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Resources for Seniors

We want to help you buy or sell your home with confidence. As a senior, you may have different questions or needs than you did as a first-time homebuyer. Whether you're searching for senior housing or thinking of working with a Seniors Real Estate Specialist®, we've got answers to your questions.

Finding Aging Resources Near You

There are plenty of resources for seniors in the Chicago area and statewide. Learn about how these local services can support your needs.

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Senior Housing Options

September 4, 2024

Moving vs. Aging in Place Are you looking to make your own house an easier place to live as you grow older? Or hoping to find a home where assistance is always available?

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Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES)

September 4, 2024

Working with a Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES) Are you looking for a Mainstreet REALTOR® who understands your needs? Seniors Real Estate Specialist designees are REALTORS® who specialize in helping homebuyers and homesellers over age 50. Many of Mainstreet's Senior Services Committee members are SRES designees. You can use the National Association of REALTORS® site to search for an SRES designee near you .

Questions About Taxes?

September 4, 2024

Tax and Seniors When it comes to retirement, every chance for savings makes a difference. As a senior, you may qualify for more property tax exemptions than other homeowners. See if these exemptions could benefit you. The Senior Homestead Exemption can save homeowners over age 65 up to $5,000. Learn more about your county's senior homestead exemption rules: Cook County DuPage County Lake County Will County

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Staying Safe

September 4, 2024

Scams and Seniors Fraud can happen to anyone, but some criminals target seniors. Scammers can target you anywhere - online, on the phone, in person or by mail. Stay safe by knowing the warning signs of fraud when selling or buying a home.

Info You Need to Know

Overpriced Suburban Homes Lag as Buyers Prioritize Value and Style

By Amy Robey • April 23, 2025

The number of detached homes sold in March was down 9.4%. There were 2,147 detached single-family homes that sold in March 2024 and 1,945 that sold last month.

Spectacular Spring And Summer Events in Chicago's Suburbs: Your 2025 Guide

By Amy Robey • April 11, 2025

North Suburbs Wilmette Farmers Market Opening Weekend (Wilmette) - April 19, 2025 This producer-only market returns for its 2025 season, featuring over 40 vendors selling fresh produce, artisanal foods and handcrafted goods. Located in downtown Wilmette at the Metra station, the market has become a community gathering spot that showcases the vibrant neighborhood atmosphere that attracts many homebuyers to this North Shore community. Chicago Botanic Garden Spring Flower Show (Glencoe) - Various Spring Dates The Chicago Botanic Garden's annual spring showcases transform their exhibition spaces with thousands of blooming flowers and elaborate garden displays. There are several flower shows planned through the spring and early summer, including the Midwest Daffodil Society Show April 26-27, and the Northern Illinois Hosta Display and Sale May 31-June 1. You can pick up some ideas and maybe even some plants of your own at these fun local events for garden lovers. Ravinia Festival Opening Weekend (Highland Park) - June 6-8, 2025 The legendary outdoor music venue kicks off its 2025 season with a spectacular lineup of performances, including Heart (June 6th), Grace Jones and Janelle Monae (June 7th) and the Mohan Sisters (June 8th). Then, shows continue through summer with some big names on the lineup: think Counting Crows, Chicago, Earth, Wind and Fire, Dispatch and The Roots. Pack up a picnic and spread out a blanket to take in some great music with your friends and family. Pro tip: Many Highland Park homes within walking distance to Ravinia see increased property values due to this coveted amenity. West Suburbs Lilac Time Festival (Lombard) - May 3-18, 2025 Lombard's signature event celebrates the blooming of 1,200+ lilac bushes in Lilacia Park. The two-week festival includes lilac-themed tours, art exhibitions, a wine tasting festival and the annual Lilac Parade on May 18th. Homes near Lilacia Park offer residents year-round access to this beautiful 8.5-acre horticultural landmark. Downtown Naperville Wine Walk (Naperville) - June 8, 2025 Explore downtown Naperville's charming shops while sampling wines from around the world. Participants receive 13 curated wines, a signature charcuterie cup and map of participating businesses. This popular event showcases the walkability of Naperville's downtown district – a major selling point for potential homebuyers who value both suburban space and urban amenities. Elmhurst Art Museum's Art in Wilder Park (Elmhurst) - May 3, 2025 Head to Wilder park to explore more than 130 booths showcasing unique fine art, jewelry and more created by talented local artists. Then, enjoy culinary delights and head to the Kids Court for family-friendly, art-focused activities. This event is just one of many Elmhurst’s residents can enjoy thanks to the cultural contributions the Elmhurst Art Museum brings to the area. South Suburbs Orland Park May Day Celebration (Orland Park) - May 1, 2025 Celebrate the arrival of spring with a trim at Stellwagen Farm! Families can take in May Day traditions including folk dancing, a maypole, flower art projects and more. Art and Garden Street Fair (Homewood) - June 6-7, 2025 This local favorite event features more than 70 vendors lining the streets of downtown Homewood selling art, gifts and garden ware for every taste. During the fair, you can also enjoy deals from local boutiques, specials at surrounding restaurants and bars, live music and fun community vibes that make it clear why Homewood is a great place to call home. Main Street Nights (Park Forest) June 11-August 6, 2025 Head to the Park Forest Downtown Village Green every Wednesday from June 11 to August 6 for nine nights of free entertainment and fun. The event focuses on live music performances (starting at 6:30 pm) and features food from local vendors. Before or after taking in the music, wander the streets and picture your future in Park Forest. Northwest Suburbs Arlington Heights Spring Craft Beer Festival (Arlington Heights) - April 26, 2025 Sample craft beers from over 45 breweries at this popular event held at Arlington Park. The festival highlights Arlington Heights' vibrant downtown district, which has undergone significant development to create an attractive urban-suburban hybrid environment that appeals to homebuyers seeking convenience without sacrificing community character. Long Grove Chocolate Fest (Long Grove) - May 16-18, 2025 The historic village of Long Grove transforms into a chocolate lover's paradise with vendors offering every imaginable chocolate treat. Beyond the sweets, visitors enjoy live music, family activities and the chance to explore Long Grove's charming cobblestone streets and unique shops. The village's preservation of historic architecture creates a distinctive housing market that stands out among Chicago's suburbs. Schaumburg Farmers Market Opening Day (Schaumburg) - June 6, 2025 Celebrating its opening weekend for the 2025 season, this producer-only market features fresh produce, baked goods and artisanal products from local vendors. Located at the Schaumburg Town Square, the market exemplifies the community amenities that complement Schaumburg's extensive shopping and dining options. Why Spring and Early Summer is the Perfect Time to Explore Chicago's Suburbs Spring events offer potential homebuyers the perfect opportunity to experience different suburban communities at their most vibrant. As you visit these festivities, take note of: Community vibe: Does the town feel welcoming and aligned with your lifestyle? Amenities: Are there parks, restaurants and cultural attractions that enhance quality of life? Accessibility: How easy is it to navigate between the event and other parts of town? Housing stock: What types of homes surround the event areas, and do they match your preferences? Spring is also traditionally when the suburban housing market sees increased inventory, making it an ideal time to begin your home search while enjoying these seasonal celebrations. As the weather warms into summer and the area really comes alive, you’ll find you enjoy touring Chicagoland communities even more. Ready to Find Your Perfect Suburban Home? If you're inspired to explore any of these communities further, use our directory to find an experienced local REALTORⓇ who can help you learn about your options and even set up times to show you available properties in conjunction with your event visits. Here’s to enjoying the best time of year in Chicagoland!

The Ultimate Guide to Living in the Chicago Suburbs

By Amy Robey • April 10, 2025

Whether you’re looking for top-tier schools, a strong sense of community or a more spacious place to call home, the diverse, wide range of suburbs surrounding Chicago have something for everyone. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about living in the Chicagoland suburbs, including the types of communities you can expect to find, the cost of living, schools, family-friendly amenities and so much more. If after reading this guide you’re ready to get started finding your dream home in the Chicagoland Suburbs, our home listings and agent directory are the perfect place to start. When you find your home or agent on our site, you can rest assured that you’ll be connected with a trusted REALTOR® who knows the local market inside and out and can make your home search easy and efficient. Inside this guide you’ll find sections including: Why Live in the Chicagoland Suburbs? Which Suburbs Should I Consider? For families For luxury living For affordability For an urban-oriented lifestyle For a nature-oriented lifestyle Is Chicagoland Family-Friendly? Top schools Family-friendly amenities How is Commuting and Traffic in Chicagoland? What is the Cost of Living in Chicagoland? How is the Quality of Life in Chicagoland? Why Live in the Chicagoland Suburbs? There are so many reasons to consider the Chicago suburbs. Here are a few of the benefits our REALTORS® hear their clients celebrate most: More Space: The suburbs offer larger homes, bigger yards and more room to spread out compared to most city neighborhoods. Lower Cost of Living: While some suburbs are pricey, many offer more affordable housing compared to comparable neighborhoods in Chicago. Top-Ranked Schools: Many Chicagoland suburbs boast highly rated public and private schools, making them ideal for families who value quality educational opportunities. Access to Nature: Parks, forest preserves and lakes provide ample outdoor recreation opportunities that are not as easily available in the city. Strong Community Feel: Many of Chicago’s suburban neighborhoods foster tight-knit communities with local events and institutions like churches and schools drawing families together. Easy Access to Chicago: With highways, commuter trains and bus routes, getting to the city for work or play is relatively convenient from many Chicago suburbs. Don’t discount the food scene in Chicagoland either. As Asia Hill, Managing Broker at Platinum Key Realty puts it, “Chicagoland is a food lover’s paradise, offering everything from iconic mild sauce to world-class dining, all set against the backdrop of one of the most vibrant and dynamic downtowns in the country.” And yes, winters can be tough but according to Matthew Bowser, a Broker Associate at Compass Realty, summer more than makes up for it. “You can ask almost anyone who's spent a significant time living in Chicagoland what the best place in the world is in the Summer and they will always answer Chicagoland! NOTHING beats a Chicago summer,” Bowser says. Which Suburbs Should I Consider? Chicagoland is vast, with diverse suburbs catering to a wide variety of different lifestyles and preferences. While we could never highlight every great suburb in the region, here are a couple “popular” communities to consider depending on what your priorities are. If your priorities are family-friendly amenities, consider Chicagoland suburbs like: Naperville: Consistently ranked among the best places to live in the U.S., known for its top schools, parks and a vibrant downtown. Elmhurst: Offers a mix of historic homes and modern amenities with great schools. Downers Grove: Has a nice blend of affordability, good schools and a charming downtown. If you’re looking for luxury living , consider Chicagoland suburbs like: Winnetka: This near north suburb is home to sprawling estates, excellent schools and picturesque views along Lake Michigan. Hinsdale: This western suburb combines historic charm with a luxury housing stock and high-end shopping. Lake Forest: Known for its prestigious private schools and stunning lakefront properties, this far north suburb can be a great fit for families looking for a luxury lifestyle. If you’re looking to maximize affordability, consider Chicagoland suburbs like: Aurora: As the second-largest city in Illinois, Aurora offers a nice combination of affordable housing and good schools. Bolingbrook: Bolingbrook residents enjoy it for its affordability, shopping and parks. Joliet: Joliet’s local economy is growing fast while its housing prices remain relatively affordable for budget-conscious buyers. If you’re looking for a touch of the urban lifestyle, consider Chicagoland suburbs like: Evanston: Home to Northwestern University, Evanston offers a vibrant downtown, many cultural attractions and access to beautiful Lake Michigan beaches, all a quick train ride away from the city on the purple line of the “El,” the city’s mass transit system. Oak Park: Oak Park is known for its historic architecture, progressive community vibe and close proximity to the city. If you want access to nature and recreation, consider Chicagoland suburbs like: Barrington: Barrington is known for its large lots, equestrian culture and access to the Fox River. Palos Park: Surrounded by forest preserves, Palos Park is ideal for hiking and nature lovers. Libertyville: Libertyville offers an appealing mix of lakes, trails and a charming downtown. Choosing the right suburb for your family, lifestyle and goals is critical, and an experienced REALTOR® can help. “When choosing a Chicagoland suburb, consider commute times, school quality, safety, amenities and property taxes,” says Hill. “Prioritizing these factors helps ensure the suburb aligns with your lifestyle and goals.” Is Chicagoland Family-Friendly? The Chicagoland suburbs are extremely family-friendly, with households that have children under 18 making up a large portion of the population in the region. This is thanks in part to the amazing schools in the region, which are a common feature of many suburban communities. If you’re looking to choose a community based on the reputation of its public schools, here are a few districts of the many you could consider. A Few of the Top Schools in the Chicagoland Suburbs: New Trier High School District (Winnetka, Northfield, Glencoe, Wilmette, Kenilworth) Naperville District 203 & 204 (Naperville) Stevenson High School District (Lincolnshire, Buffalo Grove, Vernon Hills) Hinsdale Central High School District (Hinsdale) All of these schools are rated 10/10 on GreatSchools.org. You can browse more high-performing schools in the region here. Chicagoland is also home to so many family-friendly activities and amenities. A few family-friendly highlights in the Chicagoland Suburbs: Brookfield Zoo (Brookfield) The Morton Arboretum (Lisle) LEGOLAND Discovery Center (Schaumburg) Numerous parks, bike trails and community pools in nearly every suburban community. No matter what your family is into, you can find your niche in Chicagoland. “My clients say they are here for good jobs, good communities and friendly families,” says Stacy Beeson, a REALTOR® at Coldwell Banker Real Estate Group. Commuting and Traffic High-end (Winnetka, Hinsdale): $1M+ Mid-range (Naperville, Elmhurst): $400K-$800K Budget-friendly (Joliet, Bolingbrook): $300K-$500K Property Taxes: Illinois has moderately high property taxes, often 2-3% of home value. Utilities & Services: Generally higher than the national average. Grocery & Dining Costs: Comparable to the national average and lower than Chicago itself. According to Bowser, when it comes to cost of living, “Location and schools are everything. Even if you do not have children, the school districts will have a large impact on pricing. That, as well as proximity to the city and if you are picking a suburb, proximity to the Metra rail, will also greatly affect price.” Quality of Life So with all this in mind, where does Chicagoland land as a place to live? Does it provide a high quality of life for residents? The simple answer is YES. Here are a few reasons why: Strong Job Market: Proximity to Chicago means access to a diverse range of job opportunities with strong income potential. Cultural & Recreational Activities: Theaters, museums, shopping centers and restaurants cater to all interests and when you live in Chicagoland, you can take advantage of all the suburbs and the city have to offer. Health & Wellness: Top-rated hospitals and healthcare facilities in suburban areas keep residents in good care and improve outcomes when issues arise. Community Events: Farmers’ markets, local festivals, parades and many other events almost every weekend of the year strengthen the sense of community you’ll experience living in the Chicagoland suburbs. “Chicagoland boasts diverse communities, top-tier healthcare, outdoor recreation and a vibrant cultural scene,” Hill explains. “This combination makes it a great place for families and individuals alike.” The Chicagoland suburbs offer a range of living experiences, from luxurious estates to affordable and eclectic family-friendly neighborhoods. Whether you prioritize excellent schools, outdoor recreation or a short commute to Chicago for work and play, there is a perfect suburb for you. With thoughtful planning and research, moving to the Chicagoland suburbs can be a rewarding decision for both individuals and families. If you’re considering a move, explore different suburbs, visit communities in person and weigh the pros and cons of each area to find the best fit for your lifestyle. Then, start searching for your perfect fit home or expert REALTOR® here on ChicagolandHomes.com.

Early Spring Housing Market Shows Signs of Resilience

By Amy Robey • March 18, 2025

Despite the ongoing housing inventory crunch in Chicagoland, home sales in the suburbs represented by Mainstreet REALTORS® remained resilient in February. The number of detached homes sold edged up 0.6% year-over-year, rising from 1,547 in February 2024 to 1,556 last month. Sales of attached homes also saw a modest increase, with 841 units sold in February 2025 compared to 828 the year before. "The spring market is definitely upon us," said Connie Vavra, President of Mainstreet REALTORS®. "There are a lot of buyers coming out, asking questions, and getting their financing prepared. I think there will be a lot of activity in the residential housing market in late spring, early summer." Prices continued their upward climb amid limited inventory. The median sale price for detached homes rose 7.6% year-over-year to $371,250, up from $345,000 in February 2024. Attached homes saw a 4.0% increase, with the median price reaching $260,000 compared to $250,000 last year. Market times varied by property type. The average time on the market for detached homes remained steady at 58 days, up slightly from 56 days a year ago. However, attached homes experienced a significant shift, staying on the market 43.3% longer—jumping from an average of 37 days in February 2024 to 53 days last month. Local REALTORS® share lengthier time on market for attached homes likely indicates current buyer preferences toward single-family homes. "I would encourage consumers to connect with their Mainstreet REALTOR® to understand their options and create an individualized homebuyer or selling plan. For example, buyers can explore FHA and VA loans for help on down-payments, and sellers can take advantage of reverse contingencies, which allow them to stay in their home while looking for a new one," said John Gormley, CEO of Mainstreet REALTORS®. The following suburbs experienced increases in the number of detached homes sold year-over-year: Arlington Heights (54.2% increase in number of detached homes sold in February 2025 versus February 2024) Aurora (58.1%) Downers Grove (87.5%) Glen Ellyn (53.3%) Lansing (40.0%) Mundelein (53.9%) Oswego (20.0%) Schaumburg (63.6%) St. Charles (60.0%) Tinley Park (52.9%) If you're a buyer or seller, now is a great time to prepare for the spring market. Connect with your Mainstreet REALTOR® who can work with you to create a tailored plan for buying or selling your home – including sharing what options are available from a financing perspective as well as how you may be able to rent your home back until you find your next one.

A row of townhouses under construction.

2025 Illinois Housing Market Forecast

September 18, 2024

The 2024 Illinois housing market proved to be challenging, particularly for home buyers across suburban Chicagoland. Limited inventory and rising mortgage rates caused housing affordability to hit historic lows. Despite this, well-positioned homes remained in high demand, quickly moving off the market, often leaving many buyers feeling frustrated. So, what can we expect for the Illinois housing market in 2025?

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Do I Need a REALTOR®?

September 18, 2024

Key Benefits of Working With a REALTOR® for Buyers and Sellers in Chicagoland

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Resources for Veterans

September 3, 2024

Resources for Veterans and Active Military Whether you're currently serving our country or have served, we want to make finding your next home a simple and rewarding process. From finding a Mainstreet REALTOR® to applying for home loans, these local and national resources will help you buy and maintain the home of your dreams.

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Property Rights

September 2, 2024

Know Your Property Rights Navigating homeowner rights can be tricky. And when important issues are muffled under policy jargon, how do you know where to turn? Local REALTOR® associations like Mainstreet are committed to advocating for homeowner rights at local and state levels.

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