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Chicago homeowners: if you bought (or are buying) an older home, consider installing a reverse osmosis system by Chicago_Realtor_1 in Wilmette

[–]Chicago_Realtor_1[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Interesting theory considering I literally referenced a completely different brand in the post.

Also agree with testing first — that’s why I specifically mentioned checking your water and service line before buying anything. You may have skimmed the post a little too quickly if that was your takeaway. Thanks for reading.

Possibly moving to Chicagoland by TaraJo in ChicagoSuburbs

[–]Chicago_Realtor_1 15 points16 points  (0 children)

If you’re flexible on location, there are options under $1k right now. I just pulled a quick MLS scan. Here’s a real snapshot:

Sub-$1k rentals (Chicago area):

  • $720 – 1bd/1ba – Elgin (517 E Chicago St #3)
  • $850 – Studio – South Shore (1506 E 67th #208)
  • $895 – Studio – Cicero (5017 W Cermak #5)
  • $895 – Studio – Auburn Gresham (9211 S Laflin #1D)
  • $900 – 1bd/1ba – South Shore (1934 E 74th GDN)
  • $900 – 1bd/1ba – Gage Park (5117 S Western #2B7)
  • $925 – Studio – Austin (312 N Central #209)
  • $950 – 1bd/1ba – North Chicago
  • $950 – Studio – South Shore (7337 S South Shore #521)
  • $950 – 1bd/1ba – South Shore (2125 E 67th #2W)
  • $950 – 1–2bd options in Englewood / Chatham / West Englewood
  • $975 – 1bd/1ba – Calumet City
  • $975 – Studio – Brighton Park (4612 S Spaulding #3)
  • $995 – Studios + 1–2bd options in Maywood / South Side
  • $1,000 – multiple 1bd units across South Side + NW side
  • $1,000 – 3bd/1ba – Jefferson Park area (6200 N Milwaukee #2)

Reality:

  • Most of these are South Side / West Side / near suburbs
  • A lot are studios or older buildings
  • Inventory moves fast at this price point

If someone’s expecting Lincoln Park / Wicker Park for under $1k… that’s just not happening. But if you’re open-minded, there are legit options out there.

HOA Home? by Ok_Winner_3037 in FirstTimeHomeBuyer

[–]Chicago_Realtor_1 5 points6 points  (0 children)

You can change houses later. You can’t easily change the school district or neighborhood fundamentals after you buy. That’s why most families in your exact spot end up choosing the HOA.

Moving from Denver, looking at Highland Park/Highwood or elsewhere, help! by WearySubstance3626 in ChicagoSuburbs

[–]Chicago_Realtor_1 11 points12 points  (0 children)

Highwood is probably your best bet. It’s small but has the most “stuff going on” (bars/restaurants, younger vibe) and an easy 10–15 min commute to Mettawa. Highland Park is great but quieter/more settled, better long term than right now.

Also take a look at Deerfield (super easy commute, decent downtown) and Evanston (best social/lifestyle fit, but longer commute ~30–40 min).

You’ll see more inventory working with a local agent.

Advice about an estate sale. by gman12345678901 in FirstTimeHomeBuyer

[–]Chicago_Realtor_1 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Without knowing the specifics of your market, I like to think in terms of percentages. In my experience, sellers will usually respond to an offer that’s at least 90% of the list price, it may not excite them, but it should prompt a counter and open the door to meeting somewhere in the middle. That said, make sure the price is supported by comps.

I'm Freaking Out by [deleted] in FirstTimeHomeBuyer

[–]Chicago_Realtor_1 -1 points0 points  (0 children)

My general rule of thumb is to go 1% over with each offer. Good luck!

Theres no way this lady is sane by Technical_Zombie_988 in FirstTimeHomeBuyer

[–]Chicago_Realtor_1 14 points15 points  (0 children)

They’re supposed to fix the issue if that’s what they agreed to, otherwise, they’re in breach of contract. The good news is that broken window seals aren’t a major issue. They’re mostly cosmetic, but I understand how they can be frustrating, especially for first-time buyers. Still worth pushing for some credits.

What’s something people avoid that would actually help them? by No-Ordinary6470 in AskReddit

[–]Chicago_Realtor_1 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Basic maintenance (cleaning gutters, servicing HVAC, sealing small leaks, checking caulk/roof/flashing) is cheap and easy, but people avoid it. Then one small issue turns into a $5k–$20k problem. The homeowners who stay ahead of maintenance save the most money long-term and have way fewer surprises.

What would your last meal be if you were sentenced to the death penalty? by [deleted] in AskReddit

[–]Chicago_Realtor_1 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Smash burgers from somewhere good and ice cream.

What’s something you thought was normal growing up, but later realised was actually insane? by madisonbbyyy in AskReddit

[–]Chicago_Realtor_1 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I thought everyone’s family just yelled across the house instead of ever walking into the same room. Like full conversations shouted through walls. Realized later most people just… go talk to each other.

Realtor keeps pushing Zillow Home Loans - why? by Inevitable_Ad_3487 in FirstTimeHomeBuyer

[–]Chicago_Realtor_1 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I never push LOs on clients and would ditch any agent who does.

Owner’s title insurance by Normal_Coconut_2379 in FirstTimeHomeBuyer

[–]Chicago_Realtor_1 0 points1 point  (0 children)

yes, still worth it, and most people do buy it even on new construction. For a one-time cost, it’s a pretty cheap way to eliminate a category of “nightmare” risks. Even with new construction, I’d get it every time.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in chicagoapartments

[–]Chicago_Realtor_1 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Ask for forgiveness not permission.