The Weekly Agenda

• Message of the Moment

• The Market Report

• News, Blog & Socials

• The Private List

• The Spotlight

• The Weekly Residence

Message of the Moment

,

The Cubs’ season may be over (again), but at least fall has officially stepped up to the plate. The leaves are trading their greens for golds, the air’s got that crisp bite to it, and my cold plunge… well, let’s just say it’s living up to its name. 🥶

There’s something about this season that makes Lake County feel extra alive — cozy coffee runs, sweater-weather open houses, and that first breath of real fall air after a long summer stretch. Whether you’re thinking about making a move before year-end or just settling in for pumpkin spice season, now’s the time to lean into it.

A common question I get this time of year is, “Should I wait until spring to sell?” It’s a fair one — but the truth might surprise you. This week’s blog post (link below) breaks down why the fall market can actually be one of the smartest times to list, from serious buyers to potential tax advantages before year-end. If you’ve been on the fence, give it a read — it might just change your game plan for 2025.

And if you like staying connected beyond the inbox, follow along on Instagram and YouTube. That’s where I share quick updates, market insights, and a closer look at what’s happening day-to-day. It’s a fun way to stay in the loop — and who doesn’t need more real estate wisdom between recipe videos and reels of people falling?

~ Michael

Home insurance premiums are up by 9% this year

Home insurance costs continue to climb, with premiums rising over 9% this year and more than 60% in the past five years. However, coverage hasn’t kept pace, leaving many homeowners paying significantly more for less protection. With affordability becoming a growing concern, it’s more important than ever to compare options—check out Money’s handy home insurance tool to find the best fit for you.

Use tool

The Market Report

Lake County real estate continues to favor sellers across the board. Detached homes are commanding strong prices and moving quickly, while attached properties are even swifter to market, often going under contract in just over a month. The luxury segment remains resilient, with high-end homes continuing to attract buyers in less than two months on average. With supply still limited and demand holding steady, the market rewards well-presented homes and strategic positioning.

Residential - Detached

Residential - Attached

Luxury

News, Blog & Socials

The Private List

Coming Soon

• pending

Buyer Needs

• Wadsworth home with Warren schools. 4 Bed / 3 car garage or room for expansion. Light remodeling okay.

• Investor looking for fixer-uppers; CASH buyer. No cleaning or repairs needed for the sale.

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 craving a cozy autumn afternoon, there’s no better place to wander than About Time Bookstore in downtown Libertyville. This indie gem carries a thoughtfully curated mix of new releases, local authors, and rare finds you won’t see at big-box chains. It’s the kind of place that feels like time slows down — fitting name, right?

They’re also keeping things lively this fall with events like Brynne Weaver’s “Tourist Season” author talk, Witches Night Out, and their next Book Club meetup for A Daughter of Fair Verona — all great excuses to spend an evening surrounded by good stories and even better company.

Insider Tip: Don’t go in “just to browse.” That’s how you end up walking out with three novels, a tote bag, and a renewed sense of purpose. The staff are basically friendly enablers — they’ll talk you into your next favorite read before you even realize what happened.

The Weekly Residence

Let’s be honest — this week’s Weekly Residence isn’t exactly your average “add to cart” moment. But if you love a little luxury daydreaming with your morning coffee, this one’s worth a scroll.

Tucked on two acres in Lake Forest, this stately brick home brings “Gatsby energy” without the drama. We’re talking 7 bedrooms, 8 baths, a year-round heated pool, a tennis court, and even a three-room apartment above the garage (for when guests “just stay one more night”).

Inside, the vibe is pure craftsmanship — fireplaces, a wet bar, library, and that kind of natural light that makes you wonder if your houseplants would finally get their lives together.

So go ahead — indulge in a little real estate escapism.

Let’s Connect

How can I help you with your next move? 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.

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

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