Chicago Real Estate Insider with Amanda McMillan

Is the 2026 Chicago real estate market really slowing down — or are the headlines missing the bigger story? In this episode we break down what is actually happening in the Chicago housing market right now, especially across the North Side neighborhoods we work in every day — including Lincoln Park, Lakeview, Bucktown, Wicker Park, Old Town, Gold Coast, River North, Rogers Park, Portage Park, Jeffe...

What's the secret to successful entrepreneurs? In Episode 2 of the SheCago Podcast, Amanda McMillan sits down with Amelia Forczak, a New York Times bestselling ghostwriter, entrepreneur, mom, and founder of Pithy Wordsmithery. Amelia built a thriving business in an industry many people don’t even know exists. What started as a side project writing a book for her CEO eventually turned into a 14...

Chicago women in business face challenges few people talk about. In this episode, I sit down with Kim Blackburn, owner of Red June Cafe, to talk about grit, survival, entrepreneurship, motherhood, and why failure was never an option. From growing up on a farm and learning hard work early, to becoming a single mom, building a successful small business, surviving cancer, and navigating over 15 years...

What’s actually happening with Chicago mortgages right now — and how should Chicago buyers think about financing in 2026?Today I sit down with my trusted lending partner, Dan Gjeldum, to break down what’s really happening in the Chicago real estate market this spring — from mortgage rates under 6% to appraisal waivers, ARM products, refinancing strategy, and how to compete in multiple-offer situat...

What really happened in the Chicago real estate market in 2025 — and what does it mean for buyers, sellers, and homeowners heading into 2026?In this annual Chicago Home Partner Market Report, we break down the data, revisit last year’s predictions, and give you a clear, honest look at where the Chicago housing market stands today. From rising home prices and shrinking inventory to interest rates,...

Rate top lender Dan Gjeldum and I break down why the lender you choose matters more than ever in Chicago—especially with condos, competitive situations, and today’s rate environment. If you want to avoid financing disasters, strengthen your offer, and actually win the home you love, this is the episode you need to watch. Mortgage and Lending Information:• The truth about “online lenders” and why i...

Chicago home prices are up nearly 7% so far this year, YET, national headlines paint a picture of housing chaos. Chicago continues to stand out as one of the most stable, resilient real estate markets in the U.S. Forget the doom sayers and CRASH predictions of other pundits - they’ve been saying that for years and don’t tell the hyperlocal story about our great city Chicago. From inventory challen...

Thinking about leaving the city for more space, top-tier schools, or a simpler lifestyle? In this episode of Chicago Home Partner, I sit down with one of my favorite collaborators—and Western Suburbs expert—Brian Bomba, to break down everything you need to know if you’re considering a move west of the city. We dig into: 📉 Inventory trends—what’s actually happening in the Western Suburbs this year...

Thinking about leaving the city for the Chicago suburbs? Wondering what suburban life really looks like compared to your current neighborhood in Lincoln Park, Lakeview, Bucktown, or Logan Square? In this episode of Chicago Home Partner, I sit down with my longtime friend and North Shore expert Connie Dornan to break it all down in a point/counterpoint conversation between two seasoned real estate...

Why can’t we just build more homes in Chicago and how has the city made it nearly impossible for developers to build here? In this episode, I sit down with Zev Salomon, one of the city’s top new construction developers, and Kevin Van Eck of @properties to unpack why Chicago’s zoning laws, city ordinances, and political red tape are some of the biggest roadblocks to solving our housing crisis.🏗️ Ze...

The landscape of Chicago real estate is shifting fast, and the changes in Chicago commercial real estate are playing a major role. Since COVID, office vacancy rates have soared, small businesses have struggled to survive, and skyrocketing commercial property taxes are putting pressure on both business owners and homeowners. Chicago’s beloved neighborhoods—built around vibrant local shops, restaura...

What is going to happen to the Chicago housing market over the next 12 months? Tune in to find out from a 20 year top producing agent and find out if 2025 if YOUR year to buy or sell in Chicago. Join top producing veteran Realtor® Amanda McMillan and mortgage analyst Dan Gjeldum as they unveil crucial insights from this year's 2025 Chicago Home Partner Market Report. From sizzling price forecasts...

The 2024 Presidential election is finally behind us, but how will that impact the real estate market going forward? This month we feature two incredible guests and together, we dive deep into our thoughts on real estate under Trump 2.0, Chicago's market outlook for 2025, and the challenges buyers and sellers will face in the coming year. Topics Covered: George Schultz, managing broker at @properti...

If you’re trying to understand Chicago Public Schools, their lottery system or what school to go to - this episode is for you! Amanda welcomes real estate expert Matt Dollinger and CPS Parent Coordinator Michelle Sherman as they discuss everything you need to know about Chicago Public Schools and the current state of the real estate media in Chicago.  Together we’ll tackle some of the most commonl...

In this episode of the Chicago Home Partner Podcast, Amanda McMillan dives deep into the evolving world of real estate, exploring the biggest industry shifts, the game-changing technology that has transformed the way we buy and sell homes, and why consumers should be wary of home search portals like Zillow and Homes.com. Next, Amanda sits down with Brian Tomko from Inspectrum Home Inspection Team,...

Summer is here, and this month we're discussing the benefits of a GREAT agent, the current state of mortgages, how to win in multiple bids, and what to look for when buying a home with dogs! Brooke and I are back with this episode, discussing why buyer representation matters, what good agents bring to the table, and some great info for anyone looking to buy in this roller-coaster market: Why g...

It's May, and this month we're discussing the National Association of Realtors® (NAR) commission settlement lawsuit, exploring what the settlement means for future homebuyers and sellers, and demystifying the truth behind the headlines. This class-action settlement has been the subject of every clickbait headline across the internet. In this episode, Amanda sits down with former NAR strate...

April is here in Chicago and with it we're diving in with THREE amazing experts discussing home design, rehab challenges and financial planning tips to help you afford that next home. Jeff Eichorn, Principal and architect at DeBaker Designs shares insights into current home rehab trends, pitfalls to avoid and why consulting with an architect early on is your best first step when considering a...

March brings exciting discussions to our Chicago real estate podcast with two exceptional guests. We delve into pressing issues confronting homebuyers and sellers in today's market. Connie Dornan, top North Shore agent by volume in 2023, shares invaluable insights for those considering a move to Chicago's northern suburbs. We cover the market's current state and the most popular suburb...

We're changing things up in 2024 by welcoming the first of many amazing guests to the program, each bringing their professional expertise in all things related to real estate and finance directly to you. In this episode, we're delving into the evolving world of mortgages in 2024 as well as the current happenings in Chicago's Western Suburbs with one of the top-producing agents in Hinsd...

Each year I take immense pride in releasing our annual “⁠Chicago Real Estate Report”⁠. With soaring interest rates and a continued lack of inventory, coupled with multiple world events, national uncertainty, and misinformation in the media, 2023 was quite the year. Here's some of the stats we saw and data we discuss in this year's report: Home Prices: 0.2% increase city wide, but what does...

Q4 is coming to a close, and before we dive into our 2023/2024 Market Report, we wanted to address some important topics for anyone interested in the Chicago real estate market. My Personal Real Estate Investment Strategy Neighborhood Spotlight: River North Rent or Buy? Which is right for you? How World Events are Shaping Chicago Real Estate Creative Downpayment Saving Strategies Just a reminder t...

Get ready to unwrap the latest on the Chicago real estate scene – because even though the holidays are approaching, the market is not taking a break! After a rollercoaster Q3 filled with soaring rates and scarce inventory, the burning question remains: What's in store for the rest of the year? Join Amanda McMillan and Samuel Ciochon as they dive into the hottest topics, from fluctuating rates...

Having just wrapped up Q3 it's time to reflect on what we've seen in the market and dive into the impacts increasing rates are having on the Chicago real estate market.   There's been a LOT going on and we're here to discuss not only the state of the market and how you can improve your credit, but also some living local tips on how to enjoy the last few weeks of Fall. Amanda McMill...

Welcome back to the Chicago Real Estate Podcast with Amanda McMillan and Samuel Ciochon. As we head into Q3 it's time to take look back at our summer Chicago Real Estate Market and set some predictions on what we'll see for the rest of the year. Shot on location at our gorgeous listing at 1232 West Oakdale in Chicago, we dive into some great topics this episode including: Summer 2023 Real...