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National Housing Emergency, 시카고와 일리노이 바이어에게 어떤 의미일까? 최근 많은 고객분들께서  National Housing Emergency(전국 주택 비상사태)  가능성과 그 영향에 대해 문의하고 계십니다. 특히 첫 주택 구입자(first-time homebuyer)들이 시장에서 줄어드는 상황에서, 이러한 정책이 실제로 어떤 변화를 가져올 수 있을지 관심이 높습니다. 전미부동산협회(NAR)에 따르면 2024년 첫 주택 구입자는 전체 거래의 단 24%에 불과했다고 합니다. 이는 사상 최저 수준으로, 시장의 건전성에도 경고 신호로 받아들여지고 있습니다. 트럼프 대통령은 주택 소유를 미국인의 꿈으로 강조하며, 이를 지원할 다양한 정책 검토를 시작했다고 밝혔습니다. 과거와 현재의 차이 주택 비상사태 선언은 새로운 개념이 아닙니다. 약 80년 전 트루먼 대통령은 2차 세계대전 이후 심각한 주택 부족을 해결하기 위해 이를 활용했으며, 건축 가속화와 임대 지원, 건축 방법 연구까지 진행했습니다. 그러나 오늘날 상황은 당시와는 다릅니다. 현재는 약 400만 채 이상의 주택 부족, 높은 모기지 금리, 그리고 첫 주택 바이어들의 진입 장벽이 주요 문제로 작용하고 있습니다. 시카고·일리노이 지역 연결점 시카고와 일리노이 지역 역시 이러한 흐름에서 예외가 아닙니다. JPMorgan Chase Institute 보고서에 따르면 시카고에서 ‘처음 집을 사는 가정(first-home purchase)’ 비율은 2022년부터 2024년 사이 크게 줄었으며, 특히 30~44세 연령대에서 하락 폭이 두드러졌습니다. 이는 젊은 가정들이 주택 시장에 진입하는 데 점점 더 큰 어려움을 겪고 있음을 보여줍니다. 일리노이 모기지 금리는 최근 전국 평균과 비슷하거나 다소 낮은 수준을 보이고 있습니다. 예를 들어, 30년 고정 모기지 금리는 약 6.25%, 15년 고정은 약 5.13% 수준으로 나타났습니다. 하지만 이자율이 다소 낮다고 해도 다운페이먼트와 클로징 비용 등 초기 비용은 여전히 큰 부담으로 작용하고 있습니다. 다행히 IHDA(Illinois Housing Development Authority)와 Cook County에서는 첫 주택 구매자를 위한 지원 프로그램을 운영 중입니다. 다운페이먼트나 클로징 비용 일부를 보조하는 제도로, National Housing Emergency가 선언될 경우 이 같은 프로그램이 확대될 가능성이 큽니다. 왜 시카고/일리노이 바이어에게 중요한가? 만약 전국적 차원의 주택 비상사태 정책이 시행된다면, 시카고와 일리노이 바이어들은 다음과 같은 혜택을 기대할 수 있습니다: 초기 비용 완화 : 다운페이먼트와 클로징 비용 지원 확대 주택 유형 다양화 : 타운홈, 듀플렉스, ADU 등 다양한 주택 공급 가능성 금리 안정 효과 : 전국적 금리 완화 정책 시 지역 바이어도 혜택 가능 지역 프로그램 확대 : IHDA와 카운티 지원 제도의 확대 및 조건 완화 결론 National Housing Emergency 논의는 아직 구체적이지 않지만, 시카고와 일리노이 첫 주택 바이어들에게는 분명 새로운 기회가 될 수 있습니다. 집을 사고 싶지만 초기 비용이나 affordability 문제로 망설이고 계신다면, 지금부터 지역 내 프로그램을 확인하고 준비하는 것이 현명합니다. 기회는 준비된 분께 먼저 다가오기 마련입니다. 집을 구매하거나 판매할 계획이 있으시다면 지금이 전략을 점검할 시기입니다. 문의: 시카고   복덕방   한상철 773-717-2227,  ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

The Conversation Around a National Housing Emergency Recently, more clients have been asking about the possibility of a  National Housing Emergency  and what impact it could have—especially for  first-time homebuyers  who are finding it harder than ever to enter the market. According to the  National Association of Realtors (NAR) , in 2024 only  24% of buyers were first-time buyers —the lowest share on record. This has raised serious concerns about the long-term health of the housing market. President Trump has highlighted homeownership as part of the “American Dream” and has signaled that his administration is exploring supportive housing policies. Looking Back—and Today’s Reality Declaring a housing emergency isn’t new. Nearly 80 years ago, President Truman used the measure after World War II to address housing shortages—accelerating construction, expanding rental assistance, and promoting new building methods. Today’s challenges are different: A shortage of more than  4 million homes Persistently  high mortgage rates Barriers to entry for  first-time buyers Chicago & Illinois: Local Connections Chicago and Illinois reflect the same national struggles. A  JPMorgan Chase Institute  report found that between 2022 and 2024, the share of  first-home purchases  in Chicago fell sharply—particularly among 30–44 year-olds, the age group traditionally most active in buying homes. Mortgage rates in Illinois have been close to or slightly below national averages—around  6.25% for a 30-year fixed  and  5.13% for a 15-year fixed . Still, even with competitive rates,  down payments and closing costs remain major barriers . Fortunately, local programs already exist: the  Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA)  and  Cook County  offer down payment and closing cost assistance. A National Housing Emergency declaration could expand or enhance these programs. Why This Matters for Chicago & Illinois Buyers If a National Housing Emergency is declared, buyers here could see benefits such as: Reduced upfront costs  through expanded down payment and closing cost support More diverse housing supply  (townhomes, duplexes, ADUs) Potential rate stabilization  if federal policy aims to ease borrowing costs Expanded state and county programs  with looser qualifications Final Thoughts While no policy details are set yet, a National Housing Emergency could open new doors for first-time buyers in Chicago and Illinois. If you’ve been hesitating because of affordability concerns,  now is the time to learn about local programs and get prepared . Opportunities usually come to those who are ready first. 📌  Thinking about buying or selling? This is the moment to review your strategy. Chicago BDB | Hansang Chul 📞 773-717-2227 | 📧  ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

최근 부동산 시장에서 집이 팔리는 속도가 예년보다 더뎌지고 있습니다. Realtor.com 자료에 따르면 2025년 8월 기준으로 일반적인 주택은 평균 60일 동안 시장에 머물렀으며, 이는 작년보다 7일 더 길어진 수치입니다. 팬데믹 이전 수준을 다시 웃돌고 있으며, 벌써 17개월 연속으로 시장 체류 기간이 늘어나고 있습니다. 이러한 현상의 이유는 단순합니다. 매물이 늘어나면서 바이어들이 선택할 수 있는 폭이 넓어졌고, 동시에 가격에 대한 민감도가 크게 높아졌기 때문입니다. 가격이 멈춰 선 시장의 현실 몇 년 전만 해도 집을 높은 가격에 내놓아도 다수의 오퍼가 몰리던 시기가 있었습니다. 하지만 지금은 다릅니다. 최근 몇 년간 평균 리스팅 가격은 사실상 큰 변동 없이 ‘정체 상태’를 보이고 있습니다. 팬데믹 시기의 급등세와 달리, 바이어들은 이제 한 푼이라도 더 신중히 따지는 상황에 놓여 있습니다. 즉, 집값을 지나치게 높게 책정하면 바이어들은 관심을 보이지 않고 바로 다른 매물로 눈을 돌리게 됩니다. 최근 시장에서 오랫동안 팔리지 않는 집들은 대부분 이 같은 ‘가격 오류’ 때문이라고 할 수 있습니다. 이런 경우 가격이 너무 높을 수 있습니다 다음과 같은 신호가 나타난다면 현재 리스팅 가격이 시장과 맞지 않는다는 의미일 수 있습니다: 쇼잉 예약이 거의 잡히지 않는 경우 오퍼가 없거나, 지나치게 낮은 오퍼만 들어오는 경우 쇼잉 후 바이어들의 반응이 지나치게 부정적인 경우 평균보다 훨씬 오랫동안 시장에 머무는 경우 이런 상황은 기다린다고 해결되지 않습니다. 가격을 조정하는 것만이 답입니다. 해결책: 오늘의 시장에 맞는 가격 전략 효과적인 전략은 크게 세 가지입니다. 집을 철저히 준비하기  – 필수적인 수리와 손질을 통해 매력도를 높이면, 가격 협상에서 우위를 잡을 수 있습니다. 시장에 맞는 가격 책정  – 근처 매물의 ‘실제 거래가’를 기준으로 전문가의 조언을 받아 전략적으로 리스팅해야 합니다. 유연성 확보하기  – 가격뿐 아니라 클로징 비용, 수리 조건 등 다양한 부분에서 협상 여지를 두는 것이 필요합니다. 결론 집이 팔리지 않는 이유는 ‘완벽한 바이어가 나타나지 않아서’가 아니라, 대개 ‘가격 전략이 시장과 맞지 않기 때문’입니다. 인내심만으로는 해결되지 않습니다. 시장이 말해주는 신호에 귀 기울이고, 가격을 전략적으로 조정해야 원하는 결과를 얻을 수 있습니다. 지금 판매를 고려하신다면, 전문가와 함께 현명한 가격 전략을 세워야 합니다. 📌 집을 팔거나 살 계획이 있으시다면 지금 바로 전문가와 상담하시길 권해드립니다. 시카고 복덕방 한상철 773-717-2227,  ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

Across the U.S., homes are taking longer to sell than in recent years. According to Realtor.com , as of August 2025 the typical home spent 60 days on the market —seven days longer than last year, and above pre-pandemic levels. In fact, days on market have been rising for 17 straight months . The reason is simple: there are more listings available, giving buyers more options, and at the same time, buyers have become much more price-sensitive . The Reality of a Stalled Market Not long ago, homes listed at high prices still attracted multiple offers. But today’s market looks very different. After several years of steady appreciation, listing prices have plateaued , while buyers are now scrutinizing every dollar. If a home is priced too high, buyers simply move on. Most homes sitting unsold for months have one thing in common: a pricing mistake . Signs Your Home May Be Overpriced Very few showing requests No offers, or only very low offers Consistently negative buyer feedback after showings Your home lingers on the market far longer than average If these sound familiar, the issue isn’t patience—it’s price. The Fix: A Smarter Pricing Strategy To succeed in today’s market, sellers need three strategies: Prepare Your Home Thoroughly – Complete key repairs and touch-ups to increase appeal and strengthen your position in negotiations. Price to Match the Market – Base your asking price on closed sales data , not just nearby listings, with guidance from a trusted expert. Stay Flexible – Be open to negotiation, not just on price but also on terms such as closing costs, repairs, or timelines. Final Thoughts Homes don’t fail to sell because “the perfect buyer hasn’t shown up.” They fail because the pricing strategy doesn’t match the market . Waiting longer won’t fix it—listening to what the market is telling you, and adjusting strategically, will. 📌 If you’re considering selling—or buying—now is the time to work with an expert to build the right strategy. Chicago BDB | Hansang Chul 📞 773-717-2227 | 📧 ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

올해 내내 많은 바이어들이 기다려왔던 변화가 드디어 찾아왔습니다. 지난 9월 5일, 30년 고정 모기지 이율이 작년 10월 이후 최저 수준인 6.55%로 떨어졌습니다. 이는 1년 넘게 이어진 답답한 흐름을 깨뜨린 가장 큰 폭의 하루 하락이었습니다. 무엇이 이 하락을 이끌었을까? 이번 변화의 배경에는 8월 고용보고서가 있습니다. 예상보다 약한 고용지표가 연속 두 달 발표되면서, 경제가 둔화되고 있다는 신호를 금융시장에 보냈습니다. 그 결과 채권시장이 즉각 반응했고, 모기지 이율도 동반 하락하게 된 것입니다. 역사적으로 경제 둔화 신호가 뚜렷해질 때 시장은 이에 맞춰 움직였고, 이는 모기지 이율 하락으로 이어지곤 했습니다. 이번 상황도 그 전형적인 흐름이라 볼 수 있습니다. 바이어가 주목해야 할 이유 이번 변화는 단순한 하루 이슈가 아니라, 실질적인 구매력에 직결됩니다. 예를 들어 불과 4개월 전, 7%대 이율로 집을 샀다면 매달 약 200달러를 더 부담해야 했습니다. 지금은 같은 집을 사도 월 납부액이 줄어들어, 연간 약 2,400달러나 절약할 수 있는 셈입니다. 이 차이는 바이어 입장에서 큰 의미가 있습니다. 최근까지는 부담스러웠던 주택도 지금은 손에 닿을 수 있는 기회가 열리고 있다는 뜻입니다. 앞으로 전망은 어떨까? 향후 모기지 이율의 흐름은 경제와 인플레이션의 방향에 달려 있습니다. 앞으로 발표될 고용지표, 물가수치, 그리고 연준(Fed)의 정책 발표가 이율에 직접적인 영향을 줄 것입니다. 전문가들은 당분간 이율이 소폭 오르내릴 수는 있지만, 이번처럼 큰 변곡점을 보여준 것은 바이어에게 중요한 신호라고 분석합니다. 즉, 아직 누구도 정확히 예측할 수는 없지만, 이번 하락이 시장의 새로운 장을 열었다는 점에는 의미가 있습니다. CNBC의 다이애나 올릭은 최근 모기지 이율이 수개월 동안 묶여 있던 6%대 후반 구간을 벗어났다고 설명했습니다. 이는 단순한 하락 그 이상으로, 바이어들에게 다시 희망을 줄 수 있는 변화라는 뜻입니다. 결론 이번 모기지 이율 하락은 단순한 수치 변동이 아니라, 집을 사려는 분들에게는 실질적인 기회가 될 수 있습니다. 그동안 부담되어 보류했던 주택 구입을 다시 고려해볼 만한 시점입니다. 하지만 이 기회가 얼마나 오래 지속될지는 경제 상황에 따라 달라지므로, 빠른 움직임이 필요합니다. 지금 상황에서 어떤 선택이 가장 유리할지 알고 싶으시다면, 전문가와 상담을 통해 구체적인 전략을 세우시길 권해드립니다. 시카고 복덕방 한상철 📞 773-717-2227 📧  ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

What Just Happened After a long period of relatively high mortgage rates, there’s been a clear move downward. Data from early September 2025 shows that the average 30-year fixed rate mortgage in the U.S. has dropped to about 6.49% , which is its lowest level since October 2024. Reuters+2Business Insider+2 Freddie Mac’s data aligns closely, with rates around 6.50% for that same period. AP News+2The Mortgage Reports+2 What Caused the Drop Weaker employment reports in August: Job market data came in below expectations, sending signals of economic cooling. Reuters+1 Treasury yields fell: Because U.S. Treasury yields influence long-term fixed rates, the bond market’s reaction to economic data pushed mortgage rates down. Reuters+1 Expectations of Fed policy action: With signs of slowing growth and labor market softness, markets increasingly price in possible interest rate cuts. Reuters+2Business Insider+2 Why This Matters for Buyers A lower rate means lower monthly payments for the same loan amount. Even a drop of ~0.5-0.75% in rate can translate to significant savings over time. CBS News+1 Many who had held off buying or refinancing because rates were “too high” may now find homes or mortgages that are more affordable. Investopedia+1 Demand is rising: mortgage applications (both purchase & refinancing) have surged. Reuters+1 What to Watch Going Forward Future economic reports: Jobs, inflation, and consumer spending will affect whether rates stay low or bounce back up. Business Insider+2Bankrate+2 Federal Reserve policy: If the Fed signals a rate cut (or takes action), that will have downstream effects on rates borrowers receive. Reuters+1 Volatility: Even though current trend is downward, markets can react quickly to unexpected data. It's possible that rates may go up or down in short spells. Conclusion This recent drop in mortgage interest rates isn’t just a blip—it’s a meaningful shift that could open up homeownership opportunities for buyers who had been priced out. If you were unsure about buying or refinancing before, now is a chance to revisit those plans. But because financial markets are always sensitive to economic news, moving sooner rather than later may be wise. If you’d like, I can help put together a custom mortgage-savings scenario for your budget so you can see exactly what this drop means for your monthly payment.

최근 설문조사에 따르면 많은 미국인들이 연간 약 7만4천 달러를 벌면 충분히 만족스럽게 살 수 있다고 응답했습니다. 하지만 부동산 시장 현실은 전혀 다른 이야기를 보여주고 있습니다. 리얼터닷컴 자료에 따르면 이 정도 연봉으로 중간 가격대의 주택을 구매할 수 있는 주는 웨스트버지니아와 루이지애나 단 두 곳뿐이라고 합니다. 수입과 집값의 괴리 2025년 7월 기준 미국의 주택 중간 리스팅 가격은 약 43만9,450달러입니다. 그러나 연봉 7만4천 달러로 감당할 수 있는 주택 가격은 약 28만5천 달러에 불과합니다. 이는 주택 소유가 단순한 소득 문제가 아니라 구조적인 불균형으로 이어지고 있다는 사실을 보여줍니다. 특히 보험료와 재산세는 주택 구매자들에게 추가적인 부담을 안기고 있습니다. 루이지애나와 플로리다처럼 기후 리스크가 높은 주에서는 연간 보험료만 수천 달러에 달합니다. 또 오하이오 같은 지역에서는 재산세 체납률이 높아지고 있어, 주택 소유가 단순히 매매가와 모기지 이자만의 문제가 아님을 보여주고 있습니다. 바이어들이 체감하는 어려움 설문조사에 따르면 두 사람이 모두 ‘완벽한 연봉’을 번다면 37개 주에서는 중간 가격대 주택 구매가 가능합니다. 하지만 이는 20% 다운페이먼트를 가정한 이상적인 조건일 뿐입니다. 실제로는 교육비, 의료비, 육아비 등 다양한 생활비 지출이 더해지기 때문에, 많은 가정이 현실적으로 이 조건을 충족하기 어렵습니다. 이 때문에 일부 바이어들은 더 저렴한 지역으로 이동하거나, 다운페이먼트를 더 많이 모으거나, FHA 및 VA 같은 정부 보증 대출을 활용하는 전략을 택하고 있습니다. 또한 일부 시장에서는 셀러가 보유한 낮은 금리의 모기지를 인수할 수 있는 ‘Assumable Mortgage’가 또 다른 대안으로 떠오르고 있습니다. 결론 많은 미국인들이 말하는 ‘충분한 연봉’은 안정적인 생활을 의미합니다. 하지만 현재의 주택 시장에서는 이 정도 소득으로 집을 마련하기가 여전히 어렵습니다. 그럼에도 불구하고 기회가 없는 것은 아닙니다. 지역을 잘 선택하고, 금융 전략을 세우며, 전문가의 조언을 받는다면 주택 소유의 문은 여전히 열려 있습니다. 주택 구매나 판매를 고민하고 계신다면 지금 바로 전문가와 상담하시길 권해드립니다. 시카고 복덕방 한상철 📞 773-717-2227📧  ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

Recent surveys show that many Americans believe an annual salary of about $74,000 is enough to live comfortably. But the housing market tells a very different story. According to Realtor.com , with that income, you could only afford a median-priced home in just two states: West Virginia and Louisiana . Income vs. Home Prices As of July 2025, the U.S. median listing price was about $439,450 . But with a $74,000 salary, the maximum affordable home price is closer to $285,000 . This gap highlights that homeownership isn’t just about income—it’s about structural affordability challenges . On top of that, insurance and property taxes are becoming heavy burdens. In climate-risk states like Louisiana and Florida, annual insurance premiums can reach several thousand dollars. In places like Ohio, rising property tax delinquency rates show that affordability isn’t just about mortgage payments. What Buyers Are Experiencing Surveys suggest that if two people each earn the “perfect salary,” they could afford a median-priced home in 37 states— but only under ideal conditions , such as a 20% down payment. In reality, student loans, healthcare, childcare, and other living costs make this much harder for many families. To cope, some buyers are: Moving to lower-cost areas Saving for larger down payments Using FHA or VA government-backed loans Exploring alternatives like assumable mortgages (taking over a seller’s low-rate mortgage) Final Thoughts For many, the “perfect salary” represents stability—but today’s housing market demands more than income alone . Still, opportunities exist: with the right location, financing strategy, and expert guidance, homeownership is achievable. If you’re thinking about buying or selling, let’s explore your best options together. Chicago BDB | Hansang Chul 📞 773-717-2227 | 📧 ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

지난 몇 년간의 주택 시장은 정말 뜨거웠습니다. 셀러가 집을 내놓기만 하면 여러 개의 오퍼가 몰리고, 호가보다 훨씬 높은 가격에 거래되는 경우도 흔했지요. 하지만 지금은 상황이 달라졌습니다. 최신 데이터에 따르면 현재 시장에 나와 있는 주택의 절반가량이 호가 이하에서 거래되고 있다고 합니다. 그렇다고 해서 부정적으로만 볼 필요는 없습니다. 오히려 이것은 시장이 다시 정상화되는 과정이라고 보는 것이 맞습니다. 데이터로 본 정상화 과정 2018~2019년 : 약 50~55%의 주택이 호가 이하에서 판매되었음 → 당시의 정상적인 시장 상황 2021~2022년 : 약 25%만 호가 이하에서 판매 → 기록적인 저금리와 치열한 수요 덕분 2025년 현재 : 약 50%가 호가 이하에서 판매 → 다시 과거의 평균적인 시장 상황으로 복귀 즉, 지금 우리가 보고 있는 흐름은 단순한 침체가 아니라 균형 회복입니다. 셀러가 유의해야 할 점 예전처럼 높은 가격을 붙여도 오퍼가 몰리던 시절은 지났습니다. 이제는 바이어들이 선택지가 많고 예산도 더 타이트해진 상황입니다. 따라서 셀러가 가장 신경 써야 할 부분은 바로  초기 가격 전략 입니다. 특히 시장에 처음 나오는 2주 동안이 가장 중요합니다. 이 시기에 가장 많은 진지한 바이어들이 관심을 가지게 되고, 이때 가격을 잘못 잡으면 매물이 오래 남아 시장에서 외면받게 됩니다. 성공적인 판매를 위한 3가지 전략 집을 철저히 준비하기 : 기본적인 수리와 터치업을 미리 해두면 바이어의 관심을 끌 수 있습니다. 처음부터 전략적으로 가격 책정하기 : 주변 리스팅 가격이 아니라 실제 거래된 사례에 근거하여 결정해야 합니다. 유연하게 협상하기 : 반드시 가격만이 아니라, 수리나 클로징 비용, 일정 등 다양한 조건에서 조율할 수 있어야 합니다. 결론 시장이 정상화된 지금, 셀러의 기대치를 조정하는 것이 무엇보다 중요합니다. 하지만 잘 준비하고 올바른 전략을 세운다면 여전히 호가 수준에서, 혹은 그 이상으로 판매할 수 있습니다. 지금이야말로 경험 많은 로컬 에이전트의 조언이 반드시 필요한 시점입니다. 지금 집을 팔 계획이 있으시다면, 시장 데이터를 기반으로 가장 효과적인 가격 전략을 함께 고민해 보시길 권합니다. 시카고 복덕방 한상철 773-717-2227 ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

The past few years have been red hot in real estate. Sellers could list their homes and expect multiple offers, often closing above asking price. But today, the landscape has shifted. Recent data shows that nearly half of all homes are now selling below list price . That doesn’t mean the market is negative. Instead, it signals a return to balance—a healthier, more sustainable housing market. The Path Back to Normal 2018–2019 : About 50–55% of homes sold below asking → a normal, balanced market. 2021–2022 : Only ~25% sold below asking → fueled by record-low interest rates and overwhelming demand. 2025 : About 50% are selling below asking → back to pre-pandemic averages. What we’re seeing today isn’t a collapse—it’s a reset toward normalcy . What Sellers Need to Know The days of overpricing and still receiving multiple offers are gone. Buyers have more options and tighter budgets. That means the right pricing strategy at the start is more important than ever. The first two weeks after listing are critical. Serious buyers notice new listings right away, and if pricing misses the mark, the property risks sitting on the market, losing momentum. 3 Strategies for a Successful Sale Prepare Your Home Thoroughly – Complete essential repairs and touch-ups to catch buyers’ attention. Price Strategically from the Start – Base your listing on actual closed sales, not just competing listings. Negotiate Flexibly – Go beyond price: consider terms like repairs, closing costs, and timelines to reach a win-win. Final Thoughts As the market resets, adjusting seller expectations is key. But with preparation and a solid strategy, sellers can still achieve list price—or even above. Now more than ever, working with an experienced local agent makes all the difference. If you’re thinking of selling, let’s build a data-driven pricing strategy tailored for today’s market. Chicago BDB | Hansang Chul 📞 773-717-2227 | 📧 ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

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