Showcase Chicago Podcast

After 12+ years in the industry, I’m officially launching my own real estate brokerage — Showcase Chicago Realty. In this special episode, I share why this isn’t just a business move… it’s the result of a relationship-first approach, a lot of risk, and zero shortcuts. Joined by co-host Lane Chesebro, we talk about what led to this moment, what makes Showcase different, and why integrity isn’t just...

This episode is personal. I’m pulling back the curtain on the real journey that led me to launching my own real estate brokerage — Showcase Chicago Realty.   From working a full-time bank job at 16, to hitting rock bottom in 2017, to rebuilding my business with resilience and integrity — this is the story behind the brand. Co-hosted by Lane Chesebro, we dive into what shaped my approach to real es...

What if the “perfect home” was hiding a sinking foundation behind a fake wall? In this episode of Showcase Chicago, Michael Reyes sits down with Justin Castronova of First Choice Inspectors, who has completed over 10,000 inspections across Chicagoland. From discovering shocking issues like hidden walls to spotting the telltale signs of a bad flip, Justin shares what sellers and buyers need to know...

Step back in time to uncover the stories behind Chicago’s iconic pre-war apartments and what they reveal about connection, craftsmanship, and lifestyle. Join host Michael Reyes and guest Michael Erwin as they delve into the 1928 Portfolio of Fine Apartment Homes by Baird & Warner—a treasure trove of architectural gems. Learn how historic layouts prioritized human connection with private retrea...

Reaching homeownership was no simple feat for Audriana; it was built on patience, timing, and a dedicated agent. In this episode, she and Michael unpack her four-year journey, illustrating how a trusted real estate professional makes a difference for sellers and buyers at every turn. They discuss how knowing when to hold back on a deal is essential, why patience led her to the right home, and what...

Join host Michael Reyes of A.R.E. Partners as he recaps the dynamic real estate landscape of 2023 and explores what's on the horizon for 2024. With guest Lane Chesebro from Coldwell Banker Realty, they discuss transaction trends, challenges with interest rates, and the market outlook, including insights from Dr. Lawrence Yun of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS. Michael shares his journey from...

Host Michael Reyes with A.R.E. Partners teams up with George Laguardia from A and N Mortgage to unveil the game-changing Home Run Program. Discover how this program allows you to secure 2-4 unit properties with just a 5% down payment and offers competitive interest rates. Learn about occupancy requirements, credit score thresholds, and the power of rental income. If you're in the Chicagoland area,...

In the latest episode of the Showcase Chicago Podcast, your host Michael Reyes, a seasoned Chicagoland Realtor with ARE Partner Inc, sits down with special guest Danny Salgado – an accomplished independent Real Estate Investor and a highly valued past and current client. Our conversation will focus on Danny's journey as ignited by the guidance of his father. We'll explore buy-and-hold versus fix-a...

Join realtor Michael Reyes and Antje Gehrken, President of A.R.E. Partners Inc, as they discuss the Q2 Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana real estate market. Discover opportunities for buyers and sellers despite the slowdown, the importance of market knowledge, and how personal factors influence home buying decisions. Gain valuable insights to succeed in today's real estate landscape. www. Showcase...

Join real estate agent Michael Reyes as he shares his personal journey of shedding 170 pounds through gastric bypass surgery. In this episode, accompanied by renowned bariatric surgeon Dr. Rami Lutfi, they explore the emotional and physical aspects of weight loss surgery. Discover how Michael's decision to prioritize his health transformed not only his body but also elevated his real estate busine...

A first-time homebuyer, initially thought she found the perfect condo in Oak Park, but soon realized after moving in that it wasn't the right fit for her lifestyle. Despite the potential financial risks, she decided to prioritize her happiness and relocate back to River North. Michael Reyes, her realtor, supported this decision and worked diligently to ensure a successful sale. LISTEN NOW on your...

Ten-year client talks about moving from renting in 2013 to purchasing a condo in 2017, then buying a single-family home in 2022 and retaining her condo as an investment. There's a lot to learn from her story, including dealing with two mortgage lenders who didn't have her best interests at heart, buying while interest rates were high, breaking up with another Realtor, taking on renovation projects...

Are you thinking about buying or selling in the Chicago real estate market? If so, you're likely wondering what the first quarter of 2023 had in store. Michael Reyes from A.R.E. Partners, Rachel Ruffin from Executive Realty Group LLC, and Linda Scott from Wintrust Mortgage have the answers. In this episode, they discuss the current state of the market, interest rates, and the best negotiating stra...

Are you dreaming of becoming a homeowner? If so, you're not alone. But achieving this goal can be difficult, especially in today's competitive real estate market. Fortunately, Leo was able to make his dream a reality with the help of Realtor Michael Reyes and by negotiating a $5,000 credit and receiving a $6,000 grant. In this episode, we discuss how Leo was able to save $11,000 and achieve his ho...

In this episode of the Showcase Chicago Podcast, we hear the inspiring story of Chris and Vaeshan who, after a year of searching with another Realtor, were able to find their dream house with the help of Michael Reyes. Despite a $15,000 inspection issue, Michael was able to help them negotiate a successful offer within just 30 days. We explore how they overcame the challenge and hear their advice...