Thinking about leaving the city for the Chicago suburbs? Wondering what suburban life really looks like compared to your current neighborhood in Lincoln Park, Lakeview, Bucktown, or Logan Square? In this episode of Chicago Home Partner, I sit down with my longtime friend and North Shore expert Connie Dornan to break it all down in a point/counterpoint conversation between two seasoned real estate advisors—me (city-focused) and Connie (suburbs-focused).

We compare what Chicago residents are experiencing right now with what’s happening in the suburbs—from inventory trends to home prices, buyer behavior, and lifestyle differences. Hear how mortgage rates are impacting buyer psychology, to what types of properties are in highest demand in areas like Wilmette, Winnetka, Glenview, Northbrook, Highland Park, and more. Whether you've made up your mind to move or are just weighing your options - this conversation is packed with insider insight you won't find on Zillow.

As two experienced brokers who started in real estate during times of crisis, Connie and I share the data-driven strategies and real-life stories that are helping our clients succeed in today’s competitive housing market.✨ Whether you're dreaming of a bigger backyard, looking for top-rated schools, or just trying to understand what life in the suburbs is really like, this episode is a must-watch.🔔 Subscribe for more expert real estate advice, neighborhood deep-dives, and honest takes on Chicago’s evolving market.📍 Serving buyers and sellers in Chicago, Wilmette, Glenview, Winnetka, Northbrook, Lake Forest, and beyond.CONNECT WITH CHICAGO HOME PARTNER: Amanda McMillan, Chicago Home Partner Amanda@ChicagoHomePartner.com ☎️ 773.537.1300

Why can’t we just build more homes in Chicago and how has the city made it nearly impossible for developers to build here?In this episode, I sit down with Zev Salomon, one of the city’s top new construction developers, and Kevin Van Eck of @properties to unpack why Chicago’s zoning laws, city ordinances, and political red tape are some of the biggest roadblocks to solving our housing crisis.🏗️ Zev pulls back the curtain on just how difficult it is to get a shovel in the ground in Chicago. From density restrictions and affordable housing mandates to months-long aldermanic approval processes and NIMBY opposition, we break down why building more homes is no simple task—and how these barriers are driving developers away from Chicago altogether.🏡 We also discuss which types of new construction are actually succeeding, why affordability remains out of reach for many, and how the housing shortage is impacting every level of the market—from luxury buyers to first-time home seekers.🚛 In the second half, Kevin shares how @properties’ relocation network and Christie's International affiliation are empowering buyers and sellers to move smarter—whether across town or across the globe.📌 Key Topics Covered:* How Chicago’s zoning and ordinances are stalling new development* The high cost of affordable housing requirements* Why developers are leaving Chicago for less restrictive markets* What relocation services offer buyers and sellers moving to/from Chicago* Real estate predictions for 2025If you’ve ever wondered why inventory is so tight in Chicago—or what it takes to actually build new homes here—this episode is for you.

🟦 About

Are you a first-time Chicago homebuyer, homeowner, or real estate investor? Subscribe to our channel for a front-row seat to current Chicago market trends, local influences on home values, financing tips, and strategies for making SMART real estate moves. As the #1 producing agent in the @properties Bucktown, Amanda is a true Chicago real estate maestro. A data enthusiast, Amanda dives deep into local, national, and financial markets to serve as both an educator and ally to Chicago's home buyers and sellers. CHICAGO REAL ESTATE ACCOLADES: - $50M+ in closed volume annually - Consistently ranked among the Top 1% of Chicago Realtors for volume & transactions - 200+ 5 star reviews on Zillow, Google, and Yelp Beyond Chicagoland, Amanda's connection with Christie's International Real Estate enables her to assist clients worldwide. Whether you're seeking luxury services, buying or selling for the first time, or investing, Amanda's expertise and support are unparalleled.

The landscape of Chicago real estate is shifting fast, and the changes in Chicago commercial real estate are playing a major role. Since COVID, office vacancy rates have soared, small businesses have struggled to survive, and skyrocketing commercial property taxes are putting pressure on both business owners and homeowners. Chicago’s beloved neighborhoods—built around vibrant local shops, restaurants, and walkable amenities—are at risk as we see more empty storefronts and stalled developments. But is there hope for a turnaround?Some vacant office spaces are being repurposed, innovative redevelopment plans are in the works, and forward-thinking retailers are slowly making a comeback—placing bets on Chicago’s resurgence. If you want to understand how these shifts could impact your home value, your buying power, and your future in Chicago’s real estate market, this episode is a must-watch.0:55 - Jump to the Commercial Discussion24:35 - Jump to the Residential / Mortgage DiscussionKey Questions Answered* What is the current state of the Chicago real estate market?* Why should Chicago home buyers and sellers care about commercial real estate?* What plans are being used to repurpose vacant spaces throughout the city?* What strategies should buyers use to stay competitive in a fast-moving Chicago real estate market?Expert Guests & TopicsDeena Zimmerman (Baum Realty): Discusses the state of Chicago commercial real estate and how new restaurants, shops, and other commercial projects are shaping the unique character of Chicago neighborhoods. Learn how these commercial properties influence nearby home values and what they mean for Chicago’s residential real estate scene.Dan Gjeldum (RATE Mortgage): Covers how current economic policies – including insights on Trump’s policies – might impact the Chicago real estate market. Hear about expected interest rate trends and discover new loan products available to Chicago home buyers today. Find out how these tools can help you seize opportunities and stay competitive in your Chicago home buying journey.Tune in to hear in-depth answers to all these questions and more from our expert guests. Our discussion will help you understand what's really happening in Chicago's real estate landscape right now – and why it matters if you're buying or selling a home in Chicago.

What is going to happen to the Chicago housing market over the next 12 months? Tune in to find out from a 20 year top producing agent and find out if 2025 if YOUR year to buy or sell in Chicago. Join top producing veteran Realtor® Amanda McMillan and mortgage analyst Dan Gjeldum as they unveil crucial insights from this year's 2025 Chicago Home Partner Market Report. From sizzling price forecasts to inventory hurdles, interest rates, and consumer confidence, we have all the essential info to empower buyers and sellers in making savvy choices. What We'll Cover: 📈 Pricing: Will home prices keep soaring? 🏘️ Inventory: Are more homes finally flooding the market? 💸 Interest Rates: Will rates hold steady or take a dip? 📆 Days on Market: How quickly will homes sell? 🤝 Consumer Confidence: What's fueling optimism in 2025? Whether you're stepping into homeownership for the first time, moving up, or gearing up to sell, this episode is packed with actionable insights to navigate Chicago's vibrant market. Don't miss out on expert advice and bold predictions! 👉 Subscribe for more real estate wisdom and expert chats: https://bit.ly/3RVAjSy CONNECT WITH CHICAGO HOME PARTNER: Amanda McMillan, Chicago Home Partner Amanda@ChicagoHomePartner.com ☎️ 773.537.1300 🟦 About Are you a first-time Chicago homebuyer, homeowner, or real estate investor? Subscribe to our channel for a front-row seat to current Chicago market trends, local influences on home values, financing tips, and strategies for making SMART real estate moves. As the #1 producing agent in the @properties Bucktown, Amanda is a true Chicago real estate maestro. A data enthusiast, Amanda dives deep into local, national, and financial markets to serve as both an educator and ally to Chicago's home buyers and sellers. CHICAGO REAL ESTATE ACCOLADES: - $50M+ in closed volume annually - Consistently ranked among the Top 1% of Chicago Realtors for volume & transactions - 200+ 5 star reviews on Zillow, Google, and Yelp Beyond Chicagoland, Amanda's connection with Christie's International Real Estate enables her to assist clients worldwide. Whether you're seeking luxury services, buying or selling for the first time, or investing, Amanda's expertise and support are unparalleled.

The 2024 Presidential election is finally behind us, but how will that impact the real estate market going forward? This month we feature two incredible guests and together, we dive deep into our thoughts on real estate under Trump 2.0, Chicago's market outlook for 2025, and the challenges buyers and sellers will face in the coming year. Topics Covered: George Schultz, managing broker at @properties: *The impact of elections on the Chicago housing market and consumer confidence. *Differentiating the stock market from the real estate market. *The impact of The NAR settlement changes. *Preparing buyers and sellers for Chicago’s competitive Spring market. *Insights on the importance of early consultations for real estate success. Tommy Choi, top Chicago REALTOR® and coach: *How gratitude and the American Dream shape his real estate journey. *Overcoming humble beginnings to achieve success in real estate. *The importance of collaboration in a competitive industry. *Tackling challenges like low inventory and compensation changes in 2025. *Empowering agents through coaching with actionable strategies. *Building generational wealth through homeownership. Key Takeaways: *For Buyers: Don’t wait! High-interest rates today may offer better long-term opportunities than waiting for market shifts. *For Sellers: Start conversations early to ensure you're positioned for success in the Spring market. *For Agents: Adapt to the evolving market by embracing transparency and creative solutions. 📢 Why Watch? This episode offers invaluable insights for homebuyers, sellers, and those fascinated by the Chicago real estate market. Whether you’re navigating today’s challenges or preparing for the future, Amanda, George, and Tommy provide the strategies and inspiration you need to succeed. Whether you're a seasoned homeowner, a first-time buyer, or simply interested in the inner workings of Chicago's real estate market, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and practical advice.

If you’re trying to understand Chicago Public Schools, their lottery system or what school to go to - this episode is for you!

Amanda welcomes real estate expert Matt Dollinger and CPS Parent Coordinator Michelle Sherman as they discuss everything you need to know about Chicago Public Schools and the current state of the real estate media in Chicago. Together we’ll tackle some of the most commonly asked questions about CPS including:

• How parents can understand options like neighborhood, magnet, and selective enrollment schools.
• The CPS lottery system and how to manage anxiety while waiting for school placements.
• What to look for when selecting your school
• Key tips to help you get into the school you want (even if it’s not in your neighborhood!)

Matt brings his unique perspective to the podcast as a real estate expert AND a Chicago parent, diving into some key topics:

• Why many agents fail and what makes others succeed.
• The traits needed to be a top-performing agent:
• Real estate headlines and why fact-checking is crucial.
• Raising kids in Chicago: City life,
• Why the Chicago Park District is a parent’s best friend!
  

Don't miss this episode packed with valuable insights for home owners, real estate professionals, parents, and anyone navigating the challenges of life in Chicago. Subscribe for more!

In this episode of the Chicago Home Partner Podcast, Amanda McMillan dives deep into the evolving world of real estate, exploring the biggest industry shifts, the game-changing technology that has transformed the way we buy and sell homes, and why consumers should be wary of home search portals like Zillow and Homes.com.

Next, Amanda sits down with Brian Tomko from Inspectrum Home Inspection Team, a trusted name in Chicago's real estate circles. Brian shares his insights on what makes a thorough home inspection and why it's essential for both buyers and sellers. From common issues found in Chicago properties to the biggest red flags to watch out for, this segment is packed with valuable information to help you make informed decisions in your real estate transactions.

🔑 Key Topics Covered:

• The innovation of real estate tech, marketing, and team development.
• The impact of COVID-19 on real estate marketing and technology.
• How search portal sites like Zillow capitalize on consumers.
• The evolution and future of home inspections with Brian Tomko.
• Common inspection issues in Chicago properties and how to handle them.
• The importance of transparency and informed decision-making in real estate.

Whether you're a seasoned homeowner, a first-time buyer, or simply interested in the inner workings of Chicago's real estate market, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and practical advice.

👉 Don't miss this episode filled with expert advice and insider stories that you won't find anywhere else!

Summer is here, and this month we're discussing the benefits of a GREAT agent, the current state of mortgages, how to win in multiple bids, and what to look for when buying a home with dogs!

Brooke and I are back with this episode, discussing why buyer representation matters, what good agents bring to the table, and some great info for anyone looking to buy in this roller-coaster market:

• Why good agent representation matters
• What you should expect a GOOD agent to do
• How to win in multiple bids
• Pricing properties in today's Chicago market
• Pet amenities for today's home buyer

Additionally, Dan Gjeldum from Guaranteed Rate joins Amanda to discuss the state of the mortgage world. It's been a tough year so far regarding lending, and Dan is here to shed a little light on what's happening, why we haven't seen rates drop much, and what the NAR lawsuit means to the lending world:

• 2024 Lending Review (so far)
• Rates: Expectations vs. Reality
• Tricks for lowering your rate in 2024
• NAR lawsuit and impacts on the lending world

Tune in to hear answers to these questions and more from these experts in the market.

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Whether you are a home buyer, home seller, or just interested in the Chicago market, it is important to stay up-to-date on local market conditions. Tune in and find out what's happening in Chicago right now.

Chicago Home Partner is your resource for all things real estate in Chicago. We're focused on providing data-inspired advice and education for today's Chicago home buyer, seller, or investor. Make sure to subscribe for upcoming episodes.

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CONNECT WITH CHICAGO HOME PARTNER:

Amanda McMillan, Chicago Home Partner

Email: Amanda@ChicagoHomePartner.com

Phone: 773.537.1300

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ABOUT CHICAGO HOME PARTNER:

Chicago Home Partner, a division of @properties real estate, was founded in 2002 by Amanda McMillan. Amanda and her small team of associates continually rank in the top 1% (top 50) of sales for Chicago, as well as the top agent team in the @properties Bucktown office. Amanda has been featured by Crain’s Chicago, Forbes Magazine, and CNBC for her insight into the Chicago city market.

For the last 20 years, Chicago Home Partner has been recognized as a leader in Chicago real estate, with hundreds of five-star client reviews across Yelp!, Zillow, Google, and LinkedIn. Our goal is to provide personalized advice to home buyers, sellers, and investors, founded on data—not headlines. Whether it's luxury services, first-time buyers/sellers, or investors, our experience and guidance are unmatched. Connect with us for a free consultation to better understand your real estate goals and to see if buying or selling in Chicago is the right decision for you. Visit https://www.chicagohomepartner.com/