Joanna Goles - Real Estate Agent HomeSmart Connect LLC, Hoffman Estates, IL (2026)

03/11/2026

🚨🏡 Illinois First-Time Homebuyer Program – Up to $15,000 in Assistance

Good news for buyers! Illinois has launched a program that may help first-time homebuyers receive up to $15,000 toward buying a home.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

• 💰 Up to $15,000 for down payment or closing costs
• 📉 0% interest assistance loan
• ⏳ No monthly payments required
• 🏠 Payment is only due if you sell, refinance, or move
• 📚 Homebuyer education course required

Basic requirements:

• Minimum 640 credit score
• Debt-to-income ratio 50% or lower
• Buyer must contribute at least $1,000 or 1% of purchase price
• Must meet income limits depending on county

🌷 With the spring market already here, this could be a great opportunity for buyers who thought homeownership was out of reach.

📩 If you or someone you know is thinking about buying a home this year, feel free to message me. I’d be happy to connect you with lenders offering this program.

Joanna Goles, Homesmart Connect

📞773.814.3045

03/05/2026

📊📈The spring market is starting to heat up! 🌷🏡

We’re seeing more buyers entering the market, while inventory in many neighborhoods is still relatively low. That means well-priced homes are still attracting strong interest.

✔️If you’ve been thinking about selling, this could be a great time to explore your options. Many buyers are actively looking and waiting for the right home to hit the market.

✔️If you’re buying, preparation is key—getting pre-approved and understanding the market can help you move quickly when the right home appears.

💲Curious what your home might be worth in today’s market? I’d be happy to provide a free home value estimate or answer any questions.

Call me anytime 773.814.3045
Joanna Goles, HomeSmart Connect

02/26/2026

🏡 Hoffman Estates Local Market Update – January 2026

The latest real estate data for Hoffman Estates shows notable trends in both detached and attached single-family homes:

New Listings: Increased by 12.2% for all properties.
Closed Sales: Up by 23.1% for all properties.
Inventory of Homes: Grew by 26.7% for all properties.

🏠📈Detached Single-Family Homes

January 2026 vs. January 2025:

New Listings: Increased by 7.7% (28 vs. 26).
Under Contract: Up by 28.6% (18 vs. 14).
Closed Sales: Increased by 7.7% (14 vs. 13).
Median Sales Price: Dropped by 13.2% ($392,500 vs. $452,000).
Average Sales Price: Decreased by 13.4% ($403,332 vs. $465,615).
Inventory: Increased by 23.5% (21 vs. 17).

Trailing 12 Months:

New Listings: Slight decrease of 0.4% (473 vs. 475).
Under Contract: Declined by 7.5% (310 vs. 335).
Closed Sales: Dropped by 12.5% (300 vs. 343).
Median Sales Price: Increased by 5.8% ($455,000 vs. $430,000).
Average Sales Price: Up by 4.3% ($476,395 vs. $456,726).

🏢🏢Attached Single-Family Homes

January 2026 vs. January 2025:

New Listings: Increased by 20.0% (18 vs. 15).
Under Contract: Surged by 122.2% (20 vs. 9).
Closed Sales: Up by 38.5% (18 vs. 13).
Median Sales Price: Slight decrease of 1.1% ($316,450 vs. $320,000).
Average Sales Price: Increased by 13.3% ($310,608 vs. $274,173).
Inventory: Grew by 30.8% (17 vs. 13).

Trailing 12 Months:

New Listings: Increased by 1.2% (328 vs. 324).
Under Contract: No change (236 vs. 236).
Closed Sales: Dropped by 13.4% (213 vs. 246).
Median Sales Price: Increased by 10.4% ($265,000 vs. $240,000).
Average Sales Price: Up by 11.3% ($285,082 vs. $256,250).

If you have any questions about the current real estate market call me

Joanna Goles, Homesmart Connect Arlington Hts
773.814.3045

02/20/2026

New on the market🏡
Picture perfect in Lake in the Hills ✨

4 Bedrooms | 2.1 Baths | Finished Basement

Updated kitchen, cozy fireplace, and a backyard oasis with an in-ground pool, deck & pergola 🌿☀️

Move-in ready and close to everything.
DM to schedule your showing!

02/14/2026

🏡💕 Home is Where the Heart Is 💕🏡

This Valentine’s Day, let’s talk about true love—the kind that comes with a front door, cozy corners, and a place to make lasting memories. Whether you’re searching for your first love (a starter home) or ready to commit to your forever home, I’m here to help you find the one!

Because just like in love, finding the perfect home is about trust, timing, and a little bit of magic. 💖

Thinking about making a move? Let’s find your home sweet home together!

Joanna Goles, Homesmart Connect
📞773.814.3045
Polish - English speaking agent

💰Would you like to know how much is your house worth? Click link below
http://myhomesvalueillinois.com/

Follow me on Link tree
https://linktr.ee/joannagoles

Interested in buying, selling call me directly or schedule a consultation via link below:
https://calendly.com/joannagoles/30min

02/12/2026

🏠🍩 Ever dreamed of living in a house that looks like a giant donut? Imagine waking up every morning in a cozy, donut-shaped home surrounded by sweet vibes and delicious decor.

From sprinkle-covered walls to a glazed roof, this whimsical abode would be a sugary paradise!

🏠🍩 Today is all about paczki “ donuts” those delicious Polish donuts! Enjoy them as much as we do! If the "Donut House" isn't on your list, I can definitely help you find a sweet spot that fits your taste🏠🍩

I’m just a call away! Feel free to reach out anytime with your questions—I’m here to help and support you in any way I can 🏠 Please forward MY INFO to anyone you know may be interested in buying or selling in the near future❤️

💰Would you like to know how much is your house worth? Click link below
http://myhomesvalueillinois.com/

Joanna Goles, Homesmart Connect
📞773.814.3045
Polish - English speaking agent

Follow me on Link tree
https://linktr.ee/joannagoles

Interested in buying, selling call me directly or schedule a consultation via link below:
https://calendly.com/joannagoles/30min

11/07/2025

🏡Open house in Huntley

Where: 6111 Ridgeview Dr, Huntley IL 60142

Listing price:💲675,000

When: Saturday, November 8th, 11am-1pm

⭐️ Step into this stunning 5 beds, 2 baths unique home with an open floor plan that’s perfect for entertaining. You’ll love the spacious layout, oversized kitchen island and the natural light pouring in from every angle ☀️Whether you’re cooking, hosting or relaxing - this home check all the boxes ✅ But wait….. did I mention that this home sits on the spacious lot featuring a scenic pond and peaceful country views, creating a serine retreat just minutes from town. Ideal for those who appreciate natural beauty and tranquility, this setting provides both comfort and relaxation🌳🌳

10/31/2025

👻Halloween and Haunted houses🏠👇

Haunted houses might be horror’s favorite attraction, but they definitely do not have the same appeal when it comes to the real estate market.

The scary highlights 👻

📌 Of those who have lived in a haunted house, 27% knew the house was haunted before they moved in and still chose to live there.

📌 A staggering 95% of Americans say it’s important to feel safe in their home, but 57% of those who have lived in a haunted house say it scared them, and 43% say their home caused them stress.

📌 More than one in three haunted homeowners (36%) regret living in a haunted house, and 55% would not buy another home they knew was haunted.

📌 More than two in three Americans (68%) say the government should require sellers to disclose a haunted home, but only 31% of sellers would willingly tell the buyer if their home was bewitched.

📌 Eleven percent of sellers wouldn’t disclose a haunted house even if it was required by law compared to 8% in 2022.

📌 Although a majority of buyers would purchase a haunted house, 72% would feel uncomfortable doing so.

📌 Seventy-one percent of Americans could be convinced to buy a haunted house to save money.

📌 Nearly two in three homebuyers (62%) would only offer below market value for a haunted home, with one in three (31%) offering at least $50,000 less and one in nine (11%) offering at least $100,000 less.

📌 Americans say the most terrifying aspects of homeownership are all financial in nature: unexpected costs (50%), high interest rates (46%) and an inability to pay their mortgage (42%).

📌 Ghosts are scary, but 93% of Americans are more afraid of home repair problems, such as mold (60%), termites (57%) and a leaky roof (54%).

📌 Nearly half of Americans (48%) would rather live with ghosts than purchase a home near a nuclear waste facility.

Now when you know all the facts Let’s Go Get Some Candy 🍬🍭🍫

🎃🍬🎃🍬🎃🍬🎃🍬🎃🍬🎃🍬🎃🍬🎃🍬🎃

Have a FUN and SAFE Halloween 🎃👀

💰Would you like to know how much is your house worth? Click link below⬇️

http://myhomesvalueillinois.com/

Joanna Goles, Homesmart Connect
📞773.814.3045
Polish - English speaking agent

Follow me on Link tree
https://linktr.ee/joannagoles

Interested in buying, selling call me directly or schedule a consultation via link below:
https://calendly.com/joannagoles/30min

10/30/2025

🌟 Hello Future Homeowners! 🌟🏠

If you're actively looking for a new home, knowing what to expect can make the journey smoother and way more exciting! 🏡 Here's a quick step-by-step guide to get you started on the right foot.

Lets play BUYOPOLY with me 🏠

💰Would you like to know how much is your house worth? Click link below ⬇️

http://myhomesvalueillinois.com/📈💰

Joanna Goles, Homesmart Connect
📞773.814.3045
Polish - English speaking agent

Follow me on Link tree
https://linktr.ee/joannagoles

Interested in buying, selling call me directly or schedule a consultation via link below:
https://calendly.com/joannagoles/30min

06/19/2025

💰🏡Buying a home in Illinois involves more than just the down payment. Here are the key costs you should budget for:

🔹 Upfront Costs:
✅ **Down Payment** – Typically **3-20%** of the home price, depending on loan type.
✅ **Earnest Money Deposit** – Usually **1-3%** of the purchase price, applied toward closing.
✅ **Home Inspection** – Around **$300-$600**, depending on property size.
✅ **Appraisal Fee** – Typically **$400-$700**, required by lenders.

🔹 Closing Costs (2-5% of Home Price):**
✅ **Loan Origination Fees** – Lender’s processing fees (**0.5-1%** of the loan).
✅ **Title Insurance & Fees** – Covers legal ownership rights (**$1,000-$3,000**).
✅ **Attorney Fees** – Illinois requires a real estate attorney (**$500-$1,500**).
✅ **Property Taxes (Prepaid)** – Illinois has high property taxes; expect to prepay **6-12 months’ worth**.
✅ **Homeowners Insurance** – Typically **$800-$2,000 per year**, paid upfront.
🔹 Ongoing Costs:
✅ **Mortgage Payments** – Includes principal, interest, taxes, and insurance (PITI).
✅ **Property Taxes** – Varies by county; Illinois has some of the highest in the U.S.
✅ **HOA Fees (If Applicable)** – Monthly or annual fees for condo or community maintenance.
✅ **Utilities & Maintenance** – Budget for repairs, upkeep, and utilities.

Planning ahead can help avoid surprises!
Need help estimating your home-buying budget? Let’s connect! 📩🏡

06/12/2025

📍📫 Location, location, location!!!

🏡 Why Choosing the Right Neighborhood Matters When Buying a Home! 📍

Buying a home isn’t just about the house itself—the neighborhood and location play a huge role in your long-term happiness and investment. Here’s why:

✅ Property Value & Future Appreciation – A great location can increase your home’s value over time.
✅ Commute & Convenience – Proximity to work, schools, shopping, and amenities makes daily life easier.
✅ School Districts – Even if you don’t have kids, good schools boost property demand & resale value.
✅ Safety & Community – Crime rates, neighborhood vibe, and local culture matter for comfort and security.
✅ Lifestyle & Amenities – Parks, restaurants, entertainment, and outdoor spaces can enhance your quality of life.

A house can be renovated, but you can’t change its location! Need help finding the perfect neighborhood? Let’s talk! 📩🏡

💰Would you like to know how much is your house worth? Click link below
http://myhomesvalueillinois.com/

Joanna Goles, Homesmart Connect
📞773.814.3045
Polish - English speaking agent

Follow me on Link tree
https://linktr.ee/joannagoles

Interested in buying, selling call me directly or schedule a consultation via link below:
https://calendly.com/joannagoles/30min

06/05/2025

**🏡 Understanding the Local Market: Pricing & Making the Right Offer 💰**

Whether you're **selling a home** or **making an offer as a buyer**, understanding the local real estate market is **key** to getting the best deal. Here’s what to consider:

# # # **For Sellers: Pricing Your Home Right**
✅ **Comparative Market Analysis (CMA)** – Check recent **similar** home sales in your area.
✅ **Market Conditions** – Is it a **seller’s market** (high demand, low inventory) or a **buyer’s market** (more homes, lower demand)?
✅ **Home Condition & Features** – Upgrades, location, and home size impact value.
✅ **Days on Market (DOM)** – If homes sell fast, pricing competitively can attract multiple offers!

# # # **For Buyers: Making a Strong Offer**
✅ **Research Comparable Sales** – Know the recent sales prices of similar homes.
✅ **Understand Market Trends** – In a competitive market, a low offer may not work.
✅ **Seller’s Motivation** – Are they in a hurry to sell? This could affect negotiations.
✅ **Work With a Pro** – A **real estate agent** can provide insights & help craft a competitive offer.

**Bottom line:** Knowing the local market helps sellers **price smart** and buyers **offer wisely**. Thinking of selling or buying? Let’s chat! 📩🏡

💰Would you like to know how much is your house worth? Click link below
http://myhomesvalueillinois.com/

Joanna Goles, Homesmart Connect
📞773.814.3045
Polish - English speaking agent

Follow me on Link tree
https://linktr.ee/joannagoles

Interested in buying, selling call me directly or schedule a consultation via link below:
https://calendly.com/joannagoles/30min

Joanna Goles - Real Estate Agent HomeSmart Connect LLC

03/11/2026

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