Chicago Real Estate Blog

The streets of Chicago buzz with life as the crisp October air wraps itself around the city like a familiar embrace. Chicago at her finest…our glorious Fall! Enjoy al fresco dinner along the Chicago River or in the many restaurants …

Refinancing your mortgage can be a strategic financial move, but it’s essential to understand the process and determine if it’s right for you. In this comprehensive Q&A, we delve into the intricacies of mortgage refinancing with expert insights from Debra …

Did you know that Chicago played a pivotal role in bringing glass bricks and prism lights into architectural prominence? These elements transformed the way natural light was introduced into buildings, illuminating urban spaces while maintaining privacy and structural integrity. As …

Meghan and Mark, newly minted parents of a darling baby boy and an energetic doggie, outgrew their condo and were excited to find a single-family home for their growing family. After interviewing a few agents, they gave me the best …

Having traversed the streets of Chicago’s most affluent neighborhoods for over 40 years as a realtor, and even longer as a resident, I’ve witnessed their evolution from modest beginnings to pinnacles of grandeur. This city, steeped in heritage and ambition, …

 The smell of grated lemon evokes a swirl of memories for me (right up there with garlic, basil, and rosemary). One such fond memory is of coming home to find my fabulous and creative sister-in-law (also incredibly patient evidently, …

Jessica, a freelance practitioner whose business had transitioned to Zoom sessions post-COVID, faced significant stress during her relocation to Chicago. With her child starting a new school in September, she needed to find and close on a home quickly. Despite …

My introduction to Alison was anything but ordinary. A trusted friend and long-time client called me with: “D, sending you a referral. The husband is joining my firm as a Partner. His wife is some superstar negotiating expert. Make them …

Decluttering your home can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be boring or tedious. With a little creativity, you can make decluttering a fun and rewarding experience. Here are some creative tips to help you declutter your …

Dogs have been my constant companions since I was born. I rode my Dusty, my first dog – a gentle German Shepard – like a pony. Today, Winston, Tapper, and Stella rule the household and bring me great joy. The …

The active market is going strong in Chicago! And with more competition, it’s important for prospective homebuyers to get their priorities in order before they start touring homes and neighborhoods. If you’re in this group of buyers on a mission, …

Objective: Achieve a successful sale in a crowded market without breaking the bank. The Background Our client faced an uphill battle. Their condo was in a building recently rezoned to a flood zone, raising red flags for potential buyers. To …

As I celebrate my 40-year anniversary as a real estate agent in Chicago and have called Lincoln Park my home for 21 years, I find myself reflecting on what makes Lincoln Park such a special place to live, work, and …

When selling your home, it’s crucial to address certain features that can significantly deter potential buyers. Over my 40 years as a real estate agent in Chicago, I’ve identified several key elements that can make or break a sale. Here …

As the home warranty industry evolves, staying informed about the latest trends and best practices is crucial for homeowners. From significant discounts to strategic alliances between warranty companies and real estate firms, the landscape is shifting. In this comprehensive guide, …

Uncovering the desires and needs of prospective homeowners is a critical part of our mission. Through detailed, recent interviews with over 300 buyers, we’ve gathered invaluable insights that could help future buyers articulate their preferences and guide sellers in making …

When preparing to sell your home, the presentation and condition are pivotal. Not only does this affect how quickly your home sells, but it can significantly impact the price you ultimately receive. Over the years, I’ve found that many sellers …

Discover the vibrant flavors of Mexico right here in Chicago! Join The Debra Dobbs Group as we dive into the city’s rich culinary scene, showcasing the best Mexican eateries that offer everything from traditional dishes to innovative takes on classic …

As you embark on the exciting journey to find your dream home, preparing for your search is just as important as the search itself. With over 40 years of experience in the Chicago real estate market, I have seen firsthand …

Selling your home quickly and for the best possible price requires a combination of professional expertise and homeowner initiative. With 40 years of experience in Chicago’s real estate market, I’ve distilled my approach into proven strategies that truly work. Here’s …

Moving can be one of the most stressful events in life – especially if you’re moving a long distance and need to organize your possessions, pack them up, find movers, unpack in your new location, and get settled in your …