Most sales I handle follow the same shape. The timing changes with the house and the market. The order doesn't.
1. Before you list
We start with the price: the closed sales that actually compete with your house, and a net sheet showing what you'd walk away with. Then I walk the house and give you a list of what's worth fixing. This is also the time to choose your attorney and, for a condo, to request the association documents. It usually takes one to three weeks, mostly waiting on repairs and cleaning.
2. Photos, video and launch
Professional photography and a listing video, a floor plan where it helps, then the launch. Sometimes that's everywhere on day one. Sometimes it's a private launch to agents and their buyers first. We decide together.
3. Showings and offers
You get feedback after every showing and an honest read on whether the market agrees with the price. When offers come in, compare the terms, not just the number: how the buyer is paying, the down payment, the contingencies, the closing date and the inspection approach.
4. Attorney review and inspection
Once you accept an offer there's a short window, commonly five business days on the standard Chicago-area contract, in which both attorneys can propose changes and the buyer can inspect. Repair requests are negotiated here, often settled as a credit. Your contract sets the exact dates, so your attorney is the one to confirm them.
5. Appraisal, mortgage and title
If the buyer is financing, their lender orders an appraisal. If it comes in under the price, the deal can be renegotiated. The contract also sets a date for the buyer's mortgage commitment. Meanwhile the title company prepares the title commitment, and your attorney clears anything it turns up.
6. Closing
The buyer does a final walk-through, both sides sign, the mortgage is paid off, transfer taxes and credits are settled, and your proceeds are wired. A financed sale often closes 30 to 60 days after acceptance. A cash sale can close sooner.
Want the timeline for your house and your dates? Request a call.
Questions people ask
How long does it take to sell a house in Chicago?
Allow a few weeks to prepare, then time on the market, which depends on price and season, and usually 30 to 60 days from accepted offer to closing when the buyer is financing.
What is attorney review in Illinois?
A short period after an offer is accepted, often five business days on the standard contract, when either side's attorney can propose changes or cancel. Your contract sets the exact terms.
Should I make repairs before selling?
Some, not most. Fix what a buyer's inspector will flag or what makes the house harder to finance. Most cosmetic upgrades don't return what they cost.