Deed restrictions can have a big impact on purchasing or building a new home, selling an existing home, renovations, and even how a property is used. Since deed restrictions are attached to the land, they can continue to cause problems for both current and future owners of a property for many years. What is a Deed Restriction? Deed restrictions, or restrictive covenants, are provisions in a property deed that place limits on the use of the property and/or building on the property. Such … [Read more...]

Potential home buyers can make informed home buying decisions they will feel good about for many years ahead by avoiding some basic mistakes. Home buyers sometimes purchase based on emotion and want instead of logical reasoning and practical need. That can lead to years of stress due to being strapped with monthly mortgage payments for a home they are unable to sell for what they owe. Buying more than is easily affordable According to the National Association of Realtor’s … [Read more...]

Almost a decade after the housing crisis of 2007-2008, banks are still using strict credit requirements to approve potential home buyers for a mortgage. Many home buyers explored other purchasing options with a Chicago real estate lawyer, including lease-option and lease-purchase agreements. Lease-Option A lease-option is the most flexible of the two alternative purchase arrangements. The potential buyer agrees to make monthly lease payments that are slightly higher than the going market … [Read more...]

Lenders in Illinois nearly always require homebuyers to get a house appraised prior to issuing a loan. According to Bankrate.com, problems can occur when the appraisal falls below the sale price of the home. Mortgage companies will typically only approve loans that are at or below the appraisal. Therefore, industry experts recommend that sellers obtain an appraisal before ever listing a home. As any real estate attorney in Elk Grove would know, there are several factors used to determine … [Read more...]

Home staging is a strategic marketing tool used to put a home that is up for sale in a positive light. While this process is optional for those selling property in Illinois, many who are in the middle of selling their home often wonder if staging their house is worth it and if it will ultimately improve their home’s chances of selling. What home stagers do When those working with a Highland Park real estate lawyer and a real estate agent to sell their home decide to stage their house, the … [Read more...]

A house model with for sale words under the frame With the implementation of the Private Listing Network, the National Association of Realtors hopes to effectively end the practice of pocket listings. When properties go on the market in the Chicagoland area, their listings get added to the multiple listing service, or MLS. From there, agents, brokers, and buyers may view the pertinent data in order to find suitable properties. Before the NAR’s new rule, however, some properties were withheld … [Read more...]

A small house model and piles of coins at the background Some housing market trends in the Chicago area remain strong, while others falter. The real estate market in the Chicagoland area has shown some slowing through 2019, however, it has not stopped entirely. Certain areas of the market continue to see significant movement. Stability in the Market Despite concerns over a possible recession and crime in the area, the Chicago housing market remains stable. With a population of over 2.7 … [Read more...]

Reverse mortgages are not the only option for retirees looking to enhance their cash flow. Alternatives, like refinancing the existing mortgage, taking out a home-equity loan, or selling the property might help some people reach their goals. Evaluating financial circumstances and retirement objectives can help homeowners determine which route is the best fit. Refinancing For homeowners that are struggling with their monthly payments, refinancing is a potential option. Refinancing may allow … [Read more...]

There are various options available to homeowners who decide to get out of their reverse mortgages. Aside from dying or selling the home, borrowers can exercise their right of recission, repay the loan balance, refinance with a conventional mortgage, tap into their savings, or choose another reverse mortgage. When deciding which option to choose, the length of time since the money was borrowed and the consumer's overall financial situation play an important role. Indicators that a Reverse … [Read more...]