The Weekly Welcome

Real Estate with Michael Steber

In partnership with

Message of the Moment

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Well, would you look at that — the Chicago Bears remembered how to win a football game! And not just any win — a come-from-behind, nail-biting, heart-rate-spiking victory that had half of Illinois yelling at their TVs and the other half Googling “Is this real life?”

If that doesn’t prove comebacks are possible, I don’t know what does. Whether it’s football, fall projects you swore you’d finish by summer, or the real estate market finally showing signs of balance — momentum is shifting, and opportunity’s wide open.

Whether you’re cheering on a last-minute Bears rally or positioning yourself to score big in the housing market, the key message is the same: it’s about timing and momentum. This week’s post, “What a Government Shutdown Really Means for the Housing Market”, breaks down what a federal shutdown actually means for real estate — and how buyers and sellers in Lake County can keep moving forward without missing a beat.

Prefer to watch instead? You can also catch a short video version of this topic over on my YouTube channel.

A Quick Favor

If you or someone you care about is thinking about buying, selling, or just curious about what’s next in real estate, I’d love to help them make their next move with confidence. Most of the people I serve come from the friends, family, and neighbors my clients send my way — and I’m always grateful for that trust.

And if you’ve been enjoying The Weekly Welcome, feel free to share it with someone who might love it too! Forward it, text it, or drop it in a group chat — good news (and great houses) are always better when shared.

Support Our Sponsors

Before you go, please take a moment to check out our sponsors and see what they have to offer. There’s absolutely no obligation — just an opportunity to explore some great services and resources that might come in handy. Their support helps keep The Weekly Welcome running strong.

~ Michael

Home insurance rates up by 76% in some states

Over the last 6 years, home insurance rates have increased by up to 76% in some states. Between inflation, costlier repairs, and extreme weather, premiums are climbing fast – but that doesn’t mean you have to overpay. Many homeowners are saving hundreds a year by switching providers. Check out Money’s home insurance tool to compare companies and see if you can save.

The Market Report

Picture this: homes are still flying off the market faster than your morning coffee cools down. Sellers are smiling, buyers are hustling, and the fall real estate season hasn’t lost a bit of its spark.

Detached homes are leading the way with a median price just under $440K. Most are selling in about 42 days, and with only 1.7 months of inventory, sellers are still calling the plays.

Condos and townhomes? Even hotter. The median price sits at $291K, with listings lasting just 36 days before they’re snapped up. A 1.4-month supply keeps this segment firmly in seller’s market territory.

And the luxury side of town isn’t slowing down either. Homes above the $970K mark are finding buyers in about 56 days, with 2.6 months of inventory — giving high-end shoppers just enough time to tour twice before making their move.

The moral of the story? It’s still a seller’s game — but motivated buyers who play it smart can absolutely score big.

Residential - Detached

Median Price

Market Time

Months Supply

Market Type

$439,995

42

1.7

Seller

Residential - Attached

Median Price

Market Time

Months Supply

Market Type

$291,000

36

1.4

Seller

Luxury

Median Price

Market Time

Months Supply

Market Type

$970,000

56

2.6

Seller

News, Blog & Socials

The Private List

Coming Soon
Buyer Needs
  • Wadsworth home with Warren schools. 4 Bed / 3 car garage or room for expansion. Some remodeling okay. Large lot preferred.

  • Fixer-upper’s in the Lake County area. No cleaning or repairs needed; paying cash.

If you or someone you know is thinking about a move, The Private List is where we connect buyers and sellers before homes ever hit the market. It’s a simple way to match needs and opportunities early.

The Spotlight

If you’re searching for the perfect soundtrack to your weekend — or just a great find in vinyl, CDs, and more — look no further than Andy’s Records in Grayslake. Founded in honor of the owner’s dad, Andy, whose own jazz and blues collection started it all, this store is packed with music history, passion, and discover-able gems. andysrecords.shop

Whether you’re browsing the new-and-used vinyl racks, checking out upcoming live in-store performances, or just stopping by to soak up the vibe, Andy’s Records brings serious sonic soul to Lake County.

Stop in, give your ears (and your inner record-nerd) something to celebrate

The Weekly Residence

2858 Falling Waters Lane, Lindenhurst, IL 60046

Say hello to this rare 3-bedroom gem in the highly-desirable Falling Waters community — a spacious end-unit townhome offering over 2,000 sq ft of low-maintenance luxury living. With a bright, open main level featuring wood-laminate floors and a cozy gas fireplace that flows into the kitchen and dining area, this home is built for everyday comfort andentertaining.

Upstairs you’ll find a loft space perfect for a home office or workout zone, plus three bedrooms including a primary suite with full bath and walk-in closet. The two-car attached garage, first-floor laundry, and private patio round out the convenience factor. As part of the community, enjoy resort-style amenities like a clubhouse, fitness center, pool, tennis courts and scenic walking paths — all just minutes from dining, shopping, and commuter access.

This isn’t just another unit — it’s an exceptional find. Text me to schedule a tour.

Buyer & Seller Guides

The Fall Buyer & Seller Guides just dropped ...And I want you to have it for FREE.

These guides unpack the latest data, forecasts, and strategies you’ll need to make the right move in today’s market. Find out what’s changing, what’s not, and what it all means for you as a buyer or seller this season.

Let’s Connect

How can I help? Whether you’re curious about your home’s value, exploring neighborhoods, or just starting to plan, I’d love to sit down and talk through your goals.

Schedule a one-on-one consultation with me anytime—it’s the first step toward making confident, informed decisions.

Additional Resources: