Homebuyer FAQs

Chicagoland Housing Market Holds Steady Amid Economic Uncertainty

By Amy Robey • November 18, 2025

Chicagoland home sales remained relatively steady in October 2025, even as consumers across the country experienced increased economic uncertainty. Detached home sales increased 0.4% in October 2025 as compared to the same month last year. At the same time, detached homes under contract increased 3%, indicating a possible lift in sales activity in the months ahead. This stability in the housing market may come as a surprise given 2025’s economic volatility, and supporting data from Pew Research Center showing 3 in 10 U.S. adults say they expect the financial situation for themselves and their families to be worse a year from now. The local housing market’s stability indicates, however, that many Chicagoland consumers see homeownership as a smart financial decision regardless of the state of the economy. “The economy will always have ups and downs but savvy Chicagoland consumers realize that owning a home and building equity is always a smart financial decision, regardless of the economic climate,” said Kinga Korpacz, president of Mainstreet REALTORS®. “The sooner you can get started the better, and that means not waiting for more economic stability to buy.” The 3% increase in homes under contract in Chicagoland in October is another indicator of continued confidence among Chicagoland homebuyers but it remains to be seen whether that increase will translate to a lift in closed sales. “Certainly, anecdotally, we’re hearing about buyers who are making offers and getting cold feet given the state of the economy,” said John Gormley, CEO of Mainstreet REALTORS®. “But when people have life or family situations that mean they need to move, it outweighs the uncertainty in the economy and many buyers are able to look past it and remember that a home is always a smart investment. In Chicagoland, buyers are becoming a bit immune to the news cycle and looking inward to make the right financial decisions for themselves and their families.” While detached home sales and homes under contract increased in October 2025, average time on the market increased 10.5% as compared to October 2024. “Slower market times indicate buyers are taking their time and making more deliberate decisions versus rushing to buy,” said Korpacz. “This is not necessarily a bad thing, especially in a market with as much hyperlocal variability as Chicagoland. It means buyers can take their time to ask for expert advice from a Mainstreet REALTOR® about what is going on in the specific community where they want to buy and make a smart long-term decision.” Buyers had more flexibility to move at their own pace in October 2025 than earlier this year as the average months’ supply for homes in the Chicagoland primary metro statistical area (PMSA) increased to 2.1 months, up from 1.7 months in January 2025. “In a market like this one, it’s critical to take the time to do your due diligence with a Mainstreet REALTOR®, who can help you with everything from understanding hyperlocal market data to finding programs that provide downpayment assistance and improve housing affordability,” said Korpacz. “A home is one of the best investments you can make in any economy, as long as you are guided by expert advice and data to make a decision that is right for you and your family.” Several suburban communities saw especially significant increases in homes under contract in October 2025, making them areas to watch as we see whether that trend impacts closed sales in the months to come. Notable increases included: Berkeley: under contract homes up 166.7% in October 2025 vs. October 2024 Broadview: 133.3% Calumet Park: 150% Inverness: 150% Itasca: 225% LaGrange Highlands: 300% Lynwood: 133.3% Monee: 250% Mundelein: 105.9% North Aurora: 230% Palos Hills: 120% Get in touch with a Mainstreet REALTOR® for hyperlocal data and insights into programs that can help you get into a home affordably, even in today’s uncertain economy.

Oh the Places It Snows: 5 Must Try Chicagoland Winter Festivities

By Wesley Rusick • November 12, 2025

Mainstreet HQ, Downers Grove – Winter has a reputation as being too cold, not enough sunlight and a barren activities calendar. What if we told you that none of those are true and furthermore, Chicagoland has truly magical opportunities for wintery good times? After-all, November and December embrace the holiday season, where joy and new memories are just a car, train or Uber ride away. Welcome to your guide for five of the most popular and accessible winter fascinations right in our jurisdiction. We want you to see these seasonal merriments and their neighborhoods because your dream home might be nearby. The catalogue of celebrations below is aimed at attracting homebuyers to their respective areas. Homes are more than just structures; they are nestled in neighborhoods you fall in love with and build a life around. Look through what we found for you and plan an outing with friends or family or both! Schaumburg – Santa’s Flight to Schaumburg Description – Want to wait for jolly Saint Nick in style? Head on over to Pilot Pete’s in Schaumberg on December 7 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. or 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. and wait in the heated hangar for his helicopter to arrive. Yes, that reads accurately. Enjoy some breakfast buffet or lunch buffet (depending on time) until you hear the whirly bird sounds of holiday cheer descending upon the tarmac. Music, food, crafts and a truly unique way to welcome Mr. Claus for the holiday season. Visit Meet Chicago Northwest for more details and bookings! Aurora - Christkindl Market Description – From November 21 to December 4 the Aurora Christkindl Market is open for business. The traditional European celebration pairs winter themes with high quality food and gift vendors, providing a classic backdrop for family pictures and cherished moments frozen in time. Build a snow globe, make an ornament or go on a holiday themed scavenger hunt! The Aurora Christkindl Market hosts live music, tasty holiday treats and is open from morning to night, Thursday to Sunday! Click here to view parking availabilities and the countdown clock! Hinsdale - Hinsdale’s Winter Wonderland Description – Sunday, December 3 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. pop on over to beautiful Hinsdale and head to Katherine Legge Memorial Park. You will see some familiar faces there with Mr. and Mrs. Claus available for a photo op. But you may be surprised to find out Elsa, Anna, Olaf and Kristoff from Frozen are there as well! Enjoy hot chocolate, tasty winter treats, a Toys for Tots toy drive and LIVE reindeer! Click here to register with the Village of Hinsdale! West Chicago - West Chicago Frosty Fest Description – Come ready for 150 minutes of holiday cheer for people of all ages! On Saturday December 6, West Chicago will be hosting its annual downtown winter wonderland, Frosty Fest. There you will find everything from horse-drawn trolley rides to ice sculptures, a curling rink, live alpacas and reindeer, food trucks, craft shops, face painters and of course Santa and his elves! Frosty Fest starts right at 4:30 p.m. and ends at 7 p.m. so be sure to get there right at the start to enjoy a little bit of everything! Click here to view details! Tinley Park – Holiday Happenings Description – On Saturday, December 6 and Sunday, December 7 Tinley Park will be hosting its annual Holiday Market, which features large, heated tents filled with vendors from all over Chicagoland showcasing their unique designs and creations. Let’s not forget the festive food and beverage waiting for you and the ice rink open from November 21 to February 15. For more information and further details visit the Village of Tinley Park today! Tips for Making the Most of Chicagoland Events this Fall and Winter Contrary to popular stereotypes about Chicagoland, you don’t have to stay stuck inside as soon as the weather begins to turn colder! Instead, take this advice to make sure you’re out and about enjoying everything our region has to offer this fall and winter: · Stay Connected: Sign up for local newsletters and follow community social media pages to stay informed about upcoming events and activities. Many communities have local groups or forums where events are posted regularly. · Volunteer: Volunteering at local events is a great way to meet new people and get involved in your community. It’s also a rewarding way to give back and make a positive impact. · Explore Local Attractions: In addition to seasonal events, take the time to explore local attractions such as parks, museums and historic sites, both in the suburbs and in the world-class city that can be easily accessed from whichever town you call home. · Network with Neighbors : Don’t hesitate to introduce yourself to your neighbors and ask about local events and traditions. They can be a valuable resource for discovering hidden gems and getting acclimated to your new community. · Plan Ahead: Many events, especially popular ones, require advance registration or tickets. Make sure to plan to secure your spot and avoid missing out on any exciting opportunities. As a homeowner in Illinois, embracing the winter season offers a fantastic chance to immerse yourself in the local culture and connect with your new community. From cozy winter markets to vibrant holiday displays and outdoor activities, Northern Illinois has something for everyone. By participating in these great Chicagoland events, you’ll not only enjoy the seasons but also create lasting memories and build meaningful connections near home. So, grab your calendar, mark these dates, and get ready to explore all the wonderful experiences and events Chicagoland has to offer this winter.

Chicagoland Housing Market Holds Steady Amid Economic Uncertainty

By Amy Robey • November 10, 2025

Chicagoland home sales remained relatively steady in October 2025, even as consumers across the country experienced increased economic uncertainty. Detached home sales increased 0.4% in October 2025 as compared to the same month last year. At the same time, detached homes under contract increased 3%, indicating a possible lift in sales activity in the months ahead. This stability in the housing market may come as a surprise given 2025’s economic volatility and supporting data from Pew Research Center showing 3 in 10 U.S. adults say they expect the financial situation for themselves and their families to be worse a year from now. The local housing market’s stability indicates, however, that many Chicagoland consumers see homeownership as a smart financial decision regardless of the state of the economy. “The economy will always have ups and downs but savvy Chicagoland consumers realize that owning a home and building equity is always a smart financial decision, regardless of the economic climate,” said Kinga Korpacz, president of Mainstreet REALTORS®. “The sooner you can get started the better and that means not waiting for more economic stability to buy.” The 3% increase in homes under contract in Chicagoland in October is another indicator of continued confidence among Chicagoland homebuyers but it remains to be seen whether that increase will translate to a lift in closed sales. “Certainly, anecdotally, we’re hearing about buyers who are making offers and getting cold feet given the state of the economy,” said John Gormley, CEO of Mainstreet REALTORS®. “But when people have life or family situations that mean they need to move, it outweighs the uncertainty in the economy and many buyers are able to look past it and remember that a home is always a smart investment. In Chicagoland, buyers are becoming a bit immune to the news cycle and looking inward to make the right financial decisions for themselves and their families.” While detached home sales and homes under contract increased in October 2025, average time on the market increased 10.5% as compared to October 2024. “Slower market times indicate buyers are taking their time and making more deliberate decisions versus rushing to buy,” said Korpacz. “This is not necessarily a bad thing, especially in a market with as much hyperlocal variability as Chicagoland. It means buyers can take their time to ask for expert advice from a Mainstreet REALTOR® about what is going on in the specific community where they want to buy and make a smart long-term decision.” Buyers had more flexibility to move at their own pace in October 2025 than earlier this year as the average months’ supply for homes in the Chicagoland primary metro statistical area (PMSA) increased to 2.1 months, up from 1.7 months in January 2025. “In a market like this one, it’s critical to take the time to do your due diligence with a Mainstreet REALTOR, who can help you with everything from understanding hyperlocal market data to finding programs that provide downpayment assistance and improve housing affordability,” said Korpacz. “ A home is one of the best investments you can make in any economy as long as you are guided by expert advice and data to make a decision that is right for you and your family.” Several suburban communities saw especially significant increases in homes under contract in October 2025, making them areas to watch as we see whether that trend impacts closed sales in the months to come. Notable increases included: Berkeley: under contract homes up 166.7% in October 2025 vs. October 2024 Broadview: 133.3% Calumet Park: 150% Inverness: 150% Itasca: 225% LaGrange Highlands: 300% Lynwood: 133.3% Monee: 250% Mundelein: 105.9% North Aurora: 230% Palos Hills: 120% Get in touch with a Mainstreet REALTOR® for hyperlocal data and insights into programs that can help you get into a home affordably, even in today’s uncertain economy.

Suburban Market Holds Steady but Inventory Swings Create New Buyer and Seller Advantages

By Amy Robey • October 15, 2025

Detached home sales across Chicagoland suburbs held pace in September, signaling a market that remains steady on the surface but new data from Mainstreet REALTORS® shows widening differences below. A total of 2,341 detached homes sold last month, nearly unchanged from 2,312 sales a year earlier. However homes spent more time on the market, rising to an average of 41 days versus 33 while median prices continued their gradual climb, up 3.9% from $385,000 to $400,000. “While area-wide data has remained consistent for a number of months now, hyperlocal data can paint a very different picture,” said Kinga Korpacz, president of Mainstreet REALTORS®. “We’ve seen suburbs double their amount of inventory over the past six months, leading to more sales, while inventory levels in other suburbs stagnate or decrease. Each city is its own microcosm.” Pending sales for detached homes were strong last month. There were 2,683 homes under contract, a 7.3% increase from last September when 2,500 homes were under contract. This continued buyer demand suggests interest remains resilient, particularly in suburbs where inventory has increased. “It’s incredibly important buyers and sellers work with Mainstreet REALTORS® who have access to city-level data and know their local markets,” said John Gormley, CEO of Mainstreet REALTORS®. “This information helps sellers determine list price and strategy, while helping buyers put together appealing offers and so much more.” Meanwhile, the sale of attached homes in the Chicagoland suburbs was up 10.5% in September, from 1,111 homes sold last year to 1,228 last month. Time on market held at an average of 31 days, and prices increased 3.0% from $267,000 last year to $275,000 last month. Not as strong as detached homes, pending sales for attached homes were up 1.5%, from 1,245 last year to 1,263 last month. “Buyers should target areas with higher inventory if they want a better negotiating position,” added Korpacz. “And negotiate on both price and terms, particularly when there are no competing offers.” Several suburban communities experienced notable upticks in detached home sales in September 2025 compared to the same month in 2024, signaling areas where inventory may be loosening and buyer opportunities could be expanding. Particularly strong year-over-year gains were seen in: Calumet City (100.0% increase) Dolton (69.2%) Montgomery (69.2%) Fox Lake (120.0%) Glenwood (266.7%) Matteson (45.5%) Markham (85.7%) Park Forest (25.0%) St. Charles (33.3%) West Chicago (38.9%) Warrenville (57.1%) Wadsworth–Old Mill Creek (50.0%) Zion (53.3%) Connect with your Mainstreet REALTOR® who has access to on-the-ground data and is an expert in your local market. They can help you shape your buying or selling strategy.

Falling Rates and a Calmer Market Signal Buyers to Take Action this Fall

By Amy Robey • October 6, 2025

As the summer market comes to a close in Chicagoland, interest rates are dropping and homes are spending more time on the market, indicating a favorable environment for buyers. Detached home sales in the Chicagoland suburbs dipped slightly in August, with 2,731 properties sold compared to 2,780 in August 2024. The median sales price rose 5.0% from $400,000 to $420,000. These homes spent an average of 37 days on the market, up a full week from last August’s 30 days. While it is moving slower than last year, this year’s August market is far faster moving in Chicagoland than elsewhere in the country; the national average is currently 63 days on the market. The attached home market followed a similar pattern. Sales fell modestly to 1,317 homes from 1,396 in August 2024, while time on market increased from 25 to 33 days. The median price for attached homes climbed 5.7% from $265,000 to $280,000. At the same time, mortgage rates began to fall from their peak earlier this year, hitting as low as 6.43% by late August. Rates are continuing to decline into September. “August often brings a natural slowdown in the market as families shift their focus to back-to-school,” said Kinga Korpacz, the newly installed president of Mainstreet REALTORS®. “Once school is underway, many buyers return to their search with fresh energy. That seasonal slowdown creates an opening: homes are sitting longer, competition eases and buyers have more room to negotiate, especially as interest rates trend downward.” Mainstreet leaders say interest rates could continue to have an impact as we transition into the fall market. “If mortgage rates continue to ease into the fourth quarter, that can unlock new inventory and improve affordability,” said John Gormley, CEO of Mainstreet REALTORS®. “Now is the moment for buyers and sellers to prepare. Buyers should line up financing and work with a Mainstreet REALTOR® to identify target neighborhoods. Sellers should declutter, make repairs and price strategically so they’re ready to move the day conditions align.” Korpacz and Gormley emphasized that in a slower market, buyers are more discerning, often bypassing homes that need work while competing for updated, move-in-ready properties. This gives sellers an incentive to invest in staging and repairs before listing. It also gives buyers more leverage on properties that linger while making it easier for them to do their due diligence. “In a market like the one we’re in right now, you should absolutely get an inspection, even if you want to buy a property as-is,” said Korpacz. “It will allow you to know what you’re getting into, ensure you understand the cost of necessary repairs and have a true sense of the value of your investment. A Mainstreet REALTOR® knows our responsibility doesn’t end at the closing table, and we’ll help you navigate these aspects of your transaction based on our knowledge of the current market conditions.” Several suburban communities saw especially significant increases in average market time for detached homes in August 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, making them good spots for buyers to take their time striking advantageous deals. Notable increases included: Vernon Hills: 908.3% increase in days on market in August 2025 as compared to August 2024 Summit: 716.7% Chicago Heights: 488.9% Lansing: 444.4% Indian Head Park: 633.3% Burnham: 363.6% Mt. Prospect: 331.3% Berkeley: 416.7% Chicago Ridge: 414.3%) South Chicago Heights: 209.5% Wheeling: 200.0% Wadsworth–Old Mill Creek: 154.2% Remember, in a market like this one, it’s best to take your time and work falling mortgage rates and longer sales cycles to your advantage.

Hidden Gems: Underrated Chicago Suburbs with Skyrocketing Property Values

By Amy Robey • September 24, 2025

If you're shopping for a home in the Chicago suburbs, you've probably considered well-known communities like Naperville, Oak Park or Hinsdale. But while these suburbs offer plenty to love, they also come with premium price tags and highly competitive markets. For buyers who want to find value and long-term investment potential without sacrificing access, schools or quality of life, there are lesser-known gems waiting to be discovered. Across suburban Chicagoland, there are a number of underrated towns that are seeing significant appreciation in home values. These up and coming Chicago suburbs represent strong opportunities for both first-time homebuyers and investors looking for the best value suburbs Chicago has to offer. Thanks to revitalized downtowns, improved transit, a wave of new buyers and increased remote work flexibility, these communities are quietly transforming into Chicagoland property investment hot spots. Here’s a data-driven look at some of the hidden gems where property values are on the rise—and where the window of opportunity may be closing fast. 1. Addison: Growth, Location, and Livability Addison, located in DuPage County, is quietly seeing a surge in buyer interest. With its proximity to major expressways, low commercial vacancy rates and community investment in public amenities, Addison offers great accessibility and livability. According to Mainstreet REALTORS® data, detached home sales in Addison rose more than 19% year-over-year in August 2025 alone. Median home prices are rising steadily yet Addison still remains more affordable than many surrounding towns. Addison is also home to an active park district, a recently renovated library and excellent access to employment centers in Oak Brook and Elk Grove Village. For families and professionals seeking a blend of affordability and convenience, Addison is a standout. 2. Homewood: A South Suburban Star Homewood has emerged as one of the most desirable south suburban communities, thanks in part to its award-winning schools, historic homes and robust downtown redevelopment. With walkable amenities, proximity to the Metra and a diverse, engaged community, Homewood offers big-city connectivity with small-town charm. In August 2025, Mainstreet REALTORS® reported a 44% year-over-year jump in detached home sales in Homewood. Property values are on the rise, yet prices remain attainable for families, first-time buyers and downsizers alike. As more people discover Homewood’s potential, it’s rapidly moving from underrated to in-demand. 3. Streamwood: Suburban Comfort with Rising Appeal Located in northwest suburban Cook County, Streamwood offers a strong housing stock, easy access to forest preserves and excellent value for the price. Its location near I-90 and proximity to employment hubs in Schaumburg and Hoffman Estates make it a favorite for commuters and remote workers alike. Home sales in Streamwood increased more than 14% year-over-year this summer, according to Mainstreet REALTORS® data. As prices in neighboring suburbs climb higher, Streamwood is increasingly attractive to buyers seeking space, schools and affordability. 4. Woodridge: Steady Growth and a Strategic Location Just south of Downers Grove, Woodridge is a suburb with a lot going for it: proximity to I-355 and I-55, excellent park systems and a strong sense of community. The village is investing in infrastructure and public amenities, including park and trail enhancements and downtown redevelopment. With home sales doubling between August 2024 and 2025, Woodridge is a rising star in the western suburbs. The area offers a mix of mid-century homes and new construction, giving buyers a range of options at price points that are still accessible compared to nearby hot spots. 5. Zion: Affordable Lakeside Potential Located in Lake County and close to the Wisconsin border, Zion offers a unique mix of affordability and access to Lake Michigan. While historically overlooked, Zion is seeing renewed interest from buyers attracted to its scenic surroundings, improving infrastructure and potential for appreciation. Mainstreet REALTORS® data shows a 9% increase in year-to-date detached home sales in Zion. Home values are steadily rising but the area remains one of the most affordable near-lake communities in the region. With lakefront parks, beaches and recreational trails nearby, Zion’s appeal is growing fast. 6. West Chicago: Industry Meets Livability Often overshadowed by its more well-known neighbors, West Chicago is building momentum as a hub for families and working professionals. The area features a strong industrial base, commuter rail access and continued reinvestment in schools and infrastructure. Mainstreet REALTORS® reported an 18% increase in home sales in West Chicago year-to-date in 2025, but momentum is expected to continue as more buyers seek value in DuPage County and investment continues in West Chicago. With a range of housing types and solid civic infrastructure, West Chicago is another hidden gem with strong long-term potential. 7. Round Lake: Community-Centered and Growing Fast In central Lake County, Round Lake has long been popular with first-time buyers—and now it's starting to get attention from investors and move-up buyers as well. The area boasts family-friendly amenities, highly rated schools in several subdivisions and a growing reputation as a great place to live and work. Sales activity rose nearly 27% year-over-year in August, according to Mainstreet REALTORS®. With multiple parks, community festivals and access to forest preserves and lakes, Round Lake delivers big on livability while still offering relatively low home prices. Why These Hidden Gems Matter As the housing market continues to evolve, more buyers are widening their searches and reassessing what a "great location" really means. Proximity to downtown Chicago remains important for some but for many others, remote work, budget considerations, and quality of life are top priorities. These up and coming Chicago suburbs offer the best of both worlds: affordability today and strong potential for appreciation tomorrow. Whether you're a first-time buyer looking for the best value suburbs Chicago has to offer or a savvy investor focused on Chicagoland property investment, these communities are worth serious consideration. These trends are playing out in real time. As inventory remains tight and interest in suburban living continues, the time to explore these emerging markets may be now. Find a REALTOR® on ChicagolandHomes.com to discuss investment opportunities in these up-and-coming areas.

September 2025: Fall Home Maintenance Checklist for Chicagoland Homeowners: Preparing for Winter

By Amy Robey • September 24, 2025

As the leaves begin to change across the Chicagoland area, savvy homeowners know that September marks the crucial time to prepare their homes for the notorious Midwest winter ahead. With temperatures that can plummet well below freezing and snowfall that can last for months, Chicago fall home maintenance isn't just recommended—it's essential for protecting your investment and ensuring your family's comfort throughout the cold season. Why Fall Maintenance Matters in Chicagoland The Greater Chicago area experiences some of the most dramatic seasonal weather changes in the country. From scorching summers to bone-chilling winters, our homes endure significant stress throughout the year. The transition period in fall provides the perfect window to address potential issues before they become costly winter emergencies. Winterizing homes in Chicagoland requires attention to details that homeowners in milder climates might overlook, making a comprehensive maintenance approach absolutely critical. Exterior Maintenance: Your First Line of Defense Roof and Gutters Start your suburban Chicago homeowner maintenance routine by inspecting your roof for loose, damaged or missing shingles. The weight of snow and ice can exploit even small weaknesses, leading to leaks and structural damage. Clean your gutters thoroughly, removing leaves, debris and any blockages that could cause ice dams—a particular problem in our region where freeze-thaw cycles are common. Consider installing gutter guards if you haven't already, as they can prevent the accumulation of debris that contributes to ice dam formation. Check that downspouts direct water at least six feet away from your foundation to prevent basement flooding during spring thaws. Siding and Windows Walk around your home's perimeter, looking for gaps, cracks or damaged caulking around windows, doors and siding. Even small openings can allow frigid air to penetrate, driving up heating costs significantly. Re-caulk where necessary and consider weatherstripping replacement for doors and windows that show wear. For homes with older windows, applying plastic film insulation kits can provide an extra barrier against heat loss. This is particularly important in Chicagoland's older neighborhoods where original windows may not meet modern efficiency standards. Landscaping and Trees Trim tree branches that hang over your roof or power lines. Heavy snow and ice can cause branches to break, potentially damaging your home or causing power outages. Remove dead or diseased trees entirely, as they're more susceptible to winter storm damage. Drain and store garden hoses and shut off exterior water valves to prevent pipe freezing. Wrap exposed pipes with insulation, paying special attention to those in unheated garages or crawl spaces. HVAC System: Your Winter Lifeline Your heating system will work overtime during Chicago winters, making fall maintenance crucial. Replace your furnace filter and consider upgrading to a high-efficiency filter that can improve air quality while reducing energy costs. Schedule a professional HVAC inspection to ensure your system is operating at peak efficiency. Clean air vents and registers throughout your home and consider having your ductwork professionally cleaned if it's been more than three years. Reverse ceiling fans to run clockwise, pushing warm air down from the ceiling level. Don't forget about your fireplace if you have one. Have the chimney inspected and cleaned, check the damper for proper operation and ensure your screen is in good condition. Stock up on properly seasoned firewood if you plan to use your fireplace regularly. Interior Preparations: Comfort and Efficiency Insulation and Air Sealing Check your attic insulation levels and add more if needed. Chicagoland's temperature extremes make proper insulation one of the most cost-effective home improvements you can make. Look for air leaks around light fixtures, electrical outlets and anywhere pipes or wires penetrate walls or ceilings. Weather-strip around your attic access door and ensure it seals tightly. Consider adding foam gaskets behind outlet and switch plates on exterior walls to eliminate drafts. Plumbing Precautions Locate your main water shut-off valve and ensure everyone in your household knows where it is. Insulate pipes in unheated areas and consider allowing faucets to drip slightly during extreme cold snaps to prevent freezing. Service your water heater by draining sediment from the tank and checking the temperature setting. During winter months, your water heater works harder as incoming water temperatures drop significantly. Emergency Preparedness: Planning for the Unexpected Chicago-area winters can bring sudden blizzards and power outages. Prepare an emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, non-perishable food, water and a battery-powered or hand-crank radio. Consider investing in a generator if you experience frequent power outages in your area. Stock up on ice melt and rock salt, and ensure your snow removal equipment is in working order. If you hire a snow removal service, book them early as the best contractors fill up quickly. The Investment Perspective These suburban Chicago homeowner tips aren't just about comfort—they're about protecting your property value. Well-maintained homes not only perform better during harsh winters but also command higher prices when it's time to sell. Buyers in our market are particularly savvy about winter-related issues and a home that shows evidence of proper seasonal maintenance stands out significantly. Regular maintenance also prevents small issues from becoming major expenses. A minor roof repair in September costs far less than emergency repairs during a January blizzard, when contractors are in high demand and weather conditions make work more challenging. Taking Action This Fall Don't wait until the first frost warning to begin your winterization process. Fall’s mild temperatures and generally dry conditions provide ideal working weather for most maintenance tasks. Create a weekend schedule to tackle different areas of your checklist, or hire professionals for tasks that require specialized knowledge or equipment. Remember that some maintenance tasks, like HVAC servicing and chimney cleaning, require advance scheduling as contractors get busy as temperatures drop. Start making appointments now to ensure you can complete everything before winter weather arrives. By following this comprehensive Chicago fall home maintenance checklist, you're not just preparing for winter—you're protecting your investment and ensuring your family's comfort throughout the challenging months ahead. Your diligence now will pay dividends in lower energy bills, fewer emergency repairs and peace of mind when the next polar vortex arrives. Ready to make sure your home is truly winter-ready, especially if you're considering selling this winter? The unique challenges of selling over the winter in Chicagoland requires local expertise and intimate knowledge of market conditions. Find a REALTOR you can talk to about special considerations for getting your house ready to sell in winter on ChicagolandHomes.com .

Chicago Suburbs with the Best Outdoor Recreation: Parks, Trails and Nature Preserves

By Amy Robey • July 16, 2025

Outdoor entertainment in the Chicago suburbs is easy to find; if you know where to look.

Homebuyer FAQs

What You Need to Know

Why should I work with a Mainstreet REALTOR®?

What are some of the benefits of homeownership?

What should I expect when making an offer?

What should I know about credit and down payment assistance?

What are my loan options as a veteran or an active member of the military?

What is homeowners insurance?

When is the best time of year to buy?

Do you recommend any resources for ideas on home improvements?

Should I use a buyer’s agreement?

What do I need to know about changes to home buying as a result of the recent NAR settlement?

Chicagoland Housing Market Holds Steady Amid Economic Uncertainty

Oh the Places It Snows: 5 Must Try Chicagoland Winter Festivities

Info You Need to Know

Chicagoland Housing Market Holds Steady Amid Economic Uncertainty

Oh the Places It Snows: 5 Must Try Chicagoland Winter Festivities

Chicagoland Housing Market Holds Steady Amid Economic Uncertainty

Suburban Market Holds Steady but Inventory Swings Create New Buyer and Seller Advantages

Falling Rates and a Calmer Market Signal Buyers to Take Action this Fall

Hidden Gems: Underrated Chicago Suburbs with Skyrocketing Property Values

September 2025: Fall Home Maintenance Checklist for Chicagoland Homeowners: Preparing for Winter

Chicago Suburbs with the Best Outdoor Recreation: Parks, Trails and Nature Preserves