Jan Mason, Broker Baird & Warner

09/28/2026

Headlines and social media make today’s rates sound high. But you have to remember, the rate you’re seeing online and your actual rate could be different. The only way to know what your rate could be is to talk to a trusted lender.

With the right help, you can find out what your real rate is – and where it can take you.

You may have seen the headlines saying mortgage rates have climbed to the highest point since January 2025. And if that's left you reluctant to buy a home, here's what you need to remember…

09/28/2026

Does one size ever really fit all? One mortgage rate doesn't either.

You may be seeing today’s higher rates and wondering whether it’s still worth buying. Here’s what you need to realize…

Mortgage rates differ just like the people who apply for loans. So, the rate you see online isn’t necessarily the one you’d get when you buy.

Your real mortgage rate depends on your individual situation. It can be higher or lower than what you've seen or heard.

So, don’t assume the rate in the headlines is your rate. Before you decide you can't buy a home or that you should wait, find out your real rate. You'll know your options and get a map of what's possible.

And a quick conversation with a loan officer is the perfect place to start.

09/28/2026

Happy National Good Neighbor Day! 👋 Great neighborhoods aren't found — they're built, one wave, one favor, one borrowed ladder at a time.

09/26/2026

🏡✨ Open House Alert! Discover your dream home at 18296 W Meander Drive, Grayslake, IL 60030! Join us to explore this beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 2-full and 2-half-bath home in the desirable Oakwood of Grayslake subdivision.

This spacious 2,385 sq. ft. home offers:

🛏️ 4 Bedrooms
🛁 3 Bathrooms
🍽️ Remodeled kitchen with quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances
🔥 Cozy family room with a fireplace
🌿 Peaceful backyard with pond views

Additional features include a finished basement with a wet bar, an attached 2-car garage, and numerous updates throughout.

Don't miss the chance to see this move-in-ready gem! Contact us today to schedule your visit.

Your choice in real estate agent matters!

Jan Mason
📞 (312) 560-3081
🌐 janmason.bairdwarner.com

09/26/2026

🥞 Flipping for Flapjacks: It’s National Pancake Day!

Grab your spatulas and get your sweet tooth ready because September 26 is officially National Pancake Day! Whether you like them stacked sky-high, drizzled in liquid gold, or loaded with chocolate chips, today is all about celebrating the ultimate breakfast champion.

Pancakes have a rich history, dating back to ancient Greece before evolving into the global comfort food we know and love today. And Americans take this celebration very seriously, devouring an estimated 11 billion pancakes every single year—both homemade and diner-served!

When it comes to crowning your stack, maple syrup remains the undisputed king of toppings, closely followed by fresh berries, bananas, and a generous dollop of whipped cream (because calories don't count today, right?). Butter, powdered sugar, and chocolate chips round out the perennial favorites.

So, how are you celebrating? Whip up a storm in your kitchen, hit up your favorite local diner, or snap a picture of your delicious masterpiece for social media!

09/26/2026

Have you ever wondered how a small town in Illinois inspired one of the greatest American novels?

🌟 Lake Forest, just an hour from Chicago, is steeped in literary history and charm.

F.

Scott Fitzgerald found inspiration here, mingling with the elite and experiencing a world that shaped his iconic characters. From the enchanting Westleigh Farm, linked to Daisy Buchanan, to the cozy Deer Path Inn, this town offers a glimpse into the past. Whether you're a literature lover or just looking for a picturesque getaway, Lake Forest is a must-visit!

🚂✨ Ready to explore this hidden gem?

Let us know your favorite literary spots!

Source: https://secretchicago.com/visit-lake-forest-illinois-fall-2026-getaway/
Photo Credit: Source/Shutterstock, Canva

09/26/2026

Buying a home or thinking about making a move? There’s a lot to consider, from figuring out what you can afford to understanding the market and deciding when the time is right. Whether you’re ready to take the next step or just starting to explore your options, I’m here to help you make sense of it all.

09/25/2026

🏡✨ Open House Alert! Discover your dream home at 1695 Overland Trail, Deerfield, IL 60015. This beautifully remodeled 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers 3,119 sq. ft. of sophisticated living space.

Step inside to find:

🛋️ Expansive living room with soaring cathedral ceiling
🍽️ Formal dining room perfect for memorable gatherings
🍳 Newly remodeled kitchen with quartz countertops and high-end KitchenAid appliances
🔥 Cozy family room with fireplace and wet bar
🚿 Luxurious primary suite with dual vanity and large glass-enclosed shower
🎥 Finished basement ideal for recreation and relaxation
🌳 Generous fenced yard with a large Trex deck for outdoor entertaining

Join us for an open house and experience the perfect blend of style and functionality in a quiet neighborhood with easy access to downtown and local amenities.

Don't miss this opportunity to make this stunning home yours! Contact Jan Mason today to schedule your tour.

📞 (312) 560-3081
🌐 janmason.bairdwarner.com

Your choice in real estate agent matters!

09/25/2026

🏡✨ Open House Alert! Discover the perfect blend of style and comfort at 1695 Overland Trail, Deerfield, IL 60015. This beautifully remodeled home is ready for you to move in and enjoy!

This stunning property features:

🛏️ 4 Bedrooms, 2.5 Bathrooms
📏 3,119 sq. ft. of thoughtfully designed living space
🍽️ Newly remodeled kitchen with quartz countertops and high-end KitchenAid appliances
🔥 Inviting family room with fireplace and wet bar, perfect for entertaining
🌳 Generous fenced yard with a large Trex deck for outdoor relaxation

Located in a quiet neighborhood with easy access to downtown, schools, parks, and nature preserves. Don't miss your chance to see this exceptional home!

Join us for the Open House and experience this sophisticated living space for yourself.

Contact Jan Mason for more details.

📞 (312) 560-3081
🌐 janmason.bairdwarner.com

Your choice in real estate agent matters!