5 Real Estate Reality TV Myths— Debunked!

By now, you've likely seen a real estate reality TV show or two— you may even have a favorite that you watch constantly. But whether you've watched one episode or twelve, it's important to note that not everything you see on your screen is indeed reality. If you've found yourself wondering if these shows do indeed portray how the buying, selling, or renovation process goes, I've included a reality check for you below!

Myth: Buyers Only Choose from 3 Homes
In nearly every reality TV show based on homebuyers, there are typically three homes toured and then the buyer makes a decision. While there may be a small percentage of buyers that buy one of the first few homes they see, the National Association of Realtors says the average homebuyer tours at least 10 homes during their search.

Myth: The Show is in Real Time
It may seem unrealistic that the homebuyers can go through the entire buying process, from search to closing, within a 30-minute time slot and that's because, it is. Real estate reality shows often follow buyers who are farther along in the process and have already chosen a home to buy, in an attempt to speed up the process for viewers.

Myth: The Homes are Still For Sale
Maybe you've spotted a home on your favorite real estate show that fits the bill, but unfortunately many of the homes shown on TV have already been sold and are off the market. The properties are staged for TV for the "home search" phase.

Myth: Your Home Will Sell at the Open House
Many times homeowners on TV will hold an open house and then choose from the dozens of offers that result from the traffic. However, it's important to note that just as many homes sell from regular showings and your property may not hook a buyer from the first open house. This is just a small piece of the marketing puzzle of your property.

Myth: Removing a Wall is Easy
These days, every homeowner wants an "open concept" floor plan and thus, real estate reality shows often show demo teams knocking down walls to make it happen. In reality, removing walls may not always been in your budget or even possible for your specific home. If the wall is load-bearing, there is much more structural work that comes into play and that can be more costly than you think!

Give me a call today for more information about available properties on Chicago's North Shore or with any questions you have on buying or selling your home in Glencoe, Winnetka, Highland Park, Deerfield, or Northbrook.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert

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5 Things in Your Glencoe, Winnetka Kitchen That Will Deter Buyers

When you're selling your home on Chicago's North Shore, you will want to take every precaution to ensure you are hooking buyers, not deterring them from putting in an offer. There are dozens of factors that come into play to keep buyers interested in your home. Pricing the property well and getting familiar with home staging are all important, but there's one place you will want to focus your attention on a little more prior to listing— the kitchen.

Below are five things in your Glencoe, Winnetka, Highland Park, Deerfield, or Northbrook kitchen that could be putting buyers off:

Household pests
Especially if you live in an older home, you will likely have an encounter or two with household pests like ants or flies. However, this is the last thing buyers want to see when they tour your home! Make sure you're rid of these bugs (or worse, mice!) before buyers arrive at the front door and at the very least, remove all traps from view.

Clutter
Kitchens are a major selling point for North Shore homes and you want to make sure yours looks as large and clean as possible. One way to do so? Remove all clutter from countertops. When you have small appliances, jars, plates, or knick knacks littering the counters, it can make the space feel smaller than it is.

Litter boxes
If you own a cat, make sure the litter box isn't housed in the kitchen. Of course you love your cat, but not all buyers are cat people. Leaving cat litter, litter boxes, or pet food bowls around can be a red flag to buyers and instantly turn them off.

Your trash 
We all have trash cans somewhere in our kitchen, but no one wants to focus on that when they're touring a North Shore home. If your trash can is out in the open, make sure the can is empty to avoid odors and ensure the space looks as clean as possible.

Dishes
Just as I mentioned that buyers could be turned off by your trash and kitchen clutter, the same goes for dirty dishes. Before buyers arrive, take care to do the dishes in the sink and leave the sink as fresh looking as you can. Dirty dishes give off the impression that you haven't kept up the rest of the property— even if you have.

Curious if your home is ready to sell on the North Shore? Give me a call today for more information and helpful tips to prepare your property for buyers!

I look forward to hearing from you!

Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert

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What is a Bump Clause in North Shore Chicago Real Estate?

Let's face it, every seller on the North Shore wants to get top dollar for their home. Even when you receive your first offer on your property, you might find yourself wondering if a better one will come along. But can you entertain other offers if you already accepted one? Is there a way to ensure you're maximizing your potential profit as a seller?

There is— and it's called the bump clause. This clause allows sellers to enter into a contract with a buyer while still marketing their property  to others. If a better offer comes along, you will essentially be able to "bump" the original offer you accepted.

These clauses are typically used when a buyer has a contingency attached to their offer. For instance, they need to sell their current home in order to purchase the property or have made the offer contingent upon the home inspection or appraisal. The bump clause will allow the seller to potentially move forward with another buyer who does not have such contingencies attached to their offer or one who would offer a higher price.

So how does it work? The bump clauses can only go into effect if the seller notifies the original buyer that they would like to take a "better" offer. The buyer has a specific number of days to respond, either letting the seller know they have sold their home (thus removing the sale contingency) or that they are removing the contingencies altogether. If they cannot remove the contingencies, their original contract is void. The seller is then able to enter into a new contract with the new buyer. However, if the buyer informs the seller that they did sell their home, their contract stands and the seller can no longer market the property to other buyers.

Bump clauses can be a wise choice for home sellers in today's fast-paced real estate market on Chicago's North Shore, offering a sense of security and control. As I mentioned above, every seller wants to maximize their home sale profits, and this is one way to do so.

As your North Shore real estate expert, I am here to walk you through the selling process from home prep to home closing and everything in between. Give me a call today for more information about selling your home in Winnetka, Glencoe, Highland Park, Northbrook, Deerfield and beyond.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert

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4 North Shore Home Renovations to Make for Maximum Return

Summer is a popular time for North Shore homeowners to tackle home improvement projects from installing new landscaping to new front doors— or even a whole new kitchen! However, before you take those first steps or plan full-scale remodels, it's important to consider what will bring you the greatest return on your investment (ROI).

According to real estate news outlet Keeping Current Matters, the following four projects will net North Shore homeowners the greatest ROI:

Minor Bathroom Remodel
The #1 return on investment for homeowners is a minor bathroom remodel including a tub replacement, tile replacement, new toilet, sink, vanity, and other fixtures. This project will return homeowners an average of 102 percent!

Curb Appeal
This improvement project, including upgrading landscaping, adding shrubs, trees, and other flowers, walkways, planters, and mulch will yield homeowners 100 percent of their investment. The cost may be around $4,900, but you will likely recoup all of the investment at resale.

Minor Kitchen Remodel
A minor kitchen remodel is the project with the third highest ROI for homeowners, recouping 98.5 percent of the investment! Minor cosmetic upgrades like new countertops, flooring, refacing cabinets, or adding new lighting could cost as much as $15,000, but homeowners will see a high return at resale.

Exterior Improvements
Making updates to your North Shore home's exterior, such as new siding, a new front door, or even new light fixtures comes in at #4 for projects with the highest return. Homeowners can expect to recoup 95.5 percent of their investment.

Knowing where to invest your money wisely for resale is key for homeowners in Northbrook, Highland Park, Deerfield, Glencoe, or Winnetka. Contact me today for more information about your home value or listing your home this year!

Janie Bress
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Why You Should Sell Your North Shore Chicago Home This Month

As a homeowner on Chicago's North Shore, making the decision to sell your home should not be taken lightly. In fact, there are a number of factors that should go into your decision— from the right price to pique buyer interest right down to the time that you list. Timing is key in the local real estate market and if you've been on the fence about listing, you'll be glad to note that now is one of the best possible times you can sell!

According to a Zillow survey of real estate markets across the country, May is the best month to sell your home. Not just for the financial gains you can yield, but also for the time it takes to land a buyer!

Fewer Homes for Sale, More Buyers

One of the main reasons May has been heralded as an ideal time to sell is due to the lack of inventory we've seen during the beginning of this spring season. There are fewer homes for sale, but no shortage of buyers which means more competition and more of a chance that they will pay over asking price to secure their dream home.

Quicker Sale

Just as North Shore buyers are willing to pay more to land their dream home in Winnetka, Glencoe, Highland Park, Deerfield, and Northbrook, you can bet they aren't willing to wait. Home sellers who listed this month can expect to see an offer 18.5 days sooner than homes listed during any other time of the year, according to the survey.

Timing is Everything

I mentioned above that timing is key to the success of your North Shore home sale, but that does not simply mean the month that you list. The day is equally as important and in the Chicago area, Friday is said to be one of the best days for your home to hit the market.

Ready to take advantage of everything the real estate market in Winnetka, Glencoe, Highland Park, Deerfield, and Northbrook has to offer? As your North Shore real estate expert, I am here to help you sell your home quickly and for top dollar!

Give me a call today!

Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert

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Local Expert... with National Connections!

Locally or across the country, think of me as your national connection. I can help you with all your real estate needs anywhere in the United States. 

What Not to Do When Staging Your North Shore Home

There are a lot of moving parts when selling your home on Chicago's North Shore. From finding the best listing price to making any necessary repairs and of course, staging the home to pique buyer interest. Staging can go a long way for home sellers as staged properties oftentimes sell quicker and for more money than those that skip this step. However, that is if you do it correctly.

Below are five things to avoid when staging your home in Glencoe, Winnetka, Highland Park, Deerfield, Northbrook, and beyond:

Over-designing the home
The best mindset to adopt when selling your North Shore home is to keep it simple. Even though you think the home would look great by filling every corner with thought-out trinkets and knick knacks, it's best that you leave it clean and neutral. Buyers will want to envision themselves living there and it can be difficult when every room is filled to the brim with decor and furnishings.

Using the wrong size furniture
If you have a beautiful, sprawling dining room or open living space that is really one of the highlights of your North Shore home, use your furniture wisely when staging. Don't place a small round table or a petite sofa in a grand space and move on to the next room. You may think this creates the illusion of more space, but in fact, it tells the buyers that it could be difficult to decorate or that there isn't enough room to live in the space. Think about the size of your furniture thoroughly before staging.

Closing doors
Remember that buyers are not familiar with your home in Glencoe, Winnetka, Highland Park, Deerfield, or Northbrook. They don't know that the closed door is not just a closet, but the stairway to the basement. Open the doors before buyers arrive to view your home to ensure they are getting the best impression of the property.

Being too artificial
As I mentioned above, you want buyers to be able to imagine themselves living in your home, so refrain from using too many artificial decor elements. Faux plants and fruit give the illusion that a home is cold and not easily lived in. Do your best to incorporate real plants to give off cozy, realistic vibes.

Over-neutralizing the home
In the same way that over-designing is wrong when staging your home, so too is over-neutralizing. It is true that a neutral palette will appeal to the most buyers, but your home should also have unique characteristics that allow it to stand out in a buyer's mind. Now that doesn't mean that you should paint a wall a bold, red hue, but it is fine to bring in subtle pops of color here and there.

Ready to sell your North Shore home and move on this year? Give me a call today! I'm here to guide you through the entire process and prepare your home to attract the most buyers.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert

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Locally or across the country, think of me as your national connection. I can help you with all your real estate needs anywhere in the United States. 

Should You Sell Your North Shore Home During the Holidays?

When you think about the holiday hustle and bustle—shopping, events, decorating—it may seem like the last thing you should add to your plate is selling your home. After all, isn't spring the best time to list your home on Chicago's North Shore? In the past, that may have been the case, but this year is shaping up to be different and the holidays could end up being the best time of year to sell your North Shore home.

Why? A recent Foot Traffic report from the National Association of Realtors shows that there are more buyers out right now than there have been at any time in the last twelve months. This also means that there are more buyers currently looking for homes than there were during last year's spring real estate market!

It all comes down to supply and demand and in today's market, that means supply is currently low (with housing inventory much lower than it has been in past years) and demand is soaring!

Supply
The number of homes currently for sale is much lower than it has been in the past, but as a home seller in Glencoe, Winnetka, Deerfield, Northbrook, Highland Park, or the surrounding areas that also means you have less competition. Fewer homes for sale means fewer to compete with and if buyers decide yours is a fit, they might just spark a bidding war to make sure are the ones who get to move in!

Demand
As I mentioned above, demand is high on Chicago's North Shore! Buyers no longer look for homes during one time of the year. In fact, with smartphones, tablets, you name it, buyers can search for available properties 24/7— many even have new listings that meet their criteria emailed to them! Buyers are ready to purchase a home during the holidays if the price is right—not to mention the location and features—so you won't want to wait!

Ready to sell your home in Glencoe, Winnetka, Deerfield, Northbrook, Highland Park, or the surrounding areas? Give me a call today!

Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert

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Getting Ready for Your Home Appraisal in Glencoe, Winnetka, and Northbrook IL

When it comes to selling your home on Chicago's North Shore, one of the first things to pop into your head will be the listing price. How much can you sell the property for? Many factors go into determining this key number, but the appraisal is what can really make or break the home sale. As your North Shore real estate expert, I've listed four ways to prepare for your appraisal so you can showcase your home in its best light.

Below are four ways to get ready for your home appraisal in Glencoe, Winnetka, Northbrook, Deerfield, Highland Park and beyond:

1. Check off maintenance tasks
If your home still has a long list of repairs to make, you will want to complete them before the appraisal. Even tasks like cleaning out the gutters should be marked off your list before the appraiser arrives. Remember these may not always add value to the home, but will help to show your home at its best.

2. Remove clutter and clean
Just as you would before a potential buyer arrives to tour your home, the property should be free of clutter and cleaned thoroughly before an appraisal. The appraiser's opinion of your home is what could make or break the sale—if the appraised value is too far off from the listing price your deal could fall through—so be sure to make a good impression.

3. Put on your buyer hat
Before you decide that all is said and done with your North Shore home, put on your buyer hat and take a walk around the property. Use your critical eye to notice things like leaky faucets, a toilet that constantly runs, or nails that have poked through or left marks on the walls. It's best to make a list of all of these items that could leave a negative impression on the appraiser and then start to tackle them one by one.

4. Work with your agent
Your real estate agent on Chicago's North Shore is a wealth of resources, so don't be afraid to talk to them! What your home appraises for is somewhat impacted by what other homes in the area have sold for in the past few months and your agent can provide you with those statistics. Your agent can often pull a list of comparable properties to give to the appraiser.

Do not hesitate to reach out to me with any questions you have about selling your home in Glencoe, Winnetka, Northbrook, Deerfield, Highland Park and beyond— now is a great time to list your property and move on to your next dream home!

Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert

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Local Expert... with National Connections!

Locally or across the country, think of me as your national connection. I can help you with all your real estate needs anywhere in the United States. 

5 Mistakes That Can Keep You From Selling Your North Shore Home

Selling your North Shore home this time of year can be very lucrative given the number of buyers in the market and the little competition among other sellers. However, there are several mistakes that can keep you from selling your home successfully and in fact, let your home "sit" on the market for longer than necessary.

As your North Shore real estate expert, I've included 5 mistakes that will hold you back from selling your home in Winnetka, Glencoe, Highland Park, Deerfield, and Northbrook this year:

1. Overpricing
Every home seller wants to earn top dollar for their home, but overpricing your home from the beginning could have the opposite effect. Remember that even if your neighbor's home sells for a certain amount, that doesn't mean your home is worth the same. It's always best to ask your real estate agent about your value!

2. Not being flexible
If you hold firm at your price, especially if you've overpriced, you may not attract as many buyers as you would like. In fact, you will likely turn them away. Always consider making a counter instead of rejecting if you receive offers.

3. Using poor photos
As many homebuyers begin their search online, it is crucial to hook them in the first place they look! Your listing photos should be crisp, clean, and bright, highlighting your home in its best possible condition.

4. Not cleaning up
Clutter can instantly turn off a buyer on Chicago's North Shore. Before you list your home, especially before you take photos and allow buyers inside, take the time to clean from top to bottom. A buyer wants to envision themselves living there, not focus on your knick knacks.

5. Leaving pets at home
During showings, it is important to take your pets with you or make arrangements for them to stay elsewhere. Sure, you love your pets, but buyers may not and this could be the factor that gives them the wrong feelings when touring your property. Ultimately, this could cost you a sale.

Give me a call today with any questions about listing your North Shore home, your home value or how you can set yourself up for success!

Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert

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Local Expert... with National Connections!

Locally or across the country, think of me as your national connection. I can help you with all your real estate needs anywhere in the United States. 

Outdoor Trends to Avoid When Selling Your North Shore Home

With the weather warming up, it seems obvious that buyers would be looking more closely at outdoor spaces when shopping for homes on Chicago's North Shore. That much is true— however, they may be more specific when it comes to what they want.

Buyers in Winnetka, Glencoe, Deerfield, Northbrook, Highland Park and the surrounding areas have a wish list and as the spring market heats up, their outdoor wants will become more important. Below are a few outdoor trends to avoid when selling your North Shore home this season:

Geometric or straight layouts
It used to be a popular trend in outdoor design to have crisp, clean, straight or geometric borders— planting your flowers in neat lines. But those days are gone and buyers today are looking for more freeform, natural gardens and yards.

Standard trees
Be sure to choose your landscaping wisely, including your trees! Don't opt for the same cheap plants that everyone has; buyers will notice. Avoid planting trees with leaves and needles that clutter your yard and make a point not to plant them near the foundation of your home or the fence line of your neighbor's property.

Bright colored mulch
If you must use mulch, the best idea is to use a natural bark or subtle colored filler. Buyers are easily turned off by outlandishly colored mulch like orange, red or black. You want your yard to be the envy of the neighborhood which starts with creating a neutral landscape.

Water features
You may love your koi pond, but water features can read as high maintenance to North Shore buyers. What's more, they may long for the yard space that the said feature is taking up. It's also worth noting that water features can attract more creatures and insects than the new buyers may appreciate.

Curious about what buyers are looking for in your North Shore community? Give me a call today! As your local real estate expert, I am happy to share insights, provide a list of comparable properties and help you find your home value!

Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert

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Local Expert... with National Connections!

Locally or across the country, think of me as your national connection. I can help you with all your real estate needs anywhere in the United States. 

Why Overpricing Can Hurt Your Glencoe, Winnetka, Northbrook IL Home Sale

Pricing your North Shore home appropriately is an essential part of a successful sale. Many homeowners are tempted to set the price as high as possible, thinking they will give themselves room to negotiate with sellers, but that is not always the case. You could risk buyers being turned off by the high listing price and your home "sitting" on the market, lowering your chances of selling for that top dollar number.

Below are three reasons why you will want to avoid overpricing your home in Deerfield, Evanston, Glencoe, Glenview, Highland Park, Kenilworth, Lake Bluff, Lake Forest, Lincolnshire, Lincolnwood, Northbrook, Northfield, Riverwoods, Skokie, Wilmette, and Winnetka:

First impressions matter
The majority of homebuyers today first look for properties online, so you can imagine how important first impressions are. You will need to hook them right away! Buyers often set search parameters and include their price range in order to find available homes and if you price too high, you could risk them skipping over your property entirely. Buyers also know what homes in their price range look like— if your property is priced too high for its features, size and location, they will notice.

You may have to reduce the price
Homes that sit idly on the market for weeks or months at a time are likely headed for a price reduction. Not only does that mean you have less of a chance of getting top dollar for your North Shore home, but buyers may wonder what is wrong with the property that warranted the drop in price and ignore your listing altogether.

The market may change
As you know, the real estate market changes over time and even if you list now with the intentions of pricing higher, the spring signals a change. More inventory will soon be headed to the market and your high-priced home can get lost in the mix of newer, more realistically priced properties. Keep in mind that the changing economy and interest rates also come into play!

If you are ready to find out how much your North Shore home is worth in today's market, give me a call today! I have helped many homeowners agree on the best listing price and make their properties as intriguing as possible. What are you waiting for?

I look forward to hearing from you!

Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert

North Shore Real Estate
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Local Expert... with National Connections!

Locally or across the country, think of me as your national connection. I can help you with all your real estate needs anywhere in the United States. 

How to Stage Your Winnetka, Glencoe, Deerfield IL Home for the Holidays

Did you know that homes tend to show better during the holiday season? It's true! The cozy feelings you feel over these chilly winter months can actually help you sell your home as North Shore buyers feel them too!

But how can you be sure you make an impact and take full advantage of everything the holiday season has to offer home sellers? As your North Shore real estate expert, I've included a few ways to successfully stage your home for the holidays below:

Stick to a color scheme
The holidays may tempt you to overdo it on the decor, with flashing colored lights outside, white lights on the tree and a variety of different ornaments, but don't get carried away. Sticking to a color scheme like metallics or reds or greens inside your North Shore home can feel festive without coming across as showy or busy.

Skip the outlandish outdoor decor
Does your neighbor have a giant, inflatable Santa towering over your yard? Or perhaps a swirling snow globe featuring Frosty himself stares at you from across the street? No matter, if you're selling your home in Glencoe, Winnetka, Highland Park, Deerfield, Northbrook or the surrounding areas, you will want to skip these large displays as they can turn off buyers.

Set the table
The holidays are a time for hosting, entertaining and gathering— many times over the table! Set your table with a simple holiday centerpiece like a garland table runner and adorn it with candles. Buyers who visit during this time will be able to envision themselves hosting future holidays and could just fall in love!

Make the mantel merry
A fireplace is an excellent focal point for your North Shore home and what's more, a selling point for local buyers! If you have one, consider an elegant garland draped across the mantel or again, stockings hung in a monochromatic color scheme. This is a great place to add holiday magic, but resist the urge to make it too complicated.

If you have more questions about selling your home in Glencoe, Winnetka, Highland Park, Deerfield, Northbrook or the surrounding Chicagoland areas this time of year, I am here to help! Give me a call today!

Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert

North Shore Real Estate
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Local Expert... with National Connections!

Locally or across the country, think of me as your national connection. I can help you with all your real estate needs anywhere in the United States. 

Real Estate Terms Every North Shore Buyer and Seller Should Know

No matter if you're buying a home or selling your property on Chicago's North Shore, you will undoubtedly run into a few real estate terms that you may not be familiar with. You could hear these used by your lender, your real estate agent or any of the parties involved in the real estate transaction.

But not to worry! As your local North Shore real estate expert, I'm happy to define a few of the essential terms you will hear throughout the process of buying and selling a home. Take a look through the glossary below and keep them in mind as you navigate the market:

APR
Stands for annual percentage rate and refers to the interest rate associated with your mortgage in Northbrook, Glencoe, Deerfield, Winnetka, Highland Park and the surrounding areas.

ARM
Stands for adjustable rate mortgage and refers to the type of loan whose rate changes after a specific amount of time or as market conditions change.

DTI
Stands for debt to income ratio and refers to the figure that many lenders will use to determine a buyer's eligibility for a mortgage. You can calculate your DTI by weighing all of your monthly debts, including credit cards and auto loans, against your monthly income.

PMI
Stands for private mortgage insurance. This applies to those North Shore buyers who put down less than 20 percent on a new home in Northbrook, Glencoe, Deerfield, Winnetka, and Highland Park.

HOA
Stands for homeowners' association. Homes and condominiums found within these communities typically have monthly dues or fees that cover maintenance, landscaping and snow removal.

Fixed Rate Mortgage
A fixed-rate mortgage unlike an adjustable rate mortgage that we discussed earlier has one rate that applies throughout the life of the loan. This type of mortgage does not have a rate that changes with market conditions.

Escrow
A third party is often involved in larger purchases to manage the funds associated with the transaction. Your money for a real estate purchase is held in an escrow account to show the seller that the funds are available.

Equity
If you're a homeowner on the North Shore, you've likely heard this term which refers to the amount of ownership you have in the property. You can find this figure by calculating what you owe on your mortgage and subtracting from its market value.

Appraisal
This is the process through which the value of your home is determined. Many lenders will want to know this figure before they determine how much to loan you via your mortgage to ensure the loan amount does not exceed the value.

Closing Costs
These costs include appraisal fees, real estate agent fees, loan origination fees, escrow fees, credit check fees and more. Typically paid by the buyer, a portion or all of the closing costs can sometimes be negotiated to be paid by the seller.

Have you heard other real estate terms that you're unsure about during your home buying or selling journey thus far? Want more information about the current real estate market on Chicago's North Shore? Give me a call today!

Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert

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Local Expert... with National Connections!

Locally or across the country, think of me as your national connection. I can help you with all your real estate needs anywhere in the United States. 

Why You Need a Real Estate Agent to Sell Your Winnetka, Glencoe, Northbrook IL Home

Selling your North Shore home may seem like an easy task— you simply choose a listing price, place a For Sale sign in the yard and sit back and wait for the offers to come in. Not exactly! There is so much more involved in a home sale, from preparation to choosing an offer, and if you want to set yourself up for success, working with a real estate agent is key!

But why should you work with an agent as opposed to going the For Sale by Owner route? Below are three reasons why a listing agent makes the most sense for today's North Shore sellers:

Agents help you price your home
As I shared in a previous blog post, understanding your home value is an important step in pricing your home. Your agent will help you to price your home competitively according to both the market and comparable properties in the area, providing an objective opinion not tied to your feelings about the home. After all, letting your emotions steer the ship of pricing can tempt you to aim too high and risk your home sitting on the market.

Agents recommend improvements
Before you list your home in Winnetka, Glencoe, Northbrook, Deerfield, Highland Park and the surrounding areas, you may need to make some improvements or repairs to better attract buyers. However, as the homeowner, it can be more difficult to spot these or even decide if they are worth the investment. Your agent will assist in identifying necessary improvements and suggesting staging techniques to allow you a quicker sale and perhaps a higher price.

Agents take better photos
With a FSBO listing, homeowners often snap photos on their cell phones. However, with the majority of buyers today looking for properties online, it's essential that listing photos wow them or they may lose interest right away. Agents will know how to take photos of your home's best features and could even use a professional photographer to capture buyer interest.

Agents advertise 
Whether that be by including your listing in the MLS (Multiple Listing Service) where buyers and agents can view your property or holding open houses, agents will advertise your property through many outlets.

Ready to list your North Shore home this year? Give me a call today!

Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert

North Shore Real Estate
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Local Expert... with National Connections!

Locally or across the country, think of me as your national connection. I can help you with all your real estate needs anywhere in the United States. 

This Is the Best Month to Sell Your North Shore Home

It seems once spring rolls around that the calendar begins to fill up. Holidays like Mother's Day, warm weather activities, end of the year school functions and graduations keep us busy, but there is just one more item you might like to add to your to-do list this time of year— Selling your home.

With housing inventory trending much lower than it has been in the past, the ball is in the home seller's court this spring— but you could gain an additional edge just by listing this month. May is one of the best times to list your home on Chicago's North Shore as homes typically sell quicker and for more money than any other time of year.

But if you're still on the fence about listing your North Shore home this month, below are three reasons to move ahead:

The school year
Homebuyers on Chicago's North Shore tend to time their move to a new property around the school year. They begin their home search toward the end of the school year to avoid changing districts, move during the summer months and settle in before the new term begins in the fall. Listing your home now will allow you to catch the eye of these buyers looking to stick to the summer moving timeline.

The busy season 
It is no secret that the real estate market picks up in the spring and summer. By listing your home in May, you are able to market your property to the eager and motivated buyers just beginning their search. Buyers are excited and ready to buy at the start of the busy season, but toward the end of the summer, many decide to put their house-hunting efforts on hold until the following year.

The weather
The weather in Glencoe, Winnetka, Deerfield, Northbrook, Highland Park and the surrounding areas is beautiful this time of year. Not only are more buyers out and about looking for homes when the temperatures are warmer, but the weather is ideal for moving. Remember, not many buyers (or you, as a homeowner) like to move during the winter, so now is a great opportunity!

As your North Shore real estate expert, I can help you with every step of the home selling process. Contact me today to discuss what your home might be worth and for a list of available properties in the area!

I look forward to hearing from you!

Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert

North Shore Real Estate
View North Shore Listings
Visit My Website

Local Expert... with National Connections!

Locally or across the country, think of me as your national connection. I can help you with all your real estate needs anywhere in the United States. 

How to Make Your Home the One North Shore Buyers Want

When the time comes to sell your North Shore home, you need to remove your homeowner hat and put on your buyer hat. Acting, and viewing your property, like a buyer will allow you to see the home in a whole new light and thus, identify how to make it stand out from the rest.

It may be difficult to set aside all of the memories and feelings you have associated with the house, but North Shore homeowners who begin to view their home as a product may just find that they sell quicker, and for more money. Below are three ways you can make your home into the one buyers want in Glencoe, Winnetka, Deerfield, Northbrook, Highland Park and the surrounding areas:

Focus on the kitchens and baths
These two areas of your North Shore home are the most popular and when updated well, can be what sells the property. If your kitchen or bathrooms are feeling outdated, you may like to consider a few renovations that can improve both your home's value and your chances of selling.

Easy updates in the kitchen include painting old cabinets in a bright, fresh color like white or another neutral, replacing fixtures like lighting and faucets, swapping out old cabinet hardware for new and installing new countertops in a stone like quartz, granite or marble.

Focus on the features
If you live in a Craftsman-style home, have custom features like barn doors, or sought-after design elements like subway tile, you will want to draw attention to them! These are all in high demand among North Shore homebuyers this spring and showing your home has them may be one way to attract buyers and close the deal. As your North Shore real estate agent, I am also able to share insight into what other details North Shore buyers are looking for this year.

Show off the outdoor space
Does your home in Glencoe, Winnetka, Deerfield, Northbrook or Highland Park have a beautiful backyard, updated landscaping, new deck or luxurious patio? Homebuyers are interested in homes with outdoor space, especially during the spring and summer seasons. Staging these areas to highlight their entertaining potential may be a lucrative idea if you're planning to sell within the next few months.

I have years of experience in helping North Shore homeowners showcase their property's best features to the many buyers in the market. Do not hesitate to contact me with any questions about selling your home, homes for sale in the area, or the current real estate market. I'm here to help!

Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert

North Shore Real Estate
View North Shore Listings
Visit My Website

Local Expert... with National Connections!

Locally or across the country, think of me as your national connection. I can help you with all your real estate needs anywhere in the United States. 

Debunking Common Real Estate Myths on Chicago's North Shore

Whether you're thinking about buying a home on Chicago's North Shore this spring or selling your current property, you likely have a few reservations in the back of your mind or ideas about the real estate market that are holding you back. However, there are dozens of real estate myths floating around that are entirely untrue!

As your local real estate expert in Glencoe, Winnetka, Deerfield, Highland Park, Northbrook and the surrounding communities, I have sharing a few of those myths below and debunking them so you can feel free to take advantage of the excellent opportunities available for buyers and sellers this spring!

1. Myth: You Need 20 Percent Down to Buy A Home
Perhaps one of the most common real estate myths is regarding the down payment. No longer do you need 20 percent down to purchase a home! It is true that lending requirements have been strict in past years, but now you can even obtain a mortgage with as little as 3 percent down!

Do keep in mind there are other factors that will allow you to do so, like your credit score and verifiable income, but this common misconception should not keep you from purchasing a home on the North Shore this year!

2. Myth: You Don't Need A Real Estate Agent to Sell
Many homeowners on the North Shore are motivated to sell their own properties simply to avoid paying a real estate agent's commission, but that should not be all you consider in making that decision!

There are numerous parties involved in the sale of a home—from the inspector to the appraiser to the buyer and their agent—that you will be required to negotiate and correspond with throughout the process. You will also be responsible for the marketing strategy of your home! With an agent, you don't have to worry about any of the above! In fact, homes sold with a real estate agent sell for more money on average than those sold by the owner.

3. Myth: Spring Is the Only Time to Sell 
Spring is indeed the beginning of the busy real estate season, but it is not the only time to successfully sell your home. Summer and even winter can be equally as lucrative for North Shore homeowners! If you have questions about the best time to list in Glencoe, Winnetka, Deerfield, Highland Park, Northbrook and the surrounding communities, it is always best to consult your agent!

Do you have a question about the real estate market that isn't listed here? Do not hesitate to contact me! I am happy to walk you through the process of buying or selling a home on the North Shore this year!

Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert

North Shore Real Estate
View North Shore Listings
Visit My Website

Local Expert... with National Connections!

Locally or across the country, think of me as your national connection. I can help you with all your real estate needs anywhere in the United States. 

Why You Should Not FSBO Your North Shore Home This Spring

If you've been thinking about selling your home on Chicago's North Shore, spring is the perfect time to do so! Many buyers, both first-time and seasoned, are beginning to enter the real estate market in search of their dream home, but are being met with less inventory than there has been in the past.

North Shore home sellers are in high demand, but you may be contemplating the best route to take— FSBO (For Sale by Owner) or work with a real estate agent? The perks of working with an experienced agent are numerous and if your motive for considering FSBO is simply to save money, you might like to think again!

Your agent will do the negotiating
Think of all of the parties involved in a North Shore home sale, from the buyer and their agent to the appraiser and inspection company. There are dozens of parties to negotiate with and if you choose to go the FSBO route, you will be responsible for this all on your own. Remember that your real estate agent has done this before and they know how to interact with the many different parties involved with the sale.

Your agent has a strategy
An experienced agent, especially Your North Shore Real Estate Expert, has a strategy for selling homes in Deerfield, Winnetka, Glencoe, Highland Park, Northbrook and beyond. And since the majority of buyers start their home search online, it is no longer as easy as placing a sign in your front yard or an ad in the paper. Your real estate agent knows where the buyers are looking and how to catch their eye.

You will net more money with an agent
Studies have shown working with a real estate agent can help you sell your home for more money than if you choose to do so without. For instance, a house sold by a homeowner sells on average for $210,000, while the house sold by an agent sells for $249,000. In terms of securing the best deal, working with a real estate agent makes more financial sense.

If you are thinking about selling your home on the North Shore this year and have questions about how I can help you achieve a successful sale, do not hesitate to reach out! I am happy to help you move on to your next dream home in Deerfield, Winnetka, Glencoe, Highland Park, Northbrook or the surrounding area.

Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert

North Shore Real Estate
View North Shore Listings
Visit My Website

Local Expert... with National Connections!

Locally or across the country, think of me as your national connection. I can help you with all your real estate needs anywhere in the United States.