Real Estate Blog - May, 2025

Is It Better To Rent or Buy a Home?

You’ve probably asked yourself lately: Is it even worth trying to buy a home right now?

With high home prices and stubborn mortgage rates, renting can seem like the safer choice right now. Or maybe your only choice. That’s a very real feeling. And perhaps buying today isn’t your best move; it’s not for everyone right away. You should only buy a home when you’re ready and able to do it, and if the timing is right for you.

But here’s the thing you need to know about renting.

While it may feel like a safer bet today – and in some areas might even be less expensive month-to-month than owning – it can really cost you more over time.

In fact, a recent Bank of America survey found that 70% of aspiring homeowners worry about what long-term renting…

55 Views, 0 Comments

Why 1553 Dempsey Dr Is the Perfect Ranch Home in St. Charles

1553 Dempsey Dr, St Charles, IL

• Photos
• Maps & Local
• Schools
• Print

Welcome to 1553 Dempsey Dr in the sought-after Munhall Glen neighborhood of St. Charles-a true ranch home that blends quality construction with easy living. Built by a long-time local builder known for attention to detail, this 3-bedroom, 2-bath gem offers a townhouse lifestyle without the attached walls. Set on a beautifully landscaped lot, you'll love the charming front porch, extra-deep 2-car garage, and spacious backyard with a brick paver patio. Step inside to find hardwood floors,…

66 Views, 0 Comments

The Secret To Selling Your House in Today’s Market

A few years ago, homes were flying off the shelves and getting multiple offers well over their asking price. It felt like you could name your price and still have buyers lined up at the door.

But today’s housing market is different. Buyers are getting more selective now that inventory has grown. Homes are sitting a little longer. And more sellers are having to cut their prices.

So, how do you still come out on top? It all starts with one thing, pricing your house right from the start. Today, that matters more than ever – and it can make or break your sale.

There’s a Real Price Disconnect Between Buyers and Sellers

A recent survey from Realtor.com shows 81% of home sellers believe they’ll get their asking price or more. But the actual sales…

61 Views, 0 Comments

Many Veterans Don’t Know about This VA Home Loan Benefit

For 80 years, Veterans Affairs (VA) home loans have helped countless Veterans buy a home. But even though a lot of Veterans have access to this powerful program, the majority don't know about one of its core benefits.

According to a report from Veterans United only 3 in 10 Veterans are aware they may be able to buy a home with no down payment with a VA loan (see visual below):

That means 7 out of every 10 Veterans could be missing out on a key homebuying advantage.

That’s why it’s so important for Veterans, and anyone who cares about a Veteran, to be aware of this program. As Veterans United explains, VA home loans:

54 Views, 0 Comments

Geneva Home for Sale with In-Law Arrangement and Rental Potential at 125 Maple Ct

125 Maple Ct, Geneva, IL

• Photos
• Maps & Local
• Schools
• Print

Welcome to 125 Maple Ct, a spacious and versatile 6-bedroom, 3 full and 2 half bath home nestled on a beautifully landscaped, fenced corner lot in the heart of Geneva. Surrounded by mature trees and ideally located near top-rated schools, parks, downtown Geneva, the Metra station, and the Randall Road corridor, this home offers incredible convenience and room to grow. The charming curb appeal includes a welcoming front porch, while the backyard is built for entertaining with a patio, firepit,…

52 Views, 0 Comments

Geneva Illinois May 2025 Market Update: Homes Sell Fast in a Hot Market

If you're buying or selling real estate in Geneva, Illinois, you'll want to keep a close eye on the latest housing data. The Geneva Illinois May 2025 Market Update reveals a dynamic and fast-moving market that's heavily favoring sellers.

A Seller’s Dream: Just 1.1 Months Supply of Inventory

The current Months Supply of Inventory in Geneva is 1.1. What does that mean? If no new homes were added to the market starting today, every available listing would be sold in just over a month. For context, a balanced market usually has about 5 to 6 months of supply. This slim inventory means high competition—and often higher prices.

Over the past year, Geneva’s supply of inventory has dropped by 18%. That's a significant shift. Less inventory…

300 Views, 0 Comments

Thinking about an Adjustable-Rate Mortgage? Read This First.

If you’ve been house hunting lately, you’ve probably felt the sting of today’s mortgage rates. And it’s because of those rates and rising home prices that many homebuyers are starting to explore other types of loans to make the numbers work. And one option that’s gaining popularity? Adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs).

If you remember the crash in 2008, this may bring up some concerns. But don’t worry. Today’s ARMs aren’t the same. Here’s why.

Back then, some buyers were given loans they couldn’t afford after the rates adjusted. But now, lenders are more cautious, and they evaluate whether you could still afford the loan if your rate increases. So, don’t assume the return of ARMs means another crash. Right now, it just shows some buyers are looking for…

52 Views, 0 Comments

Saint Charles Real Estate Market Update May 2025: What Buyers and Sellers Must Know

The real estate market in Saint Charles has made significant shifts heading into May 2025, and whether you're a homebuyer, seller, or simply curious about local property trends, staying updated can give you a major edge. In this detailed blog post, we’ll unpack the key market indicators and what they mean for you.

Introduction: Why This Market Update Matters

Understanding current housing trends isn’t just a hobby for real estate enthusiasts—it’s a strategic move for anyone thinking of buying or selling property. Fortunately, Kelly Bradley of The Kombrink Team at One Source Realty has provided us with a clear and concise Saint Charles May 2025 Market Update. Let’s break it down and explore what the numbers really say.

Saint Charles May…

369 Views, 0 Comments

More Homes for Sale Isn’t a Warning Sign – It's Your Buying Opportunity

Maybe you’ve heard the number of homes for sale has reached a recent high. And it might make you question if this is the start of another housing market crash.

But the reality is, the data proves that’s just not the case. In most areas, more inventory isn’t bad news. It’s actually a sign of the market returning to a more stable, healthy place.

What’s Going on With Inventory?

Based on the latest data from Realtor.com, inventory just hit its highest point since 2020, shown with the white line in the graph below.

But what you need to realize is, at the same time, inventory levels still haven’t returned to pre-pandemic norms (shown in gray):

That means there are more homes for sale now than there have been in quite some time.

And while it’s…

65 Views, 0 Comments

 What Buyers Need To Know About Homeowners Association Fees

When buying a home, you’re probably thinking about mortgage rates, home prices, your down payment, and maybe even your closing costs. But you may not be thinking about homeowners association (HOA) fees. While you won’t necessarily have these, you should know it’s a possibility, depending on where you decide to live.

A homeowners association is basically an organization that oversees a housing community (including shared spaces) and sets and enforces rules for things like upkeep. Some buyers love the perks that come with an HOA, others may see the fees as an extra expense. The key is knowing what they cover and whether the benefits outweigh the costs for you.

The Benefits of Having an HOA

Think about this. If you’ve fallen in love with a home…

71 Views, 0 Comments