<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" version="2.0"><channel><title><![CDATA[timsacks.com]]></title><description><![CDATA[Chicago REALTOR]]></description><link>https://www.timsacksre.com/blog</link><generator>RSS for Node</generator><lastBuildDate>Sat, 12 Sep 2026 14:52:06 GMT</lastBuildDate><atom:link href="https://www.timsacksre.com/blog-feed.xml" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml"/><item><title><![CDATA[Why Local Chicago Real Estate Data Matters More Than National Housing Headlines]]></title><description><![CDATA[If you follow real estate news, you have probably seen headlines like “Home Prices Are Falling,” “Buyers Are Gaining Leverage,” or “The Housing Market Is Slowing Down.” The problem with these headlines is that there really isn’t one single “real estate market.” Real estate is extremely local. What is happening nationally—or even across the Chicago metropolitan area—may be very different from what is happening in your specific neighborhood, suburb, property type, or price range. That is why...]]></description><link>https://www.timsacksre.com/post/why-local-chicago-real-estate-data-matters-more-than-national-housing-headlines</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6aa1ef4ae2747afb47eb7564</guid><pubDate>Wed, 09 Sep 2026 23:52:28 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/2b8064_bf0cc2c90475415ab6c8fc01cad2a44a~mv2.png/v1/fit/w_411,h_260,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>timsacks</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Why Choosing a Lender Who Knows the Local Market in Chicago Matters]]></title><description><![CDATA[Not every mortgage lender has the same experience with every type of real estate market. When choosing a lender for a Chicago area property, it's worth asking how frequently they work with buyers purchasing properties in the city and neighborhoods where you're looking. A lender who regularly handles transactions in the local market is more likely to understand issues that can arise with the types of properties commonly found there. This can be particularly important when purchasing a...]]></description><link>https://www.timsacksre.com/post/why-choosing-a-lender-who-knows-the-local-market-in-chicago-matters</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a909e4f400cc52302804267</guid><pubDate>Thu, 27 Aug 2026 20:34:39 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_08be74cb881040d7bbaf5a4b593ac98d~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>timsacks</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[How to Choose the Right Mortgage Lender When Buying a Home]]></title><description><![CDATA[When preparing to buy a home, most buyers spend a great deal of time thinking about neighborhoods, home prices, property taxes, and what features they want in their new home. One decision that sometimes receives far less attention is to choose the right mortgage lender or loan professional. That decision can have a significant impact on your home purchase. The right mortgage lender isn't necessarily the company advertising the lowest interest rate. A good mortgage professional should help you...]]></description><link>https://www.timsacksre.com/post/choose-right-mortgage-lender</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a909dd5fc98cac6fc84f14b</guid><pubDate>Thu, 27 Aug 2026 20:29:06 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/6d541016cb8d4d91b5a2b1ebb7f81705.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_899,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>timsacks</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Can I Buy a New Home Before Selling My Current Home?]]></title><description><![CDATA[One of the most common questions I hear from homeowners who are thinking about moving is: “Can I buy my next home before I sell the one I’m living in?” The answer is yes — and in many cases, buying first can make the moving process much easier. The bigger question is whether it makes financial and strategic sense for your particular situation. If you own a home in Chicago or the surrounding suburbs and are considering a move, here are the most important things to understand. Why Do Homeowners...]]></description><link>https://www.timsacksre.com/post/can-i-buy-a-new-home-before-selling-my-current-home</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a8c6edc8c800d51388c703d</guid><pubDate>Mon, 24 Aug 2026 16:21:49 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/af4993bd2bc64f38945fc0a16f0fdbea.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>timsacks</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[What Should Your Realtor Be Doing at Your Final Walkthrough?]]></title><description><![CDATA[A good buyer’s agent should be actively involved during the final walkthrough, not simply open the door of the home and let the buyer look around. The walkthrough is the buyer’s and realtor's last opportunity before closing to confirm that the property is in the expected condition. The Realtor should help the buyer: Confirm the property’s condition hasn’t materially changed since the buyer last saw it. Verify agreed-upon repairs were completed. Bring the inspection repair agreement, attorney...]]></description><link>https://www.timsacksre.com/post/what-should-your-realtor-be-doing-at-your-final-walkthrough</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a864ebfc6c8f2fd385f8804</guid><pubDate>Thu, 20 Aug 2026 00:55:01 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_48958194f32143b6960f5d7a109d5b7b~mv2.jpeg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>timsacks</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[What Buyer Closing Costs are typical when purchasing a $500,000 Home in Chicago?]]></title><description><![CDATA[When purchasing a home in Chicago, buyers should plan for closing costs in addition to their down payment. Closing costs are the fees and prepaid expenses required to finalize the purchase and typically range between 2% and 5% of the purchase price. On a $500,000 home, that usually means $15,000 to $20,000, though totals can vary depending on the loan type, property taxes, and timing of the closing. What’s Included in Buyer Closing Costs? ​ Lender Fees These are costs charged by your mortgage...]]></description><link>https://www.timsacksre.com/post/closing-costs-chicago-home</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a8489c53a73f167659e728b</guid><pubDate>Tue, 18 Aug 2026 16:47:32 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/2b8064_b6b3eed235404fd6a36b5c06fb7cefe5~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>timsacks</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[How to Help Prevent Basement Flooding and Water Damage in a Chicago Home]]></title><description><![CDATA[Water intrusion is one of those homeownership issues that can go unnoticed—until a major Chicago storm exposes a problem. For both Chicago homebuyers and current homeowners, understanding how water moves around a property can help identify potential problems before they turn into expensive repairs. From gutters and grading to sump pumps and sewer backups, here are some of the most important things I recommend paying attention to when evaluating a Chicago home. Start Outside: Where Does the...]]></description><link>https://www.timsacksre.com/post/how-to-help-prevent-basement-flooding-and-water-damage-in-a-chicago-home</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a84d5b308752169b9aaa5fd</guid><pubDate>Fri, 14 Aug 2026 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_c0e7189ee05449e8838c06f4b2c214a1~mv2.jpeg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>timsacks</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[New Condo Underwriting Rules: What Chicago Condo Buyers and Sellers Need to Know]]></title><description><![CDATA[If you're buying or selling a condominium in Chicago, there are important changes to mortgage underwriting that could affect your transaction. While buyers often focus on interest rates and monthly payments, lenders are placing much greater emphasis on the financial health of the condominium association itself. These updated lending guidelines are designed to reduce risk by ensuring condominium buildings are financially prepared to maintain their properties for years to come. ​ Why Are the...]]></description><link>https://www.timsacksre.com/post/new-condo-underwriting-rules-what-chicago-condo-buyers-and-sellers-need-to-know</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a84d3a76f644c8dfb495775</guid><pubDate>Thu, 06 Aug 2026 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_1e3bd89c05c140788970cfcf9fe981c7~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>timsacks</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chicago Rental Laws: How Mayor Brandon Johnson's Proposed Changes Could Affect Landlords, Investors, and Renters]]></title><description><![CDATA[If you own rental property, invest in real estate, or are considering becoming a landlord, understanding Chicago rental laws is more important than ever. Mayor Brandon Johnson has proposed new tenant protection measures that could significantly change Chicago rental laws and the way rental housing is managed throughout the city. While the proposal is intended to improve housing affordability and tenant stability, it could also impact property owners, real estate investors, and the overall...]]></description><link>https://www.timsacksre.com/post/chicago-rental-laws-how-mayor-brandon-johnson-s-proposed-changes-could-affect-landlords-investors</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a84ce563a73f167659f02a7</guid><pubDate>Sat, 01 Aug 2026 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_0bb7a95d51dd475c8666596576d894e9~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>timsacks</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[The Second Half of The Chicago Real Estate Market Explained]]></title><description><![CDATA[Historically, the second half of the year in the Chicago housing market follows a fairly predictable seasonal pattern. While every year has its own economic factors (interest rates, inventory, employment, etc.), the market typically shifts from speed and competition toward strategy and negotiation. ​ July–August: The market starts to normalize This is usually when: Families have completed moves before the school year. Buyer traffic begins to decline from the spring peak. Inventory remains...]]></description><link>https://www.timsacksre.com/post/the-second-half-of-the-chicago-real-estate-market-explained</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a84cfe1e009b3510d393f01</guid><pubDate>Fri, 31 Jul 2026 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_40ed89804b24436cb283ef6b3c0a611a~mv2_d_4272_2848_s_4_2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>timsacks</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[The Hidden Costs of Buying Your First Condo]]></title><description><![CDATA[Below is a practical estimate of the costs a first-time Chicago condo buyer should expect. The numbers assume a conventional loan with 10% down, a 6.5% interest rate, and a typical North Side condo. Taxes, HOA fees, insurance, and utilities vary by building, so these are intended as realistic planning estimates rather than exact figures. Expenses Many First-Time Buyers Don't Budget For Often Overlooked ExpenseTypical Cost Home Inspection$450-$700 Attorney$600-$900 Appraisal$550-$700 Moving...]]></description><link>https://www.timsacksre.com/post/the-hidden-costs-of-buying-your-first-condo</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a872a73023ad9e6d7fd04eb</guid><pubDate>Tue, 28 Jul 2026 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/2b8064_6a2686f20e084ca3954d953da9b15f0a~mv2.png/v1/fit/w_807,h_336,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>timsacks</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Buying in a 2 to 4 Unit Chicago Condo Building? Read This First]]></title><description><![CDATA[​ Many of Chicago's most desirable neighborhoods—including Lincoln Park, Lakeview, Roscoe Village, North Center, West Town, Wicker Park, Logan Square, Avondale, Lincoln Square, and Andersonville—are filled with two-, three-, and four-unit condominium buildings. These smaller associations often offer lower monthly assessments, more privacy, and a neighborhood feel that many buyers love. However, under today's lending guidelines, buyers should take a closer look at how the association is...]]></description><link>https://www.timsacksre.com/post/buying-in-a-2-to-4-unit-chicago-condo-building-read-this-first</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a84d169e009b3510d394248</guid><pubDate>Tue, 28 Jul 2026 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/2b8064_f007847400bd49a1a14921f9882b9360~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_304,h_400,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>timsacks</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Should You Try Timing the Housing Market When Buying or Selling a Home in Chicago?]]></title><description><![CDATA[If you’re thinking about buying a home in Chicago, you’ve probably asked yourself:“Should I wait for the perfect time to buy?” It’s a fair question—but the reality is, trying to time the real estate market rarely works the way people hope. ​ The Truth About Timing the Market Many buyers wait for one of two things: Interest rates to drop Home prices to come down But here’s what usually happens: when rates fall, more buyers jump back into the market. That increased demand often pushes prices...]]></description><link>https://www.timsacksre.com/post/should-you-try-to-time-the-housing-market-when-buying-or-selling-a-home-in-chicago</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a84b99108752169b9aa6cb9</guid><pubDate>Thu, 09 Apr 2026 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/b72c73e82c9c4e5b8956469522b4dabb.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>timsacks</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Why Are Some Chicago Homes Getting 10 Offers While Others Sit?]]></title><description><![CDATA[If you’ve been watching the market lately, you’ve probably noticed something confusing: one home gets multiple offers within days while another nearby sits for weeks with little activity. So what’s causing the difference? The answer isn’t just the market. It’s strategy. ​ 1. Buyers Are Extremely Price Sensitive Right Now Today’s buyers are dealing with higher monthly payments than they were a few years ago. That means many buyers have become laser focused on value. Homes priced correctly are...]]></description><link>https://www.timsacksre.com/post/why-chicago-homes-multiple-offers</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a84b8dae009b3510d390fd0</guid><pubDate>Sat, 04 Apr 2026 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_d19495a9e53e43e683ab9e09391559d5~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>timsacks</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[What Should My Realtor Do During a Home Showing?]]></title><description><![CDATA[If you're buying a home in Chicago, touring properties is one of the most exciting parts of the process. But many buyers wonder: What is my Realtor actually supposed to do during a home showing? A professional Chicago Realtor does much more than unlock the front door. A great buyer's agent serves as your advisor, educator, and advocate throughout the home-buying process. At the same time, there are certain things a Realtor should not do during a showing. Understanding the difference can help...]]></description><link>https://www.timsacksre.com/post/what-should-my-realtor-do-during-a-home-showing</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a84b82008752169b9aa69e1</guid><pubDate>Thu, 02 Apr 2026 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_b25c5818aeee4048a51c1017647e4138~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>timsacks</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Should I Price My Home High or Leave Room for a Bidding War?]]></title><description><![CDATA[​This is one of the most common questions Chicago homeowners ask before listing their home. It’s also one of the most important decisions you’ll make when selling. Many sellers assume the best strategy is to price high and leave room to negotiate. It sounds logical—start high and let buyers talk you down. But in today’s market, that approach often works against you. ​ Why Pricing Too High Can Hurt Your Sale Most buyers start their search online and compare dozens of homes before they even...]]></description><link>https://www.timsacksre.com/post/should-i-price-my-home-high-or-leave-room-for-a-bidding-war</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a84b6cbe009b3510d390bab</guid><pubDate>Wed, 01 Apr 2026 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/nsplsh_09fa66f84c484358be1b61ece4b82964~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>timsacks</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Selling Your Home During a Divorce In Chicago: 10 Things You Should Know]]></title><description><![CDATA[1. Agree on a neutral real estate agent Choose an agent both spouses trust. A neutral professional helps keep the process focused on the sale rather than personal conflict. 2. Understand the divorce agreement Make sure you clearly understand what the divorce agreement says about the home—including when it must be sold and how the proceeds will be divided. 3. Get an accurate market price Start with a realistic pricing strategy based on current Chicago market conditions. Overpricing can delay...]]></description><link>https://www.timsacksre.com/post/selling-your-home-during-a-divorce-in-chicago-10-things-you-should-know</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a84b6403a11bbf762aac421</guid><pubDate>Sun, 01 Mar 2026 06:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_88f2826d7dbc4d49a2e9b38513420acb~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>timsacks</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Whats Ahead for 2026 in Chicago Real Estate]]></title><description><![CDATA[2026 is bringing a much more balanced and confident feel to the Chicago real estate market ️ After a few years of volatility, we’re seeing welcome stability — especially with mortgage rates showing signs of improvement, which is already helping affordability and buyer confidence. Home values across Chicago and the suburbs are expected to continue rising, but at a more sustainable, healthy pace. As affordability improves and inventory slowly increases, sales activity is picking up and...]]></description><link>https://www.timsacksre.com/post/whats-ahead-for-2026-in-chicago-real-estate</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a84af7b768110516ccad087</guid><pubDate>Sun, 01 Feb 2026 20:16:32 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>timsacks</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chicago Real Estate Market FAQs (2026)]]></title><description><![CDATA[Is now a good time to buy a home in Chicago? This is probably the number one question right now — and the honest answer is, it depends on your situation. The Chicago market has become more balanced compared to a few years ago. Buyers are seeing fewer bidding wars and a little more room to negotiate in some markets. If you’re planning to stay in your home long-term, it’s more important to buy when you’re financially ready rather than trying to perfectly time the market. ​ Are Chicago home...]]></description><link>https://www.timsacksre.com/post/chicago-real-estate-market-faqs-2026</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a84ad683a73f167659ebe3a</guid><pubDate>Sun, 01 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT</pubDate><dc:creator>timsacks</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Why The Chicago Housing Market (Especially Rentals) Is So Competitive Right Now]]></title><description><![CDATA[If you’ve been searching for a home or apartment in Chicago lately, you’ve probably noticed one thing right away—it’s competitive. Homes are getting multiple offers. Rentals are leasing quickly. And in many cases, prices feel higher than expected. So what’s actually driving this? Let’s break it down. ​ 1. Higher Mortgage Rates Are Changing Buyer Behavior Mortgage rates are still elevated compared to the historically low rates we saw just a few years ago. What does that mean for buyers? Higher...]]></description><link>https://www.timsacksre.com/post/why-the-housing-market-especially-rentals-is-so-competitive-right-now</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a84cce608752169b9aa945b</guid><pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 06:00:00 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/a58e6b9b1236a18d87cee49ac813e01f.jpg/v1/fit/w_886,h_647,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>timsacks</dc:creator></item></channel></rss>