Just about everyone expected mortgage interest rates to rise in 2019. But after reaching 5% last November, the average 30-year mortgage rate is back in the 3% range, the lowest it has been in over 2 years.

This latest development is welcome news not only to homeowners who are looking to refinance, but also to prospective buyers and sellers. Here’s why:

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In Chicago, more homebuyers are house hunting during the months of March, April and May than in any other three-month period throughout the year.

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The majority of buyers begin their home search on the internet. That means your home’s online presence is a crucial step in capturing the interest of potential buyers.

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When it comes to generating maximum interest and top dollar for your home, setting the right listing price (the first time) is crucial. Why?

An overpriced home can scare off buyers, so it’s essential to set the right price during that critical “New Listing” period in which the largest pool of potential buyers will see your property.

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According to NAR, 77% of buyers’ agents indicated staging a home made it easier for a buyer to visualize the property as a future home. Before you list your home, follow this list of staging preparations to highlight a home that sells.

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Unofficially, the spring selling season begins after Super Bowl Sunday. This means there is still time to transform your home into a house in which a potential buyer could envision themselves living. Preparing your home to sell can quickly become an overwhelming hurdle if you don’t approach it as a series of small steps. Follow this week-by-week checklist to have your home ready to list by the peak selling season.

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From money-saving gadgets to devices that provide an extra level of security, it’s easy to see why smart-home technology is becoming more and more popular. In fact, it can even increase the appeal of your home to potential buyers should you plan to sell.

Here are five smart upgrades that can potentially add value to your home and make life a little easier in the process. Continue reading

While decorating a home is focused around personal selections for those living in the space, staging a home means removing these personal items to create a neutral space that appeals to potential buyers.

However, just because your home is listed during the holidays, doesn’t mean you need to damper your merry spirit. It is possible to maintain a festive feel while facilitating an environment that helps buyers envision their own future holidays in the home.

Employ these seasonal home staging “dos and don’ts” to gain an extra selling edge this time of year.

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One common theme among today’s homebuyers is that many are looking for a home that’s move-in ready. If you’re planning to sell, here are a few updates that can help give your home an updated look and make it more attractive to buyers: Continue reading

Before listing, home sellers will often receive what’s known as a Comparative Market Analysis. While foreign to some, this report is actually one of the most important tools your real estate broker has to offer.

But don’t panic if you’ve never heard of it before and are looking to list your home, we’re here to answer all your CMA questions.

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