Chicago-area home sales post best January in five years

(Crain’s) — Local home sales got off to a strong start this year, posting their best January in five years. 

Unfinished Yorkville subdivision snapped up

(Crain's) — An-out of-town joint venture buys the Grande Reserve from Bank of America, which acquired it after filing a foreclosure suit. 

Loyola hoops coach buys home court in Wilmette

(Crain's) — Also, a Pritzker Realty exec pays $2.3 million and a lawyer sells a new-construction home in Roscoe Village. 

Downtown condo sales drop as buyers hold off

(Crain's) — The number of closed transactions fell again last year, with one observer saying factors such as uncertainty and tough loan requirements are keeping people out of the market. 

Headhunter recruits buyer for Evanston home

(Crain's) — Also, a Willis Group exec pays just over $1.86 million in Winnetka and foreclosure-related filings rose last month in Illinois. 

Updated 5:55 p.m.

Deadline near for new agent license requirements

(Crain's) — Real estate professionals have until April 30 to comply with new state rules. Those who don't do it on time must go through relicensing.