Insights
Plain-English guides to Illinois foreclosure, debt collection and Chicago real estate.
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I Was Just Served with a Foreclosure Summons in Cook County. Now What?
Served with foreclosure papers in Cook County? Here is what the summons means, the deadlines that matter, and the first steps to protect your options.
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Reinstatement vs. Redemption in Illinois: What's the Difference?
Reinstatement and redemption are two ways Illinois homeowners can stop a foreclosure. Learn how each works, what they cost, and when the windows close.
Short Sale or Deed in Lieu: Which Is Better for an Illinois Homeowner?
If keeping your home isn't realistic, a short sale or deed in lieu may help you avoid a foreclosure judgment. Here is how the two options compare in Illinois.
Can a Lender Come After Me After a Foreclosure Sale? Deficiency Judgments Explained
A foreclosure sale doesn't always end what you owe. Learn how deficiency judgments work in Illinois and steps that may help reduce or avoid one.
7 Things Debt Collectors Can't Legally Do
Federal law limits how debt collectors can treat you. Here are seven common tactics the FDCPA generally prohibits, and what you can do if it happens to you.
Renting in a Foreclosed Chicago Building: Your Rights Under the Keep Chicago Renting Ordinance
If your Chicago building was foreclosed, you may have the right to stay or to a relocation payment. Here is how the Keep Chicago Renting Ordinance works.
Why "Just File Bankruptcy" Isn't Always the Answer to Foreclosure
Bankruptcy can pause a foreclosure, but it isn't right for everyone. Learn its trade-offs and the other options Illinois homeowners may have.
Buying a Home with Open Code Violations in Chicago
Open code violations can become the buyer's problem in Chicago. Learn how to check for them, what they can cost, and how to protect yourself at closing.