Lake Forest Real Estate FAQs

Once you choose to work the MercFoss team you’ll be asked to complete a Buyer Representation Agreement. This agreement outlines the services we will provide and explains how commissions are handled.

Driving from Lake Forest to Downtown Chicago takes 50–75 minutes in rush hour. Metra’s Union Pacific North Line offers a 50-minute train ride to Ogilvie Station from the Lake Forest Metra station.

We can include commute times in your home search filters.

Conway Farms, Everett Farms and Kelmscott Park are three neighborhoods in Lake Forest that have homes in that price range.

We can create a custom search and alert you to new listings before they hit the market.

Yes. Lake Forest offers ranch-style homes and multi-level homes with main-floor primary suites in neighborhoods like Conway Farms and Academy Woods.

We’ll tailor your search to include these layouts.

Yes, but inventory is limited. Prices range from $1.1M for smaller homes to $27.5M for estates with private beaches and 5+ acres.

We will inform you when a property in your price range becomes available, even if it is not listed in the MLS.

No. The City of Lake Forest does not allow short-term rentals (defined as rentals for less than 30 days) in any of its residential zoning districts.

Opportunities abound all four seasons

• Forest Park Beach – Year-round lakefront access.

• Middlefork Savanna & Fort Sheridan Preserve – Hiking and nature trails.
• Deerpath Park – Pickleball, turf fields, fitness stations.
• Elawa Farm – Seasonal markets and programs.
  Plus winter activities like ice skating and cross-country skiing.

We will provide you with community information on outdoor activities, restaurants, cultural events and more.

Yes. A home inspection is one of the most important steps in the buying process. It helps identify hidden issues like roof damage, leaks, or electrical problems; avoid costly surprises after closing; negotiate repairs or credits before finalizing the sale.

We can refer a home inspector.