The Fine Print in Real Estate

On this episode of The Fine Print in Real Estate, David Frank is away, so my good friend and fellow Realtor Steve Davis of Real Brokerage joins me behind the mic! We chat about the summer real estate market, what buyers and sellers should expect, our favorite ways to enjoy summer in Chicago, and how AI is changing the real estate industry. It's a fun, informative conversation filled with marke...

In this episode, I sit down with Brad Pierce of Haven Home Staging to discuss one of the most powerful tools sellers can use to maximize their home's value: professional home staging. Brad shares why first impressions matter more than ever in today's real estate market, how staging helps buyers emotionally connect with a property, and the impact it can have on selling speed and final sale...

Join us for a great conversation with Dan Kittlesen of DJK Homes as we discuss everything you need to know about buying a new construction home. From understanding the building process and what questions to ask, to knowing what to expect along the way, Dan shares valuable insights and expert advice for anyone thinking about building or buying new. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or planning your...

In this episode of The Fine Print in Real Estate, David and I dive into agent behavior and ethics in today’s competitive market. We also break down how title can be held and why understanding your options matters. In fast-moving Chicago markets, professionalism goes a long way respect over pressure, always. You’ll likely work together again. “If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anyth...

In this episode of The Fine Print in Real Estate, we’re sitting down with Anna Barsky, Vice President of Investment Property Exchange Services (IPX1031), for a clear, no-fluff deep dive into 1031 exchanges. What they are, who can use them, how to execute them, and what actually qualifies when you’re buying and selling.  If you’re an investor thinking about selling this year, this is required liste...

What really goes on behind the scenes of today’s mortgage market? We sit down with one of our favorite mortgage boss ladies in the business Neena Vlamis, owner of A & N Mortgage for a timely and insightful conversation as we head into the 2026 spring season. We dive into mortgage extension risks, what a real preapproval letter actually looks like, and the special mortgage products Neena curren...

On the next episode of The Fine Print in Real Estate: Holiday Edition, we’re skipping the 12 Days of Christmas and breaking down the 12 Myths of Real Estate. From overpricing listings and common lending misconceptions to the big question—is staging really necessary when selling your home?  This episode is packed with valuable insights to carry you confidently into the new year, whether you’re prep...

In this episode, we dive into some of the biggest real estate topics impacting homeowners right now from understanding the ADU Ordinance and the 606 Ordinance Update to preparing your home to sell in a shifting market. We’ll also talk about the 2024 tax bill that’s coming out soon and what it means in a triennial reassessment year plus how these changes could affect your property’s value and your...

In this episode, we sit down with Jeff Swanberg from Premier Home Inspections to talk about getting your home ready for winter. We cover simple preventative steps that can save you from costly repairs, whether gutters are a must-have or just an upgrade, and what to watch out for when buying a flipped home. If you’re a homeowner or thinking about buying, this episode is packed with practical tips t...

We sat down with Jason Goldberg from Opteon, a global leader in valuation, advisory, and property services, to dive deep into the world of appraisals — and trust us, you’re going to want to hear this one! We’re talking everything from appraisal waivers, how appraisers determine home value, to why an appraisal might still be needed even on a cash purchase. This episode is packed with valuable info...

We sit down with Julio Neira, President of Inspectrum Inc., a trusted Chicagoland inspection company, to break it all down! We’re diving into what really matters during home inspections: • What’s a  big deal  vs. a  little deal • What counts as a safety hazard  • How to spot signs of lead-based paint in older homes and condos Whether you’re house hunting now or just starting to plan , this episode...

 In this episode of The Fine Print in Real Estate, we’re diving into all things homeowners insurance with Chris Collins from State Farm! From what to ask before choosing coverage to why cash buyers sometimes forget this crucial step (yep, no lender = no reminder!), we’re breaking it all down so you can make confident decisions when buying a home. Oh, and yes—I did ask if he knows Jake from State F...

In this episode, I sit down with one of my favorite lenders, Terrence Terrell with A & N Mortgage and we dive into all the must-know topics for buyers and sellers alike. We cover: Navigating condo buildings and understanding HOAs What non-warrantable properties are and why they matter Breaking down adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) The importance of getting that preapproval letter before you st...

This week, we cover the New 606 Block District Tenant Opportunity to Purchase Pilot Program, which offers tenants the First Right of Refusal, giving them a path to ownership in one of Chicago’s most dynamic areas. We also provide insight into the Clear Corporation in Real Estate and share our strategies for preparing listings ahead of the busy Spring Market. We’re joined by a special guest, Jill P...