Are you prepared for home ownership?

Reblogged from mortgagemaestro:

There is so much more to consider when buying a home besides finding a good lender and realtor.  Have you prepared yourself for what exactly home ownership will cost you, outside of your monthly mortgage payment?  For most first time homebuyers the thought of home ownership is so exciting and this energy and excitement can sometimes put a glaze over your eyes that prevents you from seeing the "big" picture of home ownership. 

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This is a well crafted breakdown of what may be needed as a first time home owner on Chicago's North Shore or anywhere. Gloria Matlin is among the highest performing Realtors on the North Shore of Chicago. Producing client centered results for well over 25 years; she prides herself on making real estate dreams come true.

Glencoe-North Shore Market Trends: Update April-May2013

North Shore Chicago Real Estate is off to a HOT start for spring!…..According to the Illinois Association of REALTORS®, Illinois home sales increased 13.6% over previous-year data in March and median prices increased 3.6%. Statewide home sales including the North Suburban area in March 2013, totaled 10,992 homes sold, up from 9,679 in March 2012. Statewide real estate market action reports showed monthly year-over-year gains since July 2011.

This period traditionally marks the busiest time in a year for the North Shore real estate market. Currently, listings under Contract were up 36.1%. Inventory levels shrank 40.4% to 2,608 units. Two factors to highlight are the reduced market times before a home sells, along with reduced inventory levels. They support the current intense interest home-buyers have to take advantage of low prices that will ultimately increase, and locking in a desirable interest rate. This is an ideal time for sellers to list homes and sell quickly if priced right. The North Suburban Chicago Spring real estate market is thriving and benefiting buyers and sellers alike. See supporting data from The North Shore-Barrington Association of Realtors and Midwest Real Estate Data LLC  in the image below (Click to enlarge):

The monthly average commitment rate for a 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage for the North Central-North Suburban region was 3.54 percent in March 2013, up from 3.49 percent during the previous month, according to the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. Last March it averaged 3.99 percent.

Director of the Regional Economics Applications Laboratory of the University of Illinois, Dr. Geoffrey J.D. Hewings stated: “The inventory in both the state and Chicago markets suggest that demand has begun to return to the housing market.” Forty-four (44) of 102 Illinois counties, including the north suburbs of cook and Lake Counties, showed year-over-year home sales increases in March 2013.

Sales and price information is generated by Multiple Listing Service closed sales reported by 31 participating Illinois REALTOR® local boards and associations including Midwest Real Estate Data LLC data as of April 7, 2013 for the period March 1 through March 31, 2013 and will continue with real estate updates in April 2013. The Chicago PMSA, as defined by the U.S. Census Bureau, includes the counties of Cook, DeKalb, DuPage, Grundy, Kane, Kendall, Lake, McHenry and Will.

Find Illinois housing stats, data and the University of Illinois REAL forecast atwww.illinoisrealtor.org/marketstats

Gloria Matlin a real estate professional with a long-standing and compelling record of top producing accomplishments in the North Suburbs of Chicago.  She has been a trusted resource providing unparalleled Chicago-North shore real estate insight, performance, knowledge, expertise, and sound guidance for over 25 years. Visit her home base-Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate office located in Glencoe: 640 Vernon Ave, 60022; or find her HERE for the latest trends, market reports, data, relocation options-designations, and information on her unique client driven approach to real estate.

Architectural Masterpiece – 725 Greenleaf: Glencoe Real Estate

More information HERE and HERE

5 Reasons to Buy or Sell in the Spring-North Shore Real Estate

It is no surprise that a fresh start at the beginning of the spring season for some means they are ready to finally put their North Shore house on the market and/or start looking for a new Chicago-North Suburban place to call home.

Spring is commonly the time when everyone awakens from the routine of winter and is often motivated to start something new.  Below are 4 reasons plus 1 tip on why spring can be the ideal time to get moving on buying, selling or both on the North Shore:

1. A house on the market at the beginning of spring sets you up for a perfect timeline to move over the summer! The weather is most likely to cooperate with you during this time. A summer move is also ideal for those who have families where it is better not to disrupt the children during the school year – especially if you’re moving school districts; this will allow them to have a fresh start at the beginning of a brand new school year.

2. Uptick in traffic at open houses means increased probability of a sale. Let’s face it; people don’t generally like to leave the comfort of their warm homes on a Sunday afternoon when it’s too chilly outside.

3. Houses look more appealing in the sunlight with nice curb enhanced greenery and/or flowers out front. Curb appeal is important year round. The spring shines a light on a home’s appearance literally and figuratively. It’s a little easier to make repairs to a home when the weather is mild. Spring is the time to finally stop putting off the little projects that have been building up through the winter. Fix that broken step banister put a fresh coat of paint on that chipped garage door, it can make the difference and have bearing on a buyer the moment they approach a home.

4. Take the fix-up projects a step further….There is certainly no better time to de-clutter than with the windows open for the first time after winter! Deciding to sell might be that extra push you need to finally get rid of those old clothes or an over abundance of toys. More tips and guides HERE and HERE

IMPORTANT TIP:

Find a good Chicago North Suburban Realtor/Broker. Local North Shore luxury real estate agents offer insight you won’t always find online or through a listing/ad. Gloria Matlin has kept a pulse on the market and knows the North Shore communities with over 25 years of  experience. Let her be your guide, and make your real estate dreams a reality for Spring 2013. Stop in her Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate office, located at 640 Vernon Avenue in downtown Glencoe, Illinois-60022-for additional information and superb service/attention.

Home Buyers and Sellers in Today’s North Shore Real Estate Market- 3 Things to Know

Here on Chicago’s North Shore the real estate market is favorable for both buyer and seller alike. North shore agents are seeing busier open houses, quicker sales, even multiple offers.
But like houses, no two North shore sellers or buyers are exactly the same. Having a grasp of the mindset of both, can ease the North Shore real estate navigation process a bit. With the help of an experienced solidly performing North Shore Realtor, below are three scenarios sellers and buyers should be aware of in today’s market:

1. Buyers can be sellers and sellers become buyers

Often, sellers feel the same amount of stress or excitement that buyers feel because they’re somewhere in the buying process, too. Though some sellers may want to take additional time and become renters after their sale is complete, many will get back in the homeowner game soon after the sale goes through, sometimes immediately. Sellers, as would-be buyers, want to capitalize on low interest rates and home values. Getting the North Shore home sold quickly and at today’s value may be all a seller needs to make a purchase. Though it may be a “sellers’ market in some areas,” most sellers these days have a sense of empathy. They understand the buyer’s position and likely want to get out cleanly and quickly so that they, too, can buy.

2. Sellers are starting to feel relief but with caution

Even the sellers who have successfully sold are well aware of what happened in real estate markets over the past five years; news that the market is changing, and in their favor can be a welcoming incentive for all involved. They’re more hopeful than they were even six months ago. Generally speaking, however, most sellers are still feeling conservative and cautious. They’re more likely to take a bird in the hand than to risk losing a sale because of a knee jerk instant reaction.

3. Advice for both sides

Real estate is a game, in a sense, in which both sides hope to achieve their goals, which is why it always helps to understand your “opponent. Take a moment to size up who the buyer is, how they got there and why they want to buy. Don’t make assumptions. Take a step back. Put yourself in their shoes.

Sellers aren’t the same as they were around 2005, when many were driven by other goals as the market’s rise seemed endless. Don’t go into this market, which is very different from even six months ago, assuming the same rules apply. Consulting with your competent North Shore real estate professional, will put you in the right position for a successful and joyful transaction.

Gloria Matlin, a high ranking real estate performer, can be found at the North Suburban Glencoe Coldwell Banker office – 640 Vernon Ave., 60022. More information HERE

Relocating to North Suburban Chicago-North Shore Real Estate

On Chicago’s North Shore and around the country, relocating has become more common. Some relocate for work, have decided to move somewhere for greater lifestyle access, or are looking for a change of scenery. You may be faced with buying a home in a city that is not only unfamiliar, but in an area larger than anticipated. If you are a real estate investor or frequent vacationer, you might also be looking to buy property far from home base. Of course, buying real estate anywhere other than your current city presents a unique set of circumstances. Here are 4 tips for getting to the end goal….Relocation success!

1. Get a North Shore Real Estate Agent
Look for an experienced North Suburban Realtor/Broker in your intended village/city. Because of possible unfamiliarity with the area and the other unique challenges of not buying locally, you want to work with a professional who really knows what they’re doing. You may even be able to find an agent who specializes in helping people who are relocating, and who will be acutely aware of both your unique requirements and their ability to educate you about the local North Shore real estate market. You want a professional who can steer you toward exceptional neighborhoods and an ideal fit to with your lifestyle and overall needs.

Make sure you fully inform the North Shore real estate agent about your situation. For example, what is your moving timeframe? When will you be able to visit the area? Can the agent set aside a day to show you numerous North Shore properties while you’re in town? More than likely you’ll have limited time to view properties in person, and you’ll need someone who can help you organize and maximize your time. An experienced, high performing North Shore Realtor can do just that.

2. Get familiar with Possible North Shore Neighborhoods
All the usual criteria will also apply when searching for the right North Shore neighborhood – affordability, school quality, proximity to work, etc. The specific neighborhood you choose should reflect your current needs and lifestyle requirements.

3. Get Familiar with the Local North Shore Real Estate Market
Take advantage of all the resources available to you, including your Chicago North Shore real estate agent, in-person visits, chats with local residents, and online real estate reports, data, research, and listings to learn about your new digs. Ask lots of questions of your realtor, they are a wealth of market conditions information.

4. Don’t Avoid an In-Person Visit
And finally, once you’ve decided what you want, reviewed your must have list with your North Shore Realtor, done all your research, or found a few potential properties, you’re ready to get serious about taking the next steps and ultimately making an offer. But make sure you visit the homes in person at some point. Buying a home sight unseen can be tricky. No matter how much you trust your real estate agent’s sound judgment, the only person who really knows if you will like a particular property is you. More info HERE and HERE.

As a certified Cartus Relocation Specialist, Gloria Matlin helps out of area buyers and sellers find the perfect North Shore property to call home..On the Go? Move with Glo! She understands that moving/relocating can be an overwhelming and emotional endeavor. She prides herself on her North Shore community knowledge, involvement and; embracing the newest real estate tools/trends that keep her in the forefront so she can be there for her buyers-sellers 24/7.

 

 

Holiday Buying and Selling Benefits: North Shore Real Estate

As with the rest of the nation, the holidays are upon us on Chicago’s North Shore. Places like Bannockburn, Deerfield, Fort Sheridan, Glencoe, Glenview, Highland Park, Kenilworth, Lincolnshire, Northbrook, Northfield, Riverwoods, Wilmette, Winnetka, as well as Lake Forest; will be buzzing with good cheer, places to go, things to do, holiday events and festivals all around. But, real estate still has its place in the hustle and bustle of the season. Now may be one of the best times to buy or sell a North Shore home. The benefits, hows and whys are outlined below:

Tis’ the season for BUYERS during the holidays

Commonly there’s a wider selection of homes to choose from. A peak season for the real estate market, buyers will find there are many more beautiful homes to choose from during the fall and holiday season. There’s no better time to find your dream home! Utilize vacation time to act on your desire to research online or even visit Chicago North Suburban open houses.

Don’t forget year-end tax breaks. Buying property before years’ end yields some great benefits; including property taxes and mortgage interest, both deductible from gross income.

 For SELLERS, the season brings good things

Beautifully decorated homes are certainly more appealing to potential buyers. What is more beautiful and inviting than a North Shore home that’s elegantly decorated for the holidays? The warmth and spirit of the season makes many homes seem even more stunning during this special time of year. With that comes more exposure for your home. Many people enjoy hosting holiday parties for friends, family and co-workers. When you have a “for sale” sign in your yard, it will likely grab the attention of those who are visiting your neighbors or attending holiday parties, including  yours. Usually the serious buyer will shop for a home during the holidays. The fact is if someone is interested in your home during one of the busiest seasons of the year, chances are they are serious. If your home is priced appropriately, the likelihood is high for getting an offer!

An example of North Shore luxury at its best is presented below. The property is an exceptional East Northbrook, IL listing currently for sale. Feel free to contact Gloria Matlin for a private holiday showing!

Click the image to view:

RECENTLY REDUCED..1750 Braeside Lane, Northbrook-Chicago’s North Shore Real Estate

RECENTLY REDUCED..1750 Braeside Lane, Northbrook, IL..This North Shore property is an exquisitely designed home with a flawlessly designed floor plan that unfolds with amazing architectural details. Contact Gloria Matlin for a private showing or simply review the complete tour: http://ht.ly/cYzqZ

MINUTES FROM CHICAGO-NORTH SHORE TRANSPORTATION AND SHOPS – RESORT STYLE LUXURY LIVING AT ITS BEST!

Feel free to visit Gloria at her top ranked North Shore real estate brokerage office located at 640 Vernon Ave., in the heart of downtown Glencoe, IL-60022.

Has the Housing Market Turned a Corner?-Chicago’s North Shore Real Estate

Across the nation and here on Chicago’s North Suburban Shore the question is still swirling…has the real estate market really turned a corner?  4 primary factors indicate the answer is YES!

1. Foreclosures

The rate of homes foreclosed continues to decline in June with 5.8 out of every 10,000 homes in the country being liquidated. This is the lowest foreclosure pace we’ve seen since December 2007 when 5.5 out of every 10,000 homes were being liquidated. Nationally, foreclosure re-sales also continued to slow, making up 15.6% of all sales in June, down from 16.4% in May. This lower level of foreclosure re-sales is contributing to home value appreciation, as these are usually sold at a discount and influence surrounding non-distressed sales.

2. Rents

The June Zillow Rent Index (ZRI) is up 5.2% from year-ago levels, and 68% of the 293 metropolitan areas including North Suburban Chicago, experienced year-over-year gains. Markets that saw extremely strong year-over-year rent increases including Chicago (11%) are evidence that the prediction of continually rising rents will escalate consumer demand for home purchases, especially in this low mortgage rate environment.

3. Home Values

Nationally, according to various sources and forecasts home values reached their bottom in February of 2012 and have since appreciated at very robust monthly growth rates. The Zillow Real Estate Market Reports cover 167 metropolitan areas including the Chicago metros, which included the North Suburban communities- of which 98 showed quarterly home value appreciation. Overall, national home values are back to January 2004 levels, having fallen 22.9% since their peak in May of 2007.

4. Outlook

Nationally and locally, it is believed that housing has finally turned a corner, and the forecast calls for U.S. home values to increase by 1.1% over the next year! More info HERE

For an in-depth review of this or similar topic, feel free to stop by our Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate brokerage office. Any of our high performing real estate professionals can guide you. We are located at 640 Vernon Ave, Glencoe, IL-60022.

Glencoe-North Shore Market Trends: Update July-August2012

Additional signs that the Chicago North Shore market continues to strengthen — June 2012 home sales surged 18% over sales volume produced in June 2011; per data released by the Illinois Association of REALTORS this week®.

According to NSBAR and Midwest Real Estate Data, new listings in the North Shore region decreased 7.7%, Listings Under Contract were up 42.4%, and Inventory levels shrank 30.9% (see photo below). Statewide home sales (including single-family homes and condominiums) in June 2012 totaled 13,111 homes sold, up 18.0 percent from 11,108 home sales volumes in June 2011. This was the best June performance since 2010 when 13,144 homes were sold in Illinois. (Click to enlarge photo)

As an ongoing enticement, the monthly average commitment rate for a 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage for the North Central region was 3.67 percent in June 2012, down from 3.83 percent during the previous month, according to the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp; last year in June it averaged 4.53 percent.

More than half of Illinois counties reporting including Chicago’s North Suburban areas, (57 of 101) showed year-over-year home sales increases in June 2012. Fifty-three (53) counties ranked, showed year-over-year median price increases including Cook, up 1.1 percent.

On Chicago’s North Shore we see that the combination of affordable pricing and even lower interest rates resolved prospective homebuyer’s top concerns and possible apprehensions. more buyers are coming off the fence and make decisions today about their North Shore investment in homeownership. Overall the state housing market seems to have taken a positive performance turn as supported by Dr. Geoffrey J.D. Hewings, Director of the Regional Economics Applications Laboratory of the University of Illinois. “The current market seems to be operating more normally with perhaps some effects of the significant number of foreclosed-distressed properties that are for sale.” (Click to enlarge photo)

Sales and price information is generated by Multiple Listing Service closed sales reported by 31 participating Illinois REALTOR® local boards and associations including Midwest Real Estate Data LLC data as of July 7, 2012 for the period June 1 through July 2012. The Chicago PMSA, as defined by the U.S. Census Bureau, includes the counties of Cook, DeKalb, DuPage, Grundy, Kane, Kendall, Lake, McHenry and Will.

Find Illinois housing data for July through August 2012 and the University of Illinois REAL forecast at www.illinoisrealtor.org/marketstats.

Our North Shore Coldwell Banker Office located at 640 Vernon Ave in downtown Glencoe, Illinois-60022, can be a source to further review the reports indicated above and similar data.  Any of our high performing real estate staff can assist you!