Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Experience the Arts in Highland Park This Weekend!


One of the things I thoroughly enjoy about being a North Shore Real Estate agent is being a part of the vibrant communities throughout the area.  The North Shore cities of Winnetka, Deerfield, Northbrook, Highland Park and Glencoe are committed to supporting local businesses, schools and residents, and have regular events that highlight the unique aspects of their community.
Throughout my years of experience in the North Shore Real Estate market, I know that buyers are not only looking for a beautiful North Shore home, but for the North Shore lifestyle.  Aware of this, I always try to get to know my clients and what they’re looking for in a community.  I will then give them insight in to each of the North Shore areas so that they’re able to get a vision for what life is like and can choose which city best fits their lifestyle.  
For those of you who are considering moving to the North Shore and love the arts; Highland Park may be the community for you!  The Art Center of Highland Park has been a staple artistic outlet for the past 50 years and has encouraged the growth of young artists.  This non-profit provides classes for residents interested in art no matter what their level of experience, as well as regular art exhibits for everyone to enjoy.
If Highland Park sounds like a place you’d like to call home, or you currently live in Highland Park and are looking for something to do this weekend; you won’t want to miss two new exhibits opening at The Art Center of Highland Park!  
Arts of Nepal Exhibit- Opening Reception
The Art Center Highland Park
1957 Sheridan Rd, Highland Park
www.theartcenterhp.org

Friday, March 2 from 6:30pm-9pm
- Attend the opening reception for the Arts of Nepal this Friday at the Art Center of Highland Park!  This free event will feature authentic Indian-Nepal foods and beverages from local restaurant, Himalayan.  The tastes of Nepal will enhance the experience of the exhibit which highlights the work of Nepali artists.  Mixed media pieces and paintings will be on display from local artists as well as those living abroad.  If you can’t attend the opening, the Arts of Nepal exhibit will be showing at The Art Center of HP from March 2- April 5.  For more information, view The Art Center of Highland Park’s website.
KIN Photography Exhibit- Opening Reception
The Art Center Highland Park
1957 Sheridan Rd, Highland Park
www.theartcenterhp.org

Friday, March 2 from 6:30pm-9pm
- This unique photography exhibit showcases works that relate to the idea of Kin: someone or something of the same or similar kind.  KIN presents photographs that depict the ties of family, neighborhood, sports and music within the youth culture.  You won’t want to miss this culturally relevant exhibit which will be at The Art Center through April 5.  Learn more at The Art Center of Highland Park’s website.
If you’re interested in moving to The North Shore and looking at Highland Park; I hope you’re able to take advantage of these events this weekend!  This can be a great way to get a sense of the Highland Park community and allow you to mingle with its residents.
I would love the opportunity to talk with you if you’ve been considering buying a North Shore home.  There are many stunning homes currently on the North Shore Real Estate market that I would be happy to show you!  If you have further questions about living in the North Shore or are ready to get started in your home search; feel free to contact me today!
I look forward to hearing from you!

Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert


North Shore Real Estate
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Wednesday, February 22, 2012

10 Tips for Buying a Condo or Townhouse in Chicago's North Shore


Chicago’s North Shore is known for its stunning, expansive homes rich in character and history.  Yet there are many who move to the North Shore that are seeking something other than the majestic North Shore homes.  Cities such as Deerfield, Winnetka, Northbrook, Highland Park and Glencoe located just north of the metropolis of Chicago offer great neighborhoods, suburban convenience and a vibrant lifestyle which is attractive to a wide variety of people.
Oftentimes, thoughts of the North Shore’s single family homes overshadow the fact that there are a great number of condos and townhouse in the North Shore that offer the ideal living situation for young professionals, small families and even those hoping to retire to a more manageable residence.  Meticulously maintained, renovated condos and townhouses offer the perfect solution!
If you are considering moving to a North Shore condo or townhouse, there are a few things you’ll want to know that may be different from single family home living.  As a North Shore Real Estate agent, it’s my goal to make sure clients are fully prepared for embarking on the North Shore Real Estate market, so I’ve highlighted ten things you’ll want to consider when buying a North Shore condo or townhouse.  Take a look!
1. Length of Stay- Think about how long you're going to stay in one place. Buying a condo or townhouse is no different than buying a single-family home; you need to live there at least a couple of years to recoup closing costs, assuming the property will appreciate.
2. Determine Your Wants - Give some thought to what you want. If you're not interested in the amenities, understand that the condo or townhouses’ price and ongoing monthly association fees will reflect their use regardless of your interest in using the pool or the gym.
3. Shop Around- Visit various townhouse communities and multi-unit buildings so you know what’s available in the North Shore.  You’ll also get a sense of prevailing prices.
4. Request a Market Analysis- Request a market analysis from your North Shore Real Estate agent regarding the selling prices of condos or townhouses in the area. Check the price appreciation on the market analysis to evaluate how quickly they are increasing in value; subtract the selling price from the purchase price and divide by the number of years the property has been held by the previous owner for a ballpark estimate of annual appreciation, if any, in the neighborhood.
5. Get Prequalified for a Mortgage- Just like buying a home, you want to be sure to get prequalified for a mortgage loan. This will give you a great idea of what you’re able to afford and will help you be prepared for a quick condo purchase.
6. Research the Community- Find out if the building has a good reputation. Ask how often repairs and maintenance are required, and how good the soundproofing is between units.
7. Discover Your Amenities- Check out parking, storage, security and other amenities. You’ll want to know every perk that comes with buying the North Shore property!
8. Take Note- Ask to see the minutes from a recent meeting of the home owners association (HOA). Find out what the hot issues are and if members are fighting tooth and nail. You’ll want to be aware of any major issues before moving in.
9. Research Restrictions- Find out how restrictive your HOA is. For instance, some buildings even dictate what sort of holiday lighting you can put up. Request the same information as you would for buying a house. Read the CC&Rs (covenants, conditions and restrictions).
10. Budget in your HOA Fees- Budget in association dues, which are above and beyond your monthly mortgage payment. To assist in long-term financial planning, ask the association whether association fees have increased in recent years. Also estimate monthly maintenance costs that you may be responsible for in addition to the association fees.
I hope these tips are helpful as you consider buying a condo or townhouse in the North Shore!  There are many beautiful condos and townhouses from which to choose, so you’ll be sure to find the one that fits your needs, budget and lifestyle.
Please feel free to contact me today to view some of the available options or to learn more about living on the North Shore.  I look forward to working with you!


Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert


North Shore Real Estate
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Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Winnetka Market Stats for January 2012


Winnetka Active Listings: There are a total of 130 properties actively on the market with the average price of $1,803,781 in Winnetka.
Winnetka Sold Listings: 6 properties closed last month in Winnetka with an average sales price of $1,863,271, the average time on market for these properties was 170 days. 


To view the complete report including additional detailed data, charts ad graphs, please view the Winnetka market statistics


Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert


North Shore Real Estate
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Deerfield Market Stats for January 2012


Deerfield Active Listings: There are a total of 158 properties actively on the market with the average price of $479,335 in Deerfield.
Deerfield Sold Listings: 13 properties closed last month in Deerfield with an average sales price of $321,406, the average time on market for these properties was 124 days. 


To view the complete report including additional detailed data, charts ad graphs, please view the Deerfield market statistics

Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert


North Shore Real Estate
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Northbrook Market Stats for January 2012


Northbrook Active Listings: There are a total of 288 properties actively on the market with the average price of $567,205 in Northbrook.
Northbrook Sold Listings: 20 properties closed last month in Northbrook with an average sales price of $387,219, the average time on market for these properties was 71 days. 


To view the complete report including additional detailed data, charts ad graphs, please view the Northbrook market statistics


Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert


North Shore Real Estate
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Glencoe Market Stats for January 2012


Glencoe Active Listings: There are a total of 89 properties actively on the market with the average price of $1,584,253 in Glencoe.
Glencoe Sold Listings: 8 properties closed last month in Glencoe with an average sales price of $1,562,813, the average time on market for these properties was 117 days. 


To view the complete report including additional detailed data, charts ad graphs, please view the Glencoe market statistics


Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert


North Shore Real Estate
View North Shore Listings
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Highland Park Market Stats for January 2012


Highland Park Active Listings: There are a total of 275 properties actively on the market with the average price of $840,596 in Highland Park.
Highland Park Sold Listings: 17 properties closed last month in Highland Park with an average sales price of $412,600, the average time on market for these properties was 101 days. 


To view the complete report including additional detailed data, charts ad graphs, please view the Highland Park market statistics!

Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert


North Shore Real Estate
View North Shore Listings
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Wednesday, February 8, 2012

Create A Healthy Environment in Your North Shore Home!


Living on Chicago’s North Shore means being very familiar with a long winter and extended time indoors during the colder months.  Although we’ve had somewhat of a milder winter, many of us are still spending a majority of our days staying warm in our homes.  
Consequently, spending more time indoors can translate into more sickness as germs tend to get “trapped” inside.  As a North Shore Real Estate agent, I thought it would be important to note some of the ways in which you can create a healthy living environment in your North Shore home!  Having a healthy home can result in better health for you!
Charles Furlough, Vice President of Pillar to Post Home Inspections, recently noted eleven tips to ensure your home is in good health.  While seemingly small, these tips can make a big difference.

1. Use vacuums with HEPA filters. Your seafoam-green Electrolux from 1968 might be a great retro design statement, but it’s not healthy to use anymore.

2. Use high-efficiency furnaces and hot-water heaters. Your local heating company can give you information on the newest, most efficient models.

3. Seal all gaps around your windows and doors. Some pollutants are tracked in on foot, but others float in through minuscule cracks.

4. Have your basement waterproofed to prevent mold from proliferating.

5. If you’ve been sleeping on your pillows for more than six months, there are probably enough dust mites on them to do the final dance number from a big Broadway musical. Change your pillows at least twice a year. And wash all bedding at least once a week—in hot water—to reduce the instance of allergens.

6. Avoid flannel pajamas as they contain synthetic fabrics that can house volatile compounds. While we’re on the subject of clothing—give all washable clothes you buy one wash, with Borax, before wearing.

7. When you’re buying your kids a toy, look for any labeling that indicates that Latex, neoprene or vinyl (PVC) is in it. If any of these substances are used, leave the item in the store. It’s not good for you—or your child.

8. When you’re done painting a room in your home, don’t store the paint for later use. Instead, write down the color name and number—most major paint companies have readily available touch-up containers in small sizes. (Similarly, don’t keep solvents, pesticides and fertilizers hanging around either).

9. Use doormats. Not only do they make people feel welcome—they whisk the germs off their feet before they have the chance to enter your home.

10. Whenever you can replace a porous surface with a smooth one, do so. A sleek leather rug collects fewer allergens than a loopy shag rug.

11. Taking shorter showers is good for the environment, but it still exposes you to chlorine. Use a carbon filter on your showerhead to help reduce your exposure to chlorine and other harmful chemicals.
Creating a healthy environment in your North Shore home can allow you to enjoy this winter season in Chicago’s North Shore.  Whether you live in Deerfield, Northbrook, Winnetka, Highland Park or Glencoe you’ll want to get out and enjoy all that these charming North Shore towns have to offer!  I hope these tips are helpful and make you even more aware of maintaining a healthy North Shore home.
As always, if you have questions about living on Chicago’s North Shore or are interested in viewing some of the homes currently on the North Shore Real Estate market; please let me know!  I’d be happy to show you around and help you find the North Shore home that best fits your needs and lifestyle!
Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert


North Shore Real Estate
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Wednesday, February 1, 2012

10 Reasons You'll Want a North Shore Real Estate Agent By Your Side in 2012!


If you’re considering buying or selling a North Shore home this year; it can be tempting to want to go through the process alone.  You may want to save money on cutting out the expense of a real estate agent and you figure with all the information online; you can  easily buy or sell a house on your own.  
While there are great resources online to help you get started, you’ll find that your experience in the North Shore Real Estate market can take far longer, be more frustrating and not as financially beneficial without a trusted North Shore Real Estate agent by your side.  Below are ten great reasons you’ll want to navigate the North Shore Real Estate market this year with a real estate agent guiding you each step of the way!
1. Education and Experience- Their years of training and experience in the North Shore Real Estate market will be a great asset to you! You don’t have to put pressure on yourself to learn about the market or how to negotiate a deal since a real estate agent will be fully trained and know the ins and outs of the North Shore Real Estate market.  
2. Agents are Buffers- You won’t have to deal with multiple phone calls from buyers or other agents. Buying or selling a home can get personal and your North Shore Real Estate agent can act as your personal shield against pushy buyers or bad deals.
3. Area Knowledge- If you’re buying a Chicago North Shore home and are relocating to the area, your North Shore Real Estate agent will know the best places to search to fit your needs and lifestyle!
4. Price Guidance- Your North Shore Real Estate agent can guide you in what you want to offer on a home and help you come up with a price that works within your budget. They can also give you advice on pricing your home correctly from the beginning.
5. Market Condition Information- You’ll get an inside look into the North Shore Real Estate market such as what homes are currently selling for on the market or when a home is a good deal.
6. Professional Networking- Your North Shore Real Estate agent may already have a connection to an interested buyer for your North Shore home! They will also have contact with other North Shore Real Estate agents and brokers and can get the word out about your home being on the market.
7. Negotiation Skills- Negotiating a contract can be tricky and your North Shore Real Estate agent will be able to navigate through this process to ensure you are happy with the deal.
8. Handling Volumes of Paperwork- There’s a lot of paperwork that goes into buying or selling a home. Your real estate agent will be able to take care of this for you and make sure every “i” is dotted and every “t” is crossed!
9. Answer Questions after Closing- Sometimes there can be issues that arise during the closing or taxing authorities can get behind in their paperwork and call you months after closing. A good real estate agent will stick by you even after you close a deal to take care of any after effects.
10. Develop Relationships for Future Business- Finding a trusted North Shore Real Estate agent can be tough, but once you find one; you’ll want to develop a great relationship with them! Whether you are looking to buy or sell again in the future, you know that they’ll be your first choice so building that relationship is key!
I hope these ten benefits of using a North Shore Real Estate agent give you greater insight into all the services they can provide.  As a North Shore Real Estate agent who’s been in the market for over twenty five years, I can assure you that using a real estate agent is worth it!  My years of experience will ensure that your home buying or selling process is smooth, efficient and financially savvy.
If you’re ready to get started, or have further questions about buying or selling your North Shore home; I’d love to hear from you!  My goal is to make sure you have all of your questions answered and to have a great experience in the North Shore Real Estate market.
I hope to hear from you soon!


Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert


North Shore Real Estate
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