Martha May - Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Chicago

06/25/2026

It's easy to assume that every dollar you put into your home will come back to you when you sell but that's not always the case. In fact, some upgrades can actually hurt your return or limit your home's appeal.Highly personalized renovations, luxury upgrades in mid-range neighborhoods, or projects that don't match buyer expectations often miss the mark. Things like overly customized kitchens, high-end tech features, or converting functional spaces into something niche can make it harder for buyers to see themselves in the home.The key is understanding what buyers in your market value—and where your money will have the most impact. Sometimes, simple updates like fresh paint, minor repairs, or improving curb appeal can deliver a better return than major renovations.Before you invest in upgrades, it's worth having a quick conversation. I can help you prioritize what makes sense based on today's market and connect you with trusted professionals if needed.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/MarthaMay/2026/06/25/Some-renovations-cost-more-than-they-return

Defining the Art of Living on the North Shore
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Realtor

06/25/2026

We’ll leave that for you to decide, but there is growing evidence that, for many buyers, barndominiums—or barndos—strike the ideal balance between rustic character and elevated living. With today’s barndos featuring soaring ceilings, refined finishes, and thoughtful design, it’s easy to see why so many are choosing them as primary residences.

Want the full story? Download The Snap from Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices via the link in the comments.

Feel free to reach out if you have any questions.

06/24/2026

The absorption rate tells you whether you're in a buyer's, seller's, or balanced market, and I can help you make the most of it.

Defining the Art of Living on the North Shore
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Realtor

Understanding your local absorption rate helps you price smart, plan strategically, and market your home based on how quickly homes are actually selling.

06/23/2026

One of the biggest mistakes sellers make is thinking the market will "fix" a lack of preparation, when in reality, the best results come from having a clear strategy before you list. If you're thinking about selling and want to position your home for the strongest possible outcome, I'd be happy to walk you through a simple, no-pressure game plan. Let's connect.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/MarthaMay/2026/06/23/Why-homes-sell-for-the-highest-price-before-they-hit-the-market

06/23/2026

Is it too soon to call it a buyer’s market? Between rising inventory and geopolitical uncertainty, the data is reaching an inflection point. Explore what these trends mean for your move in this blog post.

Read it here: https://www.bhhs.com/blog/blog-detail/2026/6/is-2026-finally-becoming-a-buyer%E2%80%99s-market-.html?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social_media&utm_campaign=soci&utm_date=June2026

Looking for a real estate professional? Get in touch anytime.

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06/22/2026

It's easy to assume that every dollar you put Online estimates like the Zestimate can be a convenient way to get a quick idea of your home's value but they don't tell the full story.These algorithms rely on public data and broad assumptions, which means they often miss the details that really matter. Things like your home's condition, upgrades, layout, lot placement, and even buyer demand in your specific neighborhood can significantly impact value and those aren't always reflected online.In today's market, pricing is as much about strategy as it is about data. Two homes with similar stats can sell for very different prices depending on how they're presented, marketed, and positioned.If you're curious about what your home might really be worth, not just what an algorithm says, I can provide a more accurate, real-time perspective based on what's happening right now in your market. There's no pressure, just good information to help you make smart decisions.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/MarthaMay/2026/06/22/Your-home-s-value-is-not-just-a-number

Defining the Art of Living on the North Shore
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Realtor

06/21/2026

Happy Father’s Day! Time to celebrate the dads, father figures, and mentors who make life meaningful. 🙌

06/19/2026

June is National Homeownership Month. REALTORS® do more than open doors; we help you find your way home. Let's talk about how we can help you make your next move.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/MarthaMay/2026/06/19/June-is-National-Homeownership-Month

Defining the Art of Living on the North Shore
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Realtor

06/19/2026

More inventory for buyers and a need for better strategy for sellers—welcome to the balanced market. Learn how to navigate these new conditions with confidence and realism in this blog post.

Read it here: https://www.bhhs.com/blog/blog-detail/2026/6/what-a-%E2%80%9Cmore-balanced-market%E2%80%9D-actually-means-for-buyers-and-sellers.html?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social_media&utm_campaign=soci&utm_date=June2026

Got questions? Feel free to reach out.

🖥️ https://www.bhhs.com/koenigrubloff-realty-group-il302/glenview/martha-may/cid-1004335?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social_media&utm_campaign=soci&utm_date=June2026
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06/18/2026

Most homeowners think of equity as something they access only when they sell, but it can also be a tool for building long-term wealth. Equity may help fund renovations, consolidate higher-interest debt, invest in another property, or support other financial goals.The key is using it strategically and understanding both the opportunities and risks involved. Your home is one of your largest financial assets, and how you manage that equity can have a major impact over time.If you're curious about ways your home equity could support your long-term goals, let's talk. I can help you explore options and connect you with trusted professionals who can guide you through the financial side of the process.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/MarthaMay/2026/06/18/Don-t-Let-Your-Equity-Sit-Idle

Defining the Art of Living on the North Shore
[email protected]

Realtor