Why This Is #1 (and Non-Negotiable)

• Motivation clarifies urgency: Are you relocating in 60 days? Downsizing in 2 years? Avoiding foreclosure? → This dictates everything (pricing, prep, marketing).

• Timeline sets the pace: “Must sell by June” vs. “willing to wait for top dollar” changes strategy 180°.

• Financial position prevents shocks: You need to know exactly what you’ll walk away with.

Your 3-Page North Chicago “Sell-or-Stay” Worksheet

1. Calculate Your Equity

   1. • Pull your latest mortgage statement (balance + any HELOC)

   2. • Check Cook County property tax portal for unpaid bills https://www.cookcountypropertyinfo.com/default.aspx

   3. • Use Cook County Assessor for your official assessed value https://www.cookcountypropertyinfo.com/default.aspx

   4. • Rough equity = Assessed value × 1.05 – loans – 5%

   5. Total time 30 mins

2. Run a Net Proceeds Sheet

   1. • Use this free seller net sheet https://www.mortgagecalculator.org/calcs/net-seller-proceeds.php

      1. • Include the following

         1. 5% realtor commission

         2. $800 attorney fee

         3. $1,200 title fee

         4. $800–$1,500 transfer tax (Chicago = $3.75/$500, suburbs vary)

         5. Add repair or credit reserves: $3K–$7K for sewer scope, radon, old windows

   2. Total time 20 mins

3. Answer the 3 Big Questions

   1. Why sell? (New Trier schools? Empty nest in Kenilworth? Job in the Loop?)

   2. When must you be out? (June 30 for school? Before winter taxes?)

   3. Where next? (Condo in Streeterville? Rental in Hubbard Woods?)

   4. Total time 10 mins

If you want all this done for you for free fill out the form below or text/call us at 773-861-5115 and our team will have it done next day.