Annette Shelton - Chicago Real Estate Expert - Dream Town Real Estate

Annette Shelton - Chicago Real Estate Expert - Dream Town Real Estate If you're buying, selling, investing, renting or just need Real Estate information, you need an expert that can help. I’m here to help you.

09/21/2026

US Mortgage Applications Stall
Mortgage application activity has been holding steady, as many buyers and refinancers are pausing to reassess their options in light of current borrowing costs. Recently, purchase applications dipped by 2% seasonally adjusted, and 3% unadjusted, while refinancing showed a modest 2% increase—making up about 42% of all mortgage activity. Larger-balance borrowers are still hesitating, and affordability concerns are leading some buyers to wait before making a move. On a brighter note, VA applications reached a share of 12.6%. With the 30-year conforming rate hovering around 7% and no rate cuts expected through 2026, patience is important for anyone navigating these decisions. As someone who guides clients through Chicagoland’s dynamic market, I know how crucial it is to stay informed and consider every opportunity carefully.

Home Price Growth Stalls Near 1% As Local Divide WidensNavigating Chicagoland’s housing market means staying on top of e...
09/19/2026

Home Price Growth Stalls Near 1% As Local Divide Widens
Navigating Chicagoland’s housing market means staying on top of every shift—and July was no exception. While U.S. home-price growth slowed to just about 1% year-over-year, and dipped 0.5% from the previous month due to softer demand and varying inventory, the picture is very different here at home. Chicago stood out with a 6.4% rise in prices, even as places like Austin saw a 2.9% decline. It’s also worth noting that some cities are seeing starter-home prices increase, making neighborhood expertise more valuable than ever. My commitment is to guide you through these local trends with the insight and care that define my approach to real estate in our vibrant communities.


http://www.annetteshelton.com/agent-news/annette-shelton/1923396-Home-Price-Growth-Stalls-Near-1%25-As-Local-Divide-Widens

09/17/2026

I absolutely love Annette Shelton. Her professionalism and attention to detail is why I am a 1st tim...
Let’s connect and talk about the latest insights in the industry!

09/16/2026

Chicago Shoppers Browse Distant New Homes
It’s always fascinating to see how Chicagoans approach the home search—especially when it comes to newly built properties. Recent trends highlight that many buyers from Chicago are exploring new-home options beyond our metro area, reflecting a strong willingness to look for different lifestyles and opportunities in other cities. While the data didn’t share specifics on local pricing or inventory for Chicago, our city stood out as a top origin for this kind of outbound interest. As someone who navigates the ins and outs of Chicagoland real estate every day, I see firsthand how open-minded buyers are when it comes to finding the right fit—whether it’s here or a bit farther afield. If you’re exploring your options, you’re certainly not alone in casting a wide net.

09/15/2026

Case-Shiller: Again, Chicago leads the nation in home-price growth
Chicago stands out once again, leading the nation in home-price growth according to the latest Case-Shiller report. In June, U.S. home prices rose by 1.5% year-over-year and 0.4% month-over-month, with particular strength in the Northeast and Midwest. It’s encouraging to see inflation slowing to 3.5%, which has helped ease real home-price declines and points toward a gradual recovery in the housing market. As someone deeply familiar with Chicagoland’s dynamic neighborhoods and trends, I’m always keeping an eye on these shifts to help my clients make the most informed decisions—whether buying or selling in this exciting market.

09/14/2026

Cook County Tax Bills Rise for Most Properties
If you own property in Cook County, you’ll want to mark September 1st on your calendar—1.8 million property tax bills are set to hit mailboxes after another delay in the usual billing cycle. For approximately 1.3 million homeowners across our communities, this means higher tax bills are on the way, and the ripple effect will also be felt by about 100,000 local businesses. As someone who helps clients navigate Chicagoland’s ever-changing real estate landscape, I know these tax shifts can raise plenty of questions and concerns. Understanding how these increases may impact your home or investment is a key part of making informed decisions in our market. If you’re looking for guidance on how these changes could affect your next move, I’m here to share my neighborhood expertise and support your goals every step of the way.

Chicago housing shortage pushes home prices higherNavigating Chicagoland’s dynamic real estate market means keeping a cl...
09/12/2026

Chicago housing shortage pushes home prices higher
Navigating Chicagoland’s dynamic real estate market means keeping a close eye on trends—like July’s notable price increases. Chicago’s median home price jumped 13% to $425,000, leading the nation’s major cities, while suburban homes climbed nearly 7% to $401,000. With inventory down 56% since 2019, the competition for homes is fierce and properties are moving quickly. Guiding clients through these shifts, I draw on deep neighborhood expertise and a commitment to personalized service, ensuring your next move—whether buying or selling—is a smart one.
http://www.annetteshelton.com/agent-news/annette-shelton/1946729-Chicago-housing-shortage-pushes-home-prices-higher

09/11/2026

Stunning West Loop duplex-down with FOUR outdoor spaces, including a massive private garage rooftop deck. A chef's kitchen anchors the main level: two-tone cabinetry in white and deep navy, granite counters, stainless appliances, gas range, built-in beverage refrigerator, and a double island with breakfast seating under glass-and-brass pendant lights. It opens to a sun-filled living and dining room with a carved cast-stone fireplace imported from Mexico, gleaming Oak hardwood floors throughout the unit, granite floors in the kitchen and French doors framed by a leaded-glass transom leading to a covered front balcony overlooking the boulevard. The primary suite offers a walk-in closet and a spa bath with new marble walk-in shower, rain head, body jets, built-in bench, and double vanity. Powder Room with travertine floors on the 1st level. Downstairs, an expansive family room with exposed brick, fireplace and a floating open-riser staircase, plus two more bedrooms, full bath, laundry, additional storage and a covered patio Private front balcony, private lower patio, and shared yard complete the outdoor spaces. Owned garage parking. Pets welcome. Original owners, never before on the market, and beautifully maintained. Self-managed 3-unit building currently all owner occupied and investor friendly , near the New 1901 development United Center corridor. gleaming Oak hardwood floors throughout the unit. New furnace, AC unit, and hot water tank. Well maintained building with low monthly assessments. Currently all owner occupied and investor friendly

09/09/2026

USA: Why ‘Price Stability’ Is a Myth
In real estate, we often hear about the goal of 'price stability,' but the reality is far more complex—especially here in the U.S. While some goods drop in price (think smartphones), others like hotel rooms, sporting events, or college tuition can rise as demand shifts. This isn’t just about inflation or what the central bank can control. The way we spend, global trends, and the scarcity of certain experiences all play a part in shaping prices. A steadier dollar might make it easier to invest in homes instead of worrying about hedging against inflation, but it would also mean that truly scarce things—like unique properties or premium experiences—could see even sharper price increases. The takeaway? Prices will always change, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. In Chicagoland’s dynamic housing market, those shifts can reflect growth and opportunity, not just challenges.

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1338 W. Madison
Chicago, IL
60607

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