Matteson, IL
Chimney Sweep & Inspection Services in Matteson, IL
Your Trusted Local Chimney Experts in Matteson, IL
Chimney Bear provides expert chimney sweep, inspection, and repair services in Matteson, IL, ensuring your chimney system’s safety, efficiency, and longevity. Our team of certified chimney professionals follows industry best practices and the latest safety standards to protect your home from fire hazards and improve energy efficiency.
As a local chimney company, we proudly serve homeowners in all Chicagoland areas. Whether you need chimney cleaning, camera inspections, repairs, or gas fireplace maintenance, our expert technicians are ready to deliver top-tier service with transparent reporting.
Why Chimney Maintenance is Essential
A well-maintained chimney is vital for home safety, proper ventilation, and heating efficiency. Regular chimney sweeping helps:
Reduce fire risks by removing creosote and soot buildup.
Enhance indoor air quality by preventing smoke and carbon monoxide issues.
Improve energy efficiency by ensuring proper airflow and draft performance.
Prevent costly repairs by catching minor issues before they escalate.
Neglecting chimney maintenance can lead to dangerous conditions like fires, carbon monoxide poisoning, and structural damage. Over time, soot and creosote accumulate, increasing the risk of fire hazards. Regular inspections help detect problems early, saving you from expensive repairs and ensuring the safety of your household.
Comprehensive Chimney Cleaning & Inspection Services
Chimney Sweeping & Fireplace Cleaning
Our professional chimney cleaning services in Matteson, IL, help homeowners maintain safe, efficient fireplaces by removing:
Creosote buildup – the primary cause of chimney fires.
Soot and debris – preventing blockages and ensuring proper airflow.
Animal nests and obstructions – keeping your chimney clear and functional.
Routine chimney sweeping is essential for maintaining optimal airflow and reducing the risk of hazardous blockages. Birds, squirrels, and other animals often seek refuge in chimneys, leading to potential nesting problems. Our thorough cleaning eliminates all obstructions, ensuring your fireplace functions safely and efficiently.
Fireplace Chimney Camera Inspections
Using advanced chimney camera technology, our inspections detect:
Cracks in the flue liner – preventing dangerous gas leaks.
Hidden blockages – from birds, leaves, and debris.
Structural issues – that compromise chimney safety.
A professional camera inspection provides a detailed view of your chimney’s condition. Our high-definition camera system lets us identify even the smallest cracks or obstructions, ensuring your fireplace is safe. This proactive approach prevents costly damage and enhances the overall performance of your chimney system.
Gas & Oil Appliance Chimney Inspections
If you have gas or oil appliances (water heaters, boilers, or furnaces), our appliance chimney inspections ensure safe venting and prevent:
Carbon monoxide leaks – a silent, deadly risk.
Improper airflow – affecting efficiency and performance.
Blockages – that could cause dangerous gas buildup.
Gas appliances require efficient venting systems to expel harmful gases safely. A faulty chimney can lead to dangerous carbon monoxide buildup, endangering your household. Our certified professionals conduct thorough inspections to detect and resolve any potential venting issues.
Digital Chimney Inspection Reports
Every chimney inspection includes a detailed digital report with photos and professional recommendations, ensuring transparency and helping you make informed decisions about chimney maintenance.
Our digital reporting system clearly and concisely documents your chimney’s condition. High-quality images and expert assessments allow you to understand any necessary repairs or maintenance recommendations. Transparency is a priority at Chimney Bear, ensuring you are fully aware of the state of your chimney.
Chimney Repair & Restoration Services in Matteson, IL
Chimney Cap Installation
Protect your chimney from rain, animals, and debris with a stainless steel rain cap that prevents moisture damage and animal intrusions.
Moisture intrusion is one of the leading causes of chimney deterioration. Rainwater can seep into the flue without a chimney cap, leading to rust, cracks, and weakened mortar joints. Installing a high-quality stainless steel chimney cap prevents costly water damage and extends the lifespan of your chimney system.
Lock-Top Damper Installation
A top-sealing damper reduces heat loss, prevents downdrafts, and blocks moisture, improving your home’s energy efficiency.
Traditional throat dampers are often inefficient, allowing heat to escape during winter. A lock-top damper seals tightly when the fireplace is not in use, preventing drafts and enhancing energy efficiency. By retaining heat indoors, homeowners can lower their heating bills and enjoy a more comfortable living space.
Flue Liner Inspection & Repair
A damaged flue liner can lead to gas leaks and fire hazards. We offer:
Stainless steel liner repairs – ensuring longevity and safety.
The chimney is relined to restore proper venting and performance.
The flue liner is crucial to chimney safety, channeling harmful gases out of your home. Cracks or deterioration in the liner can lead to toxic fume exposure. Our expert relining services restore proper venting and protect your chimney from further damage.
FireGuard Resurfacing
FireGuard resurfacing repairs damaged mortar joints, preventing chimney fires and improving your chimney’s structural integrity.
A deteriorating chimney structure can compromise safety and efficiency. Our FireGuard resurfacing solutions reinforce weak mortar joints, ensuring your chimney remains in excellent condition for years.
Smoke Chamber Repair & Parging
Improve draft performance and prevent smoke leaks with expert smoke chamber parging, sealing gaps, and enhancing airflow.
A poorly constructed or deteriorating smoke chamber can lead to inefficient draft performance, causing smoke to enter your home instead of venting correctly. Our parging services smooth the smoke chamber’s surface, improving the performance of draft efficiency and overall chimney.
Chase Cover Replacement
A stainless steel chase cover prevents water penetration, extending your chimney’s lifespan and reducing maintenance costs.
Tuckpointing & Mortar Repair
Cracked mortar joints can lead to water damage and structural deterioration. Our expert tuckpointing services restore your chimney’s strength and appearance.
Gas Fireplace Services in Matteson, IL
Gas Log Installation
Upgrade your fireplace with a professional gas log installation, enhancing warmth, convenience, and energy efficiency.
Gas Log Refresh & Maintenance
Ensure your gas fireplace remains clean and efficient with:
Cleaning services to remove dust and residue.
Silica sand replacement for optimal flame performance.
Ember wool updates for a realistic fireplace glow.
Dryer Vent Cleaning Services
A clogged dryer vent is a serious fire hazard. Our professional dryer vent cleaning removes lint buildup, ensuring:
Improved dryer efficiency – reducing drying times and energy costs.
Lower fire risk – by preventing overheating and lint ignition.
Better air quality – eliminating potential mold and dust accumulation.
Schedule Your Chimney Service in Matteson, IL, Today!
How to Transfer a Real Estate Title in Matteson, IL
Transferring a real estate title is a legal requirement when selling, gifting, or inheriting property in Matteson, Illinois. Whether you're involved in a real estate sale, transferring ownership to a family member, or managing an estate, it’s essential to understand the process of transferring a title legally and correctly.
This step-by-step guide covers everything you need to know about transferring a real estate title in Matteson, IL, including which documents are required, how to calculate and pay transfer taxes, and where to record your deed. Because Matteson is located in Cook County, all recordings are managed through the Cook County Clerk’s Office by Illinois state law.
What Is a Real Estate Title Transfer?
A real estate title transfer is the legal act of moving property ownership from one party (called the grantor) to another (the grantee). This transfer is finalized by executing a deed, which must then be recorded with the appropriate county office.
In Matteson, all title transfers must be recorded with the Cook County Clerk’s Office—Recordings Division. Recording makes the transfer part of the public record and protects the new owner's legal rights.
Situations that typically require a title transfer include:
Property sales
Gifting property to family members
Transfers due to marriage or divorce
Inheritance of property after the owner’s death
Placing property into or out of a trust
Why a Proper Title Transfer Is So Important
Transferring a title correctly ensures the new owner’s legal rights are fully protected. It also ensures that:
The ownership is publicly documented
The grantee can obtain title insurance or financing
Taxes are billed to the correct individual
The property can be sold or refinanced in the future without legal complications
An improperly recorded title transfer can lead to disputes over ownership, issues with lenders or insurers, tax problems, and delays in future real estate transactions.
Step-by-Step: How to Transfer a Real Estate Title in Matteson, IL
Step 1: Select the Right Type of Deed
A deed is a legal document that facilitates the transfer of ownership. Depending on the nature of the transaction, several types of deeds are commonly used in Illinois.
A Warranty Deed provides the highest level of protection to the buyer. It guarantees that the property title is clear and that the seller has the legal right to transfer ownership.
A Quitclaim Deed transfers any interest the grantor may have in the property but offers no guarantees about title quality. This is commonly used for transfers between family members and spouses or as part of divorce settlements.
A Special Warranty Deed provides limited warranties, guaranteeing the title was clear only during the seller’s ownership.
A Transfer on Death Instrument (TODI) is a legal tool used in estate planning. It allows the property to pass to a named beneficiary upon the owner's death without going through probate.
The type of deed used will depend on the specific circumstances of the transfer. For example, a home sale would typically require a Warranty Deed, while a transfer to a spouse or child may use a Quitclaim Deed.
Step 2: Draft the Deed
Once the appropriate deed is chosen, it must be drafted with specific legal details required by Illinois law and Cook County regulations. These include:
Full legal names of the grantor and grantee
Complete legal description of the property (not just the address)
Cook County Property Index Number (PIN)
The consideration amount, meaning the purchase price or declared value (in the case of gifts or transfers)
The transfer date
A notarized signature of the grantor
The name and address of the person preparing the deed
A return address for the recorded document
The legal description and PIN can be found on a prior deed or through the Cook County property portal:
https://www.cookcountypropertyinfo.com
While you can draft your deed, it is strongly advised to work with a real estate attorney or title company to ensure that the document meets all legal requirements.
Step 3: Complete the PTAX-203 Transfer Declaration Form
Every real estate title transfer in Illinois requires a PTAX-203 Real Estate Transfer Declaration. This form is used by the Illinois Department of Revenue and Cook County to assess the transfer for tax purposes.
You can download the form here:
https://www2.illinois.gov/rev/forms/realestate/Documents/PTAX-203.pdf
The PTAX-203 requires the following information:
Names and addresses of both the grantor and grantee
Property address and PIN
Purchase price or fair market value
Type of property (residential, commercial, vacant land, etc.)
Intended use (primary residence, rental, investment)
Signatures of both parties
The completed form must be submitted along with the deed at the recording time.
Step 4: Pay Transfer Taxes
Real estate transfers in Matteson are subject to Illinois state and Cook County transfer taxes. As of 2024, Matteson does not charge a municipal real estate transfer tax, but it’s always best to confirm with the Village Clerk.
Transfer taxes are as follows:
Illinois State Transfer Tax: $0.50 per $500 of the property’s sale price or consideration
Cook County Transfer Tax: $0.25 per $500 of the consideration
These taxes must be paid when the deed is recorded. Transfer tax stamps are affixed to the deed to indicate payment.
More details can be found here:
https://www2.illinois.gov/rev/localgovernments/property/Pages/realest.aspx
If you are working with a title company or attorney, they will usually calculate the taxes and handle the payment process.
Step 5: Ensure All Taxes and Utility Bills Are Paid
Before recording the deed, you must ensure that the following are paid and up to date:
Property taxes assessed by Cook County
Water and sewer bills owed to the Village of Matteson
Delinquent taxes or unpaid municipal bills may delay the recording process or result in liens against the property.
To check Cook County property taxes:
https://www.cookcountytreasurer.com
For utility balances, contact the Village of Matteson Finance Department:
https://www.villageofmatteson.org
Step 6: Record the Deed with the Cook County Clerk
Once the deed is properly drafted and signed, and the PTAX-203 form is completed, the final step is to record the deed with the Cook County Clerk’s Office – Recordings Division. This officially completes the title transfer and is part of the public record.
Deeds can be recorded in person or electronically.
In-Person Recording
Cook County Clerk – Recordings Division
118 N. Clark Street, Room 120
Chicago, IL 60602
Phone: (312) 603-5050
E-Recording
Electronic recording is available through authorized service providers such as Simplifile, CSC, and eRecording Partners Network.
For more information on e-recording:
https://www.cookcountyclerkil.gov/agency/erecording
The typical cost to record a deed in Cook County is between $98 and $110, depending on the number of pages and additional documents.
Step 7: Notify Relevant Parties
After recording the deed, it’s essential to notify the following:
Your mortgage lender, if applicable, so the lienholder’s records can be updated
Your title insurance company to update or issue your policy
Your homeowner’s insurance provider, to reflect the ownership change
This ensures that all legal, financial, and insurance entities know the updated property ownership.
Special Situations in Matteson Real Estate Transfers
Inheritance and Estate Transfers
If the property is being transferred due to the death of the owner, several legal tools may apply:
If the deceased uses a Transfer on Death Instrument (TODI), the property will pass automatically to the named beneficiary.
The trustee can transfer the title based on trust instructions if the property is held in a living trust.
The property must go through Cook County probate court if no TODI or trust exists.
More about probate in Illinois can be found here:
https://www.illinoiscourts.gov/courts/circuit-court/probate
Estate transfers often require legal assistance to ensure state and county law compliance.
Divorce or Spousal Transfers
In divorce cases, property may be transferred between spouses using a Quitclaim Deed. Even if the transfer is court-ordered or part of a settlement, it must still follow proper procedure:
The deed must be signed and notarized
The PTAX-203 form must be completed
The deed must be recorded with Cook County
Consult a family law or real estate attorney to ensure compliance with your divorce agreement.
Estimated Time for a Title Transfer in Matteson
A straightforward title transfer in Matteson can typically be completed within 5 to 10 business days. This includes time to:
Draft and review the deed
Complete the PTAX-203 form
Pay any required taxes
Record the deed
The process can take several weeks or longer if the transaction involves probate, court orders, or other legal complexities.
Estimated Costs to Transfer a Title in Matteson
The total cost to transfer a title in Matteson includes the following:
Transfer taxes: Combined state and county taxes total $0.75 per $500 of the property’s sale price or declared value
Recording fees: Generally between $98 and $110
Attorney fees: Optional, but often range from $500 to $1,500 depending on complexity
Title insurance: Optional, varies based on property value and provider
These fees can vary based on the circumstances of the transfer. Always consult your attorney or title company for an accurate estimate.
Helpful Resources for Matteson Property Owners
Village of Matteson Official Website:
https://www.villageofmatteson.orgCook County Clerk – Recordings Division:
https://www.cookcountyclerkil.gov/agency/recordings-divisionIllinois PTAX-203 Form:
https://www2.illinois.gov/rev/forms/realestate/Documents/PTAX-203.pdfCook County Treasurer – Property Tax Lookup:
https://www.cookcountytreasurer.comIllinois Department of Revenue – Real Estate Transfer Tax:
https://www2.illinois.gov/rev/localgovernments/property/Pages/realest.aspxIllinois Probate Court Guide:
https://www.illinoiscourts.gov/courts/circuit-court/probate
Final Thoughts
Transferring a real estate title in Matteson, IL, involves multiple steps and legal obligations, including selecting the correct type of deed, completing the PTAX-203 form, paying applicable taxes, and recording the transaction with Cook County.
Whether you're buying or selling a home, transferring property to a family member, or managing an estate, following these steps carefully is essential to avoid legal complications. For most property owners, working with a qualified real estate attorney or title company is the best way to ensure a smooth and compliant title transfer.
If you have questions, contact the Village of Matteson, the Cook County Clerk’s Office, or a licensed Illinois real estate professional.
The Coolest Thing in Matteson, IL: The Matteson Community Center and Cultural Hub
Matteson, Illinois, a diverse and thriving suburb in the southern part of the Chicagoland area, is known for its welcoming neighborhoods, rich cultural fabric, and commitment to community development. While the village boasts excellent parks, shopping options, and public services, the most remarkable and most central attraction in Matteson is the Matteson Community Center. This state-of-the-art facility is more than just a recreational space—it's a true hub for connection, creativity, and celebration.
The Matteson Community Center: More Than a Gym
Located at 20642 Matteson Avenue, the Matteson Community Center is a modern and inclusive space that provides year-round programs, events, and amenities for residents of all ages.
Standout Features
Indoor basketball courts – Used for local leagues, youth sports, and open gym time.
Fitness center – Equipped with cardio machines, free weights, and personal training programs.
Multipurpose rooms – Ideal for hosting everything from art classes to community meetings and birthday parties.
Senior and youth lounges – Designed to give both generations a comfortable, safe space to socialize and engage.
After-school and summer camp programs – Popular with families for their fun, educational, and affordable offerings.
The community center also regularly hosts fitness classes like yoga, Zumba, and HIIT, as well as cultural and enrichment programming, including:
Dance and music classes.
Educational workshops.
Job fairs and health screenings.
A Gathering Place for All Ages
The Matteson Community Center is more than just a facility—it’s where the entire village comes together. Whether it’s through holiday celebrations, youth mentoring events, or local elections, the center serves as a beacon of civic engagement and cultural pride.
Community Events and Celebrations
Throughout the year, the center and surrounding village host events that draw hundreds of participants, such as:
Matteson Summer Festival – Live music, food vendors, carnival rides, and fireworks.
Juneteenth Celebrations – Cultural performances, guest speakers, and historical education.
Winter Holiday Drive-Thru Light Display – A festive tradition that brings joy to families during the colder months.
Matteson’s Broader Cultural and Recreational Offerings
In addition to the community center, Matteson offers a variety of parks and green spaces, including:
Notre Dame Park – With tennis courts, baseball fields, and shaded walking paths.
Allemong Park is a serene dog walking, biking, and outdoor play space.
Rich Township Senior Services
Matteson is part of Rich Township, which offers comprehensive senior services and programs. Many of these partner with or are hosted at the Matteson Community Center, helping the village serve residents across every generation.
Proximity to Cultural Attractions
Matteson’s central location also gives residents access to:
Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre in Tinley Park – A major venue for live music and touring acts.
Governors State University’s Center for Performing Arts is just a short drive away, offering theater, concerts, and lectures.
Matteson Plaza and Lincoln Mall Redevelopment Zone – Home to major retailers, dining options, and growing small businesses.
Dining in Matteson
Whether you're coming from the community center or stopping by after a day of shopping, Matteson offers an array of local favorites:
Mr. Benny’s Steak & Lobster House – A classic fine-dining experience.
BJ’s Market & Bakery – Famous for Southern-style comfort food.
Jamaica Jerk Choice – A local hotspot for Caribbean flavor.
Why the Matteson Community Center Stands Out
Matteson is a village built on connection, growth, and opportunity—and the Matteson Community Center embodies all those values. It’s not just a building; it’s where residents meet, move, learn, celebrate, and thrive together.
In a time when many communities struggle to find spaces that serve everyone, Matteson has built a true multi-generational hub that reflects the spirit and energy of its residents.
Whether you’re attending a dance class, watching your child’s basketball game, joining a cultural celebration, or just stopping by for a workout, the Matteson Community Center is the coolest place in town—and a symbol of what makes Matteson such a special place to live and visit.
