L&T Circle of Trust - January 2026 Illinois Community Newsletter 

Stability in the Prairie State

Local Insights

The 2026 Illinois Property Tax Relief discussions are heating up in Springfield. For homeowners in Cook and Lake Counties, we’re seeing a rise in Assessment Audits. Ensuring your home’s documented condition aligns with its market value can help prevent overpayment this year.

Home Updates

Illinois home values have increased 6.1% over the past year. While inventory remains tight, the Institute for Housing Studies forecasts an additional 5% price growth for the Chicago Metro area in 2026.

For policyholders, this means your home’s replacement cost has likely increased. If you haven’t updated your dwelling coverage in the last 24 months, you may be underinsured.

Take advantage of these Home360 Program resources to stay proactive:

• 👉 Click HERE to review your home value and equity with a licensed real estate agent

• 👉 Click HERE to request a home insurance revaluation quote to ensure your coverage reflects current replacement costs

Vehicle Spotlight

With Illinois’ heavy use of road salt along the I-94 and I-294 corridors, a mid-winter undercarriage wash is strongly recommended. Salt buildup is the #1 cause of brake and fuel line corrosion. Addressing it now helps protect your vehicle and reduce long-term maintenance costs.

Community Events

• Naperville Winter Ale Fest – January 24
  A premier outdoor craft beer event featuring local breweries.

• Chicago Winter Farmers Market – Sundays in January
  Fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local specialties.

Open Houses & Programs

Rent-to-Own Program- Helps qualified buyers move into a home now while working toward ownership.

The Smith Group (brokered by Illinois Real Estate Partners) helps you find a home and, through our corporate partner, purchases it on your behalf and rents it to you with an option to buy. To qualify, you’ll need at least $8,000 per month in gross household income, the ability to provide a 5–20% down payment, and a move-in timeline of 45–60 days or more. There is no minimum credit score, and the program is available for homes priced at $200,000 or higher.  For more details, contact us at: (312) 487-4983.  You can also get more information here:  https://www.smithandcompanyrentals.com/rent_to_own/

Questions or Need Assistance?

Reach out anytime at info@LTCircleofTrust.com

L&T Circle of Trust - January 2026 Wisconsin Community Newsletter 

Stability Across Wisconsin Communities

Local Insights

Wisconsin homeowners are closely watching ongoing discussions around property tax assessments and levy limits at the state and municipal levels. In counties such as Dane, Waukesha, and Milwaukee, assessment accuracy remains a key issue—especially for homeowners who have completed renovations or experienced market-driven value changes.

Ensuring your home’s assessed condition aligns with its current market value can help reduce the risk of overpaying on property taxes.

Home Updates

Wisconsin home values continued steady growth over the past year, particularly in Madison, Milwaukee, and surrounding suburban markets. While inventory remains limited, market forecasts point to moderate appreciation in 2026, supported by stable demand and lower-than-average housing supply.

For policyholders, this often means your home’s replacement cost has increased. If your dwelling coverage hasn’t been reviewed in the past 24 months, your coverage may no longer reflect today’s construction and material costs.

Take advantage of these Home360 Program resources to stay proactive:

• 👉 Click HERE to review your home value and equity with a licensed Wisconsin agent

• 👉 Click HERE to request a home insurance revaluation quote to ensure your coverage reflects current replacement costs

Vehicle Spotlight

Wisconsin winters bring extended exposure to snow, ice, and road salt, especially on major corridors like I-90, I-94, and I-43. A mid-season undercarriage wash helps reduce salt buildup, which is a leading cause of brake line, fuel line, and suspension corrosion.

Preventive maintenance during winter months can significantly extend vehicle life and reduce unexpected repair costs.

Community Events

• Winterfest at Red Arrow Park (Milwaukee) – January
  Outdoor ice skating, live entertainment, and seasonal activities.

• Madison Winter Farmers’ Market – Saturdays in January
  Local produce, baked goods, meats, and artisan products.

Open Houses 

Questions or Need Assistance?

Reach out anytime at info@LTCircleofTrust.com

Monthly Partner Newsletter - "Get in the Circle"

Expert discussions on buying, selling, and monetizing your primary residence. Includes maintenance, DIY tips, and improving property value.

Everything about buying, selling, maintaining, and insuring cars and other vehicles.

Questions and answers about loans, lending products, interest rates, and lending best practices.

Topics on buying, selling, gear, safety, and rider tips.

A catch-all category for questions that don’t fit other categories — open community support.

Market trends, investment strategies, property management, and commercial/residential real estate topics.

Guidance for first-time buyers — mortgages, inspections, budgeting, and the buying process.

Insurance types, claims help, policy comparisons, and advice on coverage for homes, vehicles, and businesses.

Discussions on emerging tech, AI tools, implementation, and how technology applies to business workflows.

Hiring strategies, candidate sourcing, interviews, and staffing solutions for companies.

Business strategy, operations, finance, scaling, and entrepreneurship topics.

Practical tips to increase revenue and reduce costs — marketing, side hustles, budgeting, and optimization.

Job search help, CV/resume advice, interview tips, and career development.