The difference between a top producer and the average agent is apparent in almost every aspect of how they do business. Perhaps the most obvious differences can be seen in sales volume: the top 20 agents in each of

New agents continue to enter the real estate industry, but with fresh faces comes inexperience. We surveyed Chicagoland’s top producers about the worst habits they see in new agents, and not surprisingly, there were some common threads in their

We asked the top-ranked agents in Chicagoland’s six counties for a few quick insights on their business: 1. Listings – 69 percent upload the maximum amount of photos allowed to the MLS (25) 2. Showings – Only 19.05 percent attend every

There are two ways for an inexperienced agent to reach top producer status: work hard alone for years, or join a team. In every city, the bar for top producer status is set at a different height – some very

The expertise of a good lender is invaluable. For agents (especially new agents), the difference between an organized, experienced lender and an inattentive or disorganized one is monumental. Knowing who to call is half the battle when it’s time

Compared to a few years ago, the lending market is doing quite well. In fact, some institutions believe the progress of recovery is such that the market will be fully recovered by the end of this year. Now if

The improving employment picture, a recent interest rate hike and less rigorous loan standards are fueling a dynamic Chicagoland real estate market. Inventory is tight, prices are up and single-family homes are in demand. A relatively warm and snow-free

Chicago is a patchwork city cuffed in suburbs. While the metropolitan market is usually reported on in its entirety, the reality is that the local market is splintered into sub-markets, which often perform contrary to the area’s larger trends.

Our 2015 editorial calendar included cover stories on a wide range of topics in Chicagoland real estate, but which ones were the most popular with our readers? Click through to find

Chicagoland agents tell us that 2015 was a good year. Positive trends in mortgage applications, decreases in unemployment and shorter times on market offered agents and their clients a housing market full of opportunities. Chicago’s economy saw a modest

How will new construction grow in 2016? Liz Brooks: As more new luxury rentals deliver in 2016, we see supply outpacing demand and expect rents to moderate. There has been very little condo development activity in the past seven

What factors will affect loans next year, and why? David Hrobon: TRID rules have created a paradigm shift for the real estate and lending community.  It is a “buyer first” mentality today.  We also see some loosening of credit,

What do you think will happen with the U.S. economy over the next 12 months, in regards to builder confidence, existing home sales, housing inventory, housing starts, pending home sales and unemployment? Liz Brooks: We have seen consistent growth

How do you see third-party aggregators like Zillow/Trulia and Realtor.com growing or changing? Janet Owen: Although there is a need for third-party aggregators, I don’t see any more room or need for more. If anything, there may be mergers.