Northern Illinois Real Estate Videos & Market Updates

Thinking about buying or selling this fall? The market looks a lot different than it did a year ago, and mortgage rates are a big part of the story. Last fall, rates dipped, buyers jumped back in, and homes sold fast enough that inventory actually shrank. This year, with rates over 7%, some buyers have hit pause and homes are taking longer to sell. Inventory has grown by about 25,000 homes since August. For buyers, that means more homes to choose from and more room to negotiate. For sellers, it means pricing right from day one and making your home look its absolute best matter more now than they did last year. Curious what this looks like where you live? Reach out to The Kombrink Team at One Source Realty and we’ll walk through how many homes are for sale near you and what that means for your plans.

Worried you'll regret buying a home right now? Here's some perspective. Nationally, home prices are up more than 33% over the past five years and over 300% since 1991. Prices don't climb every single year, but homeownership was never about one year. It's about what your home can do for you over time. Every mortgage payment and every bit of appreciation builds equity, and that equity can grow into real wealth for whatever comes next. If the numbers work for you, don't let today's headlines pull your focus from the bigger picture. Thinking about buying in Geneva, St. Charles, Batavia, or anywhere in the Fox Valley? The Kombrink Team at One Source Realty would love to help you figure out whether buying now fits where you want to be years from now.

Thinking about buying a home in Geneva, Illinois in 2027? Geneva is one of the most desirable communities in the Fox Valley, but buying here is not as simple as watching the average home price and waiting for the “perfect” time. In this video, Kris Kombrink with The Kombrink Team at One Source Realty breaks down six mistakes Geneva buyers should avoid, from understanding the market you’re actually competing in to property taxes, mortgage payments, negotiations and inspections. We cover: • Why Geneva is really several different real estate markets • Why a Geneva mailing address doesn’t always mean the City of Geneva • School districts and boundaries, including Mill Creek • What your property tax bill could really look like after closing • How mortgage rates affect your true monthly payment • When Geneva buyers have negotiating leverage • Radon, historic districts, flood zones and inspections If you're thinking about moving to Geneva, the goal isn't just to find a house you like. It's to understand exactly what you're buying, what it will cost each month and where you actually have leverage.

Will mortgage rates really climb to 9%? We've seen the headlines too, so here's the straight answer: today's market conditions just don't support it. Getting to 9% would take a rare mix of things all lasting for the next year: an economy growing much faster than normal, no slowdown in jobs, the conflict in Iran continuing to keep oil prices high, and the Fed raising its rate more than expected. That's a lot of dominoes that all have to fall the same way. If you're thinking about moving soon in the Fox Valley or Chicago suburbs, there's no need to let a headline change your plans. Have questions about where rates are headed? Reach out to The Kombrink Team at One Source Realty and we'll help you make sense of the forecasts.

Thinking about staying in your home for good? Before you decide, here's what to weigh. Fewer than 4% of homes have the basics for aging in place, like single-floor living, no-step entries, and wide hallways. For most homeowners, staying put means remodeling, and living through the noise and dust while it happens. There's another path. The equity you've built over the years could go toward a home in a 55+ community, where those features are already built in and fitness classes and social events are a short walk away. Not sure which way to go? We'd love to sit down with you and compare both paths so you can make the choice that fits your life. We help homeowners across Geneva, St. Charles, Batavia, Naperville, and the rest of the Fox Valley.

The Fed raised the Federal Funds Rate again, but does that automatically mean mortgage rates are going higher? Not exactly. The Federal Funds Rate and mortgage rates are two different things. Fed policy can influence the overall interest-rate environment, but mortgage rates also react to inflation, the bond market, economic data, and investor expectations. For homebuyers, the better strategy usually isn’t trying to perfectly time mortgage rates. Build a plan that works with today’s numbers and know what your options are if rates change later. Thinking about buying a home in Chicagoland? Reach out to The Kombrink Team and let’s talk through the numbers.

Thinking about moving to St. Charles, Illinois in 2027? In this video, Kris Kombrink with The Kombrink Team at One Source Realty breaks down what makes St. Charles one of the most popular communities in the Fox Valley and what you should know before making a move. St. Charles offers something a lot of suburbs struggle to combine: a real downtown, the Fox River, established neighborhoods, newer housing options, parks and trails, restaurants and entertainment, and easy access to the rest of the Fox Valley. But St. Charles is also changing. We’ll look at what’s happening around downtown, new residential development, growth on the east side, housing options throughout the community, commuting considerations, and some of the tradeoffs buyers should understand before deciding whether St. Charles is the right fit. Thinking about buying or selling a home in St. Charles? The Kombrink Team at One Source Realty has been helping buyers and sellers throughout the Fox Valley since 1991.

You may have more negotiating power than you think. Right now, about 60% of homes are selling below their original asking price. That means your chances of getting a home for less than the seller originally wanted are better than a coin flip. But how much can you negotiate? That depends on the home, the neighborhood, how long it’s been on the market, and what buyers are doing locally. The Kombrink Team keeps a close eye on the Chicagoland market so you can make a strong offer without unnecessarily overpaying. Thinking about buying? Let’s figure out what kind of offer makes sense.

Looking to move to Elburn, IL? Watch this video to learn all about this charming town just west of Chicago. From housing options to local amenities, we've got you covered. Contact The Kombrink Team to start your journey to finding your dream home in Elburn, IL today!

Are you thinking of buying a home? Avoid these 3 common mistakes that many buyers are making in today’s market: trying to time the market, buying more house than they can afford, and missing out on assistance programs. Let The Kombrink Team help you navigate the process smoothly!

Worried about the cost of buying your first home? You’re not alone—saving for a down payment and handling monthly payments are top concerns for first-time buyers. That’s where FHA loans come in. With lower down payment requirements and typically lower mortgage rates, FHA loans are designed to make homeownership more accessible. Talk to a lender to see if it’s the right fit for you.

Feel like your first home is years out of reach? With affordability this tight, we get it. But the type of home you buy can change the timeline in a big way. On the typical path, saving up and reaching the break-even point where owning costs about the same as renting takes around 15 years. With a starter home, it's closer to 7. And both of those numbers assume a 20 percent down payment. Most first-time buyers put down far less, and some loans require as little as 3 percent or even zero down. Tired of waiting? Reach out to The Kombrink Team at One Source Realty and let's chat about getting you into your first home sooner.

Half of buyers are worried home prices are about to crash. The other half are hoping they do. But the latest home price forecasts tell a different story. Fannie Mae surveyed more than 100 housing experts, and the average forecast calls for home prices to rise 14.7% through 2030. Even the most pessimistic forecast still projects a 6.6% increase. That doesn’t mean every city or neighborhood will move the same way. Some markets could see short-term declines, but nationally, experts are still forecasting higher home prices over the next several years. Wondering what home prices are doing here in the Fox Valley and Chicagoland market? Reach out to The Kombrink Team at One Source Realty.

Thinking about selling your current home and buying a new one—but worried it might be stressful? It doesn’t have to be. With the right strategy and the right team, you can do both confidently. For many, selling first makes sense—it avoids two mortgages, unlocks equity, and strengthens your next offer. But there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. That’s why The Kombrink Team is here to help you plan smart and move smoothly.

Thinking about skipping the home inspection? Don’t. It’s like a health checkup for your future home. Here’s what inspectors typically check: Roof, plumbing, electrical Heating & cooling systems Structure, exterior, and more A home inspection can: Uncover hidden issues Help you renegotiate or request repairs Give you peace of mind before closing If you could ask a home inspector one question before buying, what would it be? Drop it in the comments—we'll make sure it's at the top of the list! The Kombrink Team at One Source Realty has your back!

Pre-qualification is a guess. Pre-approval is a game-changer. If you're serious about buying a home, you need to be pre-approved — not just to win the house, but to avoid nasty surprises down the road. Sellers want solid offers backed by proof, not vibes. Learn why pre-approval can give you the edge in a competitive market and how to get started.

Thinking about buying your first home but worried your credit score isn’t high enough? You’re not alone—and you may be overestimating what it takes. In this video, we break down the median credit scores by loan type and explain why there’s no one magic number. Your credit doesn’t have to be perfect to qualify! The best step? Talk to a lender to explore your options. Let’s get you on the path to homeownership.

Think closing costs are the same everywhere? Nope. They can vary from $1,500 to over $10,000 depending on your location, price point, and even attorney fees. Know what to expect before you start house hunting—especially here in the Fox Valley. Reach out to The Kombrink Team for local guidance!

Buying a home soon? The market is giving buyers something they haven’t had much of lately: options. There are now more homes on the market than at any point since 2019, bringing inventory closer to normal levels. That means buyers have a better chance to find a home that fits their needs and budget, while also having more room to negotiate on price and terms. If you’re thinking about buying in Geneva, St. Charles, Batavia, or anywhere in the Fox Valley, The Kombrink Team at One Source Realty can help you sort through the options and focus on the homes that are actually worth your time.

Renting might feel cheaper now, but rent always goes up. Meanwhile, home values rise too, but as a homeowner, that works in your favor. When you buy: Lock in your monthly payment Build wealth through home equity Ditch rising rents for good! If you're ready to explore starter homes, The Kombrink Team at One Source Realty can help.

Veterans, here’s something you need to know. Only 3 in 10 Veterans realize they may qualify for a VA loan with ZERO down payment. No down payment required No PMI (private mortgage insurance) Limited closing costs A VA loan could help you buy a home sooner than you think, and it’s one of the biggest benefits you’ve earned. Curious if you qualify? Let The Kombrink Team at One Source Realty connect you with trusted VA lenders today.

Mortgage rates may be making headlines again, but the rate you see quoted online isn’t necessarily the rate you’ll actually get. Your mortgage rate depends on your individual financial picture, including your credit score, debt-to-income ratio, down payment, loan type, loan term, and other factors. That means your actual rate could look different from the number making headlines. If higher rates have you putting your home search on hold, talk with a trusted local lender or loan officer and find out what you could actually qualify for. A quick conversation may give you a much clearer picture of what’s possible.

Think student loans are holding you back from buying a home? Think again. Around one in three first-time buyers in the Fox Valley have student debt — and they’re still becoming homeowners. What matters most is your full financial picture: income, credit, and the right loan options. Talk to a great local lender and see where you really stand. You might be closer to owning in Geneva, Batavia, or St. Charles than you think.

Thinking about moving to Geneva, Illinois in 2027? In this video, we break down why Geneva keeps showing up on buyers’ lists and what makes this Fox Valley community so appealing. From its charming downtown and Metra access to parks, trails, established neighborhoods, and strong overall lifestyle, Geneva offers a lot for buyers who want more than just a house. We also talk about what you should know before making a move here, including housing availability, pricing, and what makes Geneva different from nearby communities. If you're considering a move, this video will help you decide whether Geneva is the right fit for you. Learn more about Geneva here: https://www.kombrink.com/geneva/ If you're thinking about buying or selling in Geneva or anywhere in the Fox Valley, reach out to The Kombrink Team.

More than 4 in 10 homes for sale have had at least one price cut, and the average reduction is around $17,000. For sellers, that’s a reminder that pricing correctly from the beginning matters. Start too high, and you may end up chasing the market down. For buyers, a price reduction can signal an opportunity. A seller who has already adjusted their price may be more willing to negotiate on price, closing costs, or other terms. Thinking about buying or selling in Geneva, St. Charles, Batavia, or the surrounding Fox Valley? Reach out to The Kombrink Team and let’s talk strategy.

Why does the housing market feel so confusing right now? Because not every buyer or seller is playing by the same rules. There are really four different groups shaping today’s market: cash buyers, financed buyers, homeowners holding onto low mortgage rates, and builders looking to move inventory. Which group you fall into can completely change your leverage, your options, and the best strategy for your next move. Thinking about buying or selling in Geneva, St. Charles, Batavia, or elsewhere in the Fox Valley? Reach out to The Kombrink Team and let’s figure out the strategy that makes sense for you.

Mortgage rates have ticked higher again, but waiting around for the perfect rate isn’t always the best strategy. One option buyers sometimes overlook is new construction. Buyers of newly built homes have recently been getting lower mortgage rates than buyers of existing homes, in part because builders can offer incentives like mortgage rate buydowns. That lower rate could mean a noticeably smaller monthly payment. If you're buying in the Fox Valley or Chicagoland suburbs, The Kombrink Team can help you find new construction communities and see which builders are currently offering buyer incentives.

Will home prices drop in Illinois in 2026, or are buyers waiting for a housing crash that may not happen? Current forecasts point toward continued home price growth in Illinois, not a major decline. In this video, Kris Kombrink breaks down what’s keeping prices supported, including low housing inventory, homeowners holding onto low mortgage rates, limited new construction, and continued demand across the Fox Valley. We’ll also look at what this means for buyers and sellers in communities like Geneva, St. Charles, Batavia, and throughout Kane and DuPage Counties.

Thinking about moving to Chicago’s western suburbs and trying to decide between Geneva and St. Charles, Illinois? These neighboring Fox Valley communities both offer historic downtowns, highly regarded schools, access to the Fox River, great restaurants, parks, trails, and plenty of housing options. But living in Geneva and St. Charles can feel surprisingly different. This video compares Geneva vs. St. Charles, including: Downtown atmosphere and lifestyle Home prices and housing options Geneva Metra access and commuting Schools and recreation Parks, trails, festivals, and entertainment Which community may fit your lifestyle best Geneva may be the better fit if you want walkable Metra access, boutique shopping, historic charm, and established neighborhoods close to downtown. St. Charles may appeal more if you're looking for riverfront entertainment, a wider variety of housing, larger lots, and more nightlife and recreation.

If buying a home is still on your 2026 to-do list, circle September 27 through October 3. According to Realtor.com, that’s expected to be the best week of the year to buy a home nationally, with a combination of more inventory, lower seasonal prices, less competition, and more time to make a decision. Even better for local buyers, Realtor.com identifies that same week as the best buying window for the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin metro. That doesn’t mean you need to rush into a purchase. The right time to buy still depends on your budget, goals, and the local market. But if you’re considering a move in Geneva, St. Charles, Batavia, Elgin, or elsewhere in the Fox Valley, this fall could be worth watching closely.

Waiting for mortgage rates to come down might seem like the safest move, but it doesn’t always play out that way. A recent survey found that 41% of buyers who waited for lower rates wish they had bought sooner. With inflation, the economy, and global events all influencing mortgage rates, there’s no guarantee a big drop is coming anytime soon. That doesn’t mean you should rush into buying. It means you should know what the numbers look like right now before deciding to wait. A trusted lender can help you understand today’s rates, available loan programs, and what payment actually works for your budget.

What does a $500,000 home budget actually get you in Geneva, Batavia, or Elgin, Illinois? These three Fox Valley communities are close together, but your buying power can look very different. Geneva may mean trading some square footage for downtown charm and Metra access. Batavia can offer a balance of location, space, and amenities. In Elgin, $500K may stretch further with larger homes, newer construction, finished basements, and three-car garages. Of course, available homes change every week, and property taxes, HOA fees, updates, and maintenance all factor into the real cost of owning. Which would you choose for $500K: Geneva, Batavia, or Elgin?

Data centers are expanding fast, and more homeowners are wondering what that could mean for nearby property values. So far, research suggests home values in communities with large data centers have generally performed similarly to comparable areas without them. But location still matters. Noise, proximity, development patterns, and possible utility impacts can all play a role. If a data center is proposed near your home in Kane or DuPage County, The Kombrink Team is keeping an eye on what it could mean for the local housing market.

Mortgage rates get most of the attention, but fall can bring some important changes for home buyers too. Historically, buyers may see more homes to choose from, lower asking prices, and sellers who are more willing to negotiate as the end of the year approaches. If affordability has kept you on the sidelines, the seasonal shift could create opportunities that weren’t there a few months ago.

Think a brand-new home automatically costs more than an existing one? Not necessarily. Nationally, the typical new construction home is around $394,000, compared with roughly $434,000 for an existing home. That’s about a $40,000 difference. Builders with inventory to sell may also be offering incentives, rate buydowns, closing cost help, or other opportunities that can make new construction even more attractive. Just remember: the agent sitting in the builder’s sales office represents the builder. Having your own real estate agent means having someone looking out for your interests during the purchase.

Home buyers may have more negotiating power right now than they realize. With more sellers competing for buyers, some homeowners are becoming more flexible on price, closing costs, repairs, and other terms. That doesn’t mean every seller will negotiate, but it can create opportunities for buyers who know where to look. Want to know where buyers have the most leverage in the Fox Valley and Northern Illinois market? Contact The Kombrink Team.

Thinking about tapping your 401(k) for a down payment? It can be tempting, especially when saving enough cash feels like the biggest hurdle to buying a home. But accessing retirement savings early can come with taxes, potential penalties, and the bigger long-term cost of missing out on future investment growth. Before touching your retirement account, explore other possibilities. Qualified buyers may be able to use an FHA loan with as little as 3.5% down, and down payment assistance programs may also be available. Talk with a qualified financial advisor about the financial side, and if you're wondering what home-buying options are available in Northern Illinois, contact The Kombrink Team at 630-402-0021.

Think every home seller is firm on their asking price? Not anymore. Recently, 41% of homes for sale had a price reduction, which means more sellers are showing a willingness to negotiate rather than let their home sit on the market. That doesn’t mean every house is suddenly affordable, but buyers may have more negotiating power, flexibility, and opportunity than they realize. If you’ve put your home search on hold, let’s take another look at what’s happening locally.

Feel like everything has been a little unpredictable lately? The housing market may actually be one of the more stable things out there. Home prices have been relatively steady, housing inventory is close to where it was last year, and mortgage rates have stayed in roughly the same 6% to 7% range since late 2022. If you’ve been waiting for the market to “settle down” before buying or selling, it may already be there. That stability can make it easier to plan your next move with a little more confidence.

Home price growth slowed significantly over the past couple of years, but early data suggests it may be starting to pick up again. A few months don’t make a trend, and real estate is always local. Reach out to The Kombrink Team for a closer look at home prices across Kane and DuPage Counties and what the latest shift could mean for your move.

Your first home was never meant to be your forever home. If you’re ready for more space, today’s market may offer a unique advantage. Starter homes remain in high demand, which could help you get a strong price when you sell. Meanwhile, more move-up homes are hitting the market, giving you additional choices and potentially more negotiating power. Add in the equity you’ve built, and your next move may be closer than you think. Ready to explore your options? Contact The Kombrink Team today.

If you’ve owned your home for several years, you may have built more buying power than you realize. The typical repeat buyer is putting around 23% down on their next home, often using equity from the home they’re selling. That larger down payment can mean a smaller mortgage, lower monthly payments, less interest over time, and potentially no private mortgage insurance. So if today’s mortgage rates have you wondering whether your next move is still possible, don’t assume the answer is no. Your current home equity could change the math quite a bit.

Still waiting for mortgage rates to fall? The 10-year Treasury yield and the mortgage “spread” help explain why a major drop may not be coming anytime soon. The spread is the gap between the 10-year Treasury yield and mortgage rates. That gap has narrowed significantly since 2023, which is actually helping keep today’s mortgage rates from being even higher. Before putting your home search on hold hoping for dramatically lower rates, let’s run the numbers and see what makes sense for you.

A lot of buyers are putting their plans on hold until mortgage rates come down. But historically, today’s rates are closer to normal than many people realize. The ultra-low rates during the pandemic were the exception, not the rule. Waiting for those record-low rates to return could mean missing opportunities that are available right now. If buying a home is important to you, The Kombrink Team can help you explore strategies that make today’s market work for your budget.

Buying a home involves more than just the mortgage payment. Homeowner’s insurance premiums have risen significantly since 2019, and that cost can affect how much home you can comfortably afford. The good news is that the pace of those increases appears to be slowing. Still, buyers should request insurance quotes early and compare several providers before making an offer. A little preparation now can help you avoid an expensive surprise later.

Does your home have an in-law suite, finished basement, bonus room, or separate living space? Those flexible features may be more valuable than you think. Multi-generational homes are getting 13.5% more online views and typically list for 22% more per square foot than standard homes. Buyers are actively looking for homes that can accommodate parents, adult children, guests, or extended family. Thinking about selling? The Kombrink Team can help you understand what your home is worth and how to market its most valuable features.

Feel like your home search has been showing you the same options over and over? There’s a reason. Housing inventory is still higher than last year, but the pace of growth has slowed dramatically. Last spring, the number of homes for sale was up about 31% year-over-year. Today, that increase is closer to 2%. But recent trends suggest inventory growth may be starting to stabilize. And if homes continue taking longer to sell, more listings could begin piling up again. If your home search has felt a little stale, don’t give up. New opportunities are hitting the market every day.

Worried that big investors are buying up all the homes? The latest data shows the largest institutional investors are now selling more properties than they’re purchasing, adding more homes back to the market. Many of these homes fall within price ranges where first-time buyers are shopping. That could mean less competition and more options for buyers who have been waiting for an opportunity.