RE-DIRECT

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How Much Earnest Money Should We Offer?

This is a question clients frequently ask me. The general rule for our area is 1-2% of the list price. If you are low-balling, it is generally better to offer more earnest money so that the sellers understand that you have the financial resources to pay for the home (it is just that you [...]

The Best French Toast in the Barrington Area

Life in the suburbs can be a little boring sometimes, but I am o.k. with that. I try to keep my life as drama-free as is reasonable. So, one of my favorite things is brunch. This is a low-pressure, low-expectation meal. And, after trying just about every place in the Barrington-Palatine metro [...]

Cook and Lake Counties: First Quarter Report, 2008

First quarter reports are out. Well, there are no huge surprises, but one little surprise. Sales were down from last year, way down: -29% in Cook County and -29% for Lake County. We all saw that coming. And, the average sale price in Lake County was down 2.5% from last year. [...]

Getting a Feel for Barrington

I meet a lot of people at open houses from Chicago and from out of state. They’re in town to explore Barrington, and I often send them to my blog to find out more about real estate in the area. But, the best way to get to know Barrington is to drive around. [...]

A Personal Note for Buyers Waiting for a Crash in the Real Estate Market

My husband and I bought our home in the fall, and we are just now finding out what master gardeners the previous homeowners were. Perennials are popping up everywhere. My little dachshunds are running up and down the yard and in and out of the flowers. This may be one of my [...]

Have the March Stats for Cook and Lake County Come Out Yet?

LC (Laura Cannon): Yes.
IP (Interlocuter): So, how were they?
LC: Eek. Not great. I think April numbers will be better.
IP: So, how bad were they?
LC: Well, let me start with the good news: In Cook County, sales were only down about 26% over last year.
IP: What kind of spring bounce is that?!
LC: I [...]

Barrington and Palatine: There is Still a Spring Market Bounce

There is no way to not make this entry lame. I am posting just to say I won’t be posting for a few more days. Sorry about that. I’ve been really busy. This spring market feels like a sale at Macy’s in December: confusion, but some great deals if you [...]

2008 Spring Market Report; Who is buying?

I haven’t been able to post for a while, and this one will have to be short. The spring market is now in full swing. After sales were down 34% and 27% in January and February respectively for the Chicago Metro area as compared to last year, we are on a rebound month.* Given [...]

What’s it Like to Work with a Buyer’s Agent?

One of the biggest concerns buyers have is how long it will take to find a home. They are not actually worried that it will take them a long time, i.e., 6 months or more. They are more concerned that their agent is going to pressure them into buying something before they are [...]