Chicago's North Shore - North and Northwest Suburbs Real Estate Archive

July 28-31, 2016

Grant Park, Chicago, Illinois

Held from July 28 through July 31, 2016, Lollapalooza is celebrating its 25^th year of excitement, music and fun. Eight performance stages, including Kidzpalooza, ensure that there’s something for everyone at this year’s event. While music performances typically are the main draw for attendees, you’ll find plenty of additional reasons to spend a few hours here.

From cocktails to the LollaShop at Grant Park, you’ll find retail stores and specialty shops to occupy your time when you aren’t watching your favorite bands. Visitors can stop by the F.Y.E. Autograph tent for an opportunity to meet the performers or stop in at the Art Market to shop and make purchases. For a line-up of performers, please click here.

No festival is complete without delicious food from local eateries. Chow Town features everything from Chicago-style hot dogs to Lobster Corndogs and your choice of snacks, desserts and drinks to enjoy. For children aged ten and under admission to Kidzapalooza with an enclosed area for music, crafts and more is free.  This area opens at 11 AM and runs through 7 PM each day.

So, don’t miss the chance to have some family fun at Lollapalooza this year. This highly popular event is sure to provide lasting memories for all.

When: July 28-31, 2016

Where: Grant Park, Chicago, Illinois

For more information regarding Lollapalooza, please click here.

Allyson Hoffman, ABR, ACRE, CDPE, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, SFR, SRES
RE/MAX Villager
Serving Chicago's North Shore, North and Northwest Suburbs
847-310-5300
allyson@allyson.com

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Allyson Hoffman is your ultimate real estate resource for Chicago's North Shore, North and Northwest Suburbs and surrounding areas. Visit my website for detailed information regarding today’s real estate markets.   

Image courtesy Fuzzy Gerdes/flickr.com

Because today’s homeowners are frequently busy with hectic schedules, caring for a home can be a difficult challenge. This dilemma has spawned the growth of a new business – home maintenance programs. Here is a look at what they offer as well as what you should know before selecting a company.

What are Home Maintenance Programs?

Home maintenance companies create preventative programs designed to help homeowners maintain their home with regular inspections and scheduled routine tasks. They handle the jobs that previously would have been managed by the homeowner, such as changing furnace filters, cleaning out gutters or inspecting the roof.

Most companies offer multiple programs with the basics covered and more extensive maintenance plans in higher-level options. Some of the responsibilities these companies assume include:

• Changing HVAC filters  
• Cleaning the roof, gutters and downspouts  
• AC condenser cleaning  
• Changing smoke detector batteries
• Inspecting the roof
• Cleaning the dryer vent  
• Dishwasher treatment
• Inspecting plumbing
• Inspecting deck, driveway and sidewalks  
• Flushing out the hot water system  
• Changing refrigerator filter
• Cleaning refrigerator coils

Many of these services help to minimize the likelihood of future repairs and replacements caused by problems arising from homeowner neglect. These programs, ideal for busy homeowners who have minimal time or the desire to take care of these tasks themselves, work equally well for retirees who are unable to manage the tasks or those who don’t know how to do them.

How to Choose a Company and Program

Price is often the first consideration for homeowners when selecting an automated home maintenance company. In most cases, the price is affordable and much less than the cost of replacement. When choosing a company, be sure to check references and get recommendations if possible.

To select a program, honestly assess which tasks will be overlooked. Some higher-level programs include a certain number of hours of credit for any repairs that need to be made. So, if you live in an older home, this may be a substantial benefit. For those living in a newer property, anticipate problems may be years away.

Because automated home maintenance programs can save homeowners both time and money, it’s important to choose a reputable company and a program that makes sense for your needs and budget. For additional ideas regarding home care and improvement projects that preserve or enhance your home’s value, feel free to contact me today for a consultation. I will be happy to answer any questions you may have about buying or selling a home in Chicago's North Shore, North and Northwest Suburban communities.

Allyson Hoffman, ABR, ACRE, CDPE, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, SFR, SRES
RE/MAX Villager
Serving Chicago's North Shore, North and Northwest Suburbs
847-310-5300
allyson@allyson.com

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Allyson Hoffman is your ultimate real estate resource for Chicago's North Shore, North and Northwest Suburbs and surrounding areas. Visit my website for detailed information regarding today’s real estate markets.   

Image courtesy andrewarchy/flickr.com

July 23 - 24, 2016

Westfield Old Orchard, Skokie, Illinois

Visit Skokie, Illinois on July 23 and 24, 2016 to enjoy the 28^th annual North Shore Festival of Art. This free event is open to the public and held at Westfield Old Orchard. Creations from more than 100 artists in paint, photography, glass, jewelry, ceramics and more will be on display.

Not only can guests view these unique items, they will also be available for purchase. In addition, attendees can interact with the artists through special demonstrations and booth chats.  Activities for children including Art Bingo will make this an event the whole family can participate in and enjoy.

Attendees can spend the day enjoying food from nearby restaurants, and live music from local performers during the Festival. Both Saturday and Sunday, admission and parking is free.

Don’t miss fantastic art, food and entertainment in Skokie this weekend. The North Shore Festival of Art will be a great opportunity for family fun.

When: July 23 - 24, 2016 from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

Where: Westfield Old Orchard, Skokie, Illinois

For more information regarding the North Shore Festival of Art, please click here.

Allyson Hoffman, ABR, ACRE, CDPE, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, SFR, SRES
RE/MAX Villager
Serving Chicago's North Shore, North and Northwest Suburbs
847-310-5300
allyson@allyson.com

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Allyson Hoffman is your ultimate real estate resource for Chicago's North Shore, North and Northwest Suburbs and surrounding areas. Visit my website for detailed information regarding today’s real estate markets.   

Image courtesy Humusak/Pixabay.com

Almost everyone who lives in a small home needs more storage. Typically, floor space is at a premium with the common solution of building wall shelving and other vertical storage systems. However, extra storage can be achieved in many fun and unique ways. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

Baskets and Bins

Wicker baskets and vibrant plastic storage bins are great resources for adding storage. While they actually don’t hide your items, they make them look more attractive while out in plain sight. They can easily enhance the limited storage you already have. For example, if there’s minimal room for a dresser in your child’s bedroom, try placing storage bins their closet. Lay them on their side and stack them to create attractive, usable shelves.

Custom Shelving

Many older homes with nooks not large enough for a piece of furniture can easily be converted to storage areas by adding custom shelving.  To hide this area, if so desired, try hanging a curtain or blind to keep it concealed.

Crates

Try to find old wooden crates and paint them a bright color or a shade to match your walls. They can be hung in the bathroom to hold washcloths and toiletries, or in the kitchen to hold spices. Because they come in different depths and lengths, you can find a size to fit almost any space.

Ladders

Repurpose and refresh an old wooden ladder for your bathroom with a coat of matching or contrasting paint. Lean it against a wall to hang towels and washcloths. It could also be used in a bedroom if the ladder has wider steps to hold photos or even toys. Just make sure to securely attach it to the wall to provide a stable space for your belongings.  

Hanging Storage

For those who have only a few cabinets and drawers in your kitchen, space for everything is inevitably limited. Try purchasing small pegboards, or make your own to attach to the inside of your cabinets. This is the perfect space to hang measuring spoons and cups or other small items that take up extra room. 

Small spaces don’t have to be cluttered or cause for frustration. With a little creativity, finding unique storage solutions that fit your home and your needs doesn’t have to be overwhelming. For additional ideas regarding creative home improvements, feel free to contact me today for a consultation. I will be happy to answer any questions you may have about buying or selling a home in Chicago's North Shore, North and Northwest suburban communities.

Allyson Hoffman, ABR, ACRE, CDPE, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, SFR, SRES
RE/MAX Villager
Serving Chicago's North Shore, North and Northwest Suburbs
847-310-5300
allyson@allyson.com

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Allyson Hoffman is your ultimate real estate resource for Chicago's North Shore, North and Northwest Suburbs and surrounding areas. Visit my website for detailed information regarding today’s real estate markets.   

Image courtesy Iris/Flicker.com

The June 2016 Midwest Real Estate Market Reports are now ready for your review. These market reports provide an insight on the real estate market statistics for Cook County and Lake County. These statistics are helpful when you are considering buying or selling in today’s real estate market.  And, remember should you need tailored reports on a subdivision or neighborhood in the North Shore, North, and Northwest Suburban Chicago, Illinois area, please let me know.

Allyson Hoffman, ABR, ACRE, CDPE, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, SFR, SRES
RE/MAX Villager 
Serving Chicago's North Shore, North and Northwest Suburbs
847-310-5300
allyson@allyson.com

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Allyson Hoffman is your ultimate real estate resource for Chicago's North Shore, North and Northwest Suburbs and surrounding areas. Visit my website for detailed information regarding today’s real estate markets.

July 14-15 & 17, 2016

Navy Pier and Steelworkers Park, Chicago, Illinois

Twelfth Night, the beloved Shakespearean play, is being presented at Navy Pier’s East End by Chicago Shakespeare Theater. Held under the stars at parks scattered around Chicago, this story is brought to life for today’s audiences. Opening night and the following evening, July 14-15, will see this play in production at the Navy Pier. On Sunday, July 17^th, it will move to Steelworkers Park.

The fifth year of this annual summer tradition, the Free For All Chicago Shakespeare in the Parks tour is the largest event for Shakespeare throughout the city. The free production lasts 75 minutes with no intermission. Professional actors arrive on a special truck with a stage that quickly unfolds to tell the story of a young lady named Viola who has been separated from her twin brother as the result of a shipwreck. To survive in a strange land, she disguises herself as a male passenger to serve Duke Orsino, and subsequently becomes part of a love triangle.

Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a lovely evening in the park with friends and family, and experience Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night this weekend.  

When: July 14 and 15, 6:30 pm, July 17, 4:00 pm

Where: Navy Pier and Steelworkers Park, Chicago, Illinois

For more information regarding Chicago Shakespeare in the Parks: Twelfth Night, please click here.

Allyson Hoffman, ABR, ACRE, CDPE, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, SFR, SRES
RE/MAX Villager
Serving Chicago's North Shore, North and Northwest Suburbs
847-310-5300
allyson@allyson.com

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Allyson Hoffman is your ultimate real estate resource for Chicago's North Shore, North and Northwest Suburbs and surrounding areas. Visit my website for detailed information regarding today’s real estate markets.   

Image by Martin Droeshout [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

Whether you’re putting your house on the market now or you just want to improve your street presence, curb appeal provides major impact to your property’s look and value. Here are three tips to help you create an outdoor masterpiece regardless of your budget.

Clean Up the House

Talk about curb appeal, and many homeowners begin discussing the best plants, flowers and shrubs to add to the landscape. However, for the best impact, start with the element that provides the biggest visual impression -- your home’s exterior. Work first on making it look fabulous before you worry about other areas.

• Power wash the siding
• Paint the exterior
• Add trim to the windows or repaint old trim
• Paint the front door and porch or entry
• Repair any loose boards or damaged roof shingles

Once the house looks great, then move on to the rest of the outdoor space.

Manicure the Yard

Trim trees and bushes, get rid of dead or dying plants and clean up any clutter. Add fresh mulch around trees and in flower beds, and make sure to eliminate weeds or unsightly shrubs. Fertilize your lawn to make it lush and green and consider seeding or sodding any areas that are bare or thin. These steps will improve visual appeal dramatically, even if you do nothing else.

Revive Your Plants

After your home and yard have been addressed, inventory the plants that need to be refreshed. Many annuals and perennials can be revived by cutting them back or “dead heading” the old blooms.  This process will frequently will produce fuller foliage and new flowers. During summer, some plants can benefit from additional fertilizer to replace nutrients drained from extra watering. This is especially important to consider for potted plants. For help in determining the right fertilizer and schedule for your plants, try consulting your local lawn and garden expert.

Lastly, a unique splash of color in your outdoor décor such as a vivid lawn seat or an umbrella in a bold shade can add an inviting touch to attract would-be buyers. For additional ideas to enhance your home’s appeal, feel free to contact me today for a consultation. I will be happy to answer any questions you may have, and/or help you determine the value of your home.

Allyson Hoffman, ABR, ACRE, CDPE, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, SFR, SRES
RE/MAX Villager
Serving Chicago's North Shore, North and Northwest Suburbs
847-310-5300
allyson@allyson.com

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Allyson Hoffman is your ultimate real estate resource for Chicago's North Shore, North and Northwest Suburbs and surrounding areas. Visit my website for detailed information regarding today’s real estate markets.   

Image courtesy of Jo Guldi/Flickr.com

July 6-10, 2016

Grant Park, Chicago, Illinois

The largest food festival in the world, Taste of Chicago draws in millions of people each year. More than 60 restaurants are featured with family entrees, ethnic meals and more. The event takes place in downtown Chicago at Grant Park.

Along with all the fabulous food, visitors will enjoy live entertainment on three stages along with cooking demonstrations. This event is fun for all ages with an entertainment area for the children. This is the place you go to try out classic Chicago dishes, such as ribs, Chicago-style pizza, Chicago-style hotdogs and cheesecake. There will be 11 new pop-up restaurants and numerous food trucks along with the Celebrity Chef du Jour. At this event, guests can enjoy a full sit-down meal with three courses in a lovely air-conditioned pavilion.

Cost for this activity is $45 per person. Admission to the event is free, but guests may need to purchase tickets to try out the various restaurants. The event runs July 6-10, 2016 with weekend hours from 10 am to 9 pm. To learn more about this delicious and fun-filled event, take a look at the city website.

Don’t miss the chance to join the masses attending Taste of Chicago 2016. Great food, entertainment and fun await you and your family at Grant Park.

When: July 6-10, 2016

    • Wednesday-Friday from 11am-9pm
    • Saturday-Sunday from 10am-9pm

Where: Grant Park, Chicago, Illinois

Allyson Hoffman, ABR, ACRE, CDPE, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, SFR, SRES
RE/MAX Villager
Serving Chicago's North Shore, North and Northwest Suburbs
847-310-5300
allyson@allyson.com

Get your latest Home Value
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Allyson Hoffman is your ultimate real estate resource for Chicago's North Shore, North and Northwest Suburbs and surrounding areas. Visit my website for detailed information regarding today’s real estate markets.   

Image courtesy Peter F./flickr.com

Fall In Love Here!

No Place Like Home and No Place Like this SPECIAL Dream Home!

Paint It Pretty and Pristine with Personality Plus -- A Sure Family-Pleasing Memory Maker! 

 A prescription for family pleasure in this instantly-appealing show stopper! Packed with extras, this pristine four-bedroom tri-level with attractive updated brick/vinyl exterior, side-loading garage, newer concrete drive/walkway, leaded-glass front door and covered front porch entry is beautifully landscaped.

The lovely exterior foreshadows the exceptional interior highlights -- starting with an inviting foyer with wood balusters & wrought-iron rails overlooking the step-down to a sunny living room with a bowed picture window and adjoining el-shaped dining room. Gorgeous oak floors extend throughout the entire main and upper levels. The updated eat-in kitchen features all stainless steel appliances, direct access to the patio and fenced backyard, newer counters and a view of the spacious lower-level family room with its huge corner raised-hearth, wood-burning brick fireplace. Also located on the lower level is an updated full bathroom, convenient fourth bedroom or in-home office, ideal for guests, and access to the big finished sub-basement with a giant recreation room, shelved storage room and finished laundry/mechanical room.  

The upper level features the master bedroom with two-double door closets, a lighted ceiling fan and access to the sparkling, updated shared bathroom as well as two family bedrooms each with a lighted ceiling fan, double-door closet and view of the backyard.

This special home with over 2400 SF of finished living area is a truly picture-pretty-love-at-first-sight opportunity – ready today for the next lucky family!

To view the full description and collection of photos for this home please visit c.
 
Contact Allyson Hoffman for more information or to schedule a showing.  Visit www.RealEstateNorthernIllinois.com or email Allyson@Allyson.com!

The Illinois Association of REALTORS® held the 35th Annual REALTOR® of the Year Banquet on June 21, 2016 at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum in Springfield, Ilinois. The event honored the accomplishments of the 2016 Illinois REALTOR® of the Year and 25 local ROTYs from across Illinois.

The REALTOR® of the Year award is the highest honor bestowed by the Board, given to one agent who is a model example for other professions to follow. Allyson Hoffman of RE/MAX Villager in Glenview was this year’s representative member for the North Shore-Barrington Association of REALTORS® receiving the award at the annual banquet. Allyson has served on state committees and the local board of directors, as well as numerous committees. She is active with the local MLS, WCR, CRS and Cyberstars. She is a past recipient of the RE/MAX International Lifetime Achievement Award.

Allyson’s dedication to her profession readily apparent in both her past and present service to the North Shore-Barrington Association of REALTORS®, as a speaker and mentor to her peers, as an advocate for clients, and as a community leader. Allyson’s previous vocation as a teacher of reading and language arts has served her well in her present profession, which has furthered her opportunity to assist in the development of fellow real estate professionals. She has bestowed in them her personal and professional values in addition to her expertise as an exceptional real estate leader and team member.

A New York native, Allyson received her B.A. in 1972 from the State University of NY at Albany and her M.A. in 1974 from the University of Illinois Champaign. From 1974 until 1983 she taught language arts. Early in her real estate career in 1985, she joined RE/MAX North as a Broker Associate. Currently she is a Broker Associate at RE/MAX Villager, 1245 Waukegan Road in Glenview, Illinois. Her affiliations include the National Association of REALTORS^®, Illinois Association of REALTORS^®, North Shore-Barrington Association of REALTORS^®, Midwest Real Estate Data LLC (MLS), Residential Sales Council, Women’s Council of REALTORS^®, Cyberstars and Cyberprofessionals.

The list of her qualifications, achievements and honors are as follows:   

• Relocation Specialist
• 1987 Speaker. Top Ten Relocation Brainstorm
• 1988 Speaker. RE/MAX Midwest Convention
• 1990 Speaker. Top Ten Relocation Brainstorm
• 1991 Certified Relocation Professional
• 1992 RE/MAX Hall of Fame
• 1993 Graduate of the Realtors Institute
• 1994 Speaker.  North Shore Board Membership
• 1994 Speaker.  RE/MAX of Northern Illinois
• 1994 Certified Residential Specialist
• 1999-2002 Director.  North Shore-Barrington Association of Realtors
• 2000 Speaker.  Illinois Association of Realtors Convention
• 2000 e-PRO Certified Internet Professional
• 2001 RE/MAX International Lifetime Achievement Award
• 2003 Associate of the Year. North Shore-Barrington Assn. of Realtors
• 2004-2005 Illinois Association of Realtors.  Board of Directors
• 2004 Accredited Buyer’s Representative
• 2005 Vice Chairman - Technology Committee, IAR
• 2006 Chairman - Technology Committee, IAR
• 2007 Seniors Real Estate Specialist
• 2007 Accredited Consultant in Real Estate
• 2008 Speaker RE/MAX International Convention Las Vegas, Nevada
• 2009 SFR – Short Sale Foreclosure Resource
• 2012 CDPE – Certified Distressed Property Expert
• 2015 Realtor of the Year. North Shore-Barrington Assn. of Realtors

Allyson has been serving the residents of Chicago's North Shore, North and Northwest suburbs for over 33 years as a consistent top-producing professional. Her mission and top priority commits her to providing quality service, results and total client satisfaction.