Chicago Property Management Blog

As a landlord, there are many situations where working with an experienced housing attorney can benefit you significantly. Housing attorneys specialize in legal issues pertaining to real estate, property management, and the landlord-tenant relationship. Some of the key reasons landlords should consider partnering with a housing attorney include:• Lease drafting: Housing attorneys can draft customized leases that protect your intere...

As a landlord or property owner in Chicago, partnering with a qualified real estate broker can help you navigate the local housing market successfully. Real estate brokers provide services like property listings, marketing, sales, leasing, and more. When choosing a broker, here are some things to consider:• Licensing and certification: Ensure the broker is properly licensed by the state of Illinois and holds any relevant profession...

As a landlord operating in Chicago, there are several taxes you should be aware of:• Property Tax: The property tax is an annual tax levied on the assessed value of residential and commercial real estate in Chicago. Property tax rates vary each year based on the city's budget needs. Property taxes are used to fund essential services like schools, infrastructure, and public safety. As a landlord, property taxes constitute one of...

During the homebuying process, the first step over 40% of buyers complete is to check for properties online. Without a strong marketing strategy, buyers won't show any interest in your property. A few minor home improvements, however, can help you stand out when selling a house.Here are five home improvement marketing tips to use to attract potential buyers. With these home marketing ideas, you can help buyers fall in love with your...

Investing in rental real estate can be an excellent way for landlords to generate income and build wealth over time. The Chicago real estate market, in particular, offers many opportunities for investment due to its large population, diverse neighborhoods, and stable property values. However, real estate investment also comes with risks that landlords must go in prepared to mitigate. Here are some tips for successful real estate investm...

Are you hoping to add to Chicago's population of 2.66 million?If so, you must learn the 7 steps to buying a home!Buying a home can be a bit complicated, especially for first-timers. It is not as easy as entering a sports store and purchasing your favorite team's jersey. After all, a property is one of the most significant investments you will ever make.Thankfully, you are in the right place for moving to Chicago. In this guide, ...

Conducting proper tenant screening is one of the most important responsibilities for Chicago landlords. Choosing reliable, trustworthy tenants can help minimize headaches and ensure you receive rent payments on time. On the other hand, lax screening procedures can lead to non-paying tenants, excessive property damage, and legal issues. Here are some tips for effective tenant screening in Chicago:Check tenant references. Require prospect...

As a landlord, keeping your rental properties well-maintained should be a top priority. Proper house maintenance helps attract and retain good tenants, prevents costly repairs down the road, and ensures safe and habitable living conditions as required by Chicago housing law. Here are some key areas of house maintenance for Chicago landlords to focus on:Heating and cooling systems: Have HVAC systems inspected and serviced annually to kee...

In the world of real estate deals, there are an incredible number of potential pitfalls. So, why use a realtor? To A realtor can leverage their expert knowledge to ensure your real estate deal is successful. This article lists five compelling reasons why you should consider working with a realtor rather than trying to do it alone.1. Market KnowledgeOne of the primary benefits of hiring a realtor is that they have in-depth expertise in t...

Chicago is a large and diverse rental market, offering many opportunities for landlords and property owners. However, to have a successful rental experience, it is important to go in prepared. Here are some tips for renting out your house in Chicago:Know the market. Do your research on rental rates for comparable properties in your neighborhood. Check sites like Zillow, Trulia, and Craigslist to determine a competitive price range for y...