The REKAP Room

REKAP Room | Ep. 43 - Why Chicago's Gotten So Expensive and What You Could Do About It

The Chicago real estate market has become one of the most competitive in the country. The question now is why and what can you do to navigate it successfully? Tune in as Michael breaks down what’s driving the market, the trends he’s seeing firsthand as a broker in the field, and the strategies buyers and renters can use to stay ahead in today’s competitive landscape. Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more: Instagram @rekapgroup @m.j.kaplan, @mikepierson_, @gordybaba YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@rekapgroup [https://www.youtube.com/@rekapgroup] TikTok @m.j.kaplan

REKAP Room | Ep. 42 - It's Time to Break Up... With Your Landlord w/ @gordybaba

Gordy Baba comes out of retirement to break down the Chicago rental market and what’s really driving today’s competition. From bidding wars on leases to the pros and cons of managed buildings, we dive into where renters should be focusing right now. Plus, when does it actually make sense to stop renting and make the jump to buying? We cover all that and more on today’s episode. Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more: Instagram @rekapgroup @m.j.kaplan, @mikepierson_, @gordybaba YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@rekapgroup [https://www.youtube.com/@rekapgroup] TikTok @m.j.kaplan

REKAP Room | Ep. 41 - Multiple Offers? Here's How You Win

The Chicago real estate market can often feel like a competitive frenzy, and navigating your way through it takes skill, strategy, and the right people in your corner. Whenever you hear the words “multiple offer situation,” it can send a shiver down your spine. But today we break down how you can position yourself ahead of the competition and the mindset you need when stepping into any multiple offer scenario.  We’ll talk about preparation, smart offer strategies, and how working with the right agent can make all the difference when the pressure is on. Whether you're a first-time buyer or someone who’s been through the process before, understanding how to approach these situations can turn a stressful moment into a winning opportunity. Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more: Instagram @rekapgroup @m.j.kaplan, @mikepierson_, @gordybaba YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@rekapgroup [https://www.youtube.com/@rekapgroup] TikTok @m.j.kaplan

REKAP Room | Ep. 40 - How to Buy a Condo in Chicago in 2026

Chicago has long been recognized as one of the greatest cities in the world a global hub for culture, architecture, business, and opportunity. But over the past few years, the city hasn’t been immune to economic headwinds, and the real estate market has felt it especially in the downtown condo sector. No segment has taken a bigger hit than the downtown condo market. Shifts in remote work, population movement, and buyer uncertainty created a slowdown unlike anything we’ve seen in recent history. Inventory climbed, appreciation stalled, and confidence dipped. At the same time, we saw a noticeable trend with buyers gravitating toward Chicago’s outer neighborhoods. Areas that once flew under the radar became highly desirable, offering more space, neighborhood feel, and relative value compared to the urban core. But the tide may be turning. As businesses continue returning to in-person operations and downtown foot traffic steadily increases, confidence in the city’s core is rebuilding. Condo pricing appears to be leveling out, inventory is stabilizing, and buyer activity is gradually returning. If these trends continue with economic stability, business growth, and renewed vibrancy in the Loop and surrounding neighborhoods we could be on the verge of a meaningful resurgence in Chicago’s downtown real estate market. The question isn’t whether Chicago will bounce back it’s how strong the comeback could be. Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more: Instagram @rekapgroup @m.j.kaplan, @mikepierson_, @gordybaba YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@rekapgroup [https://www.youtube.com/@rekapgroup] TikTok @m.j.kaplan

REKAP Room | EP. 39 - How Realtors Actually Win On Social Media @modernchicagohomes

Michael sits down with one of Chicago’s top real estate agents, Vik Wadhwa, to break down how he’s leveraged social media to build a powerful personal brand and generate consistent leads. With years of experience in the industry, Vik shares how creating content, growing a massive online following, and staying authentic has helped elevate his business to the next level. This episode dives into real strategies, lessons learned, and how agents can use social media as a true business tool—not just a marketing add-on. Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more: Instagram @rekapgroup @m.j.kaplan, @mikepierson_, @gordybaba YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@rekapgroup [https://www.youtube.com/@rekapgroup] TikTok @m.j.kaplan