Illinois

Illinois is a state with a diverse range of real estate investment opportunities. The state has a strong economy and is home to many thriving metropolitan areas, such as Chicago and Aurora. These areas have strong job markets and a high cost of living, which can create demand for housing and make them attractive markets for real estate investment. Property rentals and short term rentals, such as vacation rentals, can be popular in Illinois due to the state's many tourist attractions and the large number of people who travel there for work or events. However, it is important for real estate investors to carefully consider the local market conditions and do their due diligence before making any investments in Illinois. Factors to consider include the condition of the property, the demand for rentals in the area, and the potential for appreciation. By thoroughly researching the Illinois real estate market, investors can make informed decisions and maximize the potential return on their investments.

Sustainability Resources

The Real Estate industry is one of the most environmentally damaging industries in the world accounting for:
30%
of total carbon dioxide
40%
of all energy
40%
of all raw materials
Our goal is to give you the resources you need to take sustainable action in improving, building, retrofitting and revamping your home. The impacts are real, the benefits significant, and the need critical. Join us in bringing sustainability home and creating a brighter future for all, starting with you.

Save money and do the world a favor!
Here's a list of Sustainability Initiatives in the area:

WaterSense Webinars

WaterSense, a subset of the US EPA, puts on sustainability webinars that have different focuses.

Learn More
Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency

DSIRE's incentive and policy search tool allows you to search energy incentives and policies by state.

Learn More
Solar Incentives, Rebates and Tax Breaks by State

Energy Sage's Solar Savings by State tool allows you to search your state for solar rebates, incentives, and tax breaks.

Learn More

Illinois FAQs

Is Illinois a judicial or non-judicial state?

Judicial

In a judicial foreclosure state, the lender must go through the court system in order to foreclose on a property. This process can be longer and more expensive for the lender compared to a non-judicial foreclosure.
In a judicial foreclosure state, the lender must go through the court system in order to foreclose on a property. This process can be longer and more expensive for the lender compared to a non-judicial foreclosure.

What is the process of closing on a property in Illinois?

Title companies, lenders, and attorneys may conduct closings, but only attorneys may prepare documents. Lenders generally hire attorneys and have them prepare all the paperwork. Conveyance is by warranty deed. Recorded deeds must include a declaration of the sales price. Mortgages are the customary security instruments. Judicial foreclosure is mandatory and takes at least a year from the filing of the default notice to the expiration of the redemption period. Illinoisans use ALTA policies. Buyers usually pay the closing costs and the lender’s title insurance premiums; sellers pay the owner’s title insurance premiums and the state and county transfer taxes. Property tax payment dates vary. Larger counties typically schedule them for March 1st and September 1st, and smaller counties schedule them for June 1st and September 1st.

Property Taxes in Illinois?

Larger counties March 1st and September 1st . Others June 1st and September 1st

In Illinois, does a property management company require a real estate broker's license?

YES. Key components of property management (renting and leasing) are considered real estate activities under existing Illinois real estate licensing laws. A person needs a real estate license if they provide assistance intended to result in the sale or lease of real estate. The definition of the word "broker" in the Illinois Real Estate Act provides 11 examples of the types of "assistance" that require a real estate -license. Included are: representing clients in the negotiation of real estate sales contracts or leases, and issuing advertisements for the sale, purchase or lease of real estate. Property management activities that involve general administration, like contracting for property maintenance (garbage pick-up, etc.) and paying general expenses (utilities, etc.), do NOT require a real estate license. Serving as an accountant for association dues also does not require a real estate license. Property management activities that involve a conveyance of real estate by contract or lease require a real estate license. Examples of property management activities involving a conveyance include: showing a unit for sale or lease, negotiating lease or real estate contract terms, maintaining security deposits, rent payments or earnest money deposits.

Are there any exceptions to the requirement that a property manager have a broker's license in Illinois?

Yes. For example, a "leasing agent" license is available and can be used only for residential leasing activities. Leasing agents must be sponsored and employed by a sponsoring broker. In addition, onsite residential managers who engage in leasing activities are exempt. For more information about these and other Illinois property management requirements and exceptions, please contact the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation - Real Estate Division. Before hiring a property manager to manage your Illinois rental property, you should always check that he or she is licensed appropriately. You can check the license status of Illinois property managers at the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation license lookup webpage.

Do you need a broker's license to manage community associations in Illinois?

NO. However, a community association manager license is required to for any person who handles, collects or disburses funds or who maintains financial records or a budget for a community association in Illinois. A "Community Association Manager" is anyone who, for compensation, administers the financial, administrative, maintenance or other duties for the community association.

Illinois Real Estate Broker Requirements

Title companies, lenders, and attorneys may conduct closings, but only attorneys may prepare documents. Lenders generally hire attorneys and have them prepare all the paperwork. Conveyance is by warranty deed. Recorded deeds must include a declaration of the sales price. Mortgages are the customary security instruments. Judicial foreclosure is mandatory and takes at least a year from the filing of the default notice to the expiration of the redemption period. Illinoisans use ALTA policies. Buyers usually pay the closing costs and the lender’s title insurance premiums; sellers pay the owner’s title insurance premiums and the state and county transfer taxes. Property tax payment dates vary. Larger counties typically schedule them for March 1st and September 1st, and smaller counties schedule them for June 1st and September 1st.

Illinois Real Estate Salesperson Requirements

Larger counties March 1st and September 1st . Others June 1st and September 1st

How do property ownership transfers work in Illinois?

Warranty deed.

Cities