Cook County is the heart of the Chicagoland real estate market, and 3rd Shift Homes is actively buying houses across the county. From the city of Chicago to the north suburbs, west suburbs, and south suburbs, we buy residential properties in any condition for cash.
Cook County has some of the highest property taxes in the nation, with an effective rate of 2.01% — double the national average. In 2024, total property tax billed in the county hit $19.2 billion. This puts enormous financial pressure on homeowners, especially those dealing with job loss, medical bills, or a property that needs major work.
The county also leads the nation in foreclosure activity, with an estimated 15,045 foreclosures in 2025 — a 32% increase from the prior year. Over 30,000 tax-delinquent properties annually fail to sell through the county’s tax foreclosure system. With 8.1% of all housing units sitting vacant, there’s a significant number of homeowners dealing with distressed situations.
Whether you’re in Chicago proper, the inner-ring suburbs like Berwyn, Cicero, and Oak Park, the south suburbs like Harvey, Dolton, and Calumet City, or the north suburbs like Evanston, Skokie, and Des Plaines, we’ll make you a fair cash offer and close on your timeline.
Communities We Serve
Chicago (all neighborhoods), Cicero, Berwyn, Oak Park, Evanston, Skokie, Des Plaines, Arlington Heights, Palatine, Schaumburg, Hoffman Estates, Elk Grove Village, Harvey, Dolton, Calumet City, Lansing, South Holland, Tinley Park, Orland Park, Oak Lawn, and many more.
Get Your Cash Offer in Cook County
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast can you close in Cook County?
We can close in as little as 7 days for properties in Cook County. Most closings happen within 14–21 days.
Do you buy houses in Chicago’s south side neighborhoods?
Yes. We buy in all Chicago neighborhoods including the south side, west side, north side, and all suburbs.
What about Cook County property tax issues?
We regularly buy properties with delinquent taxes. We handle the tax situation at closing.
Ready to Sell Your Cook County House?
Get a fair cash offer with no obligation. We close on your timeline — as fast as 7 days.