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

Moving can be difficult whether it’s across town, or to a brand new city or state. There are several factors to consider when planning to relocate. Before making the decision to uproot yourself or your family, it may be helpful to review the following information:

The Cost of Living

While in most cases, the cost of living typically balances out with salary, some cities are clearly more expensive than others. So if you’re moving from a rural area to a metropolis, you’re likely to suffer from price “sticker” shock. If the opposite is true, you’ll likely be pleasantly surprised.

When calculating how much it will cost you to live, consider expenditures for transportation, insurance, rent or home prices, taxes, groceries and more. If you’re being transferred for a job, your new salary may not actually cover all the expenses you’ll encounter.

Crime

You can easily find out about the crime level either by searching online for statistics or talking to the local police. You may want to find out as much as you can about the frequency of violent crimes, and know which areas are safer.

The local economy can give you an idea of what to expect regarding crime. If the area is struggling financially and/or unemployment is high, typically expect crime rates to increase. Even if you are required to move because of your job, you can still search for the safest areas in the community.

Schools

Whether you have children or not, be sure to gauge the area’s schools -- this will tell you a lot about the city, town or village. Areas that invest in the next generation area are often progressive -- and if you need to sell your home in future, remember that many buyers seek homes near good schools.  

While there are many other considerations to moving to a new location, these three factors will have a great impact on your ability to enjoy a new community. Be sure to take the time to research the location and ensure it fits your personality and needs. For additional assistance in locating an agent in the area you are going to, feel free to take advantage of my complimentary relocation assistance program and contact me today for a consultation. I will be happy to answer any questions you may have and/or help you find your dream 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
[email protected]

Get your latest Home Value
Receive Your Personalized Listing Alerts

Let’s Connect, Socially!

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Google +1
YouTube

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 David Wilson/flickr.com

August 27-28, 2016

Port Clinton Square, Highland Park, Illinois

Enjoy a weekend of art and fun at the Port Clinton Art Festival. Located in Highland Park, Illinois, the festival is scheduled for August 27 and 28, 2016 from 10 AM to 6 PM. The event is so popular, it has been listed in Sunshine Artist Magazine as one of the best fine art and design shows.

The festival attracts over 250,000 enthusiasts each year with artists from around the world showcasing their talents. This year you’ll enjoy more than 260 of the greatest artists with beautiful works in varied media. Children will also be inspired by the youth art division that provides an opportunity to take part in scavenger hunts during the event.

Admission and parking to the event are free making this event an affordable activity for the entire family. Don’t miss incredible works of art and fun activities for youngsters at the 2016 Port Clinton Art Festival this weekend.

When: August 27-28, 2016, 10 AM to 6 PM

Where: Port Clinton Square, 600 Central Avenue, Highland Park, Illinois

For more information regarding Port Clinton Art Festival, 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
[email protected]

Get your latest Home Value
Receive Your Personalized Listing Alerts

Let’s Connect, Socially!

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Google +1
YouTube

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 Arturo Espinosa/flickr.com

National Dog Day is today, August 26^th, and it’s a great time to think about all of our favorite canine friends. While many of these loveable critters are more than just pets and truly members of the family, still many others have no place to call home.

Jenny was one such dog. She was rescued from Heartland Animal Shelter where she arrived with a severe case of heartworm and a torn ALC. She had also recently had a litter of pups that were taken away from her. As an animal that had suffered at the hands of an abuser, she needed a home and love. That is what she received with us, and five years later, she is genuinely happy and as healthy as can be expected for a senior dog.

Heartland Animal Shelter is a no-kill shelter located in Northbrook, Illinois. The organization is dedicated to finding a forever home for every animal that comes through their doors. Founded by Dr. Herbert Preiser, DVM at Preiser Animal Hospital, the shelter has been open since 2002. The vision of the shelter is to prevent euthanasia of any adoptable pet and to educate people about the importance of spaying and neutering animals to prevent overpopulation.

Animals are rescued from all kinds of unfortunate situations and brought to Heartland Animal Shelter. Many need medical care, some have emotional and behavioral issues, but all need love. On this special day dedicated to man’s best friend (and woman’s), everyone should take a moment to be thankful for their own pets or to consider adopting a shelter animal. If adoption isn’t right for you, there are many other ways you can help out to ensure these animals have the opportunity for better lives. As we say about Jenny, she won the adoption lottery because she has enjoyed a wonderful life filled with a lot of love these last five years.

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
[email protected]

Get your latest Home Value
Receive Your Personalized Listing Alerts

Let’s Connect, Socially!

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Google +1
YouTube

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.    

More sellers are now including home warranties with the sale of their homes to comfort buyer concerns. Ideally a home warranty provides some assurance to the buyer regarding systems, appliances or other failures within the first year of ownership by arranging for repair or replacement with only a minimal service call fee. Keep in mind that homeowners, themselves, can also purchase a home warranty at any time. Prior to purchasing a home warranty, homeowners should understand what they are and when they are most needed.

What is a Home Warranty?

A home warranty generally covers the major components of a home, such as heating and cooling systems, appliances and water heaters. Typically, minor repairs such as plumbing leaks are not included in coverage. It can be purchased for any age home, though the cost may increase with older properties with additional expense for larger homes or slightly lower costs for condominiums.

With some warranties, owners pay only a set amount regardless of the cost of the repair or replacement. With other programs, payment of a portion or percentage of the cost may be required. So it’s important to read the fine print before selecting a warranty. Know what is included and what can be added for an extra price.

The Benefits

For the buyer, a home warranty provides peace of mind by eliminating the possibility for hundreds of dollars in repairs or exhausting emergency funds for major issues during the first year of ownership. Even one repair can exceed the entire annual cost for the home warranty.

For the seller, a home warranty may attract additional buyers, especially if the home being sold is older with older systems and appliances. Because many first-time buyers may have limited funds to invest into the property, and a warranty can be an attractive asset.

The Downside

Paying for a warranty for years and never needing to use it for repairs may make the proposition appear as a useless cash drain with no rewards. This case is often seen with newer homes when a special home warranty may be unnecessary if the home is still covered under the builder’s warranty. For example, most appliances come with a two- or five-year manufacturer’s warranties, so you wouldn’t need a separate home warranty during that time.

In the end, the decision to buy or not to buy boils down to you and how prepared you are to pay for unexpected expenses. It also clearly depends on the age of the home you’re buying or selling. For additional information regarding home warranty options, feel free to contact me today for a consultation. I will be happy to help you determine the value of your home, or find your next dream 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
[email protected]

Get your latest Home Value
Receive Your Personalized Listing Alerts

Let’s Connect, Socially!

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Google +1
YouTube

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 Valerie Everett/Flickr.com

August 20-21, 2016

Chicago, Illinois

Enjoy an exciting day at the 58^th annual Chicago Air & Water Show. Watch spectacular performances along the lakefront around North Avenue Beach. Free admission makes this event an exciting option for everyone on a warm summer day.

Presented by the City of Chicago and Shell Oil Products, the Chicago Air & Water Show will be held on August 20-21, 2016 from 10 am to 3 pm. Headlining the show are the US Air Force Thunderbirds and the F-35 Heritage Flight.

Food vendors are stationed along the waterfront with hot dogs, hamburgers and drinks. The best viewing areas include North Avenue Beach, Ohio Street Beach and the Lakefront from Oak Street Beach to Fullerton.

This exciting event will be fun for the whole family. So don’t miss the chance to see stunning performances at Chicago Air & Water Show this weekend.

When: August 20 and 21, 2016 from 10 AM to 3 PM

Where: Lakefront, North Avenue Beach, Chicago, Illinois

For more information regarding Chicago Air & Water Show, 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
[email protected]

Get your latest Home Value
Receive Your Personalized Listing Alerts

Let’s Connect, Socially!

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Google +1
YouTube

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 JohnPickenPhoto/flickr.com

Foundation repairs are costly and often come with other major issues. When you decide to sell your property, any major foundation problem can lower your value and red flag prospective buyers. Since preventing a problem is less expensive than fixing one, it’s advisable to take care of your foundation while it’s in good condition.

1. Fix Minor Cracks Before They Become Major

Epoxy glue, often used to repair minor cracks in the foundation, is a good solution for hairline cracks. Filling them inhibits the potential for spreading and becoming larger.

2. Maintain the Right Amount of Moisture

Dry periods can cause the soil to shift around your foundation, creating large cracks.  To keep the area around the foundation from becoming overly dry, try building rock beds around the house with plants. Water the plants as needed, and this will allow the ground to stay moist around the foundation, but avoid overwatering.

3. Keep Gutters Clean

Gutters and downspouts move water away from the house, so keep them clean. If you see water overflowing the gutters during rainstorms, it’s a sure sign that they are clogged with leaves and other debris. To protect not only your foundation but the roof as well, clean them out so they work properly. Eliminate leaking due to holes or cracks by repairing or replacing problematic sections of the gutter.

4. Check for Puddles of Water

After a heavy storm, take a walk around your home. If there are any puddles of standing water which need to be directed away from the house, consider changing the grade or install a drain.

5. Check the Plumbing

Undetected plumbing leaks can cause problems with the foundation, most frequently in the basement. Additionally, be sure to monitor sprinkler systems and sewer lines. If leaks are noted, have them addressed promptly to prevent damage to the foundation or other areas of the home.

If you’re concerned about drainage, erosion or the grading of your property, talk to an expert about potential solutions. Remember that repairing a damaged foundation and any resulting secondary issue in the rest of the home is much more costly than preventative maintenance or early-detection solutions.  For additional information regarding home improvements that can affect your home’s value, 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 North Shore, North or Northwest Suburban Chicago 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
[email protected]

Get your latest Home Value
Receive Your Personalized Listing Alerts

Let’s Connect, Socially!

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Google +1
YouTube

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 Gray Lensman QX!/Flickr.com

The July 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
[email protected]

Get your latest Home Value
Receive Your Personalized Listing Alerts

Let’s Connect, Socially!

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Google +1 
YouTube

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.

Sunny & Bright!

Sunny 2-story condo with bright south exposure and great serene view of quiet fenced common treed yard -- features brand new carpeting and fresh paint throughout. Great room style living with Dining Room area opening to the huge Living Room with a wood burning fireplace and sliders opening out to a privare balcony. Kitchen features oak cabinetry, oak floors and a sunny window. Enjoy natural light from the skylight over the stairway and upper hall bedroom wing. A spacious hall bath provides access the a convenient second floor laundry closet. The spacious Master Bedroom with views to the lovely backyard has its own large walk-in closet and private full bath. A second bedroom has a full wall of ample closet space. Parking includes a hard-to-find deeded garage space and a second assigned space, conveniently located to the building entry. Association amenities include a glorious pool for summer fun and onsite maintenance engineer -- all with an ultra-convenient, commuter-friendly location only a few blocks to Deerfield's town center and Metra train! Sold During Processing.

Contact Allyson Hoffman for more information or to schedule a showing.  Visit www.RealEstateNorthernIllinois.com or email [email protected]!

August 13-14, 2016

Chicago Botanic Garden, Glencoe, Illinois

Enjoy a fabulous day of kite flying at the Chicago Botanic Gardens Kite Festival. This event will be held on August 13 and 14, 2016 from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. Attendees will enjoy kite flying performances and workshops which teach how to make kites.

Set to music, the performances will be held in the meadow just west of Evening Island where kite flyers will do stunts with their kites. Performances include the Chicago Fire Kite Team and Kite Society of Wisconsin and Illinois. Showcasing the beauty of the skill, the performers include many who have flown kites in festivals around the world. Lunch, drinks and ice cream are available for purchase near the kite performances in the west meadow.

Don’t miss a great opportunity to head outdoors for some fun this weekend. The whole family is sure to enjoy the Chicago Botanic Gardens Kite Festival.

When: August 13-14, 2016 from 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Where: Chicago Botanic Garden, Glencoe, Illinois

For more information regarding the Chicago Botanic Gardens Kite Festival, 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
[email protected]

Get your latest Home Value
Receive Your Personalized Listing Alerts

Let’s Connect, Socially!

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Google +1
YouTube

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 John Bernardo/flickr.com

When you hear advice about how staging can help to sell your home faster, it’s often the same pointers … keep the house clean, mow the lawn, and reduce clutter. While these are undoubtedly important, if you want to make your home truly impress prospect buyers, try these additional four unique staging tips.

Tip 1 – Invite buyers in with a spectacular porch

Even if you have a tiny front entry, make the most of it. Put out a few colorful plants, a nice outdoor rug and even a table and a couple of chairs if you have the space. For anyone who drives by at night checking out homes for sale, light up the area. Additionally, add a few holiday or seasonal decorations when appropriate. This helps to create a great first impression and a warm welcome even before buyers step inside.

Tip 2 – Add style to your dining room table

When the table isn’t set for meals, it can look rather bare. Create interest by decorating this feature. If you don’t want to set it with plates and silverware, at a minimum decorate with a centerpiece of flowers or candles. Put on linen tablecloth and add a few elements to draw attention. You can also put a runner along the length of a table with small items lining it.

Tip 3 – Focus on the walls

While you may have been told to paint your walls a neutral color to appeal to more buyers, you don’t want your home to appear bland. So bring back some color with tasteful artwork by hanging paintings or artistic framed photos. Mirrors and sconces can also add a decorative touch that appeals to many buyers. If your walls and furniture are neutral, try paintings and other wall decorations with a bold color to create interest.

Tip 4 – Accessorize

Accessorize your home to make it feel lived-in, but avoid using too many personal items.  Without this softening touch, your home might appear cold or uninviting to buyers. Try displaying pillows on the couch or bed, rugs on the floor and flowers in vases. This is also a great way to introduce a bold color without being overwhelming.

Regardless, it is always critical to keep your home squeaky clean and clutter-free. When combined with these additional four tips, staging should clearly boost the odds that buyers will fall in love with your home, and increase the likelihood that it will sell faster. For additional information and helpful ideas to assist in the sale of your home, 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
[email protected]

Get your latest Home Value
Receive Your Personalized Listing Alerts

Let’s Connect, Socially!

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Google +1
YouTube

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 Gatsby/flickr.com