Special assessments can make condo buyers and sellers nervous, but they aren’t automatically a red flag. Learn why they happen, what to look for, who may be responsible for paying them, and how they can affect a condo sale or financing.

Buying your first home in Chicago, Evanston, or the North Shore? This guide covers financing, inspections, condo reserves, buyer agreements, closing costs, and how to decide which area and type of home fit you best.

Buying a condo involves more than qualifying for a mortgage. The condominium association itself can affect whether financing is available. Reserves, special assessments, deferred maintenance, insurance, and other association issues may all come into play during a lender’s condominium review. Fannie Mae condominium requirements are also changing in 2026 and 2027, including changes involving project reviews and replacement reserves. I recently took a closer look at what these changes could mean for condo buyers and sellers in Evanston, Chicago, and the North Shore, with lending information provided by…

Condo financing rules are changing. Learn how reserves, assessments, deferred maintenance, insurance, and HOA finances can affect Chicago and Evanston condo buyers and sellers.

Wondering what your home is really worth? Online estimates can be a useful starting point, but they don’t always capture the full picture. My latest article looks at the factors that actually influence market value in Chicago, Evanston, and the North Shore.

Buying an Evanston condo? Learn which HOA documents to review, how to evaluate reserves and special assessments, and which red flags to watch for.

Learn what Evanston condo assessments may cover, why fees vary by building and how buyers can compare monthly costs, reserves and amenities.

Comparing North Shore and Chicago condos? Explore differences in commuting, building styles, assessments, parking and everyday convenience.

Thinking about selling an Evanston condo? Learn what to review before listing, from pricing and HOA documents to repairs, parking, presentation, and current competition.

Relocating to Chicago for Google’s new office at the Thompson Center? Compare the Loop, West Loop, River North, South Loop, Lincoln Park, Lakeview, Evanston, and more.

Moving to Chicago for work? Use this relocation checklist for Illinois licensing, vehicle registration, Chicago parking, transit, utilities, moving, and everyday essentials.