Get Real With Eddie

The Future of Real Estate: What You Need to Know in 2026

What does the future of real estate look like as we head toward the end of 2026? On this episode of Get Real with Eddie, we break down the trends that are shaping the real estate market — from interest rates and the ongoing housing shortage to home prices, first-time buyers, down payment assistance, AI, real estate investing, new construction, the mortgage rate lock-in effect, and the growing importance of local market conditions. We talk about why inventory can increase while buyers are still struggling to find the right home, how first-time buyers are turning toward condos and townhomes, and why investors are changing their strategies. We also discuss AI and automated valuation models, including why the information going into an AI system matters just as much as the information coming out. The conversation also explores the BRRR strategy, investment properties, flips, new construction, assumable mortgages, and potential ways to address the mortgage rate lock-in effect. And perhaps one of the biggest takeaways: real estate is becoming even more local. National trends don't necessarily tell you what's happening in Illinois, Will County, Joliet, or even your individual neighborhood. If you're buying, selling, investing, or simply trying to understand where real estate is heading, this episode gives you plenty of topics to watch as we move toward 2027. Get Real with Eddie is your source for real estate conversations affecting buyers, sellers, investors, and the communities we serve. Visit GetRealWithEddie.com. Hashtags: #GetRealWithEddie #RealEstate #RealEstateMarket #RealEstate2026 #IllinoisRealEstate #JolietRealEstate #WillCountyRealEstate #HomeBuying #FirstTimeHomeBuyer #RealEstateInvesting #InterestRates #HousingMarket #HomePrices #DownPaymentAssistance #ArtificialIntelligence #AIinRealEstate #NewConstruction #MortgageRates #AssumableMortgages #RealEstateInvestors Chapters: 00:00 The Future of Real Estate in 2026 02:40 Inventory Is Up, But Buyers Are Still Struggling 05:22 The Return of the First-Time Home Buyer 08:39 How AI Is Changing Real Estate 12:47 Real Estate Investors Are Changing Strategy 14:42 Investors, Real Estate Licenses & Disclosure 16:44 New Construction vs. Existing Homes 20:01 Why Inventory Is Still So Limited 23:30 Assumable Mortgages & Possible Solutions 27:21 What These Trends Could Mean for 2027

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Get Real About Home Values: Why Online Estimates Are Wrong!

In this episode of Get Real with Eddie, we take a closer look at Automated Valuation Models (AVMs) and why the online estimate of your home's value may not be the same as what your property is actually worth. Zillow, Realtor.com, Redfin, and other websites use automated valuation models to estimate home values. But these models rely on available data and algorithms — and there are many things they may not fully understand about your specific property. We discuss 10 things an AVM may not know about your home, including: • The condition of your home • Updates and remodeling • Deferred maintenance • Exact location • Neighborhood differences • Lot size and lot characteristics • Outbuildings and additional garages • Floor plans and bedroom differences • Special features and improvements • Current local market conditions • The human element when a buyer walks through a home • Property taxes and the actual cost of owning the home An online home value can be a useful starting point, but understanding the real value of a property requires looking beyond a computer-generated number. If you're thinking about selling your home, buying a home, or simply wondering what your property is really worth, this episode of Get Real with Eddie is for you. Get more real estate information at GetRealWithEddie.com. #RealEstate #HomeValue #Zillow #AVM #AutomatedValuationModel #HomeSelling #HomeBuying #IllinoisRealEstate #JolietIL #PlainfieldIL #ShorewoodIL #CrestHillIL #NewLenoxIL #NapervilleIL #RealEstateTips #GetRealWithEddie 00:00 Why Your Home Isn’t Worth What an Automated Value Model Says 00:23 What Is an AVM? 01:27 Why Different AVMs Give Different Values 03:11 Condition & Maintenance 04:11 Updates & Improvements 05:27 Exact Location 07:07 Lot Size & Property Features 12:47 Floor Plan & Home Layout 13:25 Special Features & Improvements 14:50 What’s Happening in the Local Market 15:20 The Human Element 16:48 Property Taxes & Monthly Payments 17:50 Thoughts on Online Home Values

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10 Things You MUST Check Before Buying a House

In this episode of Get Real with Eddie, we break down what home buyers should look at before purchasing a property — from property taxes and the roof to HVAC systems, basements, drainage, flood zones, schools, HOA rules, permits, and the true cost of owning a home. Whether you’re a first-time home buyer, moving to Joliet, Plainfield, Shorewood, Crest Hill, New Lenox, Naperville, or anywhere in Illinois, these tips can help you ask better questions and make a more informed real estate decision. We cover: • Property taxes and assessed value • Roof and attic condition • Home inspections and HVAC maintenance • Basement water, sump pumps and drainage • HVAC warning signs • Neighborhood considerations • Flood zones and property drainage • Schools, boundaries and local services • HOA rules and financials • Permits and unpermitted work • The true cost of owning a home Buying a home is more than looking at the kitchen and bedrooms. Understanding the property, neighborhood, taxes, maintenance and potential future expenses can make a big difference. Get more real estate information at GetRealWithEddie.com. #RealEstate #HomeBuying #FirstTimeHomeBuyer #HomeInspection #BuyingAHouse #IllinoisRealEstate #JolietIL #PlainfieldIL #ShorewoodIL #CrestHillIL #NewLenoxIL #NapervilleIL #RealEstateTips #HomeBuyers #GetRealWithEddie 00:00 10 Things You Must Check Before Buying a House 00:29 Property Taxes & Assessed Value 02:18 Check the Roof & Attic 05:30 Home Inspection & HVAC Maintenance 09:26 Basement, Water & Sump Pump Issues 12:12 HVAC Warning Signs 15:14 Check the Neighborhood 17:32 Flood Zones & Property Drainage 18:15 Schools, Boundaries & Local Services 20:56 HOA Rules & Financials 22:04 Permits & Unpermitted Work 23:15 The True Cost of Owning a Home

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Why the Joliet Real Estate Market Is Not What You Think

Is the Joliet real estate market collapsing? Not according to the data. In this episode of Get Real with Eddie, Eddie and Nancy dig into the latest Joliet, Plainfield, and Will County housing numbers and compare them to the dramatic claims being made online. They look at home prices, new listings, closings, months of supply, market time, and the difference between Joliet and Plainfield for similarly sized homes. The big takeaway? Don't make a real estate decision based on clickbait. Look at the actual numbers. They also discuss why Joliet's affordability and available inventory may actually create opportunities for buyers—and why comparing markets without accounting for home size and property type can paint a misleading picture. Hashtags #GetRealWithEddie #JolietRealEstate #JolietIL #PlainfieldIL #WillCountyRealEstate #IllinoisRealEstate #RealEstateMarket #JolietHousingMarket #PlainfieldRealEstate #RealEstateInvesting #HomeBuying #HomeSelling #RealEstateData #HousingMarket #RealEstatePodcast #ChicagoSuburbs #IllinoisRealtor #RealEstateTips #HomeBuyers #RealEstateNews ⏱️ Chapters 00:00 – Is the Joliet Market Really Collapsing? 05:12 – Are New Listings Flooding the Market? 08:17 – What the Plainfield Market Looks Like 13:14 – Why Joliet May Be the “Hot Hand” 16:09 – Stop Renting and Start Building Wealth? 19:40 – A Little Plainfield Family History 21:13 – The Moral of the Story: Don't Believe the Clickbait

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How to Sell Your Home for More: 10 Ways to Avoid Leaving Money on the Table

Selling your home? Before you put that “For Sale” sign in the yard, there are some simple things you can do to help maximize your sale price without spending a fortune. On this episode of Get Real with Eddie, Eddie Ruettiger and Nancy Vallee with EXIT Real Estate Specialists talk about how sellers can avoid leaving money on the table. From curb appeal and landscaping to decluttering, cleaning, repairs, paint, lighting, kitchen and bathroom updates, and professional photography, they cover the improvements that can make the biggest difference when selling a home. They also discuss why waiting for the spring market isn't always the best strategy, why winter sellers can sometimes benefit from less competition, and why spending thousands on a new kitchen, bathroom, pool, or expensive landscaping may not give you the return you expect. If you're thinking about selling a home in Illinois, start with a professional walkthrough. A knowledgeable real estate agent can help you determine what is worth fixing, what isn't, and how your home compares with the competition. Eddie Ruettiger and Nancy Vallee with EXIT Real Estate Specialists bring you real-world real estate information to help you make smarter decisions about your largest investment—your home. Visit GetRealWithEddie.com for more real estate conversations, market information, and resources. #GetRealWithEddie #RealEstate #SellingYourHome #HomeSellingTips #IllinoisRealEstate #JolietRealEstate #PlainfieldRealEstate #HomeValue #RealEstateTips #EXITRealEstateSpecialists Chapters 00:00 Don't Leave Money on the Table 04:09 Exterior Repairs and Curb Appeal 05:14 Landscaping and Simple Improvements 09:17 Clean Up the Front Entrance 16:49 Kitchens and Bathrooms 18:21 Flooring and Professional Carpet Cleaning 20:41 What NOT to Spend Money On 24:34 Have a Realtor Walk the Property

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Why Foreclosures Won't Save You Money in This Market

Foreclosures are making headlines again, and many homeowners, buyers, and investors are asking the same question: Are we headed for another 2008 housing crash? On this episode of Get Real with Eddie, Eddie Ruettiger and Nancy Vallee take a closer look at what is actually happening with foreclosures, including the numbers in Will County. While foreclosures are increasing in some areas nationally, the local numbers tell a very different story. We discuss why foreclosures are happening, including higher monthly payments, inflation, insurance costs, property taxes, HOA fees, job losses, and other financial pressures. We also explain why today's foreclosure market is very different from the conditions that helped create the Great Recession. The conversation also covers an issue many homeowners overlook: HOA foreclosure activity. We explain why falling behind on an HOA can create serious problems and why homeowners shouldn't simply assume their HOA dues are less important than their mortgage. For buyers, we look at whether foreclosures actually create cheaper homes—and why they generally don't. For investors, we discuss days on market, price reductions, ZIP code trends, due diligence, inspections, and the opportunities available with distressed and bank-owned properties. And if you're a homeowner who is worried about foreclosure, Eddie has a simple message: Don't panic. There may be options, including selling the property before the situation gets worse. Whether you're a homeowner, buyer, seller, or investor, this episode cuts through the foreclosure headlines and looks at what they really mean for the real estate market. Get Real with Eddie is hosted by Eddie Ruettiger, designated managing broker and owner of EXIT Real Estate Specialists in Joliet, Illinois. Visit GetRealWithEddie.com for more real estate conversations, local market insight, and information about buying, selling, and investing in real estate. #GetRealWithEddie #Foreclosures #RealEstate #HousingMarket #HousingCrash #IllinoisRealEstate #WillCounty #JolietRealEstate #RealEstateInvesting #Homeowners #HomeBuying #HomeSelling #BankOwned #RealEstateInvestor #marketupdate Chapters 00:00 What’s Causing Foreclosures Today? 08:37 Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Your HOA 10:29 Foreclosures Still Sell at Market Value 12:02 Why Investors Are Important to the Market 16:36 What Should Investors Look For? 21:13 Get There Before the Price Reduction

Don't Panic: Why Buyers Are Still Here And What That Means For You

Are buyers really absent from today's real estate market? Learn the truth about housing demand and why your home might still sell. There is a common perception that buyers have vanished from the current market, but the data tells a different story. In this episode of Get Real with Eddie, we examine why real estate market trends are often misunderstood and how inventory levels compare to 2019. Whether you are a homeowner or an investor, understanding why buyers are being more selective is essential for making smart decisions. We break down the factors influencing home buying activity, including interest rates and the impact of proper home presentation. Instead of relying on national headlines, we look at specific Will County data to show that well-priced homes continue to attract multiple offers. By focusing on what buyers are actually looking for, you can better navigate the complexities of selling a property in today's environment. Subscribe for weekly real estate insights to stay informed on local and national trends, and let us know in the comments if you think the current housing market is cooling down or just normalizing. #RealEstate #RealEstateMarket #WillCountyRealEstate #IllinoisRealEstate #HomeBuying #HomeSelling #RealEstateTips #GetRealWithEddie #EddieRuettiger #EXITRealEstateSpecialists Chapters: 0:00 Are Buyers Really Absent From the Market? 4:42 Will County Inventory: 2019 vs. Today 8:28 Real Estate Photo Mistakes Sellers Need to Avoid 10:08 What Buyers Are Really Looking for in a Home 11:01 Sellers Need to Change Their Strategy 15:56 The Real Issue: Inventory, Not Missing Buyers 20:51 Are Buyers Waiting for a Market Crash? 23:53 So, Are Buyers Really Absent?

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Your First Home: What They Don't Tell You

Buying a home is exciting, but there are important details many buyers don't learn until they're already under contract. In this episode of Get Real with Eddie, Eddie Ruettiger and Nancy Vallee with EXIT Real Estate Specialists discuss the hidden costs of buying a home, how much cash you may need at the closing table, your home inspection options, ongoing expenses after closing, and what PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance) really means. Whether you're a first-time home buyer or it's been years since your last purchase, this episode will help you avoid common surprises and make more informed decisions throughout the home-buying process. 👍 Like this video, subscribe to the channel, and turn on notifications so you never miss future real estate tips, market updates, and home buying advice. #HomeBuying #FirstTimeHomeBuyer #ClosingCosts #HomeInspection #PMI #RealEstate #IllinoisRealEstate #EXITRealEstate #GetRealWithEddie #HomeBuyerTips Chapters: 00:00 Things Home Buyers Aren't Told Before They Buy 00:57 How Much Cash Do You Really Need at Closing? 05:40 Home Inspections: Your Options Explained 10:11 Unexpected Costs After Closing on a Home 14:54 What Is PMI and Can You Avoid It? 20:55 Live Q&A: Answering Your Home Buying Questions

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Before You Buy a Home, You Need to Hear This

Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you will ever make, and there are a lot of myths, questions, and misconceptions that can make the process confusing. In this episode of Get Real with Eddie, Eddie Ruettiger and Nancy Vallee with EXIT Real Estate Specialists break down what buyers need to know before making an offer. We discuss common home-buying myths, how much money you really need to put down, whether buying an Airbnb makes sense, when the right time to buy is, why having a real estate agent matters, and how your lending team and PMI factor into the process. Whether you are a first-time home buyer or someone looking to purchase your next home, this conversation will help you make a more informed decision and avoid costly mistakes. Have questions about buying a home? Reach out to Eddie and his team for real estate guidance you can trust. #RealEstate #FirstTimeHomeBuyer #HomeBuyingTips #BuyingAHome #RealEstateAdvice #GetRealWithEddie #EXITRealEstateSpecialists #HomeBuyerTips Chapters 00:00 Are We Having Fun Yet? What You Need to Hear Before You Buy 00:35 Myth or Fact: Common Home Buying Misconceptions 02:25 Do You Really Need 20% Down? 08:12 Is Airbnb a Good Investment Strategy? 12:44 What Is the Perfect Time to Buy a Home? 15:35 Do You Need a Real Estate Agent? 19:45 Your Lending Team, PMI, and Understanding Your Loan

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Use Your Home Equity to Buy Your Next Home Without Selling First

What if you could buy your next home before selling your current one? In this episode of Get Real with Eddie, Eddie Ruettiger and Nancy Vallee with EXIT Real Estate Specialists discuss a loan program that allows homeowners to access the equity in their current home and use it toward the purchase of their next home. If you've ever wondered: How can I buy before I sell? What if I don't want to make a contingent offer? How do I compete in today's market without selling first? Is there a way to use my home's equity for the down payment? This episode walks through how these equity-based loan programs work, who they may be a good fit for, and the pros and cons you should understand before moving forward. We also cover the biggest dilemma homeowners face when trying to coordinate buying and selling at the same time—and why having the right strategy and the right lending team can make all the difference. If you're planning to move in the next year, this is an episode you won't want to miss. For more real estate tips, market updates, and straightforward advice, subscribe to Get Real with Eddie. 📍 Proudly serving Joliet, Plainfield, Shorewood, Crest Hill, Romeoville, Channahon, New Lenox, Yorkville, and surrounding Illinois communities. #GetRealWithEddie #EXITRealEstateSpecialists #HomeEquity #BuyBeforeYouSell #BridgeLoan #MoveUpBuyer #IllinoisRealEstate #MortgageTips #HomeBuying #RealEstatePodcast Chapters 00:00 How Was the Weekend? 00:37 Loans That Pull Your Equity 04:29 The Dilemma 14:42 Here Is the Answer 20:13 To Recap

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Nobody's Buying Homes? Here's What's Really Happening in 2026

Is the housing market really dead, or is that just what the headlines want you to believe? In this episode of Get Real with Eddie, Eddie Ruettiger and Nancy Vallee with EXIT Real Estate Specialists break down what's actually happening in today's real estate market. Buyers are still buying—but they're shopping differently, negotiating harder, and taking more time before making an offer. They also tackle one of the biggest myths in real estate: "Homes were so much cheaper in the 1980s." Were they really? When you factor in mortgage rates, inflation, and wages, the story isn't as simple as many people think. If you've ever said, "I'm going to wait," or "No one's buying right now," this episode will give you the numbers and perspective you need before making your next move. Whether you're buying, selling, or just curious about where the market is headed, this episode separates the headlines from reality. #GetRealWithEddie #RealEstate2026 #HousingMarket #HomeBuying #HomeSelling #IllinoisRealEstate #MortgageRates #RealEstatePodcast #EXITRealEstate #EddieRuettiger Chapters 00:00:00 Thinking Nobody Is Buying Homes? 00:04:25 Buyers Aren't Jumping on the First House 00:08:14 Were Homes Really Cheaper in the 1980s? 00:13:51 You Paid Too Much... Would You Sell for Less? 00:17:48 Run the Numbers Before You Decide

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Tips On Home Inspections When You Buy

Buying a home? Don't skip this episode before your home inspection! Join Eddie Ruettiger and Nancy Vallee with EXIT Real Estate Specialists as they discuss why home inspections are one of the most important parts of the home buying process. From sewer scopes to radon testing, air quality concerns, and even new construction surprises, they share real-world stories that could save you thousands of dollars. Many buyers assume a new home doesn't need an inspection—but this episode explains why that's a costly mistake. Learn what inspection options are available, when you should get additional testing, and how to protect yourself before closing. Whether you're a first-time buyer or purchasing your next home, this episode is packed with practical real estate advice to help you buy with confidence. 👍 Like this video if you found it helpful. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly real estate tips, market updates, and honest conversations about buying and selling homes. 💬 Tell us in the comments: What's your biggest concern about buying a home? #GetRealWithEddie #HomeInspection #HomeBuyingTips #RealEstateAdvice #FirstTimeHomeBuyer #IllinoisRealEstate #EXITRealEstateSpecialists #HomeBuying #RealEstatePodcast #EddieRuettiger Chapters: 00:00:00 Inspections Inspections Inspections 00:00:37 They Saved Thousands 00:05:12 Get Quotes Before Repairs 00:05:54 Always Get a Home Inspection 00:07:52 Home Inspection Options Explained 00:12:20 New Construction Sewer Collapse 00:13:38 Radon Testing on New Construction 00:16:34 Air Quality Testing Matters 00:20:00 Wife's Cat Saves Her Life

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I'm Going to Wait to Buy a Home!

Everyone knows someone saying, "I'm going to wait to buy a home." But is waiting really the smartest financial move? In this episode of Get Real with Eddie, Eddie Ruettiger and Nancy Vallee with EXIT Real Estate Specialists break down one of the biggest myths in real estate. They discuss why home prices and mortgage rates don't always move together, how to evaluate homes that need repairs, why lifestyle should be part of every buying decision, and why running the numbers is the only way to know what's right for you. If you're thinking about buying, selling, or investing in real estate, this episode will help you look beyond the headlines and make informed decisions. Be sure to subscribe for more practical real estate advice, local market insights, and honest conversations designed to help you make smarter real estate decisions. Hashtags: #GetRealWithEddie #EddieRuettiger #NancyVallee #EXITRealEstateSpecialists #HomeBuying #HousingMarket #MortgageRates #FirstTimeHomeBuyer #RealEstatePodcast #IllinoisRealEstate #JolietRealEstate #PlainfieldRealEstate #HomeValues #RealEstateAdvice #BuyAHome Chapters: 00:00 WE ARE BACK! 00:35 Radio Show Did Well for Us, But... 02:35 I'm Going to Wait to Buy a Home! 09:15 Do They Both Go Up at the Same Rate? 10:14 If It Needs $50,000 of Work, You Need More Than $50,000 Off 15:07 Lifestyle Is Just as Important as the Value 17:49 Run the Numbers!

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The Housing Market Isn't Doing What Everyone Predicted

The housing market is full of headlines, predictions, and opinions—but what's really happening? In this episode, we break down three housing market predictions that are unlikely to happen, discuss how home prices have performed over the last five years despite recent declines, tackle the myth that buyers need 20% down, review Will County market numbers compared to 2019, and highlight the 10 best real estate markets this spring. Whether you're buying, selling, investing, or just trying to understand today's market, this episode provides real-world insights and data you can use. Hosted by Eddie Ruettiger and Nancy Vallee with EXIT Real Estate Specialists. #HousingMarket #RealEstate #HomeBuying #MortgageTips #WillCountyRealEstate #HousingMarketUpdate #RealEstateInvesting #HomePrices #FirstTimeHomeBuyer #IllinoisRealEstate #EXITRealEstate #EddieRuettiger #NancyVallee CHAPTERS 00:00:00 Odd Start & New Orleans Real Estate Talk 00:05:33 3 Housing Market Predictions That Won't Happen 00:13:24 Home Prices Are Down—but Still Up Over 5 Years 00:20:57 Do You Really Need 20% Down to Buy a Home? 00:29:52 Will County Housing Market: 2026 vs. 2019 00:45:02 The 10 Best Real Estate Markets This Spring

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Before You Build a Custom Home, Watch this

In this episode, Eddie Ruettiger and Nancy Vallee with EXIT Real Estate Specialists cover a wide range of real estate topics that could impact your next move. From the step-by-step process of building a custom home to how your tax refund could help you get into the market faster, this conversation is packed with practical insights. They also break down why waiting to lock in your interest rate could cost you, what is driving the rise in multi generational homes, and what it means when another real estate company looks like it may be getting bought out. Plus, a little fun along the way with some classic dad jokes. If you are thinking about buying, selling, or building, this episode gives you real world strategies you can use right now. Hashtags #RealEstate #HomeBuying #CustomHome #InterestRates #HousingMarket #RealEstateTips #EXITRealEstate #EddieRuettiger #NancyVallee #MultiGenerationalHomes #FirstTimeHomeBuyer #RealEstatePodcast 00:00:00 What’s My Name 00:02:08 Building a Custom Home in 10 Steps 00:19:32 Tax Refund Could Help You Buy a Home 00:28:10 Dad Jokes 00:29:09 Why You Should Not Wait to Lock in Your Rate 00:34:20 Multi-Generational Homes 00:45:26 Another Real Estate Company Looks to Be Getting Bought Out

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Eddie: Here's What's Coming for Home Buyers

In this episode, Eddie Ruettiger and Nancy Vallee with EXIT Real Estate Specialists break down potential relief coming to the Illinois real estate market if new legislation passes in Springfield. They also dive into whether mortgage rates could drop if global conflicts ease, what a recent slowdown in refinance demand really signals, and why smaller spaces are driving today’s commercial real estate market. If you’re buying, selling, or investing, this conversation will help you understand what’s actually happening—and what it means for your next move. #IllinoisRealEstate #HousingMarket #InterestRates #RealEstateNews #CommercialRealEstate #MortgageRates #Refinance #EddieRuettiger #NancyVallee #EXITRealEstate #RealEstateInvesting #MarketUpdate Chapters: 00:00 Help is Coming to the Illinois Real Estate Market? 29:14 Will Rates Drop if the War Ends? 44:47 Refinance Demand Hits 4-Month Low 48:20 Small Spaces Driving Commercial Market

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Your House Isn't Selling? We Have the Answer

In this episode, Eddie Ruettiger and Nancy Vallee with EXIT Real Estate Specialists break down what’s really happening in today’s housing market and how it impacts your next move. This conversation may change how you think about real estate investors and the role they play right now. They also walk through what you can control—even when interest rates aren’t—so you can make smarter decisions whether you're buying or selling. If your home isn’t selling, you’ll get practical strategies that are working in today’s market to help get it sold. Plus, they review the latest sales data from Plainfield, Illinois, giving you a real look at what’s happening locally instead of just relying on national headlines. Whether you're a first-time buyer or planning your next sale, this episode gives you clear, actionable advice to navigate today’s market with confidence. Hashtags: #realestatetips #housingmarketupdate #homesellingtips #homebuyingadvice #plainfieldil #illinoisrealestate #marketupdate #eddieruettiger #nancyvallee #exitrealestate #realestateinvesting #firsttimehomebuyer Chapters: 00:00:00 This May Change What You Think About Investors 00:08:40 You Can’t Control Rates, But You Can Control This 00:19:20 If Your House Isn’t Selling, We Have Tips to Get It Sold 00:35:00 Plainfield, IL Sales Data 00:44:06 Advice If You Are Buying in Today’s Market

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Here's the Housing Market Split Nobody's Talking About

In this episode, Eddie Ruettiger and Nancy Vallee with EXIT Real Estate Specialists break down what’s really happening in today’s housing market and why it feels like there are two completely different markets at play. They dive into how headlines can be misleading when it comes to home prices, what buyers need to do before falling in love with their first home, and key insights from recent sales data in Romeoville, Illinois. If you're thinking about buying or selling this year, they also cover the best timing strategies to help you make the most informed decision in today’s evolving market. #RealEstate #HousingMarket #HomeBuying #HomeSelling #RomeovilleIL #IllinoisRealEstate #MarketUpdate #EddieRuettiger #NancyVallee #EXITRealEstate #FirstTimeHomeBuyer #RealEstateTips Chapters: 00:00:00 Introduction 00:02:14 The Tale of Two Markets 00:16:18 Don’t Let Home Prices & Headlines Fool You 00:28:32 Sales Data for Romeoville IL 00:34:42 What to Do Before You Fall in Love with Your First Home 00:43:38 The Best Time to Sell Your Home This Year

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War Impacts the Housing Market

Eddie Ruettiger and Nancy Vallee with EXIT Real Estate Specialists welcome Karie Ramos, also with EXIT Real Estate Specialists, who sat in for Nancy this week, for a timely conversation on today’s housing market. We break down how global events like war are impacting real estate, why mortgage demand is sinking, and how NIMBY attitudes continue to affect affordability. The discussion also highlights signs that affordability may finally be improving and wraps up with a must-know tip every first-time homebuyer needs to hear. If you're thinking about buying or selling in today’s shifting market, this episode delivers the insights you need to stay ahead. #RealEstate #HousingMarket #MortgageRates #FirstTimeHomeBuyer #IllinoisRealEstate #MarketUpdate #HomeBuyingTips #RealEstateAdvice #EXITRealEstate #EddieRuettiger #NancyVallee #KarieRamos Chapters: 00:00:00 Welcome, Karie Ramos 00:02:44 The Effect of the War on the Housing Market 00:11:50 Mortgage Rate Demand Sinks 00:18:10 NIMBY Effects Affordability 00:27:27 Affordability is Improving 00:43:39 A Must-Do for First-Time Home Buyers

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Parents Are Secretly Funding Home Purchases

In this episode, Eddie Ruettiger and Nancy Vallee with EXIT Real Estate Specialists break down what’s really happening in today’s housing market and whether spring sellers may finally have the edge. They discuss the growing trend of parents helping their kids buy homes, what it means that searches like “can’t sell my house” are trending higher, and how these signals reflect current market conditions. The conversation also dives into local sales data in Romeoville, Illinois, a look at commercial real estate activity in February, and an important push from NAR to improve transparency around HOA data. Whether you’re thinking about buying, selling, or just trying to stay informed, this episode gives you a clear, local perspective on where the market is heading and how to make smarter real estate decisions. #RealEstate #HousingMarket #SpringMarket #HomeSellingTips #HomeBuying #RomeovilleIL #WillCountyRealEstate #IllinoisRealEstate #MarketUpdate #FirstTimeHomeBuyer #RealEstateAdvice #EXITRealEstate #EddieRuettiger #NancyVallee #HOA #CommercialRealEstate 00:00:00 – Spring Sellers May Have the Edge 00:12:00 – Parents Are Helping Kids Buy Homes 00:18:10 – “Can’t Sell My House” Hits High on Google Trends 00:36:00 – Romeoville, IL Sales Data Breakdown 00:39:15 – Commercial Property Update – February Numbers 00:45:48 – NAR Pushes for More HOA Data Transparency

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