Dawn Block - Realtor

06/04/2026

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) have become the gold standard for house hacking in 2026 — and there's a reason why. 🏠

As of March 2026, Fannie Mae allows lenders to count projected ADU rental income toward your mortgage qualification — up to 30% of your total qualifying income. That means the income potential of an ADU can help you qualify for a home you otherwise couldn't afford.

ADUs include:
🔹 Detached backyard cottages
🔹 Converted garages
🔹 Basement suites with separate entrances

They're increasingly legal, financially supported, and proven in the rental market. If affordability is your biggest barrier to homeownership, an ADU-eligible property might be the solution.

Read the full article: https://dawnblock.myagent.site/house-hacking-in-2026-what-the-hype-got-wrong-and-what-actually-works/

06/04/2026

Great news to share! I’ve been named a winner of the Five Star Real Estate Agent award by the Five Star Award program, a recognition that goes to only a tiny percentage of Real Estate Agents each year! Check out this short social media announcement video they made!

06/02/2026

House hacking isn't about living for free — it's about making homeownership possible when it otherwise wouldn't be. In 2026, the strategy is less about eliminating a mortgage payment and more about engineering one you can actually afford. 🏡

Here's what's working:

✅ ADUs (accessory dwelling units) — Fannie Mae now lets buyers count projected ADU rental income toward mortgage qualification, up to 30% of total qualifying income

✅ Multi-generational homes — 14% of all home purchases in the last year were multi-generational, with Gen X leading at 19%

✅ Small multi-family properties — FHA loans allow up to 4 units with just 3.5% down if you live in one

✅ Realistic expectations — If rental income cuts your $3,800 payment down to $2,200, that's a win

The math has to work. The zoning has to be legal. And the lifestyle has to fit. But for the right buyer, house hacking can turn a closed door into an open one.

Read the full article: https://dawnblock.myagent.site/house-hacking-in-2026-what-the-hype-got-wrong-and-what-actually-works/

05/31/2026

What is your home worth in today's market?

Click here to request a No Obligation Home Value Estimate:

Want to know how much your home is worth? Find out now! https://homeasap.com/465775/homevalue

Dawn Block, Century 21 Integra
Meet the EXPERT on the BLOCK
847-630-2121
[email protected]
www.Dawnblockhomes.com


www.Dawnblockhomes.com

05/30/2026

Dawn Block, Century 21 Integra
Meet the EXPERT on the BLOCK
847-630-2121
[email protected]
www.Dawnblockhomes.com


www.Dawnblockhomes.com

I'm Dawn Block. I’m a full-time, full-service Realtor ® and lifelong resident of the Elk Grove Village and the surrounding suburbs. My local expertise and well-rounded real estate background will benefit you whether you are a first-time home buyer, a seasoned home veteran, investor or a returning...

05/28/2026

If you're thinking about selling your home, you've probably heard the term "months of supply" thrown around. But what does it actually mean?

Months of supply measures how long it would take to sell all available homes at the current sales pace. It's one of the clearest indicators of whether we're in a buyer's or seller's market.

Here's the breakdown:
- Less than 5 months = Seller's market (low inventory, more competition among buyers)
- 5-6 months = Balanced market
- More than 6 months = Buyer's market (more inventory, buyers have negotiating power)

Right now, inventory levels are rising in many markets across the country. According to recent NAR data, we're seeing a shift from the extreme seller's market of the past few years. This means pricing strategy, home preparation, and timing matter more than ever.

If you've been waiting for the "perfect time" to list, understanding these metrics can help you make a more informed decision about your specific situation and local market conditions.

Call/text/email us at (847) 630-2121 or [email protected] if you have questions.

05/27/2026

Credit scores can feel confusing, especially with so much misinformation floating around online. 💳 Understanding what actually impacts your score can help you make more confident financial decisions, whether you’re planning to buy a home soon or simply preparing for the future. A little knowledge goes a long way toward building strong financial habits over time. The more informed you are, the more empowered you become throughout the homebuying journey.

05/27/2026

05/26/2026

Not every pre-listing fix needs to be big or expensive. But there are a few small repairs sellers shouldn’t ignore because buyers notice them immediately.

Here are some of the most common ones:

1. Leaky faucets or running toilets
Small issues like these can make buyers wonder what else hasn’t been maintained.

2. Loose handles, hinges, or cabinet hardware
They’re inexpensive to fix, but they affect how cared-for a home feels.

3. Scuffed paint and wall damage
Patches, touch-ups, and fresh paint in key areas can make the whole home feel cleaner and more current.

4. Burned-out light bulbs or outdated fixtures
Lighting has a huge impact on first impressions, especially in photos and showings.

5. Doors that stick, squeak, or don’t close properly
These are small annoyances that can make a home feel older or neglected.

None of these repairs will transform a home on their own. But together, they can reduce buyer hesitation and help your home feel better maintained from the start.

If you’re getting ready to sell, the best pre-listing strategy usually starts with the simple things first.

05/26/2026

Financial literacy creates opportunities far beyond numbers on a spreadsheet. 💡🏡 Understanding how to manage money with confidence can help make big life goals feel more achievable, whether that’s buying a home, planning for the future, or creating more stability in everyday life. The small habits and decisions made today often have the biggest impact over time. Knowledge really is one of the most valuable investments you can make in yourself.