In this weeks episode: 

• A personal message from Michael

• The Private List

• Local Spotlight

Happy Monday to you ,

The school bells are ringing, backpacks are packed, and parents everywhere are quietly rejoicing. (Let’s be honest—no round of golf, or glass of wine, or even a Bears win brings the same joy as watching that first school bus pull away.) With routines back in place, the second half of the year is shaping up strong—not just for family sanity, but for real estate too. Historically, the market holds steady through the fall and usually keeps momentum right up until Thanksgiving.

For buyers, mortgage rates are anticipated to remain in the 6.2%–6.55% range, creating a favorable window for buyers to refresh their pre-approval—or secure one for the first time. For sellers, timing is everything, and positioning your home before the holiday and winter season ensures it shows at its best. After all, even the most beautiful property is harder to appreciate when buyers are touring with snow boots and salt stains in tow.

Locally, as we start to move into the fall season, it’s a wonderful time to show some love to our local mom-and-pop businesses. Whether it’s picking up pumpkins at the farmers market, stopping by the family-run café for a warm latte, or browsing a boutique store before dinner, these small businesses are what make our communities feel like home. Supporting them not only keeps our neighborhoods thriving, but also reminds us to take pride in where we live, work, and build our futures.

I’d also love to hear from you—if you have a favorite local spot that deserves a little extra love this season, send it my way! I’d be happy to give them a shout-out in a future edition. It’s a great way to spread the word and keep supporting the places that make our community special.

Lastly, If we haven’t connected yet on Instagram or YouTube, I invite you to join me there. It’s where I share curated market insights, exclusive updates, and a closer look at the communities we call home.

With Gratitude,

Michael

The Private List

Coming Soon

• 24731 W Orchard Pl, Round Lake Heights - 4 bed / 2 bath / Split-Level

• 28227 W Yosemite Ct, Lakemoor - 4 bed / 3.5 bath / 2 story / full basement

Buyer Search

• Family looking for a Wadsworth home. Prefer large lot, 4 bedrooms, 3 car garage or ability to build a poll barn.

If you or someone you know is considering a move, now may be the perfect opportunity to connect buyers and sellers before these homes even reach the market.

Local Spotlight

The Freeze
This week’s spotlight shines on The Freeze in Grayslake—a true local institution that has been serving up classic soft serve for generations. It’s the kind of place that feels like summer itself. Treat yourself and stop by while the warm weather still lingers.

How can I help?