This new box, SENTRILOCK, introduced to the brokerage community by the National Association of Realtors is spreading nationwide with the majority of Realtor Associations in the Chicago metro area selecting it as their first choice for secured electronic lockbox application, including the North Shore-Barrington Association of Realtor (www.NSBAR.org ).   Conversion to the new lockbox system which included turning in all old gray boxes was a successful event that took place during the first half of August and the new lockboxes are now showing up throughout the area.

As with the old boxes, to access these boxes, one must have an active keycard that is tied directly to them and identified by a key number with a password that is needed to make it work and provide security.  The keycards are the size of a credit card and expire each and every day, so that agents who wish to use them, must diligently update their cards daily.   One issue in the use of these boxes is that not all of the Realtor Associations have selected this box as their box of choice for the members, so those without a keycard in this area can actually also call in and receive a one-time code that can be used to obtain keys for access.  This assures that those using these boxes will be able to provide and monitor access by all agents, something that is not available to those using the newer generation of Supra boxes (the "blue" Supra boxes).    We are still seeing an abundance of our solid and trusty non-electronic boxes that do not record access such as the combination, pin push or other simple code-type boxes that have been commonly available for decades.

Allyson Hoffman, RE/MAX North

With lenders quoting a wide variety of interest rates and points, smart mortgage shoppers take a close look when comparing borrowing costs. Sometimes it turns out that the lowest interest rate isn’t necessarily the best buy. Here are some tips:

• Compare borrowing costs.
• Count the points.
The simplest way to compare borrowing costs is to ask the lender for the actual annual percentage rate (APR) – the true interest on the loan. The APR consists of the simple interest rate, plus all other charges imposed by the lender. It’s not at all unusual for the APR to be substantially higher than the rate quoted by the lender. What’s more, a simple rate quoted by one lender, although higher than another lender’s advertised simple interest rate, may turn out to have the lower APR. For the shopper who wants to take into account the cost of points (each point is equal to 1% of the loan amount), an simplified rule of thumb comes in handy: Each point is roughly equal to an interest rate increase of 1/8^th of 1% over a payback period of 30 years. Thus, a lender offering a 10% rate with no extra points is offering a better deal than the lender offering, say, a loan at 9 7/8% plus two points. Which is best for you depends on how long you plan to live in the house.

Normally, debt forgiveness results in taxable income. But under the Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act of 2007, you may be able to exclude from tax up to $2 million of debt forgiven on your principal residence. The limit is $1 million for a married person filing a separate return.

Debt reduced through mortgage restructuring, as well as mortgage debt forgiven in connection with a foreclosure, may qualify for this relief. The debt must have been used to buy, build or substantially improve your principal residence and must have been secured by that residence. Debt used to refinance qualifying debt is also eligible for the exclusion, but only up to the amount of the old mortgage principal, just before the refinancing.

Debt forgiven on second homes, rental property, business property, credit cards or car loans does not qualify for the new tax-relief provision. In some cases, however, other kinds of tax relief, based on insolvency, for example, may be available. See Form 982 for details.

If your debt is reduced or eliminated you will receive a year-end statement (Form 1099-C) from your lender. By law, this form must show the amount of debt forgiven and the fair market value of any property given up through foreclosure.

The IRS urges borrowers to check the Form 1099-C carefully. Notify the lender immediately if any of the information shown is incorrect. You should pay particular attention to the amount of debt forgiven (Box 2) and the value listed for your home (Box 7).

For more information about the Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act of 2007, visit the IRS Web site at IRS.gov. A good resource is IRS Publication 4681, Canceled Debts, Foreclosures, Repossessions and Abandonments. This publication and Form 982 can be downloaded from IRS.gov or by calling 800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676).

Remember that for the genuine IRS Web site be sure to use .gov. Don't be confused by internet sites that end in .com, .net, .org or other designations instead of .gov. The address of the official IRS governmental Web site is www.irs.gov.

This article is courtesy of the www.irs.gov.  Visit their website for more information.

It's that time of year when we have our air conditioners running and windows open to help make our homes a little bit more bearable during these warm summer months. As a result of trying to battle the extreme heat we tend to forget what we have heard, and learned about being energy efficient.

Here are a few summer tips for your home that will help keep you on track with an energy efficient plan.

For Outside

• Longer days mean we don't need out outdoor lighting as much. Adjust your outdoor lighting timers accordingly and you'll save money and extend bulb life.
• Try solar-powered outdoor lighting or garden lighting as an alternative. They are energy-efficient, inexpensive, safe and very easy to install.
• Electric mowers are a recommended alternative to gas mowers as the electric models tend to pollute less and are much quieter.
• For the same reasons as above, electric grass and hedge trimmers are a great alternative to gas powered models, although manual trimmers are a more commonly recommended alternative, by professional gardeners.
• Using a broom to clean your driveway and walkways is just as effective as a gas powered leaf blower and is not harmful to the environment.

For Inside

• There is really no need to have your gas fireplace's pilot light during the summer. Save energy, and money, by turning out the fireplace's pilot light until the fall. It is always a good idea to refer to the operating manual for your furnace to learn how to do this properly or  consult a technician. 
• During hot days, it helps if you keep the windows closed and then reopen them in the evening when it cools off.
• Blinds and draperies should also be closed on hot days to keep the inside temperature cooler and comfortable. 
• Everyone knows that hot air rises and that makes your attic at hot spot in the home.making sure your attic has the proper insulation will protect your home from excessive heat penetration in summer and cold penetration in winter.  making sure your attic has the proper insulation will protect your home from excessive heat penetration in summer and cold penetration in winter. 
• Floor and ceiling fans are a fabulous way to create gentle breezes throughout your home to keep your family cool and comfortable.

These are a few summer tips to keep your family comfortable in your homes, during this hot summer as well as a few energy saving and environmental alternatives.

Have a fabulous summer.

Deerfield Family Days
Date: Thursday, July 3 – Friday, July 4
Location: Thursday – Brickyards Park. Saturday – Jewett Park Community Center
Time: 5 p.m Thursday, 7:30 a.m. Friday

Activities:
Friday – Pancake Breakfast, Parade, Arts and Crafts Show, Rides, Games, Dog Show, Petting Zoo and Ponies!

Evanston

Fourth of July Parade & Fireworks
Date: Friday, July 4
Location: Central Street (Parade in Downtown Evanston), Clark Street Beach (Fireworks)
Time: Parade is at 2 p.m., Fireworks are at 9:15 p.m.


Glencoe

Date: Friday, July 4
Location: Glencoe Beach 
Time: Live music is at 7:15 p.m., Fireworks are at 9 p.m.
Cost: None (with admission to beach: Non-residents: $8/adult $6/kids, Residents: $6/adult $4/kids, Guests of residents: $4

Glenview

Fourth of July Parade & Fireworks
Date: Friday, July 4
Location: Parade starts on Glenview Rd., Fireworks are at Glenview Park Golf Club
Time: Parade is at 11:30 a.m., Fireworks are at 9 p.m.

Highland Park

Highland Park Kids Bike and Pet Parade
Location: Central Ave
Time: 9 a.m. - Kids & Pet Parade, 10 a.m. - Main Parade starts at Central Ave

Highland Park Fourth Fest
Location: Sunset Woods Park
Time: 11a.m. - 2 p.m.

Activities: picnic, carnival rides, petting zoo, carnival games, live music, snacks

Highland Park Float and Fireworks
Location: Hidden Creek Aquapark 
Time: 8:15 -10:45 p.m.
Cost: $5/person or Summer membership

Fireworks and Battle of the Bands Finale
Location: Wolters Field 
Time: Battle of The Bands kicks off at 6:30 p.m., Fireworks are at 9:15 p.m. 

Northbrook

Fourth of July Festivities & Fireworks
Date: Friday, July 4
Time: Pancake breakfast at 7 a.m. on the Village Green, Parade is at 2:30 p.m., Fireworks are at dusk
Location: Pancakes and Parade starts at the Village Green, Fireworks are at Ed Rudolph Velodrome, Meadowhill Park, Waukegan Rd. west on Maple Ave.

Northfield

Fourth of July Festival
Date: Friday, July 4
Location: Willow Park
Time: Bike Parade is at 10 a.m.

Activities
Sand art, face painting, Guitar Hero, climbing wall and inflatables open at 10:30 a.m.

Winnetka

Fourth of July Parade, Festival & Fireworks
Date: Friday, July 4
Location: Parade starts at Elm and Glendale Rds., Festival activities on the Village Green and Duke Child's Field, Fireworks are at Duke Child's Field
Time: Parade is at 10 a.m., Village Green activities at 11 a.m., Evening Festivities at 6:30 p.m. and Fireworks are at 9:15 p.m.

Skokie

Skokie Parade and Fireworks
Date: Friday, July 4
Location: The Parade is on Oakton St (begins at Lincoln Ave.), Fireworks are at Niles West High School
Time: Parade is at 12 p.m., Fireworks are at dusk, with festivities beginning at 7 p.m.

Have a happy and safe holiday weekend.

1 --Professional

Once you've established the basics (licensing status, etc.), look for other indications that the agent will handle your home sale professionally. Does he or she belong to any local real estate organizations? In Manhattan, for example, The Real Estate Board of New York (REBNY) tracks credentials and continuing education of its members, and provides many valuable resources for members, sellers, and home purchasers.

What sort of training did the sales agent receive? You'll find that this may range from the minimum required for licensing, to a full-time company training program of six weeks or more. Also ask if the agent has done any advanced training. Perhaps he or she has taken extra courses and exams to become a licensed broker, an accredited home-staging specialist, an appraiser, etc.

Do a bit of research, too, in order to learn as much as you can about the company the agent works for. Is it a company with a strong reputation in your area? Does it specialize in your neighborhood, or your type of property? Does the company provide its sales agents with the most up-to-date technology?

2 -- Knows the Market

In order to price and market your home effectively, your real estate agent will need to have a thorough understanding of your neighborhood in particular, and state of the real estate market in general. Expect to see "comps" (comparable properties) of similar homes that have sold recently, as well as those that are currently on the market. And find out what other techniques the agent will use to determine the best price -- and best marketing strategies -- for your home.

Has the agent sold in your neighborhood? Has he or she sold similar types of homes, perhaps in another neighborhood? Has the agent ever lived in your area? Is he or she familiar with the neighborhood schools? Restaurants? Museums? Ask lots of questions to find out how well the agent will be able to represent you, and your home, to prospective purchasers.

3 -- Accessible

Buyers will want to see your property at all times of day -- daytimes, evenings, and weekends. So be sure you hire an agent who is available full time, and accessible to you virtually around the clock to handle any questions you may have, or issues that may arise.

And remember, accessibility is a two-way street! Be sure to support your agent by making your home as accessible as possible for showings -- even when it feels a bit inconvenient to you.

4 -- Good Listener

When you interview real estate agents, give extra points to those who ask as many questions as you do. Did the agent arrive with a 'standard' presentation, or is he or she able to make -- or adjust -- his or her recommendations based on what comes up in your conversation?

How interested is the agent in learning your point of view? How many questions does he or she ask about your personal goals and needs? After all, pricing and sales strategies could vary substantially based on what you're looking to accomplish (for example, you may need to sell quickly to meet a job relocation deadline, need to work around an existing tenant, or simply want to make the most profit no matter what the timeline).

5 -- Tells the Truth (even when you don't want to hear it!)

Expect that a good real estate agent will challenge you once in a while, ask the tough questions, and yes, even disagree with you occasionally. When he or she makes a recommendation that seems off-base, give your agent the opportunity to give you the facts -- and share his or her knowledge and experience -- before making a final decision. Learn to trust your agent's intuition, insights, and perspectives; they'll often lead you in the right direction.

6 --Team Player

Your real estate agent should be able to recommend a great team of professionals to support your sale -- from mortgage brokers and appraisers, to cleaning services and real estate attorneys.

Be sure, also, that your real estate agent enlists the help of other agents in your area in order to bring you the best buyer. In Manhattan, for example, more than 95 percent of sales are co-broked (one sales agent representing the seller, another the buyer), so it's especially important to work with someone who actively markets to other agents, and other real estate companies.

7 -- Helps Prepare Your Home for the Sale

There are entire books written on how to get your home ready for a sale, so we won't go into great detail here. Be sure to ask your real estate agent whether renovations -- particularly to the kitchen or bathrooms -- make sense. Decide if any re-painting -- or paint touch-ups -- may be necessary to make your home more attractive to buyers.

However you decide to proceed, be sure to follow these four basic steps before inviting buyers in to see your home: 1) de-clutter, to make your rooms seem larger; 2) de-personalize, to keep prospective buyers' attention on your home, rather than on your 'stuff;' 3) repair everything that's not in good working order, from re-caulking to replacing light bulbs; and 4) clean, clean, clean -- until your home literally shines!

8 -- Buyer to Closing

Remember that finding an interested buyer is only the beginning. Be sure your real estate agent is well prepared to qualify the buyer, negotiate aggressively on your behalf, and assist the buyer in finding financing, if necessary. Your agent should be ready to follow through with banks and mortgage brokers, any other agents involved in the deal, and with the real estate attorneys, until the sale is complete.

And if you're selling a home in Manhattan, be sure you have a real estate agent who is adept at preparing the materials necessary for the board application package, following through with the management company, and if it's a co-op sale, preparing the buyer for the board interview.

9 -- Gives Timely Updates

Throughout the sales process, ask that your real estate agent stay in touch with you regularly, in the way that's most comfortable to you (in person, or by phone, email, or text messages). He or she should give you regular progress updates, and timely notice of any issues that may arise -- along with potential solutions, of course.

It's also likely that a good real estate agent will suggest changes to sales and marketing strategies along the way. These minor course corrections will help eliminate any less effective efforts, and capitalize on what's working best. The result? Finding the buyer you're looking for, more quickly.

10 -- The Relationship

Don't underestimate the importance of your real estate agent's personality when you choose your selling partner. You'll be spending a lot of time with them -- and entrusting them with one of the most important transactions of your life. So be sure to find someone you not only trust and respect, but also look forward to working with.

Chances are, your home represents the largest purchase you have ever made. What's more, your home is not just a financial investment, but an emotional investment as well. When you decide to sell, be sure to enlist the services of a real estate agent who has the knowledge, experience, and understanding that will be necessary to navigate you safely and securely through every aspect of the selling process.

1 -- Experience

Purchasing a new home may well be the largest expenditure that you ever make. So it simply makes good business sense to enlist all the help you can get.

A seasoned real estate agent has completed more real estate transactions already this year than you'll likely make in your lifetime. That adds up to a whole lot of knowledge and experience. Experience that can help navigate you safely and securely through every aspect of the buying process.

2 -- Knows the Market

A real estate agent will know what's happening in a particular area, or neighborhood, and help you decide if a home you find is a good value. Once you find a property that interests you, your agent will show you "comps" (comparable properties) of similar homes that have sold recently, as well as those that are currently on the market.

And if your real estate agent works with an established firm, he or she will have instant access to a host of proprietary tools -- and property information -- that may be difficult, or even impossible, to find on your own. All this information will help you make a well-informed decision.

3 -- Saves Time

A good real estate agent is an organizational genius. He or she will manage to get you in to see new properties as soon as they become available -- and arrange the most appointments possible within your available time slots, no matter how limited.

But remember, accessibility is a two-way street! Be sure to support your agent by being as flexible as possible -- especially when your time is very limited.

4 -- Good Listener

If you decide to use a real estate agent, look for someone who asks as many questions as you do. When you mention a price range, does the agent give you a 'standard' list of available properties, or is he or she able to make -- or adjust -- his or her recommendations based on what comes up in your conversations?

How interested is the agent in listening to your point of view? How many questions does he or she ask? After all, your real estate agent's recommendations should vary substantially based on your personal needs and goals (for example, you may be starting a family, need to configure your new home to accommodate an office, need space for your son's new car, or be downsizing).

5 -- Tells the Truth (even when you don't want to hear it!)

Expect that a good real estate agent will challenge you once in a while, ask the tough questions, and yes, even disagree with you occasionally. When he or she makes a recommendation that seems off-base, give your agent the opportunity to give you the facts -- and share his or her knowledge and experience -- before making a decision. Learn to trust your agent's intuition, insights, and perspectives; they'll often lead you in the right direction.

6 -- Respects Your Budget

One of the most important things that your real estate agent will do is help you determine how much you can afford to spend. He or she may well ask you to consult with your accountant, financial planner, and/or mortgage broker before you make this important decision.

In some markets, there's a lot more to purchasing an apartment than having cash for the down payment, and securing financing. For example, most Manhattan cooperative buildings ('co-ops'), which account for about 75 percent of the properties in the city, will also look at your debt-to-income ratio (DTI), and your post-closing liquidity (yes, it can be a bit complicated!).

A good real estate broker will understand the particulars of your market, and help you find a terrific housing solution that you'll be able to qualify for financially -- and that will be possible within your budget.

 7 -- Team Player

Your real estate agent should be able to recommend a great team of professionals to support your purchase -- from mortgage brokers and appraisers, to contractors and designers and real estate attorneys.

8 -- Getting to Closing

Remember that finding the right property is only the beginning. Be sure your real estate agent is well prepared to negotiate aggressively on your behalf, and assist you in finding financing, if necessary. Your agent should be ready to follow through with your bank or mortgage broker, any other agents involved in the deal, and with your real estate attorney, until the purchase is complete.

And if you're purchasing a home in Manhattan, be sure you have a real estate agent who is adept at helping you put together the materials necessary for the board application package, following through with the management company, and if it's a co-op purchase, preparing you for the board interview.

9 -- Gives Timely Updates

Throughout the buying process, stay in touch with your real estate agent regularly. He or she should give you regular updates on new properties, any changes in the local real estate market, mortgage rate changes, and so on. And you should update your real estate agent right away should any of your priorities change, or if your research turns up a property you may be interested in seeing. The result of working together closely? Finding just the home you're looking for, more quickly.

10 -- The Relationship

Don't underestimate the importance of personality when you choose your real estate agent. You'll be spending a lot of time with them -- and entrusting them with one of the most important transactions of your life. So be sure to find someone you not only trust and respect, but also look forward to working with.  

Many home buyers try to find the perfect property on their own. No surprise, actually. With internet access to more real estate information than ever before, it's fairly easy for anyone who's computer literate to access a list of available properties in every part of the country.

A Dad is a person
who is loving and kind,
And often he knows
what you have on your mind.
He's someone who listens,
suggests, and defends.
A dad can be one
of your very best friends!
He's proud of your triumphs,
but when things go wrong,
A dad can be patient
and helpful and strong
In all that you do,
a dad's love plays a part.
There's always a place for him
deep in your heart.
And each year that passes,
you're even more glad,
More grateful and proud
just to call him your dad!
Thank you, Dad...
for listening and caring,
for giving and sharing,
but, especially, for just being you!
Happy Father's Day

Poem found at http://www.indianchild.com/fathers_day_poems.htm

• Don’t allow smoking in your home. Quit or smoke outside.
• Use unscented or non-aerosol varieties of household cleaning products.
• Verify that all your gas appliances are properly vented outside.
• Run air conditioning when pollen or mold counts are high or when there are ozone or pollution warnings.
• Change air conditioning filter regularly.
• Reducing the Presence of Dust Mites
• Vacuum and dust regularly.
• Avoid the use of feather or down pillows or comforters.
• Wash your children’s bedding in hot water and also dry it on a high setting.
• Cover mattresses, pillows and box springs with mite-proof covers. Regularly wipe down covers.
• Remove carpeting in your child’s room.
• Window coverings in your child’s room should be easily washed or cleaned. Horizontal blinds are not recommended as they accumulate dust on their multiple surfaces.
• Store children’s books in a room other than his or her bedroom
• Keep stuffed animals to a minimum. Favorite plush toys should be washed and dried regularly on the hot settings. Placing plush toys in a plastic bag in the freezer for a minimum of 5 hours will also kill any dust mites present.
• Avoid using a humidifier particularly in your child’s room.

Reducing Moisture and Mold

• Fix leaky pipes, faucets, or roofs. Clean and repair roof gutters regularly.
• Make sure your bathrooms and basement are well ventilated. Install and use exhaust fans to help lower moisture in these areas.
• If you have any damp closets, clean them thoroughly and leave a 100-watt bulb on all the time to increase the temperature and dry out the air.
• Run a dehumidifier in the basement or other damp areas. It's important to empty and clean the water pan often.
• Remove wallpaper and wall-to-wall carpeting from bathrooms and basement rooms.
• Run the air conditioning (this is especially helpful if you have central air), making sure to change the filter monthly.
• Avoid houseplants, which may harbor mold in their soil.
• Clean any visible mold or mildew with a solution that's one part chlorine bleach to 10 parts water. Don't paint or caulk over moldy surfaces without cleaning them first.
• When painting bathrooms or other damp areas of your house, use anti-mildew paint.
• If there's visible mold on ceiling tiles, remove and replace them. Also check to see if there's a leaky pipe that may be causing the problem.
• Replace or wash moldy shower curtains.

Pets in the Home

• Keep pets outside. If you can't, at least keep them out of your child's bedroom and playroom.
• Wash and brush your pet every week.
• Make sure your child doesn't play with or touch your pet and keep him or her away from the litter box if you have a cat.
• Wash your hands every time you touch your pet.
• If you have a pet that lives in a cage, keep it in a room that your child doesn't spend time in regularly. Also, have someone other than your child clean the cage daily.

For more detail information and tips how to create an asthma-safe home visit the KidsHealth website and talk with your child’s doctor about their specific triggers.

Many of us have allergies, and children with asthma, and we want to ensure family members live and play in surroundings that won’t aggravate this chronic disease, and this starts at home. When it comes to children, we want to keep them as safe as possible; however the reality is we have little control over conditions outside of our own homes. By beginning with your own home you can implement a few no-cost or low-cost lifestyle changes that will help turn your house into an asthma safe home, for family members suffering from this condition.

Identifying the Triggers Allergens
If you are unsure what triggers are specific to your child, or children, with asthma, please consult your physician, as they will be able to help identify these triggers and advise you in this regard. Some of the more common triggers, allergens, found in our homes include:

It's that time of year when we all love the summer smells. the beauty of  the trees and flowers in bloom and shopping for that perfect fruit or vegetable at the local farmers' market. The farmers' markets are preparing to open for the season and below is a list of a few great local markets to find the sweet tastes and smells of summer.

Evanston Farmer’s Market - Opens May 17th

When: Saturdays
Time: 7:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Location: University Pl. and Oak Ave.

Highland Park Farmer’s Market - Opens June 6th

When: Fridays
Time: 7:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Location: Port Clinton Square, 600 Central Ave.

Northfield Farmer’s Market - Opens June 7th

When: Saturdays
Time: 7:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Location: Happ Rd., across from New Trier’s freshman campus.

Deerfield Farmer’s Market - Opens June 14th

When: Saturdays
Time: 7 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Location: Deerfield Rd. and Robert York Ave.

Glenview Farmer’s Market - Opens June 21st

When: Saturdays
Time: 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Location: Wagner Farm, 1510 Wagner Rd.

http://autos.msn.com/everyday/gasstations.aspx

• Money does not grow on trees.
• Always change your underwear; you never know when you'll have an accident.
• What if everyone jumped off a bridge? Would you do it, too?
• Don't make that face or it'll freeze in that position.
• If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all.
• Don't put that in your mouth; you don't know where it's been!
• Be careful what you wish for, it might come true.
• Close that door! Were you born in a barn?
• Because I'm your mother that's why.
• If I've told you once, I've told you a thousand times.
• Because I said so.

It is the time of year when we all like to do a little Spring cleaning to ready ourselves for a beautiful summer. Most of us spend our time cleaning and organizing the inside of our homes, but does that extend to our garages?

Garages are a great place to store all those products, or household hazardous waste, we don't want inside our house. These products may include (and are not limited to) automotive fluids, paint and lawn care products.

Now is the time to spring clean and rid your garage of these household hazardous waste (HHW) products and, where available, replace them with more environmentally friendly products.

Motor Oil can be disposed of at dealerships or vehicle repair shops.

Fertilizer for lawn care can be replace with certified organic products. Ask your local garden center for any certified organic products they may carry.

Pesticides can be disposed of by contacting your local sanitation department. An alternative to this HHW would be a less toxic product that can also be found at your local garden/yard center.

Paints should not be kept for long periods of time and can be disposed of at designated areas of your local sanitation department. New paints can be purchase with a low VOC (volatile organic compound) content.

If you're unsure of how to properly dispose of the Household Hazard Waste found in your garage, contact your local sanitation or fire department.

• Ventilate your home regularly

• Vacuum weekly

• Use a good quality air filter on your furnace and replace it regularly

• Maintain ventilation systems (If your home has one) and dehumidifiers

• Run exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens

• If you're considering an air purifier, avoid devices that generate ozone, as these can make lung problems and asthma worse.

In addition to these few necessary steps, you should also pay close to attention to the indoor chemicals that may be linked to allergies, asthma and learning disabilities in children, according to some studies.

The two more commonly identified chemicals in our homes include formaldehyde which is present in home renovation products and solvents from fresh paint and phthalates which are used in soft plastics and synthetic fragrances such as air fresheners and dryer sheets.

There are an number of alternatives to these damaging products as described below.

Formaldehyde
There are products on the market that offer a great alternative to the products that contain formaldehyde such as formaldehyde-free-products made of solid wood and natural products. There are also a number of low or no VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints available to consumers these days.

Phthalates
The best way to eliminate phthalates from your home is to get rid of any air fresheners completely. Alternatively, baking soda in your trash cans can also leave your home smelling fresh. Baking soda can also replace your dryer sheets, used in the rinse cycle to soften fabrics and tackle static cling.

These are a few of the basic steps we can take to improve air quality in our homes for our families.

I think we are all aware that the environment is becoming increasingly more fragile and we need to take the time to educate ourselves and our families about environmental issues and how we can do our part.

April 22nd is Earth Day and Chicago will be celebrating the environment with numerous events and activities. We encourage you take part in this celebration, with your families,  in an effort to recognize the importance of nature around us and preserving this wonderful planet for generations to come.

A few of the Chicago Earth Day celebrations include:

• Tuesday, April 22 - Mayor's Office of Special Events - Earth Day Celebration
  Daley Plaza from 10am to 3pm.

• Tuesday, April 22 - 2008 Alternative Fuel Vehicle Exposition

• Tuesday, April 22 - Chicago History Museum - The Local Eating Option
  
• Saturday, April 26 - Earth Fest - IL Tour of Earth-Sheltered Homes
  
  
• Saturday, April 26 - Chicago Botanic Gardens - Earth Day Walk
  

I hope you and your families have a fabulous Earth Day. For more information regarding these events and other Earth Day information please visit the following links.

• Earth Day Network - everyday for everybody

• About.com:Chicago

TODAY'S FEATURED PROPERTY

In Part 1 of the Moving Guide series we discussed the types of moves that are available. Now we would like to continue with Part 2. You have everything packed and loaded in the movers van or vehicle that you will be driving yourself. Once you arrive at your new home, you may or may not set out to unload and pack as soon as you arrive so you want to be prepared.

Below is a list of some of the essential items that you should pack separately and have with you during the move, for your first night in your new home. These few things will help to ensure that everyone in your family, including pets, is taken care of for the first night in the event that you don't get around to unpacking or if the moving truck hasn't arrived the same time as you.

Food & Kitchen Supplies
It's a good idea to pack a few snacks, sandwiches and bottled water as cooking may not be a top priority when you arrive at your new home. A few additional items you will want to have on hand include paper plates, cups, utensils, napkins and garbage bags.

Toiletries
With everything packed and in boxes or possibly still in the moving van you will need necessities such as toilet paper, toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, shampoo and a few towels. Also you will want to keep with you any contact lens solutions and hygiene products that may be required.

Medication
Always pack prescription medication and keep it with you. A first-aid kit and extra band-aids are also a good idea to have on hand during the move and on the first night...just in case.

Tools
Try to have a few emergency tools on hand for unforeseen circumstances. Tools such as flashlights, candles, matches, screwdrivers, pliers and scissors.

Clothing
Clothing for a couple of days should be sufficient to see you through the first night (or two) and maybe a couple of extra blankets or sleeping bags.

Children's Items
For your children you will want to have baby food, diapers and their favorite toys and blankets for their first night in the new home.

Pet Items
Your pets are affected just as much by a move as you and the rest of the family are so be sure to have food, treat, water and any medication that they may require.

These are the necessities that will help you get through the first night in your new home. Keep this list handy well in advance to your move date and add or delete items that you feel will help you best in achieving a stress free first night in your new home.

In an effort to solve the funding issues plaguing the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), Chicago City Council has approved the Real Estate Transfer Tax increase, and in another twist, how the transfer tax is to be paid.

Effective April 1, 2008 sellers in the Chicago area will now be responsible for sharing the cost of the real estate transfer tax with the buyer.

Previously, the Real Estate Transfer Tax was $7.50 per $1,000 of the price of the home and it was paid by the buyer. Now, as of April 1/08, the transfer tax has increased to $10.50 per $1,000 of the price of the home where by the buyer will continue to pay $7.50 per $1,000 and the balance will be paid by the seller.

For more information regarding the Chicago Real Estate Transfer Tax increase please do not hesitate to comment or contact me. You can also read more about the changes here.