Well, after living outside of IL for nearly seven years, I'll be moving back to the Chicago area in the near future. And yes, I do realize what I am doing and when it comes down to it, this is home for my wife and I. However, this time is different as we have kids now. So... here's where I need the almighty TCG's help:
I'll be working out of Downers Grove (literally 355/88) and we're looking to buy a home within 25 miles. We are looking to the South (Bolingbrook, Romeoville and Plainfield) or to the West (Oswego, Montgomery and Sugar Grove). These areas are within 25 miles (for the most part) and housing is affordable (what we're looking for) and property taxes are low(er).
I know a ton about the NW burbs, but nothing really about the burbs South of 88. What are the great areas and what are the areas to stay away from? Which areas have better schools and may be more family friendly? Any information would be helpful.
Also, what are your recommendations for a mortgage company? I currently have my rental property through Wells Fargo (no issues), but this is an investment property and not my primary residence. I'd like to get pre-qualified with a few big banks and a few local ones for comparison purposes. I have great credit and few debts, so I should be able to pull off a low rate.
Lastly, any tips on the buying process in IL would be helpful. I have only purchased in IN and I know real estate laws vary from state-to-state. I am trying to stick with a traditional sale vs. short sale/foreclosure as my wife and I have already been living apart for five months due to my son's illness/treatment and we don't want to potentially wait around 6+ months for a short sale approval.
I'll be working out of Downers Grove (literally 355/88) and we're looking to buy a home within 25 miles. We are looking to the South (Bolingbrook, Romeoville and Plainfield) or to the West (Oswego, Montgomery and Sugar Grove). These areas are within 25 miles (for the most part) and housing is affordable (what we're looking for) and property taxes are low(er).
I know a ton about the NW burbs, but nothing really about the burbs South of 88. What are the great areas and what are the areas to stay away from? Which areas have better schools and may be more family friendly? Any information would be helpful.
Also, what are your recommendations for a mortgage company? I currently have my rental property through Wells Fargo (no issues), but this is an investment property and not my primary residence. I'd like to get pre-qualified with a few big banks and a few local ones for comparison purposes. I have great credit and few debts, so I should be able to pull off a low rate.
Lastly, any tips on the buying process in IL would be helpful. I have only purchased in IN and I know real estate laws vary from state-to-state. I am trying to stick with a traditional sale vs. short sale/foreclosure as my wife and I have already been living apart for five months due to my son's illness/treatment and we don't want to potentially wait around 6+ months for a short sale approval.