Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why live in Chicago?

Chicago really gives you the best of both worlds — big-city energy with that friendly Midwestern feel. You'll find world-class dining, lakefront living, diverse neighborhoods, great public transit, stunning architecture, and a thriving cultural scene. And compared to other major cities, Chicago's cost of living and housing are surprisingly affordable.

Q: I've never bought a home before — what expenses should I expect beyond the purchase price?

Beyond your down payment, plan to budget for:

• • Home inspection
  • Attorney fees (Illinois requires one for closing)
  • Title insurance and recording fees
  • Homeowners insurance and property taxes (often prorated at closing)
  • Moving costs and initial utility setup

These typically add up to about 2–5% of the purchase price.

Q: How much does a home inspection cost?

A standard home inspection in Chicago usually runs $400–$800, depending on the size and age of the property. Condos tend to land on the lower end, while single-family homes or larger properties can cost more.

Q: What happens if my home doesn't appraise for the sale price?

If the appraisal comes in below the agreed price, you've got a few options:

1. 1. The seller can lower the price.

   2. The buyer can cover the difference in cash.

   3. Both parties can negotiate a compromise.

   4. If no agreement is reached, the buyer can cancel the contract and the attorneys will handle the next steps.

As your real estate broker, I'll work with you and your lender to figure out the best approach.

Q: What are property taxes like in Chicago?

Property taxes in Chicago average around 2.1% of assessed value, though this varies by neighborhood and reassessment year. Cook County reassesses every three years, so it's worth reviewing the recent tax history before buying. One thing to keep in mind: in Cook County, property taxes are paid twice per year.

Q: Do I need a real estate broker to buy or sell a home in Chicago?

Legally, no — but it's highly recommended. Chicago's real estate process involves attorney review and city transfer taxes, so having a licensed real estate broker on your side makes a big difference. We help with pricing, negotiation, paperwork, and protecting your interests all the way through closing.

Q: How long does it usually take to buy a home in Chicago?

On average, expect 30–60 days from offer acceptance to closing.

Q: How many months in advance should I start looking if I want to buy?

Start researching and touring homes at least 3–6 months before you're ready to move. That gives you time to get pre-approved, explore neighborhoods, and get a feel for market pricing before making an offer.

Q: How many months in advance should I look if I'm renting?

Most Chicago landlords list apartments 30–60 days before move-in. If you're eyeing a high-demand area or a unique property, start looking 60–90 days out to get the best selection.

Q: What are closing costs, and how much should I expect to pay?

Closing costs cover lender, title, and attorney fees. In Chicago, buyers typically pay 2–5% of the purchase price, while sellers can expect 6–8% of the selling price.

Q: Do you work with both buyers and sellers?

Yes! We represent buyers, sellers, and renters throughout Chicago. We tailor our strategy to your goals — helping buyers find the right fit and guiding sellers to price, market, and negotiate effectively.

Q: How do I get pre-approved for a mortgage?

Reach out to a lender or mortgage broker to review your income, credit score, debt, and assets. They'll issue a pre-approval letter showing what you can afford — a key step before making any offers. I'm happy to connect you with trusted local lenders who specialize in Chicago properties.

Q: Can you recommend local lenders, inspectors, or attorneys?

Absolutely! We have a list of preferred professionals we love working with and would be happy to share.

Q: How do I find out what school district I'm in?

Find out here.