Starting a new chapter in love often means starting a new chapter in life and for many couples, that includes searching for the perfect home to build their future together. Whether you’re newly engaged, recently married, or just beginning to dream beyond the city skyline, navigating the world of real estate can feel overwhelming.
That’s why we’re thrilled to introduce you to someone who knows the path well, both professionally and personally. Meet Brandon Blankenship, a trusted Real Estate Agent in the Western Suburbs of Chicago and the founder of the popular social media community, Living Chicago Suburbs, which has amassed nearly 90K followers! Brandon has helped countless couples make the exciting leap from city apartments to suburban sanctuaries. He has been a top agent from 2021-2024, is the #1 Agent at Keller Williams Premier Properties, and was named 30 Under 30 by the National Association of REALTORS®. With a true passion for empowering people through real estate, Brandon specializes in guiding first-time homebuyers and Chicago transplants with clarity, care, and a bit of suburban charm.
Jason Kaczorowski Photography had the honor of photographing Brandon’s proposal to his fiancée, Maitlan, this past March and the pleasure of sitting down with him to gain valuable insight into his insider tips, helpful advice, and real talk for couples ready to find a home — and a future — together.
Starting the Search: What Couples Need to Know
What advice would you give to newly engaged or just-married couples who are beginning their home search?
The biggest thing is sitting down with a real estate professional, sooner rather than later. When it comes to buying your first home, a lot of my clients are in a rental, and we are doing our best to time up a lease with the first mortgage payment and also just understanding that a $500,000 house might be more “affordable” in one area than another due to property taxes. When it comes to potentially a couple that both own real estate, and want to either sell both places (or rent and build wealth), it’s all about just getting on the same page and articulating that to their real estate agent. Long story short, starting the process and asking questions early helps expose you to things you might not be thinking about!
Is there a “best time” to buy a home for newlyweds in today’s market, especially in the Chicagoland area?
Realistically, no. Time “in” the market is better than “timing” the market. In regard to the Chicagoland real estate market as a whole, there is some seasonality to it. Typically, you’ll find yourself in a pretty competitive situation from April to June due to the peak market. But this is typically where I find the best Homes come to the market. When it comes to the holidays, the market moves a bit slower, and you’ll have a better chance at getting in a position where you’re not competing with a ton of other buyers.
Budgeting for a Wedding & a Home
Many couples are juggling the cost of a wedding and a down payment. How can they best prepare financially for both?
I think the biggest thing is just getting in contact with a Lender to see your options, and figuring out how comfortable you are when it comes to a monthly mortgage. A lot of Lenders can do a “soft pull”, which helps with running your credit, and we can start running numbers early. You can purchase a Home with as little as 5% down if you like!
Neighborhoods & Lifestyle
What should couples prioritize when choosing their first home together — location, size, school districts, or something else?
Great question! If this is your “forever home” – taking time to understand what you truly want vs need, as well as where you want to be when it comes to “schools” as well. A lot of my Clients who are looking for a Home understand that if their “forever home” pops up on the market, it might be some time before something like that comes up again. If you’re looking for a “stepping stone” home, with the idea of upsizing in the future, focus on what has the best upside in the future to be in a position where your “first home” funds your “dream home“. Understanding where you can add value when you move in, and what value might look like down the road.
Are there any up-and-coming neighborhoods or hidden gems ideal for young couples right now?
I would say Naperville is always on fire, but areas that I really like and that are on the come-up are Downers Grove, Bloomingdale, Mt.Prospect, Lombard, and Westmont. I find a lot of value in areas like these. Also, if you don’t need access to the city for work or don’t care to go down too much, I feel that the Tri-Cities: St. Charles, Batavia, and Geneva have so much value!
Real Estate Red Flags and Smart Moves
What are some common mistakes first-time homebuyers — especially young couples — should avoid?
I would say trying to focus on 20% down payment, while that is amazing.. you don’t necessarily need it to purchase a home. Also, I would say focusing on all the “cute” and “trendy” lights, paint, and simple updates. Doing these yourself can save you money and personalize yourself.
How important is it for couples to get pre-approved before falling in love with a home (like they just fell in love with each other)?
Extremely. I have had Clients LOVE a home that weren’t pre-approved yet and then realized that the “payment” was too much they could stomach. Once you’re pre-approved, you will be able to work backwards with what you are comfortable with and hone in on that payment.
Timing, Trends, and Market Conditions
With interest rates and housing prices fluctuating, what should couples keep in mind when trying to time the market?
Focus on the long-term goals. The reality with our market here is that we don’t have a ton of “new construction” going on compared to states like Florida, Tennessee, and Texas. That being said, we have had more “steady” appreciation, and we see more of a supply-and-demand crisis because we have no homes for sale.
The biggest thing is understanding and going back to the reason you are buying a home!
Brandon Blakenship
www.livinginchicagosuburbs.com
How is the current real estate market affecting first-time buyers, and what strategies do you recommend to help them stay competitive?
It’s competitive for sure. There are a lot of buyers looking for a home, but the biggest advice I can give is just partnering with a strong agent and lender (if you are financing) to help you stand out in a field of offers. I helped about 60 families last year, and I would say I have great relationships with other real estate agents making my clients stand out.
Photography Meets Real Estate
We know photography is essential for weddings and proposals — but how important is great photography in real estate listings?
So important. First impressions are everything! The average person has about an 8-second attention span, so being able to capture prospective buyers’ attention when you are selling your home is key to getting them through the door of your home.
Have you ever seen a couple fall in love with a home online just from the photos? How does that first impression compare to a proposal moment?
Absolutely, all the time, and in those homes, they fall in love with pictures. It usually looks better in person, which makes them love it even more. That first impression compared to the proposal moment needs to have you get a “pit” in your stomach!
Looking Ahead Together
For couples buying a home now, what should they consider if they’re also thinking about starting a family soon?
Do any of you work from home? How many kids do you plan on having? Is this a stepping stone home or a forever home? I think the biggest thing here is just understanding how much space you may need, and how you need your home to operate functionality-wise is very important!
What’s one piece of advice you always share with couples that helps them make a home-buying decision they won’t regret?
If you drive up to the Home, and don’t smile or are happy seeing it.. it might not be the one for you. Just understanding that this is a big investment, and it’s always best to either love the home or love the potential of it that can help set you up for the future.
Contact
Brandon Blakenship
630-923-9535
brandon.blankenship@kw.com
www.livinginchicagosuburbs.com