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최근 뉴스나 SNS에서 ‘주택 시장이 곧 붕괴된다’는 식의 헤드라인을 보신 분들이 많을 겁니다. 하지만 데이터는 전혀 다른 이야기를 하고 있습니다.  가격이 급락하는 Crash가 아니라, 완만하지만 꾸준한 상승세 가 이어질 전망입니다. 물론 모든 지역이 똑같지는 않습니다. 어떤 곳은 가격이 더 빠르게 오를 수 있고, 일부 지역은 단기적으로 소폭 하락할 수도 있습니다. 하지만  전국적인 흐름은 향후 5년간 가격 상승 이라는 점에서 전문가들의 의견이 일치합니다. 전문가 전망: 5년간 꾸준한 상승 Fannie Mae가 발표한  Home Price Expectations Survey(HPES) 에 따르면 100명 이상의 부동산 전문가들이 향후 주택 가격에 대해 전망했습니다. 결과는 분명했습니다.  2029년까지 주택 가격은 지속적으로 상승 할 것으로 예상된다는 것입니다. 평균적으로 약  15% 상승  예상 낙관적인 전망: 약  26% 상승 비관적인 전망조차도 약  5% 상승 무엇보다 중요한 사실은,  어느 누구도 Crash를 예상하지 않는다 는 점입니다. 과거와 비교했을 때 안정적인 상승 향후 5년간 예상되는 연평균 상승률은 약 2~3.5% 수준입니다. 이는 지난 25년간 평균 상승률인 4~5%보다는 낮지만, 팬데믹 시기의 비정상적인 폭등(연 15~20% 상승)과 비교하면 훨씬  건전하고 지속 가능한 수준 입니다. 즉, 가격이 더 이상 미친 듯이 뛰어오르는 시대는 끝났지만, 안정적인 시장이 자리잡아 가고 있다는 의미입니다. Crash가 아닌 이유: 공급과 수요 많은 사람들이 "급등했으니 이제 급락할 차례"라고 생각하지만, 주택 시장은 단순히 오르내리는 주식이 아닙니다. 가격을 지탱하는 가장 큰 이유는  여전히 부족한 공급 입니다. 집을 원하는 사람은 많지만, 시장에 나오는 매물은 한정적입니다. 이 불균형이 가격을 지탱하는 힘이 되고 있습니다. 또한 과거 2008년 금융위기와 같은 상황은 지금과 다릅니다. 당시에는 무분별한 대출과 대규모 차압이 원인이었지만, 현재는 대출 심사가 훨씬 강화되어 있고, 바이어들의 자산 상황도 훨씬 건강합니다. 셀러와 바이어에게 주는 시사점 바이어 : Crash를 기다리며 관망하는 것은 더 이상 현명하지 않습니다. 가격이 완만하게 오를 것이 확실시되기 때문에, 지금부터 움직여야 더 유리합니다. 셀러 : 가격 폭락을 두려워할 필요는 없습니다. 오히려 시장은 안정적으로 성장 중이기 때문에 적절한 타이밍에 매물을 내놓으면 충분히 좋은 조건으로 거래가 가능합니다. 결론 Crash라는 자극적인 헤드라인과 달리, 데이터는 안정적인 성장과 꾸준한 가격 상승을 보여주고 있습니다.  질문은 “떨어질까?”가 아니라, “얼마나 오를까?”입니다. 지금 시장에 대해 더 깊이 알고 싶으시다면, 지역 전문가와 함께 현재 데이터를 분석하고 전략을 세워보시길 권해드립니다. 시카고 복덕방 한상철 773-717-2227 ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

You’ve probably seen headlines or social media posts warning that the housing market is about to crash. But the data tells a completely different story: instead of a sharp drop, experts predict a slow, steady rise in home prices over the next several years. 📈 Expert Outlook: Gradual Growth Through 2029 According to Fannie Mae’s Home Price Expectations Survey (HPES) — which gathered insights from over 100 housing experts — home prices are expected to keep rising through 2029 .Here ’s what they project: Average increase: around 15% over the next five years Optimistic scenario: up to 26% Even the most cautious forecast: still +5% In other words, no one is predicting a housing market crash. ⚖️ A More Balanced, Sustainable Market Over the next five years, annual home price growth is expected to range between 2–3.5% .That’s lower than the long-term average of 4–5% , and far below the 15–20% yearly spikes we saw during the pandemic. This slower pace signals a healthier, more sustainable market — not a collapse. The era of extreme bidding wars may be over, but the foundation for stable appreciation is strong. 🏗️ Why a Crash Isn’t Coming Many assume, “Prices went up, so they must come down.”But housing isn’t like the stock market — it’s driven by supply and demand , not speculation alone. Inventory remains low: There are still more buyers than homes available. Lending standards are stronger: Unlike in 2008, today’s mortgages are far more regulated. Homeowners are financially healthier: Equity levels are high, and foreclosure risk is minimal. These factors are keeping home values resilient and preventing any major downturn. 💡 What This Means for Buyers and Sellers For Buyers: Waiting for a “crash” could mean missing your window.If prices continue to rise gradually, buying now may be smarter than paying more later. For Sellers: There’s no need to panic about falling prices.The market is stable, and demand remains solid — meaning you can still sell at a strong value with the right pricing strategy. 🌟 The Bottom Line Forget the “crash” headlines — the real story is one of steady, sustainable growth. The question isn’t “Will prices fall?” but rather “How much will they rise?” If you want to understand what this means for your local market, let’s analyze the data together and plan your next move strategically. Chicago Real Estate | Hansangcheol (“ChicagoBDB”) 📞 773-717-2227 | ✉️ ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

집을 시장에 내놓았을 때 두 개의 오퍼를 동시에 받는다면 설레는 동시에 고민이 깊어질 수 있습니다. 특히 한쪽은 현금 구매자(Cash Buyer), 다른 한쪽은  융자 바이어(Financed Buyer) 일 경우 선택은 더 복잡해집니다. 두 경우 모두 순수익(Net Proceeds)은 비슷할 수 있지만, 매도인의 일정, 리스크, 전체적인 경험에는 큰 차이가 생깁니다. 현금 구매자(Cash Buyer)의 장단점 가장 큰 장점은 속도와 확실성입니다. 모기지 승인이 필요하지 않으므로 일반적으로 7~14일 안에 클로징이 가능합니다. 따라서 이사 일정이 급하거나 자금 회수가 빠르게 필요한 경우 큰 매력이 있습니다. 또한 감정평가 문제나 대출 거절로 인해 거래가 무산될 가능성이 낮습니다. 현금 바이어는 일반적으로  조건(Contingencies) 이 적고, 수리 요구도 줄어드는 경향이 있습니다. 하지만 단점도 있습니다. 현금 바이어는 속도와 확실성을 무기로 가격 할인을 요구하는 경우가 많습니다. 종종 투자자나 Flipper인 경우가 많아, 감정적인 가치보다 수익성을 우선시하기 때문입니다. 예를 들어, 주택 가격이 50만 달러일 때 융자 바이어는 집에 대한 애착으로 52만 달러까지 제안할 수 있지만, 현금 바이어는 오히려 딱 50만 달러만 제시하는 경우가 흔합니다. 융자 바이어(Financed Buyer)의 장단점 융자 바이어의 가장 큰 장점은 높은 매매가를 기대할 수 있다는 점입니다. 융자를 활용하므로 현금 부담이 적고, 대부분의 바이어가 실제 거주를 목적으로 하기에 집에 대한 애착이 커 더 높은 가격을 제시할 가능성이 큽니다. 하지만 이 경우 감정평가(Appraisal) 리스크가 존재합니다. 집이 계약가에 맞게 평가되지 않으면 계약이 파기되고, 바이어는 보증금을 돌려받을 수 있습니다. 또한 융자 승인 기간(보통 30일 전후) 동안 바이어의 신용 문제나 직장 상황 때문에 대출이 거절되면, 셀러는 다시 처음부터 매각 절차를 시작해야 하는 위험을 감수해야 합니다. 어떤 선택이 맞을까? 결국 답은 셀러의 상황에 달려 있습니다. • 새로운 집을 사기 위해 현금이 꼭 필요하다면, 현금 오퍼가 더 안전합니다. • 일정에 여유가 있고 최대한 높은 매각가를 원한다면, 융자 오퍼가 더 나을 수 있습니다. 전문가들은 보통 현금 오퍼가 융자 오퍼보다 5% 이상 낮다면, 리스크를 감수하고 융자 바이어를 선택하는 것이 더 나을 수 있다고 조언합니다. 반대로 매물이 많은 수리를 요구하거나 일정이 촉박하다면 현금 바이어가 유리할 수 있습니다. 무엇보다 중요한 것은 단순히 매매가만 보지 말고, 시장 상황, 컨틴전시 조건, 일정 등을 종합적으로 고려하는 것입니다. 결론 현금 오퍼와 융자 오퍼 중 어느 쪽이 더 좋은 선택인지는 상황에 따라 달라집니다. 중요한 것은 셀러가 본인의 필요와 시장 상황을 정확히 파악하고, 경험 있는 에이전트와 함께 전략적으로 결정하는 것입니다. 지금 집을 팔거나 새로운 이사를 준비하고 계시다면, 저와 함께 상황을 꼼꼼히 분석해 보시길 권해드립니다. 시카고 복덕방 한상철 773-717-2227 ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

Receiving multiple offers can be exciting — but also overwhelming. Especially when one is from a cash buyer and the other from a financed buyer , the decision becomes more than just about price. Even if the net proceeds are similar, timing, risk, and overall experience can differ greatly. 💰 The Pros and Cons of a Cash Buyer Pros: • Fast and certain — closing can happen within 7–14 days.• No mortgage approval, no appraisal delays, fewer contingencies.• Ideal for sellers who need quick funds or have a tight moving schedule. Cons: • Cash buyers often expect a discount for offering speed and security.• Many are investors or flippers focused on profit rather than emotional value.For example, if your home is listed at $500,000, a financed buyer might offer $520,000 — while a cash buyer may stick firmly to $500,000 or less. 🏦 The Pros and Cons of a Financed Buyer Pros: • More likely to offer a higher price due to smaller upfront costs.• Typically buying for personal use — emotional investment can lead to stronger offers. Cons: • Appraisal and loan approval risks — if the home doesn’t appraise at value, the deal could fall through.• Financing takes longer (around 30 days) and may fail due to credit or employment changes. ⚖️ How to Decide The right choice depends on your situation:• If you need cash quickly for your next purchase — cash offer may be best.• If you have time and want maximum return — financed offer may yield a higher price. Experts often suggest: if the cash offer is more than 5% lower than the financed one, it may be worth taking the risk on the financed buyer. But if your property needs repairs or time is tight, a cash buyer could save you stress and uncertainty. 🌟 Final Takeaway There’s no one-size-fits-all answer — every seller’s situation is unique. The key is to look beyond the offer price and evaluate timeline, contingencies, and reliability . With the right guidance, you can make a decision that aligns with both your goals and peace of mind. Chicago Real Estate | Hansangcheol “ChicagoBDB” 📞 773-717-2227 | ✉️ ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

높은 금리와 집값 때문에 이사를 미뤄두셨던 분들이 많습니다. 하지만 최근 변화는 다시 계산기를 두드려볼 만한 기회가 될 수 있습니다. First American 자료에 따르면 상위 50개 주요 시장 중 39곳에서 주택 구매  감당 능력(Affordability) 이 개선되고 있으며, 이는 5개월 연속 이어진 흐름입니다. 월별 모기지 납부액이 줄어들고 있다 Redfin의 최신 데이터에 따르면, 중간가 주택 기준 월 모기지 납부액이 불과 몇 달 전보다 평균  283달러  낮아졌습니다. 이는 연간으로 따지면 약  3,400달러 절감 효과 를 의미합니다. 몇 백 달러 차이가 작게 느껴질 수 있지만, 실제로는  바이어의 예산과 선택지를 바꿀 수 있는 중요한 요소 입니다. 예를 들어, 월 3,000달러 예산을 가진 바이어는 올해 6월까지만 해도 약 446,000달러 수준의 주택을 살 수 있었지만, 지금은 약 468,000달러의 주택까지 고려할 수 있습니다. 이 차이는 새로운 선택지를 열어주고, 원하는 집을 찾을 가능성을 높여줍니다. 무엇이 이 변화를 만들었을까? 두 가지 요인이 시장에 긍정적인 변화를 주고 있습니다. 모기지 금리 하락 : 올해 초 정점을 찍었던 금리가 완화되면서 바이어의 부담이 줄어들었습니다. 집값 상승세 둔화 : 일부 지역에서는 집값 상승률이 낮아지며 예산 계획이 한결 수월해졌습니다. ICE Mortgage Technology의 연구 책임자는 최근 금리 인하로 인해 바이어와 기존 주택 소유주 모두에게 유리한 환경이 조성되었으며, 현재 감당 능력이 약 2년 반 만에 가장 높은 수준이라고 설명했습니다. 바이어와 셀러 모두에게 열리는 기회 이 변화는  첫 주택 바이어 에게는 진입 장벽을 낮추는 효과를,  이사나 업그레이드 계획이 있는 셀러 에게는 시장 회복을 통한 거래 기회를 의미합니다. 중요한 점은, 지금 상황이 영원히 지속되지는 않는다는 것입니다. 바이어라면 지금 변화된 수치로 예산을 다시 계산해 보고, 셀러라면 매물을 시장에 내놓을 전략을 점검해야 할 시기입니다. 결론 주택 구매의 감당 능력이 개선되고 있다는 것은 곧  새로운 기회가 열리고 있다는 신호 입니다. 최근 수개월 전보다 더 많은 구매력을 확보할 수 있다면, 이사는 ‘아직은 때가 아니다’에서 ‘지금이 기회다’로 바뀔 수 있습니다. 지금 전문가와 함께 현재 금리와 월 납부액을 계산해 보시길 권해드립니다. 이 변화가 여러분의 계획을 앞당겨 줄 수 있습니다. 시카고 복덕방 한상철 773-717-2227 ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

Many people have postponed moving because of high interest rates and rising home prices. But recent market shifts suggest it may be time to revisit the numbers .According to First American , 39 of the top 50 U.S. housing markets have seen improved affordability for five consecutive months — a sign that buying conditions are gradually getting better. Monthly Mortgage Payments Are Going Down Redfin’s latest data shows that the average monthly mortgage payment on a median-priced home is now $283 lower than just a few months ago — saving buyers roughly $3,400 per year . While that may sound modest, it can make a big difference in what you can afford.For example, a buyer with a $3,000 monthly budget could afford a $446,000 home in June. Today, that same buyer could purchase a home worth around $468,000 — a $22,000 increase in purchasing power. What’s Driving This Change? Two major factors are reshaping the market: • Falling Mortgage Rates: After peaking earlier this year, rates have started to ease, reducing monthly costs for buyers. • Slowing Home Price Growth: In some regions, price appreciation has cooled, making budgeting and planning easier. According to ICE Mortgage Technology , today’s affordability levels are the strongest in over two and a half years , benefiting both buyers and current homeowners. Opportunities for Buyers and Sellers This shift creates openings on both sides of the market: • For Buyers: Lower monthly payments mean lower barriers to entry, especially for first-time buyers. • For Sellers: Improved affordability can bring more buyers back into the market, supporting a rebound in transaction activity. However, these conditions won’t last forever. Buyers should use this window to recheck their budget, and sellers should align their listing strategies with the new wave of buyer interest. Final Takeaway Improving affordability means new opportunities are emerging . With lower monthly payments and stronger buying power, “it’s not the right time yet” might now become “this is the right time.” If you want to understand how today’s rates and payment trends affect your plans, talk to a local expert and crunch the numbers — this shift could move your timeline forward. Chicago Real Estate | Hansangcheol “ChicagoBDB” 📞 773-717-2227  | ✉️ ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

지난 몇 년간 부동산 시장은 높은 금리와 부담스러운 집값으로 인해 많은 바이어와 셀러들이 움직임을 멈춘 듯했습니다. 그러나 2026년은 다를 수 있습니다. 전문가들은 내년에 거래량이 늘어나고, 더 많은 사람들이 이사를 시작할 것으로 예상하고 있습니다. 모기지 금리 완화 전망 바이어들이 가장 기다려온 것은 바로  금리 하락 입니다. 올해 초 7%까지 치솟았던 30년 고정 모기지 금리는 최근 완화되기 시작했습니다. 전문가들은 내년에도 완만한 하락세가 이어질 수 있다고 보고 있습니다. 물론 급격히 내려가지는 않겠지만,  6% 초반대 혹은 5% 후반대 까지 접근할 가능성이 있습니다. 금리가 조금만 내려가도 월 모기지 비용은 수백 달러 절감되며, 이는 바이어의 예산과 구매력에 큰 차이를 만들어냅니다. 집값 상승세는 완만해진다 집값은 전국적으로 여전히 상승세를 유지하겠지만,  폭은 과거보다 훨씬 완만 해질 것으로 보입니다. 2020~2022년과 같은 두 자릿수 급등은 없고, 대신 단일 자릿수의 안정적인 상승률이 예상됩니다. 이는 바이어들에게 예산 계획을 세우기 훨씬 수월하게 해주며, 셀러 입장에서도 급락 우려 없이 집을 시장에 내놓을 수 있는 환경을 만듭니다. 특히 시카고와 서버브 지역은 여전히 수요가 꾸준한 만큼, 완만한 상승세 속에서도 거래 기회가 많아질 것으로 보입니다. 바이어와 셀러에게 주는 메시지 바이어 : 기다리기보다 전략적으로 움직이셔야 합니다. 금리가 내려가면 동시에 경쟁 바이어가 늘어날 수 있으니, 사전에 준비된 상태로 기회를 잡는 것이 중요합니다. 셀러 : 완화된 금리로 바이어들이 다시 시장에 돌아오기 시작하면, 매물을 내놓기에 더 좋은 환경이 마련됩니다. 다만 가격은 시장 상황에 맞게 현실적으로 책정하는 것이 핵심입니다. 결론 2026년은 지난 몇 년간 정체되었던 부동산 시장에 다시  움직임과 기회가 찾아오는 해 가 될 가능성이 큽니다. 금리는 점차 내려가고, 집값은 안정적으로 움직이며, 거래량은 늘어날 전망입니다. 지금이 바로 준비할 시점입니다. 2026년을 나만의 이사와 투자 기회로 만들고 싶으시다면, 지금 전문가와 함께 전략을 세워보시길 권해드립니다. 시카고 복덕방 한상철 773-717-2227 ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

For the past few years, the real estate market has been stuck in neutral — with high mortgage rates and soaring home prices keeping both buyers and sellers on the sidelines. But 2026 may mark a turning point. Experts predict that transaction volume will rise, and more people will finally start moving again. Mortgage Rates Are Easing The shift buyers have been waiting for is here — lower interest rates . Earlier this year, the 30-year fixed mortgage rate climbed as high as 7%. Recently, however, it has started to ease.Analysts expect rates to gradually decline through 2026, potentially reaching the low 6% or even high 5% range . Even a small drop in rates can make a major difference — reducing monthly mortgage payments by hundreds of dollars and significantly improving affordability for buyers. Home Prices: Steady, Not Surging Home prices are still expected to rise nationwide, but at a much slower, steadier pace. The double-digit spikes of 2020–2022 are over. Instead, single-digit growth and stability are expected for 2026. For buyers, this means more predictability and easier budgeting. For sellers, it means they can list their homes without worrying about sharp price drops.In the Chicago and suburban areas , steady demand should continue — offering solid opportunities for both sides of the market. What This Means for Buyers and Sellers For Buyers: Waiting too long can backfire. As rates decline, competition among buyers will heat up. The key is to prepare early — get pre-approved, understand your budget, and be ready to act when the right opportunity appears. For Sellers: As lower rates bring more buyers back into the market, conditions will become increasingly favorable. However, realistic pricing is essential to attract serious offers quickly. Final Takeaway 2026 is shaping up to be a year of renewed momentum and opportunity for real estate. With rates easing, prices stabilizing, and activity increasing , both buyers and sellers can benefit — if they plan ahead. If you’re considering a move or investment next year, now is the time to start preparing your strategy. Chicago Real Estate | Hansangcheol “ChicagoBDB” 📞 773-717-2227  | ✉️ ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

많은 분들이 집을 사고팔 때 오직 매매가와 조건에만 집중한다고 생각하시지만, 실제로는  가구(Furniture) 도 중요한 협상 카드가 될 수 있습니다. 특히 바이어에게는 편리함과 비용 절감, 셀러에게는 이사 준비 과정에서 불필요한 짐을 줄일 수 있는 장점이 있어, 서로 윈윈(win-win)할 수 있습니다. 가구가 거래에 미치는 영향 전문가들은 셀러가 특정 가구를 포함해 거래를 제안하면 바이어들이 매력적으로 느끼는 경우가 많다고 설명합니다. 실제로 야외 파티오 세트를 포함시켜 매매가 더 빨리 성사된 사례도 있었습니다. 하지만 반대로 계약서에 명확히 기록하지 않거나 기대가 서로 어긋날 경우, 오히려 거래가 무산되는 경우도 있습니다. 따라서 가구 포함 여부는 반드시 문서화해야 하며, 사진만으로는 불충분합니다. 일반적으로 포함되는 항목 vs 제외되는 항목 대체로 집에 붙어 있는  고정 설치물 은 거래에 포함되는 경우가 많습니다. 예를 들어, Built-in 책장, 미디어 센터, 머피 베드 조명 기구 창문 시트, 블라인드, 커튼 부착형 거울, 알람 및 보안 시스템 반면, 일반적으로 셀러가 가져가는 항목은 다음과 같습니다. 가구류(소파, 테이블 등) 러그와 카펫 독립형 가전제품(냉장고, 세탁기, 건조기) 예술품, 화분, 조명 스탠드 이 구분은 주(state)마다 규정이 다를 수 있으므로, 반드시 계약서에 명확히 기재하는 것이 안전합니다. 바이어가 선호하는 가구의 특징 바이어들이 관심을 갖는 가구는 단순한 물건이 아니라  그 집에 꼭 맞아 보이는, 라이프스타일을 완성해주는 아이템 입니다. 예를 들어, 맞춤 제작된 대형 책장, 오픈형 거실에 딱 맞는 소파, 잘 조성된 파티오에 있는 야외 식탁 세트 등은 집의 매력을 배가시켜 줍니다. 셀러 입장에서는 이러한 가구를 전략적으로 포함해 매물을 돋보이게 할 수 있습니다. 반대로,  골동품이나 가보 처럼 특수한 가치는 바이어가 아닌 전문 딜러나 수집가에게서 더 높은 가치를 받을 수 있습니다. 따라서 이런 물건은 별도로 판매하거나 전문 감정가를 통해 거래하는 것이 유리합니다. 셀러와 바이어 모두를 위한 조언 셀러 : 집값은 가구를 제외한 상태로 책정하고, 가구 포함 옵션을 별도로 제시하는 것이 좋습니다. 이렇게 하면 바이어 입장에서는 ‘추가 혜택’을 얻는 기분이 들고, 협상이 더 원활해질 수 있습니다. 바이어 : 관심 있는 가구가 있다면 반드시 계약서에 반영해야 합니다. 그래야 예기치 못한 오해나 분쟁을 피할 수 있습니다. 결론 가구는 단순히 집의 장식품이 아니라, 매매 협상의 중요한 변수이자 거래 성패를 가를 수 있는 요소입니다. 집을 팔거나 살 계획이 있으시다면, 가구 포함 여부를 전략적으로 고려해 보시길 권해드립니다. 시카고 복덕방 한상철 773-717-2227 ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

When it comes to buying or selling a home, most people focus only on the price and contract terms. But in reality, furniture can play a surprisingly important role in the success of a sale. For buyers, it offers convenience and potential savings; for sellers, it’s a way to simplify moving and make the property more appealing — a true win-win opportunity. How Furniture Influences a Sale Experts note that when sellers offer certain furniture items as part of the deal, buyers often perceive the home as more desirable. For example, an outdoor patio set included in a sale has helped close deals faster in several cases. However, if expectations aren’t clearly written into the contract, misunderstandings can derail the transaction. All furniture terms must be documented — photos alone aren’t enough. What’s Usually Included vs. Excluded In most real estate transactions, fixtures (items attached to the property) are included, while freestanding furniture is not. Typically Included: Built-in shelves, media centers, Murphy beds Light fixtures Window blinds, shades, curtains Mounted mirrors and security systems Typically Excluded: Freestanding furniture (sofas, tables, etc.) Rugs and carpets Major appliances (refrigerator, washer, dryer) Artwork, potted plants, and lamps Rules can vary by state, so it’s always safest to specify details clearly in the written agreement. What Buyers Actually Value Buyers are drawn to furniture that fits the home’s character and layout — pieces that complete the lifestyle image they envision. For example, a custom bookshelf, a sectional sofa that perfectly matches the open living room, or a well-designed patio dining set can make a listing stand out.Sellers can use these pieces strategically to enhance their home’s appeal.However, antiques or heirlooms are best sold separately, as they often hold value for collectors rather than buyers. Advice for Sellers and Buyers For Sellers: Set your listing price excluding furniture. Then, offer furniture as an optional add-on — this makes buyers feel they’re getting an extra benefit and helps negotiations flow more smoothly. For Buyers: If you want specific furniture items included, make sure they’re listed in the purchase contract to avoid confusion later. Final Takeaway Furniture isn’t just decoration — it can be a strategic negotiation tool that adds value and speeds up a sale. Whether you’re buying or selling, take time to consider how furniture might fit into your overall strategy. Chicago Real Estate | Hansangcheol “ChicagoBDB” 📞 773-717-2227  | ✉️ ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

최근 부동산 시장에서 뚜렷한 흐름이 나타나고 있습니다. 바로  신규 주택(New Construction Home) 을 찾는 바이어들이 늘어나고 있다는 점입니다. 단순히 최신 설계나 스마트 홈 기술 때문만은 아닙니다. 지금은  빌더들이 제공하는 다양한 혜택 이 바이어들을 끌어들이고 있기 때문입니다. 실제로 신규 주택 판매는 최근 2년 사이 가장 높은 수준에 도달했습니다. 왜 빌더들이 혜택을 주고 있을까? 현재 시장에는 오랜만에  신규 주택 재고가 많아진 상황 입니다. 바이어 입장에서는 선택지가 많아졌고, 빌더 입장에서는 이미 지어진 집을 빨리 팔아야 하는 압박이 있습니다. 그렇다 보니 다양한 인센티브가 쏟아지고 있습니다. 지금 시장에서 바이어들이 받을 수 있는 혜택은 다음과 같습니다. 모기지 금리 인하(Mortgage Rate Buydown)로 월 납부액을 줄일 수 있음 직접적인 가격 인하(Price Cuts) 클로징 비용 지원 및 업그레이드 옵션 제공 Zonda 자료에 따르면, 신규 주택 커뮤니티의 약 60%가 인센티브를 제공하고 있으며, 입주가 가능한 주택(Quick Move-in)의 경우 75% 이상이 혜택을 포함하고 있다고 합니다. 이는 곧  빌더들이 적극적으로 협상에 나서고 있다는 신호 입니다. 선택지가 많아진 지금, 기회는 열려 있습니다 전국적으로 신규 주택 공급이 늘어난 상황이지만, 특히  남부(South)와 서부(West) 지역 에서는 더 많은 매물이 나오면서 협상의 폭이 넓어졌습니다. 시카고와 서버브 지역에서도 비교적 신규 단지 공급이 활발한 곳에서는 가격이나 조건에서 유리한 협상을 기대할 수 있습니다. 하지만 이 기회가 오래가지는 않을 수 있습니다. 미국 주택건설업협회(NAHB)에 따르면, 최근 빌더들은 공급 과잉을 피하기 위해 신규 착공을 줄이고 있으며, 현재 건설 중인 단독주택 수는 2021년 이후 최저 수준으로 내려왔습니다. 즉,  앞으로 신규 주택 선택지는 줄어들 수 있다 는 뜻입니다. 결론 지금은  지난 몇 년 중 신규 주택을 가장 유리하게 살 수 있는 시기 일 수 있습니다. 빌더들이 가격 인하와 금리 인하까지 지원하고 있는 지금, 전략적으로 움직이면 충분히 좋은 조건으로 내 집 마련을 할 수 있습니다. 새 집을 고려하고 계시다면, 반드시 전문가와 함께 움직이시길 권해드립니다. 지역별 빌더의 인센티브를 비교하고, 협상까지 도와줄 수 있는 전문가가 함께할 때 더 나은 결과를 만들 수 있습니다. 시카고 복덕방 한상철 773-717-2227 ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

A clear trend is emerging in today’s housing market: more buyers are turning to new construction homes. It ’s not just about modern designs or smart-home features — the real driver is that builders are offering unprecedented incentives to attract buyers. In fact, new home sales have recently reached their highest level in nearly two years. Why Are Builders Offering So Many Incentives? For the first time in a while, there’s a healthy supply of new homes on the market.This gives buyers more choices, but it also puts pressure on builders to sell completed inventory quickly. To move these homes, many builders are now offering valuable buyer perks , such as: 💰 Mortgage rate buydowns to reduce monthly payments 💸 Direct price cuts 🏠 Closing cost assistance and free upgrades According to Zonda , about 60% of new home communities currently offer incentives — and for quick move-in homes , that number jumps to over 75%. That’s a clear sign that builders are ready to negotiate. More Choices Mean More Opportunity New construction activity has grown nationwide, particularly across the South and West , where abundant supply has created a more flexible, buyer-friendly environment. Even in the Chicago area and suburbs , communities with active new developments often present strong opportunities for negotiation on both price and terms. However, this window might not last long.Data from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) shows that builders are now slowing new starts to avoid oversupply, with the number of single-family homes under construction dropping to its lowest level since 2021. That means inventory — and incentives — could shrink soon. Bottom Line Right now may be the best time in years to buy a new construction home.With builders offering rate buydowns, price reductions, and closing cost credits, buyers who act strategically can secure exceptional deals. If you’re considering a new home, work with a local expert who can help you compare builder incentives, navigate negotiations, and identify the best opportunities in your area. 📞 Chicago Bokdeokbang — Sang Chul Han 773-717-2227  | ChicagoBDB@gmail.com