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Protect your property from mortgage fraud (FREE!)

When it comes to identity theft, credit card spending is only the tip of the iceberg. Not only are thieves using stolen information togo shopping on your Visa card, they are scamming medical insurance, falsifying citizenship / immigration status and travelling and using false (your) credentials.
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Post-closing privacy for Chicago-area home buyers: Limiting access to your private data

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.

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The easy way to transfer property upon death

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.

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The who, what and how of Chicago blue cart recycling

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.

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What's Wrong with Free Little Libraries?

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? 

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New for 2023! Illinois smoke detector law

As of New Year's Day, all smoke detectors in residential dwelling units must be...

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Cook County announces state equalization factor for 2022 tax bills

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? 

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Where are the Cook County property tax bills?

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 ...

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Who's in Charge of Fixing Miami's Aging Condos? (and what about here in Chicago?)

The disasterous 2021 building collapse in Miami calls to light a critical challenge for all condo owners, including owners here in Chicago. Who decides if repairs and who pays? Hint: the owners.

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In the news: Relief for the mortgage biz during shutdown

By Michael Wasserman

Whew. Real estate buyers, sellers and professionals all exhaled with relief last Friday. After lobbying from the mortgage industry, the Treasury Department has deemed Internal Revenue Service clerks (who process lending forms) as "essential" employees. Which means they can get back to
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In the news: Investing in Chicago's gentrifying neighborhoods

Chicago is an ever-changing demographic kaleidoscope. Ethnic migrations, land-use transformations, and varying degrees of economic prosperity all stir the real estate pot and eventually touch every corner of the city.

So, how does a home buyer or real estate investor know where to find the best opportunities for property appreciation in Chicago?
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HRRA: Illinois' remedy against reckless contractors

Before you decide to remodel (or sign on the dotted line), know your rights—and the limitations—provided under the Illinois Home Repair and Remodeling Act (HRRA). 

The HRRA gives homeowners civil remedies against reckless contractors. It’s extra protection
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