Navigating Foreclosure in Chicago • March 13, 2025

How to Handle Mortgage Forbearance: Pros, Cons, and Next Steps

by Molly Heyen

Woman looking temporarily relieved in front of a computer

Mortgage Forbearance: A Temporary Solution for Property Owners in Tough Times

Introduction:
If you’re struggling to make your mortgage payments, you might be considering mortgage forbearance as a temporary lifeline. While forbearance can provide short-term relief, it’s important to fully understand how it works, its potential drawbacks, and what comes next. In this post, we’ll dive into the details of mortgage forbearance, its pros and cons, and how to make the most of this option.

What Is Mortgage Forbearance?

Mortgage forbearance is an agreement between you and your lender that allows you to temporarily reduce or pause your mortgage payments. It’s a way to buy time during financial hardship, such as job loss, medical expenses, or other unexpected challenges.

Key Points to Know About Forbearance:

It’s not forgiveness—payments are postponed, not eliminated.
Repayment terms vary and are typically determined by the lender.
Forbearance can be a useful tool but requires careful planning for what comes next.

The Pros of Mortgage Forbearance

Immediate Relief: Provides breathing room if you’re unable to make payments.
Prevents Foreclosure: Keeps you in your property while you address financial challenges.
Protects Credit Temporarily: Lenders typically don’t report missed payments during the forbearance period (be sure to confirm this with your lender).
Gives You Time: Allows you to focus on stabilizing your financial situation without the immediate pressure of a foreclosure process.

The Cons of Mortgage Forbearance

Deferred Payments: Payments are postponed, not erased—you’ll eventually need to catch up.
Potential for Lump-Sum Repayment: Some lenders require a lump-sum payment of deferred amounts at the end of forbearance.
Interest Accrual: Interest often continues to accrue during forbearance, increasing the total amount owed.
Impact on Long-Term Financial Plans: If repayment terms aren’t manageable, forbearance could create future financial strain.

What Happens After Forbearance Ends?

Once your forbearance period ends, you’ll need to address the missed payments. Here are some common repayment options:

Lump-Sum Payment: Paying all missed payments at once (not always required).
Payment Plan: Adding extra to your monthly payments until you catch up.
Loan Modification: Adjusting the loan terms to make payments more manageable.
Deferral: Adding missed payments to the end of the loan term.

How I Can Help You Navigate Forbearance and Beyond

Deciding on forbearance and understanding your options afterward can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. Here’s how I can support you:

Refer you to a professional to help review your lender’s terms and repayment options to ensure they’re fair.
Help you explore alternatives, such as loan modification or short sales, if needed.
Provide connections and resources that can guide you on how to protect your property and financial future.

Let’s work together to create a plan that works for you.

Conclusion:
Mortgage forbearance can be a valuable tool to help you weather financial storms, but it’s only one part of the journey. Understanding the pros, cons, and next steps is essential to making an informed decision. Whether you’re considering forbearance or figuring out what comes after, I’m here to provide the support and guidance you need.

Building an Equitable Chicago • March 11, 2025

How to Build Relationships with Local Stakeholders

by Molly Heyen

Businessman leads meeting giving presentation

Introduction:
In real estate development, relationships are everything—especially when it comes to equitable development. Local stakeholders, including community leaders, residents, and businesses, play a pivotal role in your project’s success. Building strong, trust-based connections can open doors, mitigate risks, and align your project with community priorities. In this post, we’ll outline actionable strategies for building meaningful relationships with local stakeholders.

Why Local Stakeholders Matter

Insight and Feedback: Stakeholders provide valuable input on community needs, helping shape projects that resonate.
Community Buy-In: Projects with strong local support face fewer hurdles during the approval process.
Shared Success: Collaborative relationships foster outcomes that benefit both developers and communities.

Identify Key Stakeholders

Community Leaders: Reach out to elected officials, nonprofit organizations, and neighborhood associations.
Local Businesses: Engage small business owners who can provide insight into the economic pulse of the area.
Residents: Prioritize conversations with the people who will be directly impacted by your project.
Advocacy Groups: Collaborate with organizations focused on housing, sustainability, or community development.

Strategies for Building Strong Relationships

Listen First:
- Host informal coffee chats, focus groups, or listening sessions to hear concerns and aspirations.
- Approach conversations with curiosity and a willingness to learn.
Be Transparent:
- Share your vision and goals early in the process.
- Be honest about potential challenges or limitations, building trust through openness.
Offer Value:
- Create opportunities for stakeholders to contribute meaningfully to the project.
- Highlight how your development will address local priorities like jobs, housing, or green spaces.
Engage Regularly:
- Maintain consistent communication through newsletters, social media, or community meetings.
- Provide updates on progress, celebrate milestones, and address concerns promptly.

Collaborate, Don’t Dictate

Co-Create Solutions: Involve stakeholders in the design and planning process to ensure alignment with community needs.
Leverage Partnerships: Work with local nonprofits or community groups to gain deeper insights and amplify your impact.
Compromise: Be willing to adjust your plans based on feedback, showing a genuine commitment to the community’s well-being.

Long-Term Benefits of Strong Relationships

Reduced Opposition: Transparent communication minimizes resistance during zoning approvals or public hearings.
Enhanced Reputation: Positive relationships establish you as a trusted developer, attracting future opportunities.
Community Legacy: Projects that reflect local needs contribute to vibrant, enduring neighborhoods.

How I Can Help as Your Real Estate Agent

Stakeholder Connections: With my network, I can introduce you to key local leaders and organizations.
Facilitating Conversations: I’ll help you navigate discussions with stakeholders, ensuring your message resonates.
Project Alignment: From site selection to planning, I’ll guide you in crafting a project that addresses community priorities.
Ongoing Support: I’ll work with you to maintain relationships throughout the development process and beyond.

Conclusion:
Building relationships with local stakeholders isn’t just a step in the development process—it’s a foundation for success. By fostering trust, collaboration, and mutual respect, you can create projects that truly serve the community while achieving your goals. Ready to start connecting with the right people for your next development? Let’s work together to build the relationships that matter.

Navigating Foreclosure in Chicago • March 7, 2025

What Is a Short Sale, and When Is It the Right Choice?

by Molly Heyen

Multi unit building with short sale for sale and sold sign in front.

Short Sales Explained: A Path Forward When Selling Your Property Feels Impossible

Introduction:
If you owe more on your property than it’s currently worth, selling might feel out of reach—but a short sale could provide a way forward. While the term might sound intimidating, a short sale can be an effective solution for owners facing financial hardship. In this post, we’ll explain what a short sale is, how it works, and when it might be the right choice for you.

What Is a Short Sale?

A short sale occurs when an owner sells their property for less than the amount owed on the mortgage, with the lender’s approval. The lender agrees to accept the sale price as full or partial satisfaction of the loan, allowing the owner to avoid foreclosure.

Key Features of a Short Sale:

The lender must approve the sale and terms.
The process may take longer than a traditional sale due to lender involvement.
The owner may still face financial and credit implications, but often less severe than foreclosure.

When Is a Short Sale the Right Choice?

A short sale may be a good option if:

You’re Facing Financial Hardship: If you can no longer afford your mortgage payments, a short sale can help you avoid foreclosure.
Your Property’s Value Has Declined: When your property’s market value is lower than the mortgage balance, a short sale allows you to sell without covering the difference out-of-pocket.
Foreclosure Is Imminent: A short sale is often less damaging to your credit and financial future than foreclosure.
You Want to Move Forward Quickly: Short sales can provide a way to move on with your life without lingering mortgage debt.

The Short Sale Process

Contact Your Lender: Inform your lender of your financial difficulties and your intent to pursue a short sale.
Hire an Experienced Real Estate Professional: Working with an expert who understands short sales is essential to navigating this complex process.
Provide Financial Documentation: Your lender will require proof of hardship, including income, expenses, and a hardship letter.
List the Property and Receive Offers: Once approved for a short sale, you’ll list the home and negotiate offers with the lender’s input.
Lender Approval and Closing: After the lender approves the sale, you’ll close the transaction and resolve your mortgage balance.

Sold Short Sale Home For Sale Real Estate Sign in Front of New House – Left Facing.

Pros and Cons of a Short Sale

Pros:

Avoids foreclosure and its severe impact on your credit.
May allow you to negotiate forgiveness of remaining debt.
Lets you move on with less financial burden.

Cons:

Can take time due to lender approval processes.
May still impact your credit score, though less than foreclosure.
Requires full transparency with your lender about your financial situation.

How I Can Help You Navigate a Short Sale
Short sales require expertise and guidance to ensure a smooth process. With my experience, I can:

Work directly with your lender to facilitate approval.
Market your property to attract qualified buyers.
Guide you through each step with care and understanding.

If you think a short sale might be right for you, let’s talk and I’ll help you weigh your options.

Conclusion:
A short sale isn’t just about selling your property—it’s about creating a path toward financial freedom and a fresh start. While the process can feel overwhelming, having the right support and information makes all the difference. Don’t let financial stress define your future—let’s work together to find a solution.

Building an Equitable Chicago • March 4, 2025

The Role of Public-Private Partnerships in Equitable Development

by Molly Heyen

Introduction:
Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) can be powerful tools for equitable developers seeking to create community-focused projects. By leveraging government resources and private-sector expertise, these collaborations can help fund, develop, and sustain projects that might otherwise struggle to get off the ground. While I’m not an expert in structuring PPPs, I understand their potential and can help connect developers with the right people to explore these opportunities.

1. What Are Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs)?

A Public-Private Partnership is a collaboration between government entities and private developers to fund and execute projects that serve a public good. These partnerships can take many forms, but common examples include:

Affordable Housing Developments – Public agencies provide land, tax credits, or subsidies to incentivize mixed-income housing.
Infrastructure & Transit-Oriented Projects – Private developers build near transit hubs with government support for infrastructure improvements.
Community Hubs & Commercial Spaces – Governments work with private entities to bring grocery stores, healthcare facilities, or workforce training centers to underserved neighborhoods.

2. Why PPPs Matter for Equitable Development

For equitable developers, PPPs can help:
✅ Reduce Financial Barriers – Public incentives, land contributions, or tax credits can lower upfront costs.
✅ Create Long-Term Affordability – Agreements may include long-term affordability requirements, ensuring the community benefits.
✅ Streamline Bureaucratic Processes – With city support, zoning approvals and regulatory hurdles may be easier to navigate.
✅ Enhance Community Impact – Government agencies often have access to data and resources that align projects with local needs.

3. Types of Public Support Available in PPPs

Equitable developers in Chicago can explore partnerships with city, state, and federal agencies through:

🏡 Land & Property Contributions

The City of Chicago’s ChiBlockBuilder sells vacant city-owned lots at low costs to qualified buyers.
Cook County Land Bank Authority offers discounted properties for redevelopment in disinvested areas.

💰 Financial Incentives & Tax Credits

Tax Increment Financing (TIF) – Uses future tax revenues to fund development in designated districts.
Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) – Encourages private investment in affordable housing.
New Market Tax Credits (NMTC) – Attracts investors to projects in economically distressed communities.

🏗️ Infrastructure & Zoning Support

Planned Development (PD) Zoning – Allows flexibility for large-scale projects.

📢 Community Engagement & Nonprofit Partnerships

Some projects involve community land trusts or nonprofit organizations to ensure long-term affordability and community involvement.

4. Challenges & Considerations in PPPs

While PPPs offer great opportunities, they also come with complexities:

Navigating Government Bureaucracy – Approval processes can be lengthy and require persistence.
Balancing Public & Private Interests – Governments prioritize community benefits, while private investors seek returns—aligning both can be tricky.
Ensuring Long-Term Viability – Some agreements require affordability commitments or public benefits that impact long-term revenue models.

For developers interested in PPPs, the key is finding the right partners and understanding what public agencies are looking for in a collaboration.

5. How I Can Help

While I don’t personally structure PPPs, I can:
🔹 Help Identify Properties & Opportunities – I can locate sites that may qualify for public-private collaboration.
🔹 Connect You with the Right People – Whether it’s city officials, nonprofit partners, or financial experts, I can introduce you to those who specialize in PPPs.
🔹 Assist in Researching Available Programs – I can guide you to available incentives and help you determine potential funding sources.
🔹 Support in Navigating the Process – From community engagement to networking with key stakeholders, I’ll help you build the right relationships.

Conclusion:

Public-Private Partnerships can be game-changers for equitable development, but they require the right connections and careful planning. If you’re exploring a project and think a PPP might be an option, I’d love to help you find the right resources and introductions to move forward. Let’s talk about how we can make it happen.

Navigating Foreclosure in Chicago • February 27, 2025

Blog Post: Understanding Loan Modification and How It Can Help You

by Molly Heyen

Overhead view of person at a desk applying for a loan modification on the computer

Loan Modification: A Lifeline for Homeowners in Financial Trouble

Introduction:
If you’re struggling to keep up with your mortgage payments, you may feel like your options are limited. But one potential solution is a loan modification, a program designed to help property owners by making their mortgage more affordable. In this post, we’ll break down what a loan modification is, how it works, and whether it might be the right solution for you.

What Is Loan Modification?

A loan modification is a change to the terms of your existing mortgage, designed to make your payments more manageable. Unlike refinancing, which requires a new loan, a modification works within your current loan agreement.

Common Modifications Include:

Lowering the Interest Rate: Reduces your monthly payment by adjusting the rate.
Extending the Loan Term: Spreads payments over a longer period to lower monthly costs.
Principal Forbearance: Temporarily reduces or defers part of your loan balance.

Who Qualifies for a Loan Modification?

Loan modifications are typically reserved for owners facing genuine financial hardship. You may qualify if:

You’ve missed mortgage payments or are at risk of falling behind.
Your hardship is due to a specific event, such as job loss, medical expenses, or reduced income.
You can prove you have the income to afford the modified payments.

The Loan Modification Process

Contact Your Lender: Start by reaching out to your lender to discuss your situation and request information about modification programs.
Submit an Application: You’ll likely need to provide financial documents, including proof of income, expenses, and a hardship letter.
Lender Review: Your lender will assess your application to determine if you qualify. This may involve a trial period with modified payments.
Approval and Agreement: If approved, you’ll sign an agreement outlining the new loan terms.

Benefits of Loan Modification

Avoid Foreclosure: Helps you keep your property and avoid the negative impact of foreclosure on your credit.
Lower Monthly Payments: Makes your mortgage more affordable, freeing up room in your budget.
Stabilize Your Finances: Provides a structured solution to regain financial stability.

When Loan Modification Might Not Be the Best Option
While loan modification can be a lifeline, it’s not always the right fit. If you can’t afford even reduced payments, won’t be able to make additional or large deferred payments, or if your property’s value is significantly less than your mortgage balance, other options like a short sale may be more appropriate.

How I Can Help You Explore Loan Modification
Navigating the loan modification process can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. I’ve worked with property owners to evaluate their options, communicate with lenders, and guide them toward the best solution for their needs.

Let’s explore if a loan modification is the right path for you. Contact me to get started.

Conclusion:
A loan modification can be a powerful tool to help you keep your property and regain control of your financial future. By understanding the process and working with professionals who care about your success, you can take the first step toward stability and peace of mind.

Chicago Neighborhood Story • February 26, 2025

Humbolt Park: Including the First State Designated Puerto Rican Cultural District

by Molly Heyen

Annexed in 1869 the community area of Humbolt Park has historically been a center for a variety of ethnic groups. Originally settled by Scandinavians and Germans the neighborhood saw growth from European Jews, Italians, and Polish. It peaked in population in 1930. Gentrification pushed the Puerto Rican population west from West Town into Humbolt Park mostly from the 1950s-60s. Even though gentrification has continually persisted, the neighborhood is now known for its strong Puerto Rican population.

Just east of the area is the 207 acre park with its namesake. The dedication events were held in German, Swedish, and English. Each of the major ethnic groups that have called Humbolt Park home have left a mark in the park. The Polish Constiution Day Parade used to end at the Tadeusz Kosciuszko statue that was once located in the park. Other notable statues in the park include Alexander von Humboldt, a Prussian scientist who was chosen due to the high German population in the area at the time. German residents also commissioned a statue of German novelist Franz Engelsman. The Norwegian community commissioned the statue of Viking Lief Erikson. The Puerto Rican community remodeled the former receptory and stables to house the National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts and Culture.

Although the Puerto Rican culture is very strong in Humbolt Park the neighborhood has continued to evolve over the decades. Gentrification has been a continuing struggle, but at the same time has kept it a neighborhood of diverse cultures, in modern times, including Mexican, Dominican, and African American.

Having such continued diversity has added complication to the neighborhood. On one hand the strong sense of a variety of cultures brings an assortment of art, entertainment, and food. However, clashing cultures led to the formation of gangs. In the 1950s as Puerto Ricans notably started moving into the neighborhood the kids were facing harassment and bullying from established neighborhood kids. This led to three boys creating the Latin Kings in 1954. In 1956 a group of high school age greasers came together to form the Simon City Royals. Throughout the 50s and 60s more gangs formed causing more friction between all of the groups. In 1962 Simon City started recruiting more. The Latin Kings continued to face discrimination and in 1964 they joined other city gangs, many of whom were white, and in May of 1964 met in the park to establish the following tenants:

Protect our families
Protect our neighborhoods
Protect each other

Meanwhile, the real estate industry fueled the racial tensions around the city through blockbusting and redlining. Gang activity continued to haunt the neighborhood for decades, the ever changing demographics likely did not help, in 1966 the Latin Disciples was formed under the Black Disciples Nation, the White Power Organization was formed in 1971, and in 1980 La Raza established a chapter in the neighborhood, to name a few larger organizations.

Reynaldo Rodriguez with his paint Majestad Cultural by: Yolydia

Even though gang activity plays a visible part in the history of the area, the greater Puerto Rican community remains strongly established and in much more positive ways. As of last year Humbolt Park houses the only official Puerto Rican Cultural District in the country. It has the only museum dedicated to Puerto Rican art and culture. The neighborhood is full of over 90 murals, including some of the oldest public murals, dating back to 1971. Many of them mimic the history of the neighborhood by illustrating the struggles for equality.

Recognizing that allowing their community to be pushed out from neighborhood to neighborhood was keeping them from building wealth the Puerto Rican community worked hard to stabilize themselves. The giant metal flags that flank Division Street between Western and California are a strong symbol of this. The Puerto Rican Cultural Center serves to protect this stabilization and their work was a major help in making sure all of the small businesses along the corridor were able to survive the pandemic. With the idea that every city in the world should reflect the world in the city the community worked hard to earn the distinction of being the first state designated Puerto Rican cultural district in the United States. A celebration was held in summer of 2024 to dedicate the district with its new name, Barrio Boriken.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Humboldt_Park,_Chicago

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Humboldt_Park_(Chicago_park)

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Statue_of_Alexander_von_Humboldt_(Chicago)

https://www.architecture.org/online-resources/buildings-of-chicago/humboldt-park

https://chicagostudies.uchicago.edu/humboldt-park/humboldt-park-history-humboldt-park

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_gangs_in_Humboldt_Park

https://www.choosechicago.com/blog/neighborhoods-blog/puerto-rican-culture-humboldt-park/

https://paseoboricuatours.com/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=47kPgVv4BGY

https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/humboldt-parks-puerto-rico-town-corridor-now-has-a-new-name/3452926/

Building an Equitable Chicago • February 25, 2025

Why Understanding Community Needs Is Key to Equitable Development

by Molly Heyen

Two people walking down city street lined with parked bicycles

Introduction:
Equitable development goes beyond bricks and mortar—it’s about creating spaces that meet the needs of the people who live and work in the neighborhood. Understanding those needs is the foundation for projects that uplift communities while remaining financially viable. In this post, we’ll explore why understanding community needs is crucial, how to gather meaningful insights, and how to integrate them into your development plans.

What Is Equitable Development?

Definition: Development that ensures residents of all income levels, backgrounds, and identities benefit from improvements in their neighborhood.
Why It Matters:
- It prevents displacement and promotes inclusion.
- It creates stronger, more resilient communities.
- It aligns your project with long-term economic and social sustainability.

Why Understanding Community Needs Is Critical

Fosters Trust: Engaging with the community builds relationships and ensures local support.
Improves Project Viability: Projects aligned with community priorities are more likely to attract tenants, buyers, or users.
Mitigates Risks: Understanding concerns early helps avoid delays or opposition down the line.

How to Identify Community Needs

Listen First:
- Host town halls, listening sessions, or focus groups.
- Meet with community organizations, leaders, and residents to hear their perspectives.
Use Data:
- Analyze demographic data, income levels, housing costs, and local amenities.
- Identify gaps, like affordable housing or commercial spaces, through surveys and public reports.
Walk the Neighborhood:
- Observe how the area is used, from traffic patterns to public spaces.
- Speak informally with local residents and business owners to gather real-world insights.

How to Integrate Community Needs Into Your Project

Design for Inclusion:
- Incorporate affordable housing units or spaces for small businesses.
- Ensure your project includes accessible features for all residents.
Partner with Local Organizations:
- Collaborate with nonprofits or community groups to ensure your project addresses specific local goals.
Create Shared Benefits:
- Include amenities like parks, community centers, or job opportunities that benefit the entire neighborhood.

Balancing Community Needs with Financial Viability

Seek Incentives:
- Research city and state grants, tax credits, or other programs that support equitable development.
Leverage Mixed-Use Design:
- Combine residential, commercial, and public-use spaces to diversify income streams while meeting local needs.
Plan for the Long Term:
- Build flexibility into your project to adapt to future changes in the neighborhood.

How I Can Help as Your Real Estate Agent

Market and Community Expertise: I’ll help you assess neighborhoods to identify opportunities that align with both community needs and your goals.
Stakeholder Connections: Through my network, I can connect you with local leaders, organizations, and data sources.
Strategic Guidance: From planning to execution, I’ll help you ensure your project stays on track and resonates with the people it’s meant to serve.

Conclusion:
Equitable development starts with understanding the people and places it impacts. By putting community needs at the forefront, you can build projects that not only succeed financially but also contribute to the well-being and vibrancy of the neighborhood. Ready to explore how to align your next project with the needs of the community? Let’s connect!

Navigating Foreclosure in Chicago • February 20, 2025

How to Talk to Your Lender About Financial Hardship

by Molly Heyen

Couple meeting with representative showing them a document.

The Right Way to Approach Your Lender When You’re Facing Financial Hardship

Introduction:
If you’re struggling to keep up with your mortgage payments, reaching out to your lender can feel overwhelming. But having an open and honest conversation is often the first step toward finding a solution. Lenders want to work with property owners who are proactive, so knowing how to approach them can make all the difference.

Why It’s Important to Communicate with Your Lender

Many owners avoid contacting their lenders out of fear or embarrassment, but silence can work against you. Here’s why reaching out is crucial:

Avoid Escalation: The earlier you communicate, the more options you’ll have to resolve the situation.
Show Good Faith: Demonstrating that you’re taking responsibility can encourage lenders to work with you.
Access Solutions: Lenders may have programs or options you’re unaware of, like forbearance or loan modifications.

How to Prepare for the Conversation

Before you call your lender, gather all necessary information to make the discussion productive.

Review Your Loan Documents: Understand your loan terms and repayment obligations.
Prepare a Financial Snapshot: List your income, expenses, and debts to explain your situation clearly.
Know Your Timeline: Be aware of how far behind you are on payments and any upcoming deadlines.

What to Say to Your Lender

Starting the conversation can be the hardest part, but here’s a framework to guide you:

Explain Your Situation Honestly: Be upfront about why you’re facing financial hardship, whether it’s job loss, medical expenses, or another challenge.
- Example: “I’ve recently experienced [reason], and it’s made it difficult to keep up with my mortgage payments.”
Request Information About Your Options: Ask about loan modification programs, repayment plans, or other relief options.
- Example: “Can you help me understand what options are available to get back on track?”
Commit to Next Steps: Show that you’re serious about resolving the issue by committing to the process.

Tips for a Successful Conversation

Be Polite and Professional: Treat your lender as a partner, not an adversary.
Take Notes: Document what’s discussed, including any agreements or next steps.
Follow Up: If your lender needs more information, provide it promptly to keep the process moving.

How I Can Support You
If you’re unsure how to approach your lender or need guidance navigating your options, I’m here to help. I’ve worked with many owners to create tailored strategies, communicate effectively with lenders, and find solutions that align with their goals.

Let’s discuss how I can assist you.

Conclusion:
Talking to your lender about financial hardship might feel daunting, but it’s an essential step toward resolving your situation. By preparing ahead of time and approaching the conversation with honesty and clarity, you can open the door to potential solutions and a brighter path forward.

Building an Equitable Chicago • February 18, 2025

Top 5 Mistakes New Developers Make (and How to Avoid Them)

by Molly Heyen

Audience members responding to presenter

Introduction:
Stepping into the world of real estate development is exciting, but it’s also full of challenges. Many new developers face setbacks that could be avoided with the right preparation and knowledge. In this post, we’ll uncover the top five mistakes new developers make and share actionable tips to help you sidestep these pitfalls and set yourself up for success.

Skipping the Feasibility Study

Why It’s a Problem: Without understanding the market demand, financial viability, and zoning constraints, your project could stall—or worse, fail.
How to Avoid It:
- Conduct thorough research on the market, demographics, and property value trends.
- Work with professionals to create a comprehensive feasibility study.
- Assess zoning requirements and infrastructure needs before acquiring a property.

Underestimating Project Costs

Why It’s a Problem: Many new developers miscalculate expenses like construction, permits, and unexpected delays, leading to financial strain.
How to Avoid It:
- Build a detailed budget, including contingency funds for unforeseen issues.
- Consult contractors, architects, and financial experts early in the planning process.
- Use software tools to track and manage your expenses in real-time.

Neglecting Community Engagement

Why It’s a Problem: Ignoring the input and concerns of local residents can lead to opposition and delay approvals.
How to Avoid It:
- Host listening sessions to understand community needs and gain buy-in.
- Work with local organizations to ensure your project aligns with neighborhood goals.
- Be transparent about your plans and open to feedback.

Diverse people in a seminar

Choosing the Wrong Team

Why It’s a Problem: A poorly assembled team can lead to delays, legal issues, or subpar results.
How to Avoid It:
- Vet contractors, architects, attorneys, and agents carefully based on experience and reputation.
- Look for professionals with expertise in the specific type of development you’re pursuing.
- Foster open communication to ensure everyone is aligned on project goals.

Overlooking Long-Term Sustainability

Why It’s a Problem: Focusing solely on short-term gains can lead to projects that don’t stand the test of time.
How to Avoid It:
- Incorporate energy-efficient design, sustainable materials, and flexible use spaces.
- Consider how the property can serve future community needs and market trends.
- Plan for ongoing maintenance and management costs.

How I Can Help as Your Real Estate Agent

Property Selection: I’ll help you find properties that meet your goals while minimizing zoning and infrastructure hurdles.
Resource Connections: From feasibility studies to community engagement strategies, I’ll connect you with the right experts.
Project Guidance: As someone who understands Chicago’s market and development process, I can help you navigate challenges with confidence.

Conclusion:
Avoiding these common mistakes can save you time, money, and frustration, paving the way for a smoother development process. If you’re ready to start your next project—or want to ensure you’re on the right track—reach out. Let’s work together to turn your vision into a successful, impactful development.

Navigating Foreclosure in Chicago • February 13, 2025

5 Steps to Take When You Receive a Foreclosure Notice

by Molly Heyen

Notebook with blank numbered list titled Ways to Avoid Foreclosure

5 Critical Steps to Take After Receiving a Foreclosure Notice

Introduction:
Receiving a foreclosure notice can feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders. It’s a moment no property owner wants to face, but the good news is this: you still have options. Acting quickly and strategically can make all the difference in protecting your future. Here are five crucial steps to take as soon as you receive a foreclosure notice.

Step 1: Don’t Ignore the Notice

Ignoring the problem won’t make it go away. In fact, it can make things worse by limiting your options.

Why It’s Important: Your lender is required to follow specific legal steps during foreclosure. Responding promptly ensures you don’t miss opportunities to take action.
Next Step: Read the notice carefully to understand your situation and timeline.

Step 2: Contact Your Lender

Reaching out to your lender might feel intimidating, but it’s one of the most important steps you can take.

Why It’s Important: Many lenders are willing to work with you to find a solution, whether it’s loan modification, forbearance, or another alternative.
Next Step: Call your lender to discuss your options and request a copy of your loan documents.

Step 3: Know Your Rights

Every state has different foreclosure laws that protect owners, so it’s critical to understand what applies to you.

Why It’s Important: Knowing your rights can help you delay or stop foreclosure if your lender hasn’t followed the law.
Next Step: Research local foreclosure laws or consult an attorney who specializes in real estate or foreclosure defense.

Step 4: Explore Your Options

You may have more options than you realize, including keeping your property or transitioning out of ownership on your terms.

Possible Solutions:
- Loan Modification: Renegotiate your mortgage terms to make payments more manageable.
- Short Sale: Sell your property for less than you owe with lender approval.
- Deed in Lieu of Foreclosure: Transfer ownership back to the lender to avoid foreclosure.
Next Step: Work with a real estate advisor to determine the best course of action for your situation.

Step 5: Seek Professional Guidance

Navigating foreclosure can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone.

Why It’s Important: A trusted professional can help you understand your options, negotiate with your lender, and guide you through the process.
Next Step: Reach out to a real estate advisor or financial expert who specializes in distressed properties.

How I Can Help You Move Forward
Facing foreclosure isn’t easy, but you don’t have to go through it alone. I’ve helped owners like you explore their options, work with lenders, and create solutions that make sense for their unique situations.

Let’s talk about your goals and how I can help you protect your future. I’m here to help.

Conclusion:
A foreclosure notice doesn’t mean the end of the road—it’s an opportunity to take control and make the best decision for your future. By acting quickly and seeking support, you can navigate this challenge with confidence.

Coldwell Banker - Oak Lawn

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