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Your Guide to Starter Homes in Today’s Housing Market: Do They Still Exist?

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Key takeaways: A starter home is typically the most affordable home available in a local market, whether that’s a single-family home, condo, or townhouse. The median U.S. starter home costs $262,317 in 2026 and requires an estimated household income of about $80,000. While affordability challenges remain, buyers have more options than they did a few years ago, particularly in parts of the Midwest, Northeast, and South. If you’re thinking about buying your first place, a starter home can be your launchpad into homeownership. Typically the most affordable option for first-time buyers , starter homes are usually smaller with fewer frills or features and come with a more manageable price tag. Buying one still isn’t easy. Home prices have climbed significantly over the last decade, and affordability remains a hurdle in much of the country. But conditions have shifted somewhat in buyers’ favor recently—housing inventory is near its highest poin...

5 Unique Things to Do in Chicago

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Chicago has no shortage of famous landmarks, but some of the best places in the city are the ones locals keep coming back to. From neighborhood favorites to lesser-known attractions, we asked Chicago residents to share the unique things they think everyone should experience. Whether you’re new to the city, are looking at homes in Chicago , or have called it home for years, there’s probably something here you haven’t tried yet. 1. Stop by the Art Institute of Chicago If you’re interested in history and art, spend an afternoon at the Art Institute of Chicago. Home to one of the country’s largest permanent art collections, the museum features everything from centuries-old masterpieces to modern works. Martin, a local Chicagoan from SmartMoneyMatch , a network that connects the global investment community, recommends the Art Institute of Chicago when the weather is terrible. “It’s always worth a visit. It’s filled with masterpieces from every era, from Ge...

7 Outdoor Activities in Chicago Recommended by Locals

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Chicago is a city that shines when you step outside, with miles of lakefront trails and sandy beaches along Lake Michigan, sprawling parks, riverwalks, and exciting neighborhood festivals; there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the outdoors. Whether you’re a longtime local looking for a new weekend activity, thinking about moving to the city , or someone considering buying a new home in Chicago , there are outdoor activities for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best outdoor activities in Chicago, highlighting the experiences that make the city one of the Midwest’s top destinations for outdoor recreation. 1. Water-based adventures One of the best ways to experience Chicago is from the water. Tristan Loescher of Columbia Sailing School notes that sailing offers a perspective of the city that most visitors never see. Their programs range from introductory sails to advanced instruction, helping people “stay active while building confidence on the water....

DuPage County, IL Housing Market Update: May 2026

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Key Takeaways DuPage County was firmly a seller’s market in May. Homes moved quickly, more than half sold above asking, and prices surged nearly four times faster than the national average. The median sale price rose 7.5% year over year to $456,880, crossing the $450,000 mark for the first time. Over 62% of listings went under contract within two weeks of hitting the market. DuPage County, IL Housing Market Snapshot Median Sale Price Pending Sales Active Listings Days on Market Sold Above List $456,880 (+7.5% YoY) 1,312 (+9.7% YoY) 3,686 (+6.0% YoY) 42 days (0 days YoY) 52.8% (-0.9 ppt YoY) DuPage County’s spring market delivered strong results for sellers. Prices climbed sharply, demand outpaced new supply, and well-positioned homes drew immediate interest. If you’re buying in DuPage right now, be prepared to compete. If you’re selling, the market rewarded accurate pricing with fast sales and offers above asking. Learn everything you need to know about...

Lake County, IL Housing Market Update: May 2026

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Key Takeaways Lake County was a seller’s market in May. Over half of homes sold above asking price, and the typical listing went under contract faster than a year ago. Prices rose 4.6% year over year to $428,714—more than double the national growth rate. Days on market dropped to 45 while the national figure rose, signaling local demand that defied broader cooling trends. Lake County, IL Housing Market Snapshot Median Sale Price Pending Sales Active Listings Days on Market Sold Above List $428,714 (+4.6% YoY) 1,035 (+6.9% YoY) 3,043 (+1.7% YoY) 45 days (-3 days YoY) 50.3% (+4.1 ppt YoY) Lake County’s housing market accelerated in May while much of the country slowed down. Homes sold faster, buyers competed more aggressively above asking prices, and sellers rarely had to cut. The county’s combination of strong school districts and proximity to both Chicago and Wisconsin continued to pull buyers off the sidelines. Learn everything you need to ...