Brandow Real Estate Appraisals

06/11/2026

Regional Breakdown: Sales Surge in the Midwest

The Midwest saw the largest jump in existing-home sales of the four major regions last month, continuing to offer some of the nation’s most affordable home prices.

Here’s a closer look at how existing-home sales fared across the country in May, according to NAR’s latest report:

Northeast:
Sales rose 2.2% in May compared to April, reaching an annual rate of 460,000. Sales, however, are down 8% from a year ago. Median price: $534,900, up 4.2% from a year earlier.

Midwest:
Sales jumped 6.4% in May month-over-month, the highest sales increase of all four regions. Sales, up 2% annually, reached an annual rate of 1 million last month. Median price: $336,300, up 2.8% from May 2025.

South:
Existing-home sales rose 3.2% in May compared to April, settling in at an annual rate of 1.96 million. Sales are up 5.9% compared to a year ago. Median price: $373,100, up 1.1% from May 2025.

West:
Sales stayed mostly stagnant in May at an annual rate of 750,000. Existing-home sales, however, were up 5.6% compared to last year. Median price: $625,900, down 0.7% from May 2025.

-Article from the National Association of REALTORS® "REALTOR News"

01/23/2026

NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun gave an economic outlook for 2026 at and discussed how an increase in the capital gains tax exclusion on home sales would unleash housing inventory.

11/13/2025

How do I prepare for an appraisal?
To get the most accurate and favorable appraisal, homeowners should take a few simple steps to present the property at its best:

Clean and Declutter – A tidy, well-kept home gives the impression of proper maintenance.

Complete Minor Repairs – Fix leaky faucets, broken trim, loose door handles, or anything visibly in disrepair.

Highlight Upgrades – Provide a list of recent improvements (with dates and permits if available), such as a new roof, HVAC system, or kitchen remodel.

Enhance Curb Appeal – Mow the lawn, trim bushes, and make sure the exterior is neat and inviting.

Provide Access – Make sure all rooms, the garage, basement, and attic are accessible, and unlock any gates or outbuildings.
Gather Documents – Have your property survey, HOA details, or any prior appraisals or plans available, if relevant.

These small efforts help ensure the appraiser has a clear and complete picture of the home’s condition and quality.

10/14/2025

What is the 3 day appraisal rule?

The "3 day appraisal rule" refers to a consumer protection law that requires creditors to provide applicants with a copy of any appraisal or written valuation for a loan secured by a first lien on a dwelling no later than three business days before the loan closes. This rule also requires creditors to provide the copy "promptly upon completion" if that is earlier.

Have another appraisal question? Let us know and we'll answer to the best of our ability.

09/17/2025

Quality Real Estate Appraisals. Excellent Service.

For years, mortgage lenders and consumers, as well as other real estate professionals, have depended on Brandow Real Estate Appraisals to provide high-quality valuations on all types of real estate in Champaign County. By continuously analyzing local real estate trends in Champaign County and refreshing our knowledge regarding valuation techniques through accredited courses, we've been consistently able to deliver reliable home valuations for our clients.

Leading appraisal experts for:
Primary and Secondary Mortgages
Private Mortgage Insurance Removal
Estate Planning
Divorce Settlement
Tax Assessment Disputes
Retrospective Valuations
Employee Relocation
REO Valuations
Litigation

01/16/2025

Cost burdens climb as affordability drops for Renters

New data finds that cost burdens have hit an all-time high, with half of U.S. renters paying more than 30% of their income on housing, leaving many with historically low residual incomes.

06/06/2024

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09/04/2022

Calm Is a super power 🐉
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08/02/2021

There are few things as rewarding as joining a Habitat build for a day.

05/30/2019

A new kind of walk in the park.

With their bold design, one New York–based architecture firm is pushing the boundaries of how public parks should be created