Here are the 3 things that ACTUALLY matter when buying your first Chicago home:1️⃣ SOLID FOUNDATION & ROOFChicago’s freeze-thaw cycles destroy foundations, and heavy snow wrecks roofs. A new roof costs $10K-$30K+. Foundation repairs? Even more. Get them inspected thoroughly.2️⃣ UPDATED MECHANICALSYour furnace needs to work Nov-April, period. Make sure it’s under 15 years old, water heater is solid, and electrical panel can handle modern life (200-amp is ideal). Mid-winter furnace replacement = $3K-$6K you don’t want to spend.3️⃣ GOOD BONES OVER PRETTY FINISHESYou can paint walls. You can replace carpet. You can renovate kitchens over time. But you CAN’T change the layout, natural light, room sizes, or location. Buy the “ugly” house with great bones in the right neighborhood, it’ll appreciate better and you can make it yours.🚨 CHICAGO BONUS: Check the sump pump! Most homes here have basements, and a working sump pump is non-negotiable. Ask when it was replaced and if there’s a flooding history.First-time buyer? Let’s make sure you’re looking at the RIGHT things when house hunting 👀💾 Save this & DM me “READY” when you’re ready to start your search 🏡#chicagorealestate#firsttimehomebuyer#chicagohomes#homebuying101#realestatetips#chicagorealtor#homebuyingtips#chicago#realestate ​​​​​​​#compasschicago#agentsofcompass