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Articles, Guides, Advice, and Insight from The Dorazio Real Estate Team

Why Fall Can Be a Surprisingly Good Time to Buy a Home in Chicago

Fall gives Chicago home buyers fewer rivals, more motivated sellers, and a chance to see how a house handles cold and rain. We explain how to read days on market, negotiate terms beyond price, and weigh mortgage rates against competition. Veterans also get a look at the VA Energy Efficient Mortgage for fixing the drafts a fall tour can reveal.

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Why Selling Your Home FSBO Can Cost More Than You Think

One of our agents walked into a neighborhood estate sale and found a Victorian four-flat that the owner planned to sell himself, with three units still under construction. Every sale has to clear pricing, zoning, permits, appraisals, financing and negotiation before it can close, and finding a buyer covers only the first step. We walk through the FSBO risks Chicago sellers tend to miss and how a listing agent handles them before you go under contract.

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The Top 6 Deal Killers in 2025 and How to Keep Your Transaction on Track

In today’s market, even good deals can fall apart if small issues go unchecked. Here are six of the most common deal killers we’ve seen 2025 and how buyers, sellers, and agents can stay prepared, avoid surprises, and keep transactions moving to the closing table.

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PCS and Relocation Moves Made Simple: Mastering Virtual Home Tours from Afar

Buying a home during a PCS move can feel overwhelming, especially if you can’t see it in person. This guide walks military families through how to use virtual tours, live video walkthroughs, and remote inspections to make confident decisions. Learn how to evaluate a home and neighborhood without ever setting foot there.

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From Dream to Reality: How I Helped a Veteran Client buy a 4-Flat with Zero Dollars in Out-of-Pocket Expenses

Discover how I helped an Air Force veteran buy a $965k 4-flat in Chicago with zero out-of-pocket expenses using a VA loan. This journey involved overcoming unexpected challenges and highlighted the importance of having a knowledgeable team experienced in VA loans and multifamily investments. Learn how strategic planning and thorough due diligence can unlock incredible wealth-building opportunities for veterans.

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The Best Spring Home Maintenance Tasks for Military Homeowners

As the winter chill gives way to warmer temperatures, spring is the perfect time for military homeowners to tackle essential home maintenance tasks and prepare their properties for the season ahead. From exterior inspections to HVAC servicing, here are some of the best spring home maintenance tasks to add to your to-do list.

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homeownership, inspections, mold Andrew Dorazio homeownership, inspections, mold Andrew Dorazio

What Happens if Mold is Found During a Home Inspection?

Discovering mold during a home inspection can be alarming, but it's crucial to understand the implications. From identifying the type of mold to assessing its extent and potential health risks, understand the essential steps to take if mold is found. Don't panic—empower yourself with knowledge to navigate this situation effectively and safeguard your investment.

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