The Weekly Welcome

Real Estate with Michael Steber

In partnership with

Message of the Moment

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The Bears are actually scoring now — who saw that coming? And that World Series? Absolutely wild. It’s a reminder that momentum can shift fast, and the teams (and people) who stay consistent through the ups and downs are the ones who come out on top.

As we head into November, it’s the perfect time to check in on your own “game plan.” Whether that’s tackling home projects, setting next year’s goals, or starting to think about a move in 2026, small steps now make a big difference later.

This week’s blog — Why You Don’t Need To Be Afraid of Today’s Mortgage Rates — breaks down why the current numbers aren’t the deal-breaker many think they are. With the right strategy, preparation, and perspective, opportunity still exists for buyers and sellers who play the long game.

And just like in sports, success in real estate — and life — comes down to teamwork. I’m grateful for the amazing clients, friends, and neighbors who’ve been part of my season so far. If you know someone who’s ready to make their next move, I’d love to be part of their winning team.

Part of our team is Money.com and I’d ask you to click the link below and show some support to this week’s sponsor.

~ 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.

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

Median Price

Market Time

Months Supply

Market Type

$429,000

40

1.7

Seller

Residential - Attached

Median Price

Market Time

Months Supply

Market Type

$288,000

34

1.3

Seller

Luxury

Median Price

Market Time

Months Supply

Market Type

$965,000

55

2.9

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.

  • Cash investor looking for fixer-uppers. Lake and McHenry Counties.

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

Located in downtown Libertyville, Milwalky Taco serves up fresh, flavorful Mexican fare with standout items like short rib and brisket tacos, plus frozen margaritas that hit the spot. With a full-service bar, outdoor patio, and catering options for any event, it’s a great go-to whether you’re grabbing lunch, sipping a drink, or planning a celebration.

If you see me there, say hi, I’ll treat you to a drink!

The Weekly Residence

This end-unit townhome in Falling Waters delivers easy living with over 2,000 sq ft, a bright open layout, and a cozy fireplace. Enjoy the primary suite with walk-in closet, a flexible loft, private patio, and access to resort-style amenities including a pool, clubhouse, and tennis courts — all minutes from local shops and the Metra.

Text “TOUR” to (224) 544-9080 for schedule a viewing.

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 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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