627 Acadia Rental CMA

COMPARATIVE MARKET ANALYSIS

627 Acadia Trail, Roselle, IL 60172

PREPARED FOR

Mom

APRIL 12, 2016

Arlyn Tratt | NextHome Elite | [email protected] | Fax: 866-597-8659 | Mobile: 312-244-3760

RESUME INTRO

About Arlyn

Second-generation Real Estate Managing Broker Arlyn Tratt has become a go-to guru in assisting
buyers and sellers throughout the Chicago metro, as well as a savvy investor in real estate properties of
all shapes and sizes.

He has been featured
on Fox News showcasing a million-dollar home in Oak Park, as well as "Chicago Tonight," sharing
expertise about the city's Gold Coast neighborhood.
Tratt's father owned and operated several Century 21 offices in the northwest suburbs of Chicago, which
inspired the younger Tratt to follow in his footsteps by his mid-20s—after an earlier career buying,
rejuvenating and flipping classic cars.
Today, based in Skokie, he is associated with RE/MAX 1st Class, offering a robust roster of specialties,
including: the buying and selling of single family homes, condos/townhomes, multi-family dwellings, land
lots, residential rentals and luxury homes; first time buyers, distressed properties,
staging and relocation; and REO/bank-owned, foreclosures and short sales.
Alongside, Tratt's services comprise: contract negotiations, comparative market analysis, market
statistics, online marketing, direct marketing, rent to own, lease to own and creative financing.
He is certified in ABR, SFR and GREEN, and was named New Member of the Year

in 2012 by the Skokie Chamber of Commerce. Previous corporate-level realtor positions include Founder
& CEO of Arlyn Tratt Realty, as well as Traffext and RLN World Group Luxury Suites.

His career was launched when he relocated to Lakeview in the late 1990s and began working at an
apartment agency. Within a year in a new town, he went from knowing few city streets to knowing all,
including their coordinates.
During that time, Tratt set a record for renting the most apartments in one day—12—among the region's
agents. That record stands today.
After two years, he expanded his portfolio to include investing and purchasing real estate and renting out
studios, one bedrooms, upward to townhomes and multifamily properties. He has even purchased a
16-unit apartment building in Chicago as a lease option, which he subsequently fully rented.

Today, with sales into the multimillions of dollars, Tratt remains active in both buying and selling for
clients as well as real estate property investing.

Please visit www.arlyntratt.com and read over 50 Client testiomonials about others that have loved
working with Arlyn

Arlyn Tratt | NextHome Elite | [email protected] | Fax: 866-597-8659 | Mobile: 312-244-3760

WHAT IS A CMA? INTRO

No two homes are identical, which is why choosing a sales price or offer price for a home can be
challenging. That’s where the comparable market analysis, or CMA, can be useful.

What is a CMA?

The CMA is a side-by-side comparison of homes for sale and homes that have recently sold in the same
neighborhood and price range. This information is further sorted by data fields such as single-family or
condo, number of bedrooms, number of baths, postal codes, and many other factors. Its purpose is to
show fair market value, based on what other buyers and sellers have determined through past sales,
pending sales and homes recently put on the market.

How is the CMA created?

CMAs are generated by a computer program
supplied by your real estate agent’s multiple listing
service (MLS). The MLS is available to licensed
members only, including brokers, salespeople, and
appraisers, who pay dues to gain access to the
service’s public and proprietary data, including tax
roll information, sold transactions, and listings input
by all cooperating MLS members.

Listing agents generate CMAs for their sellers, and The CMA is a side-by-side comparison of homes for
buyer’s agents create them for their buyers so both sale and homes that have recently sold in the same
sides know what current market conditions are for neighborhood and price range.
the homes they’re interested in comparing.

How accurate are CMAs?

The CMA is a here-and-now snapshot of the market,
based on the most recent data available, but it can instantly be rendered obsolete by a new listing, or a
change of status in a home with the same criteria. Why? The market is constantly changing – new
listings, pending sales, closed sales, price reductions, and expired listings.

CMAs can vary widely, depending on the knowledge and skill of the person inputting the search
parameters to the software as well as the number and type of data fields that are chosen. That means
some features may not be included.

As informative as the CMA is, it should only be used as a tool and should not substitute for your real
estate professional’s knowledge and advice.

Arlyn Tratt | NextHome Elite | [email protected] | Fax: 866-597-8659 | Mobile: 312-244-3760

CONTACT ME INTRO

Arlyn Tratt

NextHome Elite

E-mail [email protected]
Facebook www.facebook.com/myhomesold
Fax 866-597-8659
Mobile 312-244-3760
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arlyntratt

Download this report (PDF)

What is this bar code?

This QR code makes it easy for you to
download this report to your smart phone.
1. Make sure your phone can scan a QR
code with its camera. If you don't already
have one, you can try http://cloudcma.com/qr
on your phone's browser to download an
app, or do a Google search for the model of
your phone along with the term "QR reader".
2. Now use that app to scan the QR code
above.

Arlyn Tratt | NextHome Elite | [email protected] | Fax: 866-597-8659 | Mobile: 312-244-3760

MAP OF ALL LISTINGS INTRO

MLS # Status Address Price
0 Subject 627 Acadia Trail, Roselle, IL 60172
1 08876771 S 812 Cutter Lane $1,975
2 08879702 S 1534 Collins Circle $1,800
3 09000275 S 1422 Worden Way $2,000
4 09008484 S 1534 Collins Circle $1,800
5 09054819 C 1473 Haise Lane $1,900
6 09058783 S 1409 Evans Court $1,900
7 09093171 S 1393 Mitchell Trail $1,750
8 09111950 S 1454 Haise Lane $1,900

Status: S = Rented, C = Cancelled

Arlyn Tratt | NextHome Elite | [email protected] | Fax: 866-597-8659 | Mobile: 312-244-3760

SUMMARY OF COMPARABLE PROPERTIES INTRO

Rented Listings

Address Beds Baths YrBlt SqFt List Price Rent Price Rent Date
2/0 1979 1,634 $1,995 $1,975 5/11/15
812 Cutter Lane 4 2/0 1972 1,206 $1,800 $1,800 5/1/15
2/0 1974 1,162 $2,000 $2,000 9/9/15
1534 Collins Circle 3 2/0 1972 1,206 $1,800 $1,800 8/19/15
2/0 1974 1,250 $1,900 $1,900 11/5/15
1422 Worden Way 4 2/0 1975 1,600 $1,795 $1,750 1/19/16
2/0 1973 1,800 $1,900 $1,900 3/1/16
1534 Collins Circle 3 1,469 $1,886 $1,875

1409 Evans Court 4

1393 Mitchell Trail 4

1454 Haise Lane 4

Averages

Cancelled Listings

Address Beds Baths YrBlt SqFt List Price Rent Price Rent Date
2/0 1974 1,900 $1,900 $1,875
1473 Haise Lane 4 1,469 $1,886

Averages

Arlyn Tratt | NextHome Elite | [email protected] | Fax: 866-597-8659 | Mobile: 312-244-3760

PROPERTY DETAILS MLS #08876771

S 812 Cutter Lane, Elk Grove Village $1,975

Listing information Beds: 4 Sq Ft: 1,634 Rent Date: 5/11/15
MLS#: 08876771 Baths: 2/0 Year Built: 1979 DOM: 42
Status: Rented

Features

Waterfront: No Heat/Fuel: Gas, Forced Air Sewer: Sewer-Public Water: Lake Michigan, Public
Garage: Garage Door Opener(s), Heated Exterior: Storage Shed, Storms/Screens Interior:
Hardwood Floors Lot: Fenced Yard Basement: Partial Appliances: Oven/Range, Dishwasher,
Refrigerator, Freezer, Washer, Dryer, Disposal, All Stainless Steel Kitchen Appliances Number of
Rooms: 8 Number of Fireplaces: 1 Garage Spaces: 2 Additional Rooms: No additional rooms
Pet Info: No Pets SP/OLP Ratio: 0.99

Remarks

The perfect place to call home! Lovely & comfortable split level w/curb appeal on quiet, tree-lined
street also offers easy access to expressways, restaurants & shopping! Bright, open floor plan,
vaulted ceilings, side french doors that flow to eating area & kitchen w/SS appl. Spacious bedrms w/
double sink in master bath. NO PETS PLEASE. Great yard for relaxing, play & picnics! Get ready for
summer!!!

Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Source: MRED

Arlyn Tratt | NextHome Elite | [email protected] | Fax: 866-597-8659 | Mobile: 312-244-3760

LISTING PHOTOS MLS #08876771

S 812 Cutter Lane, Elk Grove Village $1,975

Arlyn Tratt | NextHome Elite | [email protected] | Fax: 866-597-8659 | Mobile: 312-244-3760

MORE LISTING PHOTOS MLS #08876771

S 812 Cutter Lane, Elk Grove Village $1,975

Arlyn Tratt | NextHome Elite | [email protected] | Fax: 866-597-8659 | Mobile: 312-244-3760

PROPERTY DETAILS MLS #08879702

S 1534 Collins Circle, Elk Grove Village $1,800

Listing information Beds: 3 Sq Ft: 1,206 Rent Date: 5/1/15
MLS#: 08879702 Baths: 2/0 Year Built: 1972 DOM: 28
Status: Rented

Features

Waterfront: No Heat/Fuel: Gas, Forced Air Sewer: Sewer-Public Water: Public Basement:
None Appliances: Oven/Range, Dishwasher, Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer Number of Rooms: 6
Parking Included in Price: Yes Garage Spaces: 2 Additional Rooms: No additional rooms Pet
Info: No Pets SP/OLP Ratio: 1.00

Remarks

New carpet, new paint, new dishwasher, new washer and dryer, new furnace and hot water heater,
new tile and light fixtures. Siding and gutters will be added in a couple months. Eat in kitchen. Master
bathroom. Sliding door to patio. 2 car garage. Schools 54 and 211. Neutral --will go well with any
furnishings. Add your own color in window treatments. Lawn care and snow removal not included.

Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Source: MRED

Arlyn Tratt | NextHome Elite | [email protected] | Fax: 866-597-8659 | Mobile: 312-244-3760

LISTING PHOTOS MLS #08879702

S 1534 Collins Circle, Elk Grove Village $1,800

Arlyn Tratt | NextHome Elite | [email protected] | Fax: 866-597-8659 | Mobile: 312-244-3760

PROPERTY DETAILS MLS #09000275

S 1422 Worden Way, Elk Grove Village $2,000

Listing information Beds: 4 Sq Ft: 1,162 Rent Date: 9/9/15
MLS#: 09000275 Baths: 2/0 Year Built: 1974 DOM: 39
Status: Rented

Features

Waterfront: No Heat/Fuel: Gas, Forced Air Sewer: Sewer-Public, Sewer-Storm Water: Lake
Michigan, Public Garage: Garage Door Opener(s), Transmitter(s) Exterior: Deck, Storms/Screens,
Cable Access Interior: Wood Laminate Floors Lot: Fenced Yard Basement: Partial, English
Appliances: Oven/Range, Microwave, Dishwasher, Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer, Disposal Number
of Rooms: 8 Parking Included in Price: Yes Garage Spaces: 2 Additional Rooms: No
additional rooms Common Area Amenities: Park/Playground Pet Info: No Pets Total Number of
Units: 1 SP/OLP Ratio: 1.00

Remarks

This home features oak cabinets and contemporary appliances. The carpeting and paint is bright and
clean. Bathrooms are in sparkling condition. Lower level family room and 4th bedroom combine for a
total of 1,591 sf. A spacious deck overlooks the fenced yard. Neighborhood location near
expressways and the 355 corridor. No pets.

Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Source: MRED

Arlyn Tratt | NextHome Elite | [email protected] | Fax: 866-597-8659 | Mobile: 312-244-3760

LISTING PHOTOS MLS #09000275

S 1422 Worden Way, Elk Grove Village $2,000

Arlyn Tratt | NextHome Elite | [email protected] | Fax: 866-597-8659 | Mobile: 312-244-3760

MORE LISTING PHOTOS MLS #09000275

S 1422 Worden Way, Elk Grove Village $2,000

Arlyn Tratt | NextHome Elite | [email protected] | Fax: 866-597-8659 | Mobile: 312-244-3760

PROPERTY DETAILS MLS #09008484

S 1534 Collins Circle, Elk Grove Village $1,800

Listing information Beds: 3 Sq Ft: 1,206 Rent Date: 8/19/15
MLS#: 09008484 Baths: 2/0 Year Built: 1972 DOM: 9
Status: Rented

Features

Waterfront: No Heat/Fuel: Gas, Forced Air Sewer: Sewer-Public Water: Public Basement:
None Appliances: Oven/Range, Dishwasher, Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer Number of Rooms: 6
Garage Spaces: 2 Additional Rooms: No additional rooms Pet Info: No Pets SP/OLP Ratio:
1.00

Remarks

New carpet, new paint, new dishwasher, new washer and dryer, new furnace and hot water heater,
new tile and light fixtures. Siding and gutters will be added in a couple months. Eat in kitchen. Master
bathroom. Sliding door to patio. 2 car garage. Schools 54 and 211. Neutral --will go well with any
furnishings. Add your own color in window treatments. Lawn care and snow removal not included.

Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Source: MRED

Arlyn Tratt | NextHome Elite | [email protected] | Fax: 866-597-8659 | Mobile: 312-244-3760

LISTING PHOTOS MLS #09008484

S 1534 Collins Circle, Elk Grove Village $1,800

Arlyn Tratt | NextHome Elite | [email protected] | Fax: 866-597-8659 | Mobile: 312-244-3760

PROPERTY DETAILS MLS #09054819

C 1473 Haise Lane, Elk Grove Village $1,900

Listing information Beds: 4 Sq Ft: 1,900 List Date: 10/2/15
MLS#: 09054819 Baths: 2/0 Year Built: 1974 DOM: 142
Status: Cancelled

Features

Waterfront: No Heat/Fuel: Gas, Forced Air Sewer: Sewer-Public Water: Lake Michigan
Basement: Walkout Appliances: Oven-Double, Oven/Range, Dishwasher, Refrigerator Number of
Rooms: 8 Garage Spaces: 2 Additional Rooms: No additional rooms Pet Info: No Pets

Remarks

Well maintained with some upgrades 4 BR, 2 BA split level house in desirable Schaumburg school
district. Great area to raise a family. Easy access to expressways and shopping.

Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Source: MRED

Arlyn Tratt | NextHome Elite | [email protected] | Fax: 866-597-8659 | Mobile: 312-244-3760

LISTING PHOTOS MLS #09054819

C 1473 Haise Lane, Elk Grove Village $1,900

Arlyn Tratt | NextHome Elite | [email protected] | Fax: 866-597-8659 | Mobile: 312-244-3760

MORE LISTING PHOTOS MLS #09054819

C 1473 Haise Lane, Elk Grove Village $1,900

Arlyn Tratt | NextHome Elite | [email protected] | Fax: 866-597-8659 | Mobile: 312-244-3760

PROPERTY DETAILS MLS #09058783

S 1409 Evans Court, Elk Grove Village $1,900

Listing information Beds: 4 Sq Ft: 1,250 Rent Date: 11/5/15
MLS#: 09058783 Baths: 2/0 Year Built: 1974 DOM: 30
Status: Rented

Features

Waterfront: No Heat/Fuel: Gas, Forced Air Sewer: Sewer-Public, Sewer-Storm Water: Lake
Michigan, Public Garage: Garage Door Opener(s), Transmitter(s) Exterior: Deck, Storms/Screens
Interior: Hardwood Floors Lot: Cul-de-sac Basement: Partial, English Appliances: Oven/Range,
Microwave, Dishwasher, Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer, Disposal Number of Rooms: 8 Parking
Included in Price: Yes Garage Spaces: 2 Additional Rooms: No additional rooms Common
Area Amenities: Park/Playground Pet Info: Dogs OK Total Number of Units: 1 SP/OLP Ratio:
0.90

Remarks

This home features Stainless Steel Appliances, Hardwood Flooring, Lovely Living Room and Dining
Room open to the Kitchen. Bathrooms are in sparkling condition. Lower level family room and 4th
bedroom combine for a total of 1,591 sf. A spacious deck overlooks a beautiful Yard! Great access to
expressways, Great schools! No Smokers!

Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Source: MRED

Arlyn Tratt | NextHome Elite | [email protected] | Fax: 866-597-8659 | Mobile: 312-244-3760

LISTING PHOTOS MLS #09058783

S 1409 Evans Court, Elk Grove Village $1,900

Arlyn Tratt | NextHome Elite | [email protected] | Fax: 866-597-8659 | Mobile: 312-244-3760

PROPERTY DETAILS MLS #09093171

S 1393 Mitchell Trail, Elk Grove Village $1,750

Listing information Beds: 4 Sq Ft: 1,600 Rent Date: 1/19/16
MLS#: 09093171 Baths: 2/0 Year Built: 1975 DOM: 19
Status: Rented

Features

Waterfront: No Heat/Fuel: Gas, Forced Air Sewer: Sewer-Public Water: Lake Michigan Garage:
Garage Door Opener(s) Exterior: Deck, Patio Interior: Laundry Hook-Up in Unit Lot: Fenced
Yard Basement: Partial Appliances: Oven/Range, Microwave, Dishwasher, Refrigerator, Washer,
Dryer, Disposal Number of Rooms: 8 Garage Spaces: 2 Additional Rooms: No additional
rooms Pet Info: No Pets SP/OLP Ratio: 0.95

Remarks

EXCELLENT RENTAL IN GREAT LOCATION WITH GREAT SCHOOLS. NEWER KITCHEN AND
UPDATED BATHS, LARGE DECK AND BRICK PAVER PATIO, HUGE FENCED YARD. STAINLESS
STEEL APPLIANCES. FULL SIZE WASHER AND DRYER. PETS WILL BE CONSIDERED ON A
CASE BY CASE BASIS.

Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Source: MRED

Arlyn Tratt | NextHome Elite | [email protected] | Fax: 866-597-8659 | Mobile: 312-244-3760

LISTING PHOTOS MLS #09093171

S 1393 Mitchell Trail, Elk Grove Village $1,750

Arlyn Tratt | NextHome Elite | [email protected] | Fax: 866-597-8659 | Mobile: 312-244-3760

PROPERTY DETAILS MLS #09111950

S 1454 Haise Lane, Elk Grove Village $1,900

Listing information Beds: 4 Sq Ft: 1,800 Rent Date: 3/1/16
MLS#: 09111950 Baths: 2/0 Year Built: 1973 DOM: 34
Status: Rented

Features

Waterfront: No Heat/Fuel: Gas, Forced Air Sewer: Sewer-Public Water: Lake Michigan Garage:
Garage Door Opener(s) Exterior: Deck, Storage Shed, Storms/Screens Interior: Hardwood Floors,
Laundry Hook-Up in Unit Basement: Partial Appliances: Oven/Range, Dishwasher, Refrigerator,
Washer, Dryer Number of Rooms: 8 Number of Fireplaces: 0 Parking Included in Price: Yes
Garage Spaces: 2 Additional Rooms: No additional rooms Common Area Amenities: None Pet
Info: Cats OK, Deposit Required, Dogs OK, Pet Count Limitation, Pet Weight Limitation SP/OLP
Ratio: 1.00

Remarks

This home is top notch! Features include hardwood floors, kitchen with solid surface counters and
island, 6 panel oak doors, recessed lighting, updated baths with granite counters, A/C 2009, Tear off
Roof 2012, HWH 2004, 220 electric, and all newer windows. Great location and district 54 and 211
schools!

Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Source: MRED

Arlyn Tratt | NextHome Elite | [email protected] | Fax: 866-597-8659 | Mobile: 312-244-3760

LISTING PHOTOS MLS #09111950

S 1454 Haise Lane, Elk Grove Village $1,900

Arlyn Tratt | NextHome Elite | [email protected] | Fax: 866-597-8659 | Mobile: 312-244-3760

COMPARABLE PROPERTY STATISTICS ANALYSIS

Rented Listings

Number of listings 7

Lowest price $1,750

Average price $1,875

Highest price $2,000

Avg price per sqft $1.37

Avg DOM 28

Cancelled Listings

Number of listings 1

Lowest price $1,900

Average price $1,900

Highest price $1,900

Avg price per sqft $1.00

Avg DOM 142

Arlyn Tratt | NextHome Elite | [email protected] | Fax: 866-597-8659 | Mobile: 312-244-3760

RENTED PROPERTY ANALYSIS ANALYSIS

Address List Price Rent Price Difference DOM $ per Sqft
812 Cutter Lane $1,995 $1,975 -1.00% 42 $1.21
1534 Collins Circle $1,800 $1,800 0.00% 28 $1.49
1422 Worden Way $2,000 $2,000 0.00% 39 $1.72
1534 Collins Circle $1,800 $1,800 0.00% 9 $1.49
1409 Evans Court $1,900 $1,900 0.00% 30 $1.52
1393 Mitchell Trail $1,795 $1,750 -2.51% 19 $1.09
1454 Haise Lane $1,900 $1,900 0.00% 34 $1.06
$1,884 $1,875 -0.49% 28 $1.37
Rent Averages

Arlyn Tratt | NextHome Elite | [email protected] | Fax: 866-597-8659 | Mobile: 312-244-3760

WHY YOU NEED A REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL INFO

If you’re planning to sell your home, it’s probably crossed your mind to try to sell it yourself and save the
sales commission. But, there are some very good reasons why that would be a mistake.

According to housing industry experts at
HomeGain.com and Realtor.org, more homes listed
by real estate agents are sold than homes marketed
by owners, and they sell more quickly and for more
money.

Homes listed by real estate professionals get more
exposure and their sellers get more support. Real
estate professionals offer many advantages:

• They’re trained and licensed professionals.

• They have experience in your neighborhood and
your market.

• They have oversight from brokers and state
licensing officials.

• Their job is to advise you the best way to reach
your goals.

• Their continuing education keeps them up-to- Homes listed by real estate professionals get more
date on housing issues. exposure and their sellers get more support.

• They know how to present your home and deal with buyers.

• They know how and where to market properties.

• They know how to overcome typical snags that occur in all real estate transactions and closings.

• They understand state-required disclosures and look out for your best interests.

• They understand personal safety and security for your belongings during showings.

• They know the best resources to make transactions go more smoothly, from bankers to home-
stagers to contractors.

• They have the most accurate data sources – the MLS, the only data repository that has the most up-
to-date listing and sales information.

• They know how to negotiate.

• Their job is making real estate transactions successful.

When you market your own home, you have to make the time to do all the jobs a real estate professional
would do, and you’ll be competing against other sellers who have real estate professionals by their sides.

If you can’t leave work to show your home, or you feel it requires more knowledge and experience than
you have, you can’t go wrong by hiring a well-respected real estate professional.

Arlyn Tratt | NextHome Elite | [email protected] | Fax: 866-597-8659 | Mobile: 312-244-3760

INTELLIGENT PRICING AND TIMING INFO

Pricing a home for sale is as much art as science, but there are a few truisms that never change.

• Fair market value attracts buyers, overpricing never does.
• The first two weeks of marketing are crucial.
• The market never lies, but it can change its mind.

Fair market value is what a willing buyer and a willing seller agree by contract is a fair price for the home.
Values can be impacted by a wide range of reasons but the two largest are location and condition.
Generally, fair market value can be determined by comparables - other similar homes that have sold or
are currently for sale in the same area.
Sellers often view their homes as special which tempts them to put a higher price on the home, believing
they can always come down later, but that’s a serious mistake.
Overpricing prevents the very buyers who are eligible to buy the home from ever seeing it. Most buyers
shop by price range, and look for the best value in that range.

Arlyn Tratt | NextHome Elite | [email protected] | Fax: 866-597-8659 | Mobile: 312-244-3760

INTELLIGENT PRICING AND TIMING INFO

Your best chance of selling your home is in the first two weeks of marketing. Your home is fresh and
exciting to buyers and to their agents.
With a sign in the yard, a description in the local Multiple Listing Service, distribution across the Internet,
open houses, broker’s caravan, ads, and email blasts to your listing agent’s buyers, your home will get
the greatest flurry of attention and interest in the first two weeks.
If you don’t get many showings or offers, you’ve probably overpriced your home, and it’s not comparing
well to the competition. Since you can’t change the location, you’ll have to improve the home’s condition
or lower the price.
Consult with your agent and ask for feedback. Perhaps you can do a little more to spruce up your home’s
curb appeal, or perhaps stage the interior to better advantage.
The market can always change its mind and give your home another chance, but by then you’ve lost
precious time and perhaps allowed a stigma to cloud your home’s value.
Intelligent pricing isn’t about getting the most for your home – it’s about getting your home sold quickly at
fair market value.

Arlyn Tratt | NextHome Elite | [email protected] | Fax: 866-597-8659 | Mobile: 312-244-3760

CURB APPEAL, A FIRST IMPRESSION THAT LASTS INFO

First Impressions

Most buyers form their first impression of your home before they even get out of their cars. This is “curb
appeal,” or the view from the curb that tells the buyer how attractive and well-maintained your home is
compared to other homes. In a competitive market, it takes more than trimming the hedges and planting
a few flowers to create curb appeal.

The exterior of your home must be in pristine
condition – freshly painted, cleared of clutter, with
no visible repairs needed. A broken step, overgrown
bush, or abandoned toys in the yard can spoil the
appearance and your buyer’s first impression.

Curb Appeal

Curb appeal is important because it sets the tone for
what the buyer is going to see inside. If the buyer
likes the exterior, he or she will be predisposed to
also like the interior and you’re that much closer to
selling your home. To see what needs to be done to
sell your home faster and for a higher price, go
outside, stand on the curb and try to look at your
home the way the buyer will.

Walkways/driveways - Make sure walkways are

clear of snow, weeds, or debris. Repair or replace

cracked steps or pavers. Driveways should also be

clear of vehicles, toys and debris. Park cars in the

garage. It takes more than trimming the hedges and planting a

Landscaping - Keep your lawn mowed, edged and few flowers to create curb appeal.

watered. Prune dead branches and plants. Weed flower beds and replace leggy, thin landscaping with

fresh plants and flowers.

Exterior - Replace loose or damaged roof shingles, clean the gutters, and paint and caulk window trim
and doors. Repaint the front door an eye-catching color that complements the rest of the exterior.
Replace broken windows.

Entry - Power wash siding, brick, windows, and porches. Paint or replace furniture such as rocking
chairs or porch swings. Replace mailboxes, light fixtures, door knobs or any other fixture that looks less
than fresh. Put out a welcoming new floormat.

Some parts of your home may require more work than others, but it’s well worth it to get buyers eager to
see what’s inside.

Arlyn Tratt | NextHome Elite | [email protected] | Fax: 866-597-8659 | Mobile: 312-244-3760

MOVING CHECKLIST INFO

Moving to a new home can be an exciting journey. Whether you’re changing cities or neighborhoods, a
move is not only a change in scenery, it’s the start of a new chapter in life. Yet, moving can also be very
stressful, often seeming like one thing after another has to be done. By finding the right moving service
and having a good, though flexible, moving plan, most of the common moving headaches can be easily
avoided.

Start planning your move

Finding the best mover for your particular needs and
at the right price involves a simple evaluation of your
needs. Like many service-oriented industries, the
moving companies of today have expanded to offer a
wide range of services in order to be competitive.
From planning your move, to storing your things, to
packing and unpacking, to decorating and organizing
your belongings in your new home, you can choose
the extent of services you require and have them
tailored to suit your moving budget.

Deciding what to pack isn’t as simple as it sounds, Ask your relocation agent which moving companies
particularly if you’re downsizing, but the amount of their company recommends.
goods as well as the type of goods you’re moving
can make a big difference in which mover you
choose and how much you’ll spend.

A good rule of thumb is to group items into no more than three categories - Keep, Donate, Throw Away.
Label your things according to the rooms where they’ll be moved – bedroom #2, first floor powder bath
by stairs, etc. Provide your movers with copies of the floorplan of your new home, so they can move
more efficiently without having to stop and ask you where things go. Lastly, remember that the movers,
though they are professionals, will get tired. On the Chicago-based Bernard Movers website, the movers
advise keeping boxes under 50 pounds whenever possible. They also strongly recommend putting
heavier items in smaller boxes to reduce bulkiness, and lighter items in larger boxes with proper labeling
like "topload."

Get referrals

According to Mayflower.com, one of the nation’s most recognized movers, finding a good moving service
begins with asking someone you know - a family member, coworker or a friend about their moving
experiences, good or bad. Who do you know who works with people who frequently move? Your real
estate professional can also be an excellent source of information. And if you’re being transferred, ask
your relocation agent which moving companies their company recommends. Other employees of your
company who have preceded your relocation may also be able to suggest a reputable mover.

Large industry organizations such as American Moving and Storage Association have associate
members listed on their Web sites. These associate moving company members must agree to abide by

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the terms of the organization's published tariffs and to participate in the Arbitration Program sponsored
by the organization, which may be positive for consumers. Although the AMSA doesn't recommend
movers, a list of members is posted on the site, along with helpful hints. The AMSA does suggest getting
several estimates in order to compare cost and range of services.

Consumer organizations such as the Better Business Bureau can give you additional insights. If the
company is registered through BBB, then you can find all relevant information from their corporate
address, BBB rating, if there are any complaints against the company, the names of any and all
management, and any specific licensing that your state may require. Of course one of the many places
to start looking for your mover is the Internet. Online you can find and compare many moving companies’
services on their websites.

Comparing movers

When you compare price and service estimates from several moving companies, you will find that
estimates are based on the weight of your household items, the distance they will be moved, and the
amount of packing and other services you will require. Be sure to show the estimator every single item
that will be moved. Find out if your mover accepts credit cards, third-party payments from your company,
or whether the mover operates by cash only. Negotiations with your mover should include a clear
understanding of rates and charges that will apply, the mover's liability for your belongings, pick-up and
delivery schedules, and claims protection. For example, if you decide to pack some of your own things,
your mover will not be liable. If your estimate is binding, it will not cover non-itemized items. Non-binding
estimates are not guaranteed rates, and only cover the weight of your shipment, and the cost of the
moving services. An estimate still has to be performed before a mover will provide you with a binding
contract.

If you are moving interstate, you should read and understand all of the information you will receive. In
addition to brochures explaining their various services, moving companies should give you a copy of a
consumer booklet entitled "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move" and information regarding
the mover's participation in a Dispute Settlement Program. Distribution of the consumer booklet and the
requirement that movers must offer shippers neutral arbitration as a means of settling disputes that may
arise concerning loss or damage on household goods shipments are requirements of the Federal
Highway Administration (FHWA).

Be prepared

Even in the most well-planned moves, something can happen. Insurance is crucial. Check with your
homeowner’s insurance carrier about coverage for your belongings while moving. Your mover will
provide either released value insurance (about $0.60 per pound of goods lost or damaged, according to
NAVL.com) or full replacement value, which you must sign for on your bill of lading. If you are not sure
how to estimate the value of your belongings for insurance purposes, your insurance carrier may provide
suggestions, such as $10,000 per room or half the value of the new home. Items of special value such as
heirlooms, paintings, or collectibles can be insured under separate riders. In the event of damage to an
item, file a claim immediately. Be sure to save the packing materials to show to the adjuster, should there
be any problems.

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FEATURES THAT SELL INFO

According to the National Association of REALTORS® latest profile of homebuyers and sellers, buyers
plan to occupy their homes for the next 10 years. They want homes that offer the room, flexibility and
comfort they anticipate they will need for a long time. Over three out of four buyers chose a detached
home, while attached homes - condos and townhomes - were favored by single homebuyers and buyers
without children.

Buyers Today

The median-sized existing home purchased in 2010
was built in 1990, with 1,780 square feet, three
bedrooms and two bathrooms. Size mattered most,
while the home's condition came in a close second.
Buyers in multiple surveys expressed concerns over
operating costs. They want energy-efficient
appliances, windows, water and operating systems.
They're also carefully considered commuting costs to
jobs, schools and other destinations. Overall, they’re
buying smaller homes closer to the inner city.

A study by The National Association of Home Buyers want homes that offer the room, flexibility and
Builders found that buyers are interested in saving comfort they anticipate they will need for a long time.
on square footage, but they want a gracious, but
casual ambiance. It's likely that new homes by 2015
will reflect buyers' preferences for maximizing square
footage with smaller entries, dining rooms and living
rooms, and awarding that square footage to a
greater-sized family room and eat-in kitchen.

Must Have Features:

• A walk-in closet in the master bedroom
• Separate tub and shower in the master bath
• A separate laundry room
• Ceiling fans
• First-floor master
• Two-car garage
• Insulated front door
• 9-foot ceilings on first level

Buyers want homes that are sustainable and affordable, more than homes that are impressive to others.
For that reason, builders predict that homes of the future will continue to be smaller and more energy-
efficient, with far better space-planning, storage and utility than existing homes have today.

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ONLINE HOME VALUES AND YOUR HOME INFO

Plenty of sellers have visited online home valuation sites such as Zillow, Trulia, eAppraisal, and others
only to be shocked at the value of their homes.

Most sellers are pleased when the values appear higher than they expected, but many online valuations
come in far lower.

Online Valuations

Estimating a home’s market value is far from an
exact science. What these sites attempt to do is
provide greater transparency to homebuyers and
sellers by making data derived from public records,
more…public. They publish what you paid for your
home and how much you pay in taxes. Many have
satellite views so accurate they can spot your cat
laying on the front porch.

How do they do it? Home valuation sites contract Ask your real estate professional for a comparative
with major title companies such as First American to market analysis, or CMA.
obtain county tax roll data. All property is registered
with the county for property taxing purposes. They
also find ways to become members of local multiple
listing services, which are either subsidiaries of real
estate associations or owned by local real estate
brokers. That way, they have access to listing data.

Between tax roll data and listing data, home valuation sites apply their own secret sauce, or algorithm to
come up with “zestimates” or approximate values of what homes are worth.

Sometimes the results are spot on, but they can also be terribly inaccurate. First, transaction data has to
be recorded with the county, which could take weeks. But, what alters the algorithm most is that
properties not currently on the market are included in the data. The algorithms can’t possibly show
whether or not a home has been updated, how well it’s maintained, or esoteric values such as curb
appeal and views.

For that reason, online valuations should be used only as one of many tools to estimate a home’s value.

Ask your real estate professional for their expert analysis

Ask your real estate professional for a comparative market analysis, or CMA. He or she can show you
the most recent listings and sold comparables, accurate to within hours or a few days at most.

.

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HOW CMAS CAN VARY INFO

Whether you are buying or selling a home, your real estate professional can give you a snapshot of the
local market known as the competitive or comparative market analysis or CMA.

CMAs are generated from multiple listing service data.
They’re convenient reports that help sellers choose a
listing price and buyers to make offers on a given
home.

CMAs vary greatly depending on the search
parameters that are input by the real estate
professional, by type of home (detached vs. attached),
postal code or by street, number of bedrooms, baths
and living areas, square footage, and numerous other
search criteria.

A CMA helps the seller choose a listing price and the They also tell you which homes have recently sold - six
buyer to make an offer. months, three months, one month, and which homes
are currently on the market in the area and price range
you’re interested in. As many fields of information as
there are, some criteria simply can’t be listed in a CMA.
If the MLS has a field for “ocean views,” you’ll know.
But if not, you’ll have to learn more in the remarks
section that is filled in by the listing agent. There you
might find “great views.” But who is to say what makes
a great view?

CMAs results may vary even between identical homes

One property may simply offer better drive-up appeal or is in better condition than the other, and that will
be reflected in the sales price.

Last, buyer and seller motivation can’t be quantified. You don’t know why a seller agreed to take less for
their home or why a buyer paid more for another home. Family problems, corporate relocations and other
reasons all play a role. What you can learn from the CMA is how long the home took to sell. If it was
quick, the seller was highly motivated. If it didn’t, it was probably overpriced.

CMAs are Tools

For these reasons, CMAs are not home valuations. They are tools to use alongside your real estate
professional’s knowledge of the market. They may have house-to-house knowledge of the market and be
able to tell you why they think one home sold for more than another.

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CMAS VS APPRAISALS INFO

Market Value

Establishing a home’s market value is equally
important to buyers, sellers, lenders and real estate
professionals so that transactions can proceed
quickly and efficiently. A real estate professional may
prepare a comparative or comprehensive market
analysis (CMA) for their sellers to help them choose
a listing price. The CMA includes recently sold
homes and homes for sale in the seller’s
neighborhood that are most similar to the seller’s
home in appearance, features, and general price
range.

Home Value Your home’s market value is equally important to
buyers, sellers, lenders and real estate professionals.

Although the CMA is used to help determine current
market value, it does not establish the seller’s home value. In fact, the seller’s home is typically not even
featured in the CMA. The CMA is merely a guide to help the seller learn what’s happening in their local
market, so they can better understand where their home fits in term of price ranges, based on location,
features and condition. Once the home is listed on the open market, a buyer makes an offer, usually
based in part on a CMA the buyer’s agent has prepared. CMAs can help buyers better understand the
local market as well as sellers. If the buyer is receiving financing through a bank, the bank will order an
appraisal. Unlike the CMA, a bank appraisal is a professional determination of a home’s value. It’s
performed by a licensed appraiser, using guidelines established by the Federal Housing Finance
Agency, which regulates federal housing loan guarantors such as FHA, VA and housing loan purchasers
Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

Appraisal

An appraisal is a comprehensive look at a home’s location, condition, and eligibility for federal
guarantees. For example, a home that doesn’t meet safety requirements such as handrails on steps will
not be eligible for FHA or VA loans until the handrail is installed or repaired. Appraisers use the same
data in their market research to find comparable homes as REALTORS® do. They are also members of
the MLS, but they also have additional guidelines from the bank to follow that minimize risk to the bank.
They may take off value for slow-moving markets, or markets with high rates of foreclosures. If prices are
falling, the appraiser takes the number of days a home has been on the market far more conservatively.

When the appraisal is finished, the bank makes the decision to fund the loan, or it may require the seller
to fix certain items and show proof that the repairs have been made before letting the loan proceed. If the
loan doesn’t meet lending guidelines, the bank will decline the loan. Despite stricter lending and
appraisal standards, most buyers’ loan applications go through to closing – nearly 85 percent. One
reason for that is that real estate agents are preparing CMAs that are better tuned to lending standards,
for sellers and buyers to better understand not only what the market is doing, but how much lenders are
willing to finance.

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CLIENT TESTIMONIALS INFO

Here's a list of my happy customers!

• ktousi Helped me buy a home
It has been quite some time since I have been involved in buying a new home and I cannot thank
Arlyn enough for helping us to navigate the process. Arlyn is very patient and flexible and helped to
explain some of the changes that have happened in the housing marketing (more complexity,
clauses, etc.) and was always encouraging. There were three parts of the experience in working with
Arlyn that stood out to me:
-Use of technology – Arlyn sent us listings that might be of interested and we were able to “rate”
them and add comments – and quickly review these comments when we needed to. It was a great
way to track our reactions to properties, particularly for a very time-challenged couple
-Support through the entire sales process – as I noted above, Arlyn was very patient and was able to
let us know what steps in the process or requests were “standard” and gave us a heads up on
anything unusual. Home buying can be emotional and I really appreciated the guidance Arlyn gave. I
also liked that Arlyn was there at every step – easy to reach for questions. He was happy to help
even on topics that weren’t “his job” – getting information on the building specs / rules, helping me to
find a potential designer, etc.
-Negotiations – Given his easy-going demeanor and flexibility, I was surprised to see Arlyn’s
strength in negotiating on our behalf. He really represented us very well and was dogged in his
determination to get us the best deal possible.
I would absolutely recommend working with Arlyn – he brings a great blend of market knowledge
and client-focused service.

Wed, Apr 16, 2014

• hiltonandjill Helped me buy a home
Arlyn was a fantastic agent to work with when looking for our home. We met him at an open house
and knew he would be a great fit for us. He is very knowlegable, works hard and cares a lot about
his clients. I would recommend anyone to Arlyn, both for buying and selling a house.

Wed, Mar 12, 2014

• sujorn Helped me buy a home
Arlyn did an amazing job with helping me shop for a house last year. He was timely, professional,
had a good sense of humor, but also knew his market and overall conditions. He has good opinions
and good insight. I consider Arlyn a partner and an ally.He knows that what is best for your situation
is what matter in his vocation, and if you are supported well, then he would have earned his keep. I
am asking Arlyn again to help me out to buy investment property because my experience with Arlyn
has been pristine and want a realtor who I can trust. I'm only worried that he might be kept too busy

Arlyn Tratt | NextHome Elite | [email protected] | Fax: 866-597-8659 | Mobile: 312-244-3760

and might not be able to help me out because he is helping you instead! But, this has not been the
case, and he deserves an honorable mention.

Wed, Feb 19, 2014

• B Fabiano Client, Seller
We worked with Arlyn throughout the entire selling process, he made it so easy and comfortable that
we almost forgot we were selling our home. The experience was wonderful and we truly appreciated
the professionalism shown at all the different stages of the process. We strongly recommend Arlyn
to all of our relatives and friends that need to sell their properties.

Tue, Feb 18, 2014

• sally Helped me buy a home
Arlyn sold an investment condo for me in downtown Chicago & located 2 more to purchase using
1031 Exchange. He made sure that I had up to date info on properties & got me into see them
promptly. His advice was invaluable to helping me make the right choice. As he has an easy relaxed
manner, it is a pleasure to work with him & other agents respond well to him...making negotiations
go smoothly! I have already referred friends to him.

Sun, Dec 15, 2013

Sumaiya Patel
Arlyn is a great real estate agent. He was very helpful, receptive, and dedicated to helping us find a
rental property in the morton grove area. He is friendly, asks all the right questions, and really is able
gauge the needs of his clients. He was able to figure out what we liked/disliked within one visit, and
showed us things closer to our taste/requirements after spending a short amount of time with us. Arlyn is
a great real estate agent, very friendly, professional, and efficient. We would definitely work with him in
the future.

Stacey Tobin, Client

Arlyn was fantastic - with the renter's market so crazy, we thought we'd have a tough time competing
with others' offers. Arlyn gave us some practical advice about putting together our offer, and we got the
house we wanted, first try! He's very accessible, too - we had worked with two other agents who never
bothered to return phone calls and were pleasantly surprised when Arlyn phoned us back almost
immediately. I highly recommend him to anyone who is thinking of finding a home.

Ian Client, Buyer
Arlyn helped my wife and I find the perfect condo for our first home. His knowledge of the market and
candid assessments of the various properties we viewed made us confident that we made the right
decision, and we lived there for many happy years. He is a great guy and genuinely wants to make his

Arlyn Tratt | NextHome Elite | [email protected] | Fax: 866-597-8659 | Mobile: 312-244-3760

clients happy, even going so far as to give me some guidance when I later sold the condo by owner.
Couldn't ask for more than that!
For more than 50 Testimonials please visit my Trulia Real Estate Profile
http://www.arlyntratt.com

Arlyn Tratt | NextHome Elite | [email protected] | Fax: 866-597-8659 | Mobile: 312-244-3760

MY RATINGS AND REVIEWS ON ZILLOW INTRO

Arlyn Tratt, Managing Broker/Owner Zillow Screenname

34 Reviews realtortratt
17 Recent sales
Bought a Condo home in 2015 for
Bought a Condo home in 2016 for approximately $225K in Rolling Meadows,
approximately $375K in South Loop, IL.
Chicago, IL.
01/13/2016 yurihnrqz
02/21/2016 tianni89

Arlyn was really helpful in the entire home buying process. He As a first time homeowner, Arlyn was able to thoroughly
was patient, knowledgeable, and responsible, and I was glad explain to me the whole home buying process as well as guide
that I could put my trust in his recommendations and advice. A me every step of the way. He provided me with a wonderful
bonus is that ... team which supported me ...

Helped me rent a Single Family home in Helped me rent a Condo home in
Streamwood, IL. Edgewater Beach, Chicago, IL.

12/30/2015 calicea26 12/09/2015 bwmonti

Arlyn recently helped me find a home to rent on short notice. Arlyn .....by far....the most down to earth, knowledgeable,
He was very helpful, and responded to my messages almost professional I have ever met. He IS the bar all other agents
immediately. If I needed anything, he never hesitated to help. I should try to reach. I was put into contact with Arlyn by a
would highly ... mutual friend on a ...

Helped me rent a home in South Loop, Bought a Condo home in 2015 for
Chicago, IL 60605. approximately $400K in Uptown, Chicago,
IL.
09/28/2015 zuser20141014160141656
09/25/2015 cnovick4
We are a couple with 2 kids and after seeing hundreds of
houses for lease, getting frustrated and desesperate, we met I worked with Arlyn on the purchase of a condo in the city and
Arlyn and in 3 days he gave us our dream home. He is a really on the sale of another condo. He is bright, easy to deal with
easygoing guy, very ... and very responsive. I appreciated his knowledge and
expertise, which he ...

Arlyn Tratt | NextHome Elite | [email protected] | Fax: 866-597-8659 | Mobile: 312-244-3760