Charles Rutenberg Realty of Illinois

10/13/2026

If you've never purchased a home in a managed community ('managed' as in overseen by a homeowner association or HOA), you probably have no idea what will be included in the package of HOA documents you'll be receiving. That's ok, at this point you're not expected to. You are, however, expected...

10/11/2026

10/07/2026

Evidence of termites and other wood-destroying pests can bring a home sale transaction to an abrupt halt. These pests typically go undetected for long periods of time and can undermine the structure of a house so homebuyers are justifiably anxious to have the home inspected before closing on the pur...

10/05/2026

Every other year, the Census Bureau conducts the American Housing Survey. The most recent study finds that the two most popular reasons for choosing a certain neighborhood are how it's laid out and its proximity to work. What about you? What are your hot buttons? It helps both of us if you're clear....

10/03/2026

Understanding Seller Closing Costs - Seller closing costs are the fees and credits a homeowner may pay to complete the sale of a property. These costs are typically deducted from the seller’s proceeds at closing and can vary based on the contract terms, local practices, the property type, and the....

09/25/2026

What Closing Costs Are Included in a Mortgage? - Closing costs are the fees and prepaid items needed to complete a real estate purchase or refinance. Some closing costs may be included in your mortgage (rolled into the loan amount) depending on the loan program, the type of transaction, the property...

09/23/2026

In part 1, we looked at what happens immediately after the seller accepts your contract to purchase. In part 2, we'll cover contingencies ― those tasks you must complete according to the contract's stated timelines. Contingencies Remember all those deadlines we set for you when I assisted you with...