The Weekly Welcome

Real Estate with Michael Steber

Message of the Moment

, I hope you had a great week and an even better weekend! As we step into a new one, I always like to share something that’s both helpful and a little fun. Recently, I’ve been testing how AI tools like ChatGPT can simplify everyday life — not just for work, but at home too. From meal planning to home maintenance reminders, here are some surprisingly practical ways you can use it in your own daily routine.

10 Surprisingly Useful At-Home Uses for ChatGPT
  1. Meal Planning & Recipes – Plug in what’s in your fridge and get instant dinner ideas.

  2. Workout Routines – Generate a quick 20-minute, no-equipment workout plan.

  3. Homework Helper – Breaks down tough math problems or helps kids brainstorm essay ideas.

  4. Budgeting & Finance Tracking – Create grocery budgets, savings goals, or organized shopping lists.

  5. Decluttering Coach – Get step-by-step decluttering strategies tailored to your style.

  6. Travel Planning – Build itineraries, restaurant lists, or packing guides.

  7. Personal Development – Daily journaling prompts, affirmations, or meditation scripts.

  8. Home Maintenance Reminders – Seasonal checklists like filter changes or gutter cleaning.

  9. Entertainment Curator – Personalized movie, podcast, or book recommendations.

  10. Gift Ideas – Unique, thoughtful gifts based on age, hobbies, and budget.

I’ll keep sharing tools and ideas like this that make life (and homeownership) a little easier. If you enjoyed this list, come hang out with me on Instagram and YouTube where I share even more quick tips, local stories, and behind-the-scenes updates. It’s the best way to stay connected and “live your best local life” with me.

~ Michael

The Market Report

Lake County real estate continues to favor sellers but we did see a sow down in almost all categories. Detached & attached homes continue to have strong prices and move quickly inspire of a slowing market time and increasing inventory.

The luxury segment remains resilient, with high-end homes continuing to attract buyers in less than two months on average but should be monitored closely for changes.

Residential - Detached

Median Price

Market Time

Months Supply

Market Type

$434,000

41

1.7

Seller

Residential - Attached

Median Price

Market Time

Months Supply

Market Type

$288,000

35

1.4

Seller

Luxury

Median Price

Market Time

Months Supply

Market Type

$975,000

57

2.8

Seller

News, Blog & Socials

The Private List

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.

Coming Soon
  • 24731 W Orchard Pl, Round Lake Heights - 4 bed / 2.5 bath / Split-Level

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

  • Cash investor looking for distressed or “fixer-uppers” homes in Lake County or eastern McHenry county.

The Spotlight

The Spotlight is our way of featuring the local businesses, places, and people that make Lake County stand out. If you’re looking for a trusted referral, this is a great place to start. And if you have a favorite spot or service you think deserves to be highlighted, share it with me—I’d love to include your recommendations in a future edition.

And this week I want you to meet…

Something new (and delicious) that just landed in downtown Libertyville — Queen Yemeni Coffee, at 606 N. Milwaukee Ave. They’re serving up authentic Yemeni coffee, spice-infused lattes (think pistachio, turmeric, cardamom), plus pies, cheesecake, and bagels. It’s a cozy new spot that’s already turning heads.

And hey — if you stop by and ask me, I’ll even buy your coffee. ☕

The Weekly Residence

The Weekly Residence is a closer look at one property worth knowing about in today’s market. Whether you’re actively searching or just keeping an eye on trends, this feature highlights a home that deserves attention for its style, value, or location.

Luxury Estate in Huntclub Farms
Step into elevated living at 37108 N Kimberwick Lane, Wadsworth, a majestic all-brick estate on over 2 lush acres in the coveted Huntclub Farms neighborhood. With 6 bedrooms, 10 bathrooms, and over-the-top amenities (think indoor heated pool + hot tub, private theater, bowling alley, pickleball & tennis courts), this home blends sophistication with fun. Whether you’re entertaining in the grand spaces, relaxing in the spa-like primary suite, or enjoying lake views from the expansive outdoor deck, this property offers both glamour and comfort.

Want to see it in person? Let’s set up a tour — I’ll buy the coffee when we go! ☕

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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