So, you found a condo you want to buy. But your ESA (Emotional Support Animal) does not meet the pet restrictions of the Homeowners Association (HOA). Or maybe you already live in a no-pets HOA and now need a furry friend for support. How do you get an Illinois HOA to allow your ESA?
Homeowners, in Cook County tax exemptions can lower your property tax bill significantly. And now (March 2025) is the time to apply for your 2024 exemptions. There's a lot to know, so here's a good overview.
We all expect a measure of privacy in our homes. But, in the information age, privacy is no longer a given. In fact, there is a lot of easily acquired information online, particularly after a real estate purchase.
Sure, this may not be the most pleasant subject. But it's important...and we can help.
If your home—a house, condo, or townhouse—is in Illinois, you might consider using our new TODI Inheritance Service to leave it to a beneficiary. A TODI is a Transfer on Death Instrument, essentially a "will-equivalent" for real estate that's less complex than creating a will or trust.
As many of my clients are new to the Chicago area, I’m often asked about recycling, typically as we sit around the closing table. And, since there are updated rules and schedules, I thought I’d jot down a quick overview and links for Chicago’s nifty recycling guide.
Chicago alderpersons will soon vote on a proposed ordinance restricting property owners from installing free little libraries in front of their homes.
How can anyone object to free libraries in Chicago? Seems silly at first blush. We should always support neighbors sharing with neighbors, literacy campaigns, and lifetime learning. So what's the fuss?
As of New Year's Day, all smoke detectors in residential dwelling units must be...
Cook County homeowners, our property tax bills are one step closer to hitting our mailboxes. Why? Because the final Cook County 2021* State Equalization factor was announced on October 18, 2022.
So, what the heck is equalization?
It's October! Where are the Cook County property tax bills? If you pay the bill directly, you may have been wondering if they forgot you. They didn't. It's not just you. The bills for the second installment of Cook County property taxes (generally due August 1) have not been finalized yet. Earlier this year, we expected tax bills to be sent by the ...