New homes in Illinois.

Local agent spot

This featured-agent spot is open for a licensed local real estate professional in Illinois.

What can I afford?

Estimate a comfortable price range in under a minute, then connect with a lender for real numbers.

Rough estimate only (28% of income toward housing, ~6.5% illustrative rate, 30-year term) — not a loan offer or pre-qualification. Connect with a lender for real numbers →

Advertise to local buyers

Lenders, inspectors, movers, and other local pros — this spot is open.

Chicago: World-Class City, Non-Coastal Prices

Chicago offers top-5 global city amenities including world-class architecture, restaurants, music, museums, and lakefront — at home prices dramatically lower than New York, Los Angeles, or San Francisco. The value gap remains one of the most compelling in American real estate.

Property Taxes: Model Total Cost Carefully

Illinois has among the highest property tax rates in the country at approximately 2.08% statewide. Always research the specific property's actual annual tax bill — state and county averages are misleading. Model total monthly cost (mortgage plus taxes plus HOA) before comparing markets.

Attorney Modification Period Is Standard

Illinois real estate transactions customarily include a 5-business-day attorney modification period after contract execution. Both buyer and seller attorneys may request changes during this period. Budget $500-$1,000 for attorney fees on a standard transaction.

Downstate Value: Largely Undiscovered

Cities like Peoria, Rockford, Bloomington-Normal, and Champaign-Urbana offer excellent housing value with livable mid-sized city amenities at prices well under $200,000. These markets offer strong cash flow for investors.

Chicago Transfer Taxes Are Significant

Chicago city properties are subject to state, county, AND city transfer taxes — the combined rate in Chicago is among the highest in the country. For a $500,000 Chicago purchase total transfer taxes can exceed $4,000-$5,000.

Net Migration Concerns: Know the Context

Illinois has experienced net out-migration in recent years. This is a real headwind for long-term appreciation in some markets. However Chicago's global city status and corporate base create structural demand that makes top neighborhoods and suburbs resilient.

Cost of Living

Illinois has a bifurcated cost structure. Chicago and the North Shore suburbs are expensive by national standards while downstate Illinois offers some of the most affordable living in the Midwest. Property taxes are the most significant ongoing cost factor.