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Inventory is growing in today’s market, yet many buyers still struggle to find the right home. Floor plans may not fit, some homes need too many repairs, or listings all start to feel the same. That’s why more and more buyers are turning to  new construction homes . Why Builders Are Motivated Many builders are holding unsold, completed inventory. To move forward with new projects, they need to sell these homes first. According to ResiClub co-founder Lance Lambert, some markets are seeing an increase in unsold supply, pushing builders to reduce prices and offer buyer incentives. Incentives at the Highest Level in 5 Years Data from the  National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)  shows that as of August 2025,  66% of builders  are offering buyer incentives—the highest in the past five years. That means 2 out of 3 buyers could benefit right now. Price Cuts Are Common One of the most popular incentives is  price reductions . About 40% of builders have lowered prices by an average of 5%. On a $500,000 home, that’s a  $25,000 savings . Beyond price cuts, incentives also include mortgage rate buydowns, closing cost credits, and other financial perks—making this one of the most favorable times in years to consider new construction. Advantages of a New Home It’s not just about savings—new homes also offer lifestyle benefits: Spacious kitchens and open layouts Energy-efficient design (lower utility costs) Latest smart home technology Minimal repair or maintenance needs after move-in Combined with today’s record incentives, new construction homes are more attractive than ever. One Critical Tip: Don’t Go Alone While the opportunities are strong, it’s essential to have  your own agent  when buying new construction. Builder representatives work for the builder, not for you. Your agent will: Identify which incentives offer real value Negotiate for the best price and terms Review contracts carefully to protect you Put  your interests first , every step of the way Final Thoughts If you haven’t yet found the perfect home, now is the time to look at  new construction . With record-level incentives, price cuts, and closing cost assistance, buyers have more opportunities than ever. 📌 Curious about what you could qualify for in today’s new home market?Contact me today! Chicago BDB | Hansang Chul 📞 773-717-2227 | 📧  ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

요즘 시장에는 매물이 점점 늘어나고 있지만, 여전히 많은 바이어들이 원하는 집을 쉽게 찾지 못하고 있습니다. 구조가 마음에 들지 않거나, 수리가 필요한 집이거나, 아니면 비슷비슷한 매물만 보이기 때문입니다. 그래서 최근 들어 바이어들이 눈을 돌리고 있는 곳이 바로  신축 주택(new construction)  시장입니다. 건설사들이 움직이고 있는 이유 지금 많은 건설사들이 이미 완공된 재고 주택을 보유하고 있습니다. 하지만 그들은 더 많은 집을 지으려면 기존 재고를 먼저 팔아야 하기에 판매에 적극적일 수밖에 없습니다. ResiClub 공동 창업자인 Lance Lambert는 최근 보고서에서, 일부 시장에서는 미분양 재고가 쌓이면서 건설사들이 가격을 낮추거나 다양한 인센티브를 제공해 거래를 성사시키려 한다고 설명했습니다. 인센티브, 최근 5년 중 최고 수준 전국주택건설협회(NAHB)의 자료에 따르면 2025년 8월 기준, 건설사의 66%가 바이어에게 추가 혜택을 제공했습니다. 이는 지난 5년 중 가장 높은 수치로, 사실상 3명 중 2명의 바이어가 혜택을 누릴 수 있는 기회가 있다는 뜻입니다. 가격 조정도 활발히 진행 중 특히 많이 활용되는 인센티브 중 하나가  가격 인하 입니다. NAHB 자료에 따르면 약 40%의 건설사가 평균 5% 정도 가격을 낮췄습니다. 예를 들어 50만 달러짜리 주택이라면 5% 인하는 무려 2만5천 달러의 절감 효과를 줍니다. 가격 인하 외에도 금리 인하(rate buydown), 클로징 비용 지원 등 다양한 조건이 제시되고 있어 바이어들에게는 절호의 기회입니다. 신축 주택이 주는 장점 바이어 입장에서는 단순히 가격만이 아니라 생활의 질에서도 장점을 누릴 수 있습니다. 신축 주택은 대체로 다음과 같은 특징이 있습니다: 넓은 주방과 오픈 구조 에너지 효율이 높은 설계(전기·가스 요금 절감) 최신 스마트홈 기술 적용 입주 직후 수리나 유지보수 부담이 적음 특히 오늘날의 인센티브와 결합되면, 신축 주택은 수년 만에 가장 매력적인 선택지가 될 수 있습니다. 중요한 한 가지: 혼자 계약하지 마십시오 신축 주택은 기회가 많지만, 반드시  자신의 에이전트 와 함께 하셔야 합니다. 건설사 직원은 바이어가 아닌 건설사의 이익을 보호합니다. 하지만 나만의 에이전트는 다음과 같은 역할을 합니다: 제공되는 인센티브 중 실질적 가치가 있는지 구분 가격 협상에서 최대한 이익 확보 계약서와 조건을 꼼꼼히 검토해 불리한 조항 방지 끝까지 바이어의 이익을 최우선으로 보호 결론 혹시 아직 마음에 드는 집을 못 찾으셨다면, 지금이 바로  신축 주택을 고려할 때 입니다. 기록적인 수준의 인센티브, 가격 인하, 클로징 비용 지원까지 다양한 혜택이 바이어를 기다리고 있습니다. 새집 시장에서 어떤 기회를 잡을 수 있는지 궁금하시다면 지금 바로 연락 주십시오. 📞  시카고 복덕방 한상철  773-717-2227,  ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

여름이 지나가고 가을이 다가오면 가장 먼저 손봐야 할 곳이 바로 집의 현관과 포치입니다. 특히 집을 시장에 내놓고 바이어를 맞이할 준비를 하고 있다면, 이 공간이 주는 첫인상은 그 무엇보다 중요합니다. 밝은 가을빛과 자연스러운 질감은 바이어의 시선을 자연스럽게 현관과 포치로 끌어당깁니다. 이 순간이야말로 집의 감정적 톤을 설정하고 바이어가 안으로 들어오도록 유도할 수 있는 결정적인 기회입니다. 첫인상을 좌우하는 작은 수리와 정비 가장 먼저 해야 할 일은 작지만 눈에 띄는 문제들을 해결하는 것입니다. 페인트가 벗겨진 문틀, 금이 간 계단, 흔들리는 난간, 죽은 식물, 얼룩진 쿠션 같은 것들은 집 전체 관리 상태가 불량하다고 바이어가 판단하게 만들 수 있습니다. 아무리 내부를 멋지게 리노베이션 했더라도 외부 관리가 부실하다면 집 전체에 대한 선입견을 만들게 됩니다. 작은 수리와 보수만으로도 큰 차이를 만들어낼 수 있습니다. 가을 분위기를 살린 따뜻한 연출 가을은 현관과 포치를 따뜻하고 아늑하게 꾸미기에 최적의 계절입니다. 계절감을 살린 리스, 중립적인 톤의 아트워크, 난간에 감아 놓은 덩굴 식물, 작은 테이블용 화분이나 코너를 채우는 키 큰 식물은 집을 더욱 환영받는 공간으로 만들어 줍니다. 바닥에는 내구성이 좋은 울 러그나 두툼한 주트 러그를 깔아 포근함을 더할 수 있고, 작은 플로어 램프에 노란 전구를 사용하면 차가운 밤에도 따뜻한 분위기를 조성할 수 있습니다. 하지만 과도한 장식은 피하는 것이 좋습니다. 지나치게 개인적인 컬러나 취향이 강한 소품, 또는 과도한 할로윈 장식은 오히려 바이어의 상상을 제한할 수 있습니다. 중요한 것은 바이어가 이 공간에서 자신을 자연스럽게 그려볼 수 있도록 만드는 것입니다. 한 걸음 물러서서 바라보는 시선 집을 시장에 내놓기 전에, 현관과 포치를 바이어의 시선으로 다시 한 번 점검해보는 것이 필요합니다. 이 공간이 집 안으로 들어오고 싶다는 생각을 하게 만드는지, 따뜻하고 긍정적인 첫인상을 주는지를 확인하는 것이 핵심입니다. 결론 작은 수리와 가을 분위기의 디테일한 연출은 단순한 장식이 아니라 바이어의 감정을 움직이는 강력한 도구입니다. 첫인상에서 호감을 얻는 순간, 바이어는 집 전체에 대한 긍정적인 감정을 갖게 되고, 이는 결국 매매로 이어질 가능성을 높여줍니다. 지금이 바로 현관과 포치를 새롭게 단장할 완벽한 타이밍입니다. 가을의 따뜻한 분위기를 활용해 바이어를 사로잡으시길 바랍니다. 집을 판매할 계획이 있으시다면, 집의 가치를 높이는 전략부터 매매까지 전문적으로 안내해드리겠습니다. 시카고 복덕방 한상철’ 773-717-2227,  ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

As summer fades and fall arrives, the first place you should refresh is your front porch. If your home is on the market, this space sets the very first impression—and it’s often the deciding factor for buyers. Warm autumn light and natural textures naturally draw buyers toward the entryway. This moment sets the emotional tone of the home and can encourage them to step inside. Small Repairs That Make a Big Difference Start with the little fixes that buyers immediately notice: chipped door frames, cracked steps, loose railings, dead plants, or stained cushions. Even if the inside is beautifully renovated, poor exterior maintenance can create a negative impression. Minor repairs alone can dramatically elevate curb appeal. Creating a Warm Autumn Atmosphere Fall is the perfect season to add cozy charm. A seasonal wreath, neutral artwork, climbing greenery on the railing, or potted plants instantly make the porch inviting. A durable wool or jute rug adds texture, while a small floor lamp with warm yellow lighting creates a welcoming glow on crisp evenings. Avoid over-decorating—too many personal or bold seasonal items (like excessive Halloween displays) can limit a buyer’s imagination. The goal is to help buyers picture themselves living here. Step Back and See Through the Buyer’s Eyes Before listing, take a step back. Does the entryway make someone want to come inside? Does it feel warm, inviting, and cared for? That’s the key to a strong first impression. Final Thoughts Small repairs and thoughtful fall décor aren’t just decorations—they’re powerful tools that move buyers emotionally. A great first impression creates positive feelings about the entire home, making a sale more likely. Now is the perfect time to refresh your front porch and capture the cozy spirit of fall. Thinking about selling? From value-boosting strategies to closing the deal, I’ll guide you every step of the way. Chicago BDB | Hansang Chul 📞 773-717-2227 | 📧 ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

최근 들어  주택 압류(Foreclosure)  관련 뉴스가 다시 헤드라인을 장식하고 있습니다. 많은 분들이 이런 기사를 보며 혹시 2008년과 같은 부동산 위기가 다시 오는 것이 아닌지 불안해하시지만, 실제 데이터는 전혀 다른 이야기를 하고 있습니다. 과거와 현재는 다르다 부동산 위기 당시(2007~2011년)에는 약  900만 건 이상 의 압류나 강제 매각이 발생했습니다. 하지만 지난해에는 이 숫자가  30만 건 수준 에 불과했습니다. 최근 압류 건수가 다소 늘어난 것은 사실이지만, 당시와 비교하면 아직도  극히 낮은 수준 에 머무르고 있습니다. 연체율이 말해주는 미래 전망 전문가들은 향후 압류 가능성을 예측하기 위해  모기지 연체율(30일 이상 연체된 대출 비율) 을 주목합니다. 최신 자료에 따르면, 전체 연체율은 작년 말과 비슷한 수준을 유지하고 있어, 시장 전반에 위기가 임박했다는 신호는 보이지 않습니다. 다만  FHA 대출 에서 연체가 늘어나고 있다는 점은 눈여겨볼 필요가 있습니다. FHA 대출을 받은 차주들은 상대적으로 경기 변동에 민감할 수 있기 때문에, 최근의 경기 불확실성, 물가 부담, 고용 불안 등이 영향을 미친 것으로 보입니다. 하지만 전반적인 다른 대출 유형(예: Conventional, VA 등)의 연체율은 안정적이며, 이는 시장의 기초 체력이 2008년과는 완전히 다르다는 점을 보여줍니다. 지역별 차이 현재 FHA 대출은 전국 모기지의 약  12% 를 차지합니다. 특히 남부 지역(South) 주에서는 FHA 대출 비중이 더 높은데, 이 지역에서 연체율이 상대적으로 높게 나타나고 있습니다. 그러나 이 또한 2008년과 같은 광범위한 위기를 뜻하지는 않습니다. 전문가들은 이를 면밀히 관찰하고 있지만,  시장 전체가 위험 신호를 보내고 있는 것은 아니다 라는 데 의견을 모으고 있습니다. 어려움이 있을 때의 대처 혹시 지금 모기지 상환이 어려운 상황이라면, 혼자 고민하지 마시고  대출기관과 먼저 상의 하시는 것이 중요합니다. 상환 계획 조정, 대출 조건 변경, 혹은 집을 매각하고 쌓인 자본(Equity)을 활용하는 방법도 있습니다. 현재 많은 주택 소유자들이 상당한 자본 이익을 보유하고 있기 때문에, 예전처럼 압류로 내몰리는 경우보다는 매각을 통한 해결 가능성이 높습니다. 결론 압류 건수가 약간 늘어나고 있는 것은 사실이지만, 이는 2008년 금융 위기 때와는 전혀 다른 상황입니다. 전체 모기지 시장은 여전히 탄탄하며, 광범위한 위기로 번질 조짐은 보이지 않습니다. 다만 일부 FHA 대출 차주들의 부담이 늘어나고 있는 만큼, 앞으로의 흐름을 주의 깊게 살펴볼 필요는 있습니다. 지금처럼 시장 불확실성이 큰 시기에는 전문가의 도움을 받는 것이 가장 현명한 선택입니다. 현재 상황이 내 주택에 어떤 영향을 미치는지, 매각이나 구매 전략은 어떻게 가져가야 하는지 상담이 필요하시다면 언제든 연락 주시기 바랍니다.

Lately, foreclosure headlines have been making the news again. Many homeowners see these reports and worry: “Is another housing crash like 2008 coming?” But the data tells a very different story. 📊 Then vs. Now During the housing crisis (2007–2011), there were over 9 million foreclosures and forced sales . In contrast, last year saw only about 300,000 . Yes, foreclosures have ticked up recently, but compared to the past, today’s numbers are still extremely low . 📈 What Delinquency Rates Tell Us Experts track mortgage delinquency rates (loans 30+ days past due) to predict foreclosure risk. Current delinquency rates remain similar to last year, showing no broad market distress . FHA loans are seeing some increases in late payments. These borrowers tend to be more sensitive to inflation, job uncertainty, and economic shifts. However, conventional and VA loans remain stable , reflecting a much stronger foundation compared to 2008. 📍 Regional Differences FHA loans make up about 12% of all U.S. mortgages . Southern states show a slightly higher share of FHA delinquencies. Still, experts agree this does not signal a nationwide crisis . Instead, it’s a trend worth monitoring in certain regions. 🛠️ Options If You’re Struggling If you’re finding it hard to make mortgage payments: Contact your lender early to explore repayment adjustments. Look into refinancing or modifying loan terms. Consider selling — many homeowners today have strong equity , making a market sale more realistic than foreclosure. ✅ Conclusion Yes, foreclosure filings are up modestly — but this is not 2008 all over again . The mortgage market is much stronger, supported by healthy equity levels and stable lending structures. The main area to watch is FHA borrowers, but overall, there are no signs of a broad housing collapse . 👉 In uncertain times, the smartest step is to consult with an expert about how these trends may affect your home sale or purchase strategy. Chicago Realty – Hansang Chul 📞 773-717-2227 📧 ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

최근 주택시장에서 눈에 띄는 변화 중 하나는 매물이 늘어나면서 일부 셀러들이 원하는 가격을 받지 못해 시장에서 매물을 철회하는 경우가 많아졌다는 점입니다. Realtor.com에 따르면 올여름 신규 매물 100건 중 약 21건이 시장에서 거둬들여졌다고 합니다. 셀러 중심이던 시장이 점차 바이어 친화적으로 이동하고 있다는 신호입니다. 이런 상황에서 셀러들이 바이어의 관심을 끌기 위해 보다 창의적인 전략을 사용하는 경우가 늘고 있습니다. 그중 흥미로운 방법 중 하나가 바로  향기를 활용하는 전략 입니다. 향기와 기억의 연결고리 향기는 감정과 기억을 자극하는 강력한 요소입니다. 시각이나 청각과 달리 후각은 뇌의 감정과 기억을 담당하는 영역과 직접 연결되어 있어 특정 냄새가 오래된 기억을 불러일으키거나 강한 감정적 반응을 유도할 수 있습니다. 실제로 소매업계에서는 수십억 달러 규모의  향기 마케팅(scent marketing)  산업이 형성되어 있습니다. 일부 연구에서는 특정 향기가 고객의 구매 의도를 크게 높인다는 결과도 나왔습니다. 이러한 원리는 부동산 시장에서도 마찬가지로 작용합니다. 집 안에 은은하고 따뜻한 향기가 퍼져 있으면 바이어가 그 공간을 자신의 집처럼 느낄 가능성이 커집니다. 긍정적인 효과와 부작용 향기는 집을 따뜻하고 환영받는 공간처럼 느끼게 하는 강력한 도구가 될 수 있습니다. 실제로 베이킹 냄새, 특히 달콤하고 은은한 향은 바이어에게 좋은 첫인상을 주고, 집에서의 생활을 상상하게 돕습니다. 그러나 무조건 긍정적인 효과만 있는 것은 아닙니다. 곰팡이나 담배, 애완동물 냄새 등은 바이어가 집을 보기도 전에 떠나게 만들 수 있습니다. 또한 과도한 방향제나 향초 역시 바이어에게 집에 문제가 있어 이를 가리려 한다는 인상을 줄 수 있습니다. 따라서 무엇보다 중요한 것은 기존의 불쾌한 냄새를 제거하고, 그 위에 은은하고 자연스러운 향을 더하는 것입니다. 향기를 활용한 판매 전략 전문가들은 집을 팔 때 가능한 한  모든 감각을 자극하는 전략 을 활용하는 것이 효과적이라고 조언합니다. 깔끔하게 정리된 시각적 요소, 편안한 촉감, 잔잔한 음악, 그리고 은은한 향기가 조화를 이루면 바이어가 집에 대한 감정적 애착을 갖게 되고, 이는 구매 결정으로 이어질 수 있습니다. 결국, 집을 판다는 것은 단순히 구조와 가격만의 문제가 아니라  감정과 경험의 문제 이기도 합니다. 적절하게 준비된 향기는 바이어가 집을 더 따뜻하게 느끼게 하고, ‘여기서 살고 싶다’라는 생각을 강화시킬 수 있습니다. 결론 집을 팔기 위해서는 가격 전략과 마케팅이 가장 핵심이지만, 세부적인 요소 하나하나가 바이어의 선택에 큰 영향을 줄 수 있습니다. 향기는 그중에서도 특히 감정에 직접적으로 작용하는 요소입니다. 불필요한 냄새를 없애고 은은한 향기를 더하는 것만으로도 집이 주는 첫인상은 달라질 수 있습니다. 지금 집을 매각하려고 고민 중이시라면, 단순히 청소와 정리만이 아니라 바이어의 감각과 감정까지 고려하는 전략을 세워보시길 권해드립니다. 성공적인 매각 전략 상담은 ‘시카고 복덕방 한상철’에게 문의하시기 바랍니다. 📞 773-717-2227 📧  ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

One of the noticeable shifts in today’s housing market is that with more listings coming online, some sellers are withdrawing their homes after not receiving the offers they hoped for. According to Realtor.com , this summer about 21 out of every 100 new listings were pulled from the market. This signals a shift from a seller-driven market toward a more buyer-friendly one. In this environment, sellers are turning to creative strategies to stand out — and one surprising but effective method is the use of scent . 🌸 The Link Between Scent and Memory Scent is one of the strongest triggers of emotion and memory . Unlike sight or sound, smell connects directly to the brain’s emotional and memory centers. A familiar scent can spark old memories or create strong emotional responses. That’s why scent marketing has become a multi-billion-dollar industry in retail. Research shows certain aromas can increase purchase intent — and the same principle applies to real estate. A subtle, warm scent in a home makes it easier for buyers to picture themselves living there . 👍 Benefits and Cautions Positive: Pleasant, natural aromas (like light baking scents or vanilla) can make a home feel welcoming and memorable. Negative: Bad odors (mold, smoke, pets) can drive buyers away instantly. Overpowering candles or air fresheners may backfire, making buyers suspect issues are being covered up. The key is to remove unpleasant smells first and then add subtle, natural scents that enhance the space. 🛠️ Scent as Part of a Selling Strategy Experts recommend appealing to all five senses when preparing a home for sale. Clean and staged visuals 👀 Comfortable textures 👋 Gentle background music 🎶 And importantly — a warm, subtle fragrance 🌸 When these elements work together, buyers build an emotional attachment to the home, increasing the chance of an offer. Selling a home isn’t just about structure and price — it’s about feelings and experiences . The right scent can reinforce the thought: “I want to live here.” ✅ Conclusion Pricing and marketing are core to selling, but small details can make a big difference. Scent directly impacts emotions , shaping the buyer’s first impression. If you’re preparing to sell, consider strategies that engage not only the buyer’s eyes but also their senses and emotions . 👉 For a successful selling strategy, consult with: Chicago Realty – Hansang Chul 📞 773-717-2227 📧 ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

집을 시장에 내놓았는데 원하는 오퍼를 받지 못하는 경우가 있습니다. 이런 상황에서 일부 셀러들은 매각 대신 임대로 전환하는 선택을 합니다. 부동산 업계에서는 이를  ‘Accidental Landlord(의도치 않은 임대인)’ 이라고 부릅니다. 최근에는 이런 사례가 점점 늘어나고 있습니다. 왜 이런 현상이 늘어나는가 최근 몇 년간 금리가 높은 수준을 유지하고 주택 가격이 상승하면서 바이어들의 구매력이 약화되었습니다. 이로 인해 거래 속도가 느려지고, 일부 매물은 시장에 장기간 머무르는 경우가 많아졌습니다. 매도자가 가격을 낮추기보다는 임대로 돌려 수익을 창출하려는 선택을 하는 것입니다. 하지만 임대가 항상 정답은 아닙니다. 임대 전환을 고민하기 전에 몇 가지 중요한 질문을 던져야 합니다. 1. 임대 수익성이 있는가? 외부 지역으로 이사하는 경우, 원격으로 관리할 수 있는지 검토해야 합니다. 임대에 적합하도록 추가 수리나 비용이 필요한지 따져야 합니다. 해당 지역이 임대 수요가 높은지, 실제로 수익을 낼 수 있는지 분석해야 합니다. 만약 이 질문에 확신이 서지 않는다면 매각 전략을 다시 점검하는 것이 더 나을 수 있습니다. 2. 임대 관리 책임을 감당할 수 있는가? 임대는 단순한 ‘수동적 수익’으로만 보기 어렵습니다. 심야의 긴급 수리 요청, 연체된 임대료, 세입자 변경 시 수리 문제 등 다양한 부담이 발생할 수 있습니다. 자금과 시간이 충분히 준비되지 않으면 예상보다 큰 스트레스를 받을 수 있습니다. 3. 숨은 비용을 고려했는가? 임대용 보험료는 일반 보험보다 약 25% 비싸게 책정됩니다. 관리 회사를 이용할 경우 월세의 약 10%가 수수료로 나갑니다. 공실 기간에는 임대 수입 없이 모기지와 유지비를 부담해야 합니다. 이처럼 보이지 않는 비용들이 쌓이면 수익성이 크게 줄어들 수 있습니다. 시카고 교외 시장의 현실 미국 전반적으로는 임대 전환을 고려하는 셀러들이 늘어나고 있지만, 시카고 교외의 인기 지역—특히 우수 학군과 한인 선호 지역—에서는 여전히  셀러 마켓 의 성격이 강합니다. 좋은 매물은 여전히 빠르게 팔리고 있으며, 실수요 바이어들이 적극적으로 움직이고 있습니다. 따라서 이 지역에서는 임대 전환보다 전략적인 가격 조정과 마케팅 강화로 매각을 성사시키는 것이 더 현명할 수 있습니다. 결론 임대 전환은 일부 상황에서 유용할 수 있지만, 원래 의도하지 않았던 선택인 만큼 많은 책임과 리스크를 동반합니다. 시카고 교외의 셀러라면, 임대 전환을 고민하기 전에 지역 시장 상황에 맞는 가격 전략을 재검토하고, 숙련된 에이전트와 협력하는 것이 우선입니다. 지금 매각을 준비하고 계시다면, 전문가와 상의하여  시장에 맞는 가격과 전략 을 세우시길 권장드립니다. ‘시카고 복덕방 한상철’ 773-717-2227,  ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

Sometimes a home sits on the market without attracting the offers a seller wants. In these cases, some owners consider renting instead of selling — becoming what the real estate industry calls an  “Accidental Landlord.”  Recently, this trend has been on the rise. 📊  Why More Sellers Are Turning to Rentals Over the past few years,  higher mortgage rates  and rising home prices have reduced buyer affordability. This has slowed transaction speed, and many listings now stay on the market longer. Instead of lowering their asking price, some sellers choose to rent the property out to generate income. But renting is  not always the best answer . Before making this choice, it’s important to ask: ❓  Key Questions Before Renting Is It Actually Profitable? If you’re moving out of the area, can you realistically manage the property remotely? Does the home require repairs or upgrades before it’s rent-ready? Is there strong rental demand in the neighborhood to ensure steady income? If the answer isn’t clear, revisiting your selling strategy may be smarter. Can You Handle the Responsibility? Renting is not purely “passive income.” Think about late-night repair calls, unpaid rent, and turnover maintenance. Without time and financial backup, being a landlord can create more stress than reward. Have You Considered Hidden Costs? Landlord insurance is typically  25% higher  than standard homeowner insurance. Property management fees often run  around 10% of rent . Vacancy periods mean covering the mortgage and expenses with no rental income. These hidden costs can eat away at profits. 📍  Chicago Suburb Market Reality Nationwide, more sellers are considering renting. But in Chicago’s most popular suburbs — especially  top school districts and Korean-preferred neighborhoods  — the market remains a  seller’s market . Homes in these areas still move quickly with strong buyer demand. Here, it may make more sense to  adjust your pricing strategy and enhance marketing  rather than switching to a rental model. ✅  Conclusion Renting can work in some cases, but as an  unplanned strategy , it brings responsibilities and risks. For sellers in Chicago’s desirable suburbs, it’s often wiser to  revisit your pricing and selling strategy  with the help of an experienced agent. 👉 If you’re preparing to sell, now is the time to consult with an expert and create a plan that fits today’s market. Chicago Realty – Hansang Chul 📞  773-717-2227 📧  ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

최근 자료에 따르면, Fix‑N‑Flip 시장이 확실히 둔화되고 있습니다. 특히 2025년 2분기에 활동하는 투자자들의 판매 실적이 전년 동기 대비 눈에 띄게 저조한 것으로 나타났습니다. Fix-N-Flip 시장의 둔화 원인 금리 및 경제 불확실성 이 투자자들의 구매 심리를 위축시키고 있습니다. 건축 자재 가격 상승 및 인건비 증가 도 수익성을 압박하고 있습니다. 일부 시장에서는  보험료 상승과 기후 리스크 가 추가 부담으로 작용하고 있습니다. 예컨대 플로리다, 캘리포니아, 남서부 지역에서는 이런 요소들이 판매 둔화를 더욱 심화시키는 요인으로 꼽히고 있습니다. 셀러에게 주는 시사점 Fix‑N‑Flip 투자자가 줄어들면서 현금 오퍼 가능한 구매자층이 축소되고 있어, 기존 셀러가 매도처를 찾는 데 시간이 더 필요해질 수 있습니다. 또한, 예전처럼 과거 고점을 기준으로 기대 가격을 설정하면 매물이 시장에 오래 머무를 수 있으므로, 시세에 맞춘 현실적인 가격 전략이 필요합니다. 하지만 전국적 흐름에도 불구하고,  시카고 교외의 한인 선호 지역과 우수학군 지역 은 여전히 강한 셀러 마켓을 형성하고 있습니다. 이런 지역에서는 여전히 수요가 높고 매물이 나오면 빠르게 거래되는 특징이 있어,  전략적 접근을 통해 뛰어난 기회를 잡을 수 있습니다. 매력적인 매물로 만들기 위한 전략 리노베이션 비용과 예상 시세를 명확하게 제시 하여 바이어가 투자 가치를 쉽게 판단하도록 돕습니다. 사전 점검(Pre‑list Inspection) 과 “as‑is” 상태의 솔직한 공개는 바이어의 신뢰를 얻고 협상을 부드럽게 만듭니다. 투자자 네트워크 활용 : 현지 투자자 그룹과 협업하거나 “deal alert”, “bring the toolbox” 같은 키워드를 활용해 매물 노출을 극대화합니다. DIY 바이어를 위한 포인트 강조 : 집의 ‘가능성’을 중점적으로 어필하면 바이어가 미래의 변화를 상상하며 더 빠르게 움직일 수 있습니다. 시카고 지역의 시장 상황도 함께 고려해야 합니다 Illinois Realtors 자료에 따르면, 시카고 메트로 지역은  2025년 2월 기준 단독주택 가격이 전년 대비 7.5% 상승했고, 재고는 여전히 역사적으로 낮은 수준 입니다. 또한, 판매까지 걸리는 기간은 줄고 있어 수요 자체는 안정적입니다. 이 상황은 Fix-N-Flip 시장과 일반 주택 시장 모두에 영향을 미치므로, 단순히 투자자 수요를 기준으로 판단하지 않고  지역별로 세심하게 접근 하는 것이 중요함을 시사합니다. 결론 Fix-N-Flip 시장의 둔화가 위기로 보일 수도 있지만, 오히려 현명하게 접근하면 가장 유리한 시장 조건일 수 있습니다. 특히 시카고 교외의 인기 지역은 여전히 수요가 탄탄하며,  정확한 가격 책정과 디테일한 준비 로 리모델링 바이어뿐 아니라 일반 바이어까지 매력을 느끼게 할 수 있습니다. 주택 매도를 준비 중이시거나 매물 전략에 고민이 있다면, 지금 바로 상담해보시기 바랍니다. ‘시카고 복덕방 한상철’ 773-717-2227,  ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

Recent data shows that the  Fix-and-Flip market has noticeably slowed . In Q2 2025, investor sales activity dropped significantly compared to the same period last year. ⚠️  Why the Fix-and-Flip Market Is Slowing Interest rates and economic uncertainty  are cooling investor demand. Rising  construction material costs and labor expenses  are squeezing profit margins. In some regions,  insurance hikes and climate risks  are adding further pressure — especially in Florida, California, and the Southwest. 💡  What This Means for Sellers With fewer Fix-and-Flip investors in the market, the pool of  all-cash buyers  has shrunk. This means: Homes may take longer to sell. Sellers who price based on past market peaks risk having listings sit unsold. A  realistic, market-aligned pricing strategy  is essential. But despite the national slowdown,  Chicago suburbs — especially Korean-preferred neighborhoods and top school districts — remain strong seller’s markets.  Demand is still high, and good homes sell quickly with the right strategy. 🛠️  Strategies to Make Your Listing Stand Out Show clear numbers:  Provide renovation costs and after-repair value so buyers see the investment potential. Pre-list inspection + honest “as-is” disclosure  builds buyer trust and eases negotiations. Tap into investor networks:  Use groups and keywords like  “deal alert”  or  “bring the toolbox”  to attract local flippers. Appeal to DIY buyers:  Highlight the home’s  future potential , helping buyers visualize upgrades and motivating quicker action. 📍  Chicago Market Context According to Illinois Realtors, as of February 2025: Single-family home prices in the Chicago metro area are  up 7.5% year-over-year . Inventory remains  historically low . Days-on-market have shortened, signaling  stable demand . This means sellers must look beyond investor activity alone and carefully consider  local market dynamics . ✅  Conclusion While the Fix-and-Flip slowdown may look like a challenge, it’s actually an  opportunity for smart sellers . In Chicago’s popular suburbs, demand remains strong. With  accurate pricing and detailed preparation , homes can attract not just investors but also end-users looking for a place to call home. 👉 If you’re planning to sell or want to refine your listing strategy, now is the time to act. Chicago Realty – Hansang Chul 📞 773-717-2227 📧  ChicagoBDB@gmail.com