The REKAP Room

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@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

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@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

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@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

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@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

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@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

Michael sits down with the next generation of commercial real estate brokers to break down today’s market, discuss what they’re seeing on the ground, and share insights on where the commercial sector is headed in the months and years ahead.Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

Michael sits down with the next generation shaping the future of Chicago real estate. Christian, Julian, and Michael share how they each got their start, what they’re building today, and the unique perspectives they bring to the industry. From early lessons to where they see the Chicago market heading, this conversation offers fresh insight, ambition, and a look at the rising talent redefining what’s possible in real estate.Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

Tim Brigham, a top-producing mortgage lender and respected coach, joins the REKAP Room to share his decades of experience in the lending world. In this episode, Tim breaks down what today’s buyers and agents need to understand about financing, market shifts, and building long-term success in real estate. From practical coaching insights to industry-tested strategies, Tim delivers real knowledge you can apply immediately. Tune in and level up your real estate game.Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

Chicago fall is here, and we’re breaking down where things stand as we taper off the busy summer season and move into the fall market. For buyers, this time of year can bring new opportunities with a slower pace, there’s often more flexibility and room to negotiate. For sellers, the fall market can be a moment to strategize: either hold tight until spring for a more competitive environment or, if you need to sell now, understand that the pool of buyers may be smaller and multiple-offer situations less common.We’ll cover what’s happening across Chicago, what to expect as we head toward the end of the year, and how to position yourself for success whether you’re buying, selling, or just keeping a pulse on the market.Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

This week, we sit down with Kevin Rocio, one of Chicago’s most respected and accomplished commercial real estate agents and investors. Kevin shares his incredible journey through the ups and downs of the market, the lessons that shaped his success, and his expert take on where commercial real estate is headed next. From deal-making strategies to market insights you won’t hear anywhere else, this episode is packed with value for anyone serious about building wealth through real estate.Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

Gordy kicks things off with a recap of the Bears’ first win of the season and what it could mean moving forward. Then Michael shares his personal tips as a landlord, offering practical advice for anyone thinking about buying their first rental property. From navigating the early challenges to answering common questions, this episode is packed with insights to help you get started.Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

Michael discusses the difference between what a serious buyer looks like and a "shopper" on today's episode. He breaks down what each type of buyer looks like and why we see serious and shopper buyers in this market. Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

Michael dives into the hottest neighborhood in Chicago Lincoln Park. Discussing how it has become so competitive and why it has become so popular. Are there other neighborhoods that can compete with Lincoln Park? Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

As the summer is starting to wind down we officially depart with our first ever intern Mike Williams. Going through his first experience working in real estate Mike talks about the experience, challenges, what he's learned and much more. Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

Gordy and Michael have been working together for almost 3 years as they discuss their friendship and partnership within REKAP. They go more into depth where it all started, how they've managed their relationship, and what are the plans for the future. Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

Michael breaks down the key signs that you’re truly ready to make one of life’s biggest decisions in buying a home. From financial preparedness to personal goals, he’ll help you figure out if now is the right time to take the leap into homeownership. Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

On today's REKAP Room Michael gives us an inside look of the market and the trends we are seeing today. Where is the current market at? What does the future look like? When should I be looking? These are all questions broken down and more insight to give you helpful tips in the housing market. Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

We are back! A lot of new changes have come to the REKAP Group as we introduce our new teammate Mike Pierson. Get to know Mike and his new role with the REKAP Group!Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

On today's episode of The REKAP Room we have special guest Alex Hochman. One of the top salesman for Vivint smart homes who has created a name for himself as a top door to door salesman. He speaks about how he has started one of the top producing teams fr Vivint and how he fell in love with door to door sales. Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

We are back with another episode of the REKAP Room. Today's guest is one of the more interesting stories you'll hear Jake Johnson a 25 year old golf course owner. Tune in to hear about how he ended up buying a golf course at such a young age and the adversity and resilience he went through to get to this point. Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

We are joined by a very special guest our very own friend and camera man Patryk Rydzewski. Pat has been with us since the start and we sit down with him to discuss his upbringing, how he got into photography/videography, and his future plans. Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

In this episode, we sit down with Aram Ghazaryan to explore his incredible journey from immigrating to America to building a thriving career in real estate. Aram shares how he discovered his passion for the industry, the challenges he faced along the way, and what it took to transition into becoming a full-time real estate investor.Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

We are joined by our very first guest on the show Penny Silich as she discusses her long and successful career in real estate. Join us as we discuss life, real estate, and how to navigate yourself in your career. You won't want to miss this. Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

On today's Rekap Room we dive into the future of the real estate market and what each of us thinks is the 2025 outlook. Could we see a more stable market? We discuss how everything will shape out as we get into the holiday season and closer to the spring market. Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

In today's episode we talk about the real estate epidemic of the rising housing costs and what has led to this. We discuss potential solutions of how this problem can eventually be fixed or minimized. Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

In today's episode, we explore why the dropout rate in real estate is so high, sharing our own challenges with unpredictable income and competition. We'll discuss why many agents leave the industry and offer insights on how to navigate these obstacles. Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

Today's episode we dive into some current real estate news going on in Chicago. Do sports teams drive up real estate? How should you invest in real estate? We talk about it all on this episode. Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

They always say never go into business with friends. We discuss our journey together and how the relationships we have with each other have helped grow our business. Giving you behind the scenes looks and our input on what it's like working with each other. Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

Pt. 2 is here of our favorite segment. We pick new celebrities and potential neighborhoods in Chicago they would live in. How many of these neighborhoods do you agree with? Featuring Larry David, The Rock, and more... Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

Real Estate is not just opening doors. Michael, Sasha, and Gordy dive in to a few misconceptions about real estate and give an inside look into what agents generally do. We also have some fun along the way with each other and show you more into the team's dynamic. Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

Whether you are looking to be a full time real estate investor or just save up to buy your first condo, this episode is for you! Episode 13 is all about giving Gen-Z the advice they need to get into the market young and capitalize on their biggest competitive advantage... TIME! Remember, time IN in the market always beats TIMING the market.Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

Analysis paralysis is something I think we all face to varying degrees. Developing a consistent habit of decisive action (hint: there is no "right" action) will make your days and life more efficient and enjoyable. Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

Unfortunately, episode 11 had to be scrapped due to some technical difficulties. BUT we are jumping to episode 12 with a bang. On today's episode of The REKAP Room, we play the PG version of a classic game "F**k, Marry, Kill" called "Kiss, Marry, Kill" with a Chicago spin per usual. Enjoy!Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

Each Monday, I plan to release a shorter podcast episode that gives some insights into what has helped me along the journey of starting a business & navigating life in my 20'sAll feedback is appreciated! Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

Welcome back to episode 10 of The REKAP Room! This week, we take our turns playing the well known game "Would you Rather" with a Chicago/real estate/REKAP twist. We hope you enjoy and as usual, clips will be posted throughout the week on all social media platforms. We love ya!Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

As three young real estate broker's our job takes us all over the city and suburbs of Chicago. On episode 9, we talk about what we see on a daily basis that makes Chicago the greatest city in the world... and also where there is some room for improvement (to put it lightly). Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

Sorry for the break but we are BACK! On this episode, we take a deep dive into some trends of the past, present, and future. As they always say "history repeats itself" and we are going to make it our mission to bring back some trends that we miss. Not real estate related but we had a great time filming this one! Hope you enjoy. Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

If you know Gordy and Michael, you know they are both homebodies. A perfect night for them is chilling at their house NOT going to a crowded club or bar. Let's test their knowledge of Chicago nightlife in this episode 7 hosted by Sasha... who is far more well versed in this category LOL.Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

Michael delves into the struggles of finding balance between personal life and business commitments, while Gordy and Sasha offer reflections on their early experiences in the real estate field. Listen in as the team has a heart-to-heart about the reality of being in the industry. Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

On episode 5, we are bringing in the current events going on in Chicago & how it will affect the real estate market! Sasha sheds a few tears after Dom's Market abruptly closed, Gordy thinks that Winston Churchill is a jockey, and Michael gives his input on all of it. New episodes coming to you weekly!Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

Chicago is widely recognized as a global culinary destination. With a wide range options, cuisines, and even some budget friendly options we think that Chicago is the best city when it comes to food. However, some Chicago staples do not live up to the hype (and vice versa). Tune in to today's episode and watch (or hear) us play a little game of "Underrated, Overrated, Properly Rated" - Chicago Restaurant Edition!Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

Let's face it... we all have some red flags. Maybe you love to argue or stare at yourself in the mirror all the time. But hopefully some green flags too. Great hygiene, sense of humor, etc. Today we analyze the red flags, green flags, and even beige flags with a REKAP real estate twist. Is living above a club a red flag or green flag?  How about a client hopping on AUX in your car in between showings? Tune in to hear the whole episode and our thoughts!Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

Have you ever thought about where your favorite celebrity would live if they moved to Chicago? Well… we have!In this week’s episode, co-host Sasha Rozhko names a celebrity and we have to decide which neighborhood they belong in and why. Featuring Justin Bieber, Pitbull, & more 😉Tune in to hear the whole list!Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]

Welcome to our first ever episode! This episode is all about introductions. Who are we? How did we get our start? Is Gordy actually 5 foot 8? If you have any questions, comments, or suggestions please email them to [email protected]!Follow us on Social Media for Clips, Content, and more:Instagram@[email protected], @mikepierson_, @gordybabaYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@[email protected]