In today’s market, even good deals can fall apart if small issues go unchecked. Here are six of the most common deal killers we’ve seen 2025 and how buyers, sellers, and agents can stay prepared, avoid surprises, and keep transactions moving to the closing table.

If you’re planning to sell this fall, setting the right price can make or break your sale. A realistic number attracts more buyers and prevents wasted time on the market. Learn how to price smart, avoid overpricing, and sell with confidence before the holidays.

As the year winds down, it’s a great time for military families to do a quick financial checkup. Reviewing your budget, benefits, and savings now can help you finish strong and plan with confidence for the year ahead. Small steps today can make a big difference later.

HGTV has shaped how many first-time buyers think about purchasing a home, but real life doesn’t usually come with a dramatic “aha” moment. Most buyers see plenty of houses before choosing one that fits their budget, lifestyle, and neighborhood needs. The key is learning to look past dated finishes or clutter and focus on the bigger picture of value and potential.

September often brings new expenses for military families, from school supplies to holiday planning. Simple budgeting strategies can help ease the stress. These practical tips make it easier to save money, stay organized, and build stability this season.

Fall offers countless ways for military families to create lasting memories, no matter where they’re stationed. From pumpkin patches and hikes to crafts and community events, the season brings opportunities to connect. These activities help make temporary duty stations feel more like home.

Fall is the perfect season for Veterans to get involved locally. From school activities to community festivals, there are countless ways to build friendships and support systems. These connections help make a new place feel like home faster

Fall is often overlooked as a season for selling, but it can offer unique advantages. Less competition, motivated buyers, and the chance to avoid holiday stress all work in a seller’s favor. For military families on PCS timelines, listing before the holidays can make life much easier.

VA Loans can be powerful, but they also come with hidden risks in today’s higher inventory markets. Buyers who stretch thin without a long-term plan may face negative equity, cash flow issues, or forced sales. Understanding leverage, funding fees, and future stability is critical before buying.

More military families are turning to homeschooling for consistency and control. Learn how to navigate state laws, find support groups, and design a flexible routine that fits the military lifestyle. Homeschooling can work hand-in-hand with PCS moves when you have the right strategy.

When PCS orders arrive, military families face the challenge of finding the perfect home on an impossibly tight timeline. Success comes from clearly defining must-have features, leveraging virtual touring technology, and partnering with military-experienced real estate professionals who understand the urgency. With the right strategy and support team, you can secure an ideal home that meets your family's needs without sacrificing quality for speed.

Utility setups vary from state to state, and military families often don’t have time to spare. Learn how to navigate service providers, deposits, and scheduling with confidence. A few key steps can make your PCS transition smoother and less stressful.

Military spouses balance career goals with constant change. From licensing hurdles to relocation stress, it takes strategy and support to keep growing professionally. This guide shares practical ways to build a career that moves with you.

“Military-friendly” is often used in real estate, but not always accurately. True support means understanding PCS timelines, local military needs, and the realities of military life. Learn what to look for in a Realtor who genuinely gets it.

Moving to a new city can be emotionally draining, but it doesn’t have to feel lonely. Military families are experts at building new communities quickly. From local groups to shared interests, this guide offers real strategies to help you settle in and feel at home faster.

PCS move coming up? Learn what to bring, what to store, and how to make military relocations easier. Smart planning saves time and stress, especially for families moving to or from Chicagoland.

Not all real estate agents understand military life, but MIL-Estate agents do. From PCS orders to VA loans and short-notice relocations, we’ve lived it and guided others through it. Learn why Dorazio Real Estate, the only MIL-Estate team in Chicagoland, sets the standard.

Selling a home while managing kids, pets, and a PCS move is a serious challenge. But staying showing-ready doesn’t have to mean daily deep cleaning. These realistic tips help military families keep their homes clean, organized, and ready for buyers.

Appraisals are one of the most important and often stressful parts of buying or selling a home. For military families navigating VA loans and PCS timelines, a low appraisal can create serious complications. Here’s how to stay prepared and make smart decisions on either side of the deal.

Military families face unique challenges when moving to a new duty station, especially when children are involved. Finding the right school is just as important as finding the right home. Learn how to research school districts, ask the right questions, and make the best choice for your child’s education.