For many new homeowners, moving into that new home also means moving into a new community. So, do you know everything there is to know about your new city or town?

Yes, you heard us correct ... The Penthouse Collection at Grand Plaza has yet another amazing deal for you. If you buy one of their remaining new condos, then they'll pay your taxes, parking and assessments for up to 2 years. That's more money in your pocket!!!

You've heard it all before - it's a great time to buy a new home! This is especially true for first time home-buyers! If you're financially solid, there are some great deals to be had right now. But how much does it really cost just to get the ball rolling? Don't be scared off by that 20% down payment! While the days of no-money down are for the most part behind us, you can get your foot in the door for much less than 20%.

Have you found that beautiful new home of your dreams, but need to get out from under your current mortgage to move on? If so, then you've probably discovered first-hand that it's going to take a little more than it used to in order to find the right buyer for your home. Which is why it's important to remember Consumer Reports' five basic tips to selling in the current market...

As the Federal Reserve continues to fight a struggling economy and inflation, mortgage rates continue to creep higher.

According to the mortgage company, Freddic Mac, the 30-year fixed rate mortgages averaged 6.32% last week. That is up sharply from 6.09% the previously week. Read more.

More on Illinois rates after the jump ...

William Ryan Homes has another great deal on a home ready for immediate delivery. You could be in your new home before grilling season is over!!!

Want the details ... check it out after the jump.

If you're part of the population that currently has its home on the market and you're starting to lose faith, it's time to take stock. Stop seeing your house as your own and start viewing it as a buyer would. Do you see clutter? Lots of personal effects? Evidence that you own three great danes? Then perhaps it's time for some home staging!

For the fourth straight week, the average mortgage rate has increased. According to Freddie Mac, the mortgage company, the average 30-year fixed rate mortgage is averaging 6.42%. That's the highest level since last September.

Read more after the jump about how inflation concerns is driving up the mortgage rates.

It seems like just about every week we hear a new report out that shows how home prices are falling across the nation. But as the old saying goes, real estate is local.

So, how are home prices doing in your neighborhood? You might be surpised, but some areas of Chicagoland are still doing okay. And that means if you're looking to move into that dream home we've shown you on HomesPlus, you might just be able to do so today.

The information is after the jump.