For Buyers
Whether it's your first condo or your forever home, we put four decades of local pattern-recognition between you and a costly mistake. Here's what to expect — and the questions buyers ask us most.
Yes — it's the best first step. A pre-approval tells you your budget, strengthens your offer, and lets us move quickly when the right home appears. We're happy to connect you with trusted lenders.
Before we tour homes, we'll review and sign a written buyer-representation agreement together that spells out how we work for you and how that representation is paid. We'll walk through every line so it's clear. See Understanding agency below.
It varies with the market and your search, but from accepted offer to closing is commonly 30–60 days. We'll keep you informed at every step in between.
Closing costs — inspection, lender and title charges, attorney, transfer stamps, and a few others. We break them all down in Your closing costs below.
It depends on your finances, the market, and your tolerance for moving twice. It's one of the first things we'll talk through — there's no one-size answer, and we'll help you weigh it.
Understanding agency
Real estate "agency" simply means who an agent represents — and as your buyer's agent, we represent you. Our Agency page covers what that means, the official Illinois consumer guide, and how dual agency works. We'll review it with you before you sign anything.
Understanding agency & dual agency →Your closing costs
Beyond your down payment, buying in Chicago comes with a handful of closing costs. Figures are typical estimates; we'll build a personalized estimate for your purchase.
Tell us what you're after and we'll build a plan around it — no pressure, just straight answers.
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