What Questions Should I Ask a Realtor Before Selling My Home?

When it comes time to sell your Chicago home or condo, choosing the right real estate agent is one of the most important steps you can take. A skilled real estate agent doesn’t just place your property on the market — they help you prepare it, price it correctly, and position it within the market to attract serious buyers. When interviewing realtors, the best way to ensure you’re making the right choice is to ask the right questions before you list. By doing so, you’ll gain insight into how an agent works and how they can help you achieve the strongest possible outcome.

questions to ask before selling your home

How Many Homes Have You Sold?

This is called a knockout question. It cuts to the chase and there's nowhere to…

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A Strong Market and Smart Preparation for Fall Listings

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As we move into fall 2025, Chicago’s housing market continues to show strength and resilience. Higher interest rates?  Doesn't seem to matter. Buyers remain motivated across the city, and sellers who prepare wisely are seeing excellent results.

This week I am focusing on four neighborhoods — Gold Coast, Streeterville, Lincoln Park, and West Town — highlighting the unique real estate opportunities they offer. While each has its own character and market dynamics, all share one common theme: buyers are active, and well-marketed homes are selling.

Chicago real estate market update from Real estate agent, Ryan Hardy

By the numbers: August 2025

The latest August data shows a positive outlook across the Chicago metro. The median sale price across the…

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How to appeal your property taxes in Cook County -

I know, it seems like a daunting task... However if you do it right, it's not hard and you can save thousands. I've successfully done it twice and my taxes are significantly lower than they would be otherwise - here's how.

First thing you need to know is that Cook County property taxes are reassessed on a triennial schedule (every three years) and for that reason, a successful appeal lasts for three years. When your taxes will be reassessed depends on what neighborhood you live in.

Option 1: The easy way

Hire a law firm to represent you in the appeals process. This is what I've always done and although it does cost money, it saves lots of time and energy. They've done it thousands of times,…

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Loft condos for sale Chicago, IL

Chicago Lofts for Sale

- Trendy, cool, urban living. Population density and soaring land costs in large cities has lead to the adaptive reuse of existing buildings. One of the results - The Chicago loft. In the late 90s and early 2000s the conversion of old factories and warehouses to condos began in the West Loop and other formerly industrial areas of the city. The popularity for this style of home has risen steadily ever since. Upon entering a loft, the expansive ceilings, exposed brick, beams and open floor plans offer so much character and history, it’s easy to understand why this style is so sought after!

A few of my favorite neighborhoods to keep in mind when looking for Chicago lofts are:

West Loop: The most obvious choice, we know,…

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Chicago Workers Cottages for sale 

- The Chicago workers cottage was once a symbol of middle-class housing in the city, but they have become increasingly rare. As new development and rising home prices continue to transform Chicago's neighborhood's, these historic homes are often targets for demolition and redevelopment. These small, often modest homes were built primarily for factory/trade workers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They provided affordable housing and created neighborhoods that thrived on shared experiences and cultural ties. More than 100 years after their introduction, well cared for workers cottages can still be found in many neighborhood's throughout the city. Today, worker's cottages offer buyer's a refreshing and…

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Chicago Fall Activities 

CHICAGO FALL EXPERIENCES

The air is crisp, the leaves are turning – it is officially Fall! Although the season can feel short here in Chicago, nothing quite compares to when those leaves turn a beautiful burnt orange and the sweaters come out of storage. You light the first of many fires in your fireplace and suddenly crave anything and everything apple or pumpkin spice. As we head into October, fall activities in Chicago are in full swing, so here are our top five Chicago fall experiences that you don’t want to miss, take out your calendar and pencil these in!


Open House Chicago (Oct 19-20)

Architecture & Real Estate will always be number one in our book, so buckle up for an incredible architectural experience. Hosted by the Chicago…

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Discovering Wicker Park: A Vibrant Real Estate Hotspot with a Rich Cultural Scene

Nestled on the northwest side of Chicago, Wicker Park is the perfect combination of a beautiful historic neighborhood and a thriving urban enclave. Known for its eclectic mix of single-family homes, lively art scene, and diverse dining options, Wicker Park is a magnet for those seeking both charm and vibrancy. Here's an in-depth look at what makes Wicker Park a standout community in Chicago's real estate market and cultural landscape.

Wicker park Single family homes

Single-Family Homes: A Blend of Historic Charm and Modern Appeal

Wicker Park's real estate market offers a unique blend of historic and modern single-family homes. The neighborhood is renowned for its beautiful vintage homes,…

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Sellers: Fall Pictures are a smart move


Selling in the next 6 months?

The seasons are changing and unfortunately this beautiful weather won't last much longer. If you are considering selling in the next six months, now is the time to get your home photographed. 

Homes sell all year long regardless of the weather, but homes photograph best with green landscaping and clear summer views.

Tips for selling your home

High quality pictures and video are the keystones of your home's marketing.

We all know the internet and social media has revolutionized how real estate is marketed. The first time a buyer sees your home will not be in person - they’ll see it online from wherever they may be. Making your home stand out during this crucial first impression is an essential…

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It's Summer in Chicago and what better way to spend a sunny morning than at a farmers market!?

Fresh fruits, vegetables, and delectable homemade jams and breads are ripe for the picking as you stroll down the closed off streets lined with different vendors. No matter what Chicago neighborhood you live in we have a list of all the great summer markets that are only a hop, skip and okay maybe a jump away!

Lincoln Park - Green City Market:

Beginning in April (through November), this Lincoln Park farmers market is open Saturdays from 7am-1pm and at the start of May (through October) they add a market on Tuesdays from 7am-1pm. Popular among Chicago chefs, you can rest assured the quality of the produce is there. The market also has a focus on…

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Best West Town Brunch Spots

Brunch is probably my favorite meal. You can go either sweet or savory (or both - who are we to judge?) and it’s entirely appropriate, nay, encouraged to enjoy a cocktail midday, so what’s not to love?! As we embark on our brunch tour of Chicago we’ll start this series in the neighborhood of West Town. Known for its eclectic boutiques, and laid back vibe, the West Town dining scene offers everything from little hole-in-the-wall gems to Michelin starred restaurants. So whatever cuisine (or scene) you’re in the mood for this neighborhood offers them all.

For those who want a scene: Beatnik

This instagram friendly restaurant is not only aesthetically beautiful, the food is also delicious. The plates are meant to be shared…

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Listings courtesy of NEIRBR Northeast Iowa Regional Board of Realtors as distributed by MLS GRID

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Listing information last updated on October 14th, 2025 at 2:38pm CDT.