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 [...]

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 [...]

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 [...]

What is the Most Common Home Inspection Issue You Encounter?

I took out some buyer clients yesterday in Deer Park. This is a lovely area north of Palatine and east of Barrington. One of its distinguishing features is its rolling landscape and soft hills. After seeing a couple duds, we came upon a home my clients really liked. The home had [...]

Do Open Houses Sell Houses?

Yes!
That is the short version.
I was on a listing presentation last week where I was competing against two other experienced agents in the Palatine area. I was beginning to go over open houses as a point in my marketing plan, when the homeowners said they had been informed by both agents that open [...]