart strategy. In this blog, we’ll discuss the main drivers for the success of homes sales in colder months. Then, we’ll talk about what you can do to boost your chances of finding a buyer.
Why Homes Sell Well in the Winter
Believe it or not, the winter weather does not deter all buyers! In fact, there are plenty of reasons buyers choose to purchase a home in the winter.If you want to sell your home in the winter, here are some surprising reasons you will find it less challenging than you expected:
The Internet is Always Available & so Are Serious Buyers
The internet is always available, and people are always browsing real estate websites. The Internet is “Seasonless.” Therefore, traditional home buying seasons have changed dramatically.Why? Because serious buyers are always on the lookout for a property.
This reinforces the importance of your online listing. Buyers do much of their browsing and decision making online. With agents like Terri Buseman, professional photos are a must as it will be the buyer’s first introduction to your home.
Competition Drops
In the winter, there are fewer homes for sale. That means there’s less competition for sellers. If you want the market to yourself, sell your home in the winter.Life Changes Can Happen Anytime
Divorces, marriages, separations, new babies and more are never planned for but happen anyway. There are always people experiencing life changes that require relocation in the winter.Year-End Bonuses and Payouts Give Buyers More Mobility
Year-end bonuses mean more money in the pockets of buyers. This influx of cash is just what some buyers need to take the plunge. This time of the year may also bring retirees looking to relocate and use their last checks and bonuses to find their next home.Relocation Happens All Year-Round
Buyers relocating for a new job can happen at any time of the year. And for relocators, there isn’t a lot of time to make the move. Therefore, these buyers are motivated to move quickly, especially if they have children. They’ll want to be moved into their new home and get the kids in school as fast as possible for minimal disruption to their daily lives.5 Tips for Selling Your Chicago Home This Winter
Now that we know why homes sell well in the winter in Chicago, let’s focus on how you can boost your chances of attracting your ideal buyer:1. Have Your Heating System Looked At
Winter means extensive use of your home’s HVAC system. A well-functioning system will be at the top of your buyer’s mind. Therefore, have your HVAC system looked at by a professional and have a tune-up performed. In many cases, the heat will be running while you have prospective buyers viewing your home. If fans are acting up or loud noises are detected, it could send some red flags.2. Bring Life and Light into Your Home
Light up even the darkest corners of your home! Open windows, shutters, and place floor and table lamps where ever you can. Even lights on your appliances brighten up the space. You want buyers to see exactly what they’re getting and make your home look larger.Adding plant life warms up any home and imbues life during cold winter months. You can purchase or rent plants inexpensively to brighten up rooms.
3. Clean Until it Shines!
Whenever you’re planning to show your home, it’s crucial to keep it clean. It makes the biggest impression on buyers. It shows them that you take good care of your home. A clean home also helps buyers see the full potential of your home.Clean things you would not normally clean: wash windows, bleach stained grout, re-caulk tubs, etc. Even take the time to clean out your refrigerator and pantry. Buyers often inspect cabinets and other spaces to see how much space is in them and if they have been well cared for.
4. Be Sure to Shovel
If it snows, be sure the walkway into your home is cleared. Chicago experiences lots of volatile winter weather, so it’s important for you to make it easy for prospective buyers to access your home. In addition, place a nice mat by the front door so people can clean their feet and place their wet belongings.5. Price it Right for the Market
Yes, although the competition is in your favor during the winter, it is not the time to test the market. You need to price right for the market in order to attract buyers while getting the most for your home (avoid testing the market at all cost!).The Expertise You Need to Sell Your Home in the Winter
As a trustworthy, tenacious and thorough real estate agent, Terri Buseman offers unparalleled support for home sellers. Her expert focus on neighborhoods in Chicago makes her uniquely attuned to the local markets.If you’re looking to sell your home in the winter, reach out to Terri to get started.
THIS ARTICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED AT: https://www.terribuseman.com/5-essential-tips-to-sell-your-home-in-the-winter/
Seller’s Pre-Market and Staging Checklist
The pre-market phase of the home selling process will present the most work for sellers, but if done carefully with attention to detail, your hard work will really pay off.
To ease your anxiety, let’s simplify the process with a careful checklist on what you need to do to successfully sell your home.
First, start with a strategy
Everyone’s situation is unique, and if you want to cause as little disruption to your life as possible during your sale, it’s best to create a solid (but flexible) plan.First, decide whether you’re ready to embark on the journey of selling your home and why. What are your needs? Timing means more than just getting the best market value for your home. Are you emotionally and financially prepared to sell your home?
Once you’re sure you’re ready, proceed to the following steps
Take Note of What Repairs Your Home Needs
This period starts when you first purchased your home.Maintain Your Home
Keeping up with routine care and maintenance as you live in your home will help to avoid having to take time to repair and replace items. If you managed to keep up with repairs, it’s easier to get on with preparing your home for sale.Assess Your Home Objectively
Here are some questions to ask yourself:- Do I need to paint?
- Are there small repairs I can make that make a big difference?
- What clutter can I get rid of?
- Do I need a storage facility to remove objects or furniture we don’t need?
- Will some changes make a significant difference in asking price?
- What are small things I can do to improve curb appeal?
- Do I need to hire a professional home stager?
- Can I bring in a friend to walk through my home and give me an objective opinion?
- Are there any projects I started that need to be finished?
- Is a landscaper needed to address yards and gardens?
Consider an Inspection
You may consider having an inspection to take care of any issues that may be detected.Here are some good reasons getting an inspection may be a good idea.
- You’ll have a better idea of the condition of your home
- Take away some of your stress of unknown problems or surprises
- Allow you to make the most important repairs
- Lets you price your home reasonably
- Improves the buyer’s confidence in your home and pricing
Determine a Reasonable Price
Pricing matters. In general, the price is one of the important factors in selling your home quickly. According to our Top Agent Insights Survey, 51% of real estate agents selected “Pricing a Home for Sale” as the place where sellers can make an error. Note that generally sellers price too high.Do a Real Estate Price Comp
Determine a price based on recent similar home sales; in general, appraisers won’t use comparable homes sold in more than six months prior. Homes should be in close proximity.Review the market condition reports on Terri’s website and look out for these:
- Sold properties
- Properties under contract
- Active properties
- Time of year
- Interest rates
- The condition of your property
Price Competitively
Your home should be priced competitively. Pricing too high will turn off buyers while going too low could leave money on the table. Be honest with yourself, and you won’t be disappointed.A good realtor will help you set a reasonable price. Especially in Chicago, a neighborhood a block away can mean significant changes to your home’s worth. Terri will help you determine a reasonable selling price.
Prepare Your Home for Market
Preparing your home for market could be as simple as decluttering and staging your home yourself, hiring a professional staging service, or doing virtual staging. Terri can help you make the right decision for your situation and home.Here’s what you can do to get off on the right foot.
Clear the Clutter
It is said that “clutter eats equity,” and you may need to get a storage locker to store items while your home is on the market. Buyers want to make sure they will have space and clutter hides the space while detracting from the room.With the clutter gone, you will want to determine the right staging approach for you home.
Determine if Professional Staging Will be Needed
If you’d prefer to go with a professional stager, there are great benefits to that. A partial or full-service stager can truly help your home look impressive. That translates to real dollars when it comes to selling your home.A stager will charge by the month. This fee usually includes rental furniture and decor.
If your home is empty, consider virtual staging as an alternative.
Stage Your Home Yourself
Staging a home means carefully arranging your home’s furnishings to show your home at its best. This can mean simply rearranging decor and furniture or hiring a professional to stage your home for you. Whatever the case, staging homes leads to better sales. According to a study by the National Association of Realtors, staged homes home make it easier for a buyer to visualize the property as a future home. Staged homes spend less time on the market versus homes that are not staged.If you plan on staging your home yourself, here are some tips:
- Remove personal photos /memorabilia. People want to envision themselves in the home
- Try to remove pet belongings such as food bowls and toys
- Deep clean and keep your home clean for showings
- Add more lighting all over your home
- If you plan to paint, keep the colors neutral
- Curb appeal matters. Make sure the grass is mowed and the home looks desirable from afar
- Set your kitchen table to show buyers what it looks like to entertain
- Unusual floor plans need extra highlights for buyers to see benefits. Add a cute nook or storage area to help buyers see the potential
- Empty rooms should be staged to show how the room can be used
- Add some plants to give your home a welcoming look
- Remember to stage outdoor areas such as foyers, patios and balconies to make them inviting
- Make sure to remove strong odors and maintain fresh clean smells
Take Professional Photos
Once the property is cleared, cleaned and staged, professional pictures can be taken.Because an online presence matters, and it will be the first introduction to your home by prospective buyers, great photos are necessary. For instance, Terri will hire a photographer to take high quality professional photography of the house and surrounding area and often times she will add 3-D virtual reality videos to showcase your house online and offline.
Long gone are the days of your typical photograph of the front of the house. Marketing has become far more sophisticated – and so have buyer expectations.
The virtual reality videos bring your listings to life and gets you a cutting-edge 3D experience, print-ready photography, floor plans, and so much more.
Most homebuyers believe information about a home they find online is an important part of their home search.
Establish a Plan to Show
Preparing a plan for showing prior to listing is a great idea. If you don’t want the process of showing your home to be that impactful on your daily life, it’s best to implement a routine. That means getting everyone in your home on board with waking up, making beds, washing dishes, etc. – everything that needs to be done to make the home show ready.How much notice do you need to ensure your home is ready to show? Consider if you prefer text message, call or email. What makes the most sense for you. Terri will take care of the rest.
THIS ARTICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED AT: https://www.terribuseman.com/sellers-pre-market-staging-checklist/
Monday, August 19, 2019
A Step-by-Step Checklist to Buying a Home in Chicago: Pre-search Phase
How exciting! You’re ready to buy a home. Now comes the planning and pre-search phase in the process of buying a home in Chicago.
What does that mean?
So today, let’s go through my checklist to help you manage expectations and find your WHY.
Find Your Big Why
- Do you need more room?
- Do you want to downsize?
- Do you want to live near better schools?
- Do you want to live closer to work?
- Do you wish to live in a different neighborhood?
- Do you wish to move from suburbs to the City, or vice versa?
- Do you want a second home?
- Would you prefer a different home type (Condo, Single Family, Townhome)?
- Do you need access to easier transportation?
- Do you have a job change or future job change?
- Will finances be changing?
- Looking for a view?
Finding your “why” is a crucial part of the home buying process. When you think about it, write it, and commit to it, you will realize that your “why” becomes your compass. Due to the variety of housing options that will be available to you, it’s my experience that buyers tend to make concessions when they forget their “why.”
Keeping your big “why” in focus ensures that you get the next right home of your dreams.
Define Your Wish List & Must Haves
Here are some wish list items that most home buyers have in no order of importance.
- Move-in Ready vs Needs Some Work
- School District
- Neighborhood
- Updated Appliances
- Architectural Style
- New Build vs Older Home
- Detached vs Attached Garage
- Yard Size
- Interior Design
- Amenities
Buying a Home in Chicago: Discover Your Community
Whether you have a neighborhood in mind or not, it’s a good idea to research prospective areas. What do you need to look for? School districts, property values, distance from work, access to public transportation and green spaces are all important considerations.
You may also want to review market conditions that are available on my website of some of the major neighborhoods in Chicago. On my website, you’ll also find a mortgage calculator and closing cost calculator that are designed to help you build scenarios of representative homes in your favorite neighborhoods.
Once you have your top neighborhoods, it’s time to determine your budget.
Set Your Budget & Find a Lender
Determining your budget is easier than you think.
First, think about your emergency budget, closing costs (usually figure about two percent of your purchase price), cash to make basic repairs and improvements.
The total amount of down payment and closing costs is what you will need to purchase your home. Remodeling /repairing costs are what you will need in addition to the purchase costs.
Don’t forget earnest money, usually runs anywhere from 3 to 10 % of purchase price. This money is held at listing office and all of this money goes toward your down payment.
Once you know your budget, it’s time to contact a lender. There are many mortgage lenders. Most realtors, including myself, have a list of contacts for home buyers. Of course, you are welcome to work with any lender you’re comfortable with.
Here’s what you can expect when you first approach a lender:
- First, is pre-qualification for your loan. This is easy and based on some basic information requested by your lender. This will give you an idea of what you can expect to be approved for.
- Next is pre-approval. This is when the lender takes a deeper look into your finances. They will request that you fill out an application as well as a few documents: your most recent bank statements, pay stub, and W2. This allows them to verify your employment and income.
Start Looking
As a Chicago real estate agent, I work closely with my buyers to target homes in the neighborhoods they prefer and that meet their personal needs.
When we look at a home, we’ll take notes on what we liked and what we didn’t to further inform our search.
Ready to start your search?
View My Featured Listings – Search Properties by Neighborhood
Search Properties by address, neighborhood or zip code
Good luck!
THIS ARTICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED AT: https://www.terribuseman.com/buying-a-home-in-chicago-pre-search-phase/
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