Wednesday, May 30, 2012

Safely Enjoy North Shore Beaches This Summer!


With Memorial Day weekend behind us, it seems the season of swimming and boating along the Chicago North Shore is underway!  Living along the North Shore with beautiful views of Lake Michigan is what draws many to buy a home in the north of Chicago area.  Those living in Winnetka, Deerfield, Highland Park, Glencoe and Northbrook enjoy the ideal location between a vibrant metropolitan environment and lake living. 
Now that many of the North Shore beaches are open, it’s important to keep in mind basic safety tips to ensure you have an enjoyable summer on the lake!  Before you head out for your next swim or chance to relax along the sandy shores; take a few minutes to review the following safety guidelines.
• Always wear sunscreen!  Even with clouds overhead and late afternoon sun, your skin will still be exposed to harmful UV rays; be sure to protect your skin.

• Make sure everyone in your boat can swim, and if not, that floating devices are used and there is someone watching that person at all times.

• Never swim alone! Even the most experienced swimmers can experience fatigue, or an injury that will make it hard to swim

• Always watch children who are anywhere near water! The most accidents happen when children are wading in shallow water, so always make sure they’re supervised!

• Be sure to swim only in designated swimming areas.

• Look before you leap! Never dive into water unless you know that it’s deep enough to do so. Always keep your hands above your head when diving to ensure safety.

• Never mix swimming or boating with alcohol.


Now that you’ve reviewed these important safety tips, I thought I’d point out a few of the North Shore beaches where you can enjoy the beautiful summer season! 

Elder Lane Beach
Elder Lane & Sheridan Road, Winnetka
Amenities include: swimming beach, beach house with restrooms, playground and off-street parking. Daily admission and season passes are available.
Lloyd Beach Sailing Center and Boat Launch
Lloyd Place & Sheridan Road, Winnetka

Lloyd Beach is home of Winnetka Park District's junior sailing program, a public boat launch for power and sailboats up to 24' and small boat storage for kayaks, canoes, Sunfish, Lasers and similar sized boats. The boat launch allows patrons to purchase a daily fee or season pass for the launching of boats. Personal Watercraft are launched by season-pass only, no daily fees.
Maple Street Beach
Fuller Lane & Sheridan Road, Winnetka
Amenities include: swimming beach, beach house with restroom, and off street parking. Daily admission and season passes are available.

Tower Road Beach
Tower Road & Sheridan Road, Winnetka
Amenities include: swimming beach, beach house equipped with restroom, showers, vending machines, concessions, sand volleyball court, playground, wet sand play area complete with spray pole, boardwalk extending from parking lot to beach house, two parking lots, walkway from top of bluff to beach and picnic shelter at the top of bluff. Daily admission and season passes are available.

Whether you currently live on Chicago’s North Shore or will be visiting the area this summer; I hope you are able to enjoy our beautiful beaches safely!  As a North Shore Real Estate agent, one of my goals is to not just help people find their ideal North Shore home, but to help them discover the unique North Shore lifestyle.
If you have questions about living on the North Shore or are interested in seeing some of the stunning homes currently on the North Shore Real Estate market; please let me know!  I would be happy to show you around and answer any questions you may have.
I look forward to hearing from you!

Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert


North Shore Real Estate
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Wednesday, May 23, 2012

10 Selling Points for North Shore Buyers


If you’re considering selling your North Shore home this summer, you may be wondering how to make your home stand out from the competition.  Given the current buyers’ market, you’re aware that those looking to buy a North Shore home have a wide variety of beautiful homes from which to choose.  So, what exactly are buyers looking for in their new North Shore home?
As an experienced North Shore Real Estate agent working in Winnetka, Glencoe, Highland Park, Northbrook, Deerfield and other North Shore communities for a number of years; I’ve seen the ebb and flow of trends of what appeals to buyers.  Yet there are some timeless features that always remain the same.  Below is a good mix of both classic and modern features that you’ll want to consider as you sell your North Shore home.   
1. Nice Entryway- The entryway will create a first impression of your home.  One that is attractive can give buyers a good sense of how you’ve cared for the rest of your home and will make them anxious to see the rest!
2. Hardwood Floors- Well maintained hardwood floors are always a favorite amongst buyers.  There’s a classic appeal as well as undeniable quality to real hardwood floors.
3. Nice Fixtures- It’s easy for fixtures to become outdated, but these changes are some of the most inexpensive upgrades you can make to your home.  Take note of current trends in fixtures and make these updates so that buyers feel your home is more move in ready. 
4. Beautiful Bathrooms- North Shore buyers will be looking for features in the bathroom such as dual vanities, a soaker tub and even upgraded countertops.  If your budget doesn’t allow for these major renovations, simply updated the large sheet mirror and lighting can make a big difference.  A nicely framed mirror and elegant sconces have greater appeal and add warmth to the bathroom. 
5. Countertops- While granite seems to be what every buyer is after, the main appeal is really the slab.  Buyers don’t want to see grout lines that will be hard to keep clean, so whether you’re going with concrete, limestone or marble, get the full slab.
6. Stainless Steel- Buyers love the look of stainless steel because it looks professional.  While it’s not a necessity; it is appealing for many North Shore buyers.  It will be worth the upgrade.  
7. Pre-organized Closets- Closet organizers give the impression of an easy to keep clean closet.  It’s those small details that will make your North Shore home stand out!
8. Lighting- If your home doesn’t get a lot of natural light, consider installing recessed lighting or new sconces.  Buyers don’t want to have to worry about how they’re going to brighten up a darker space.
9. Built-ins- While this is one upgrade you won’t likely put in your home if they’re not already there, buyers appreciate this “free furniture.”  Well-crafted bookshelves or entertainment units can give the home the feeling of being built with quality in mind.
10. Nice Lawn- If you have a nice, flat lawn; don’t feel the need to add to it!  Oftentimes North Shore buyers have children or pets that will want to take advantage of a great lawn.  Of course you’ll want to be sure your lawn is well-manicured and ready for the new owners to come in and enjoy. 
I hope that these things to consider are helpful as you prepare to sell your North Shore home.  If you have any questions about putting your home on the North Shore Real Estate market or are ready to get started; please feel free to contact me today!

Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert


North Shore Real Estate
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Wednesday, May 16, 2012

Things To Do This Weekend on Chicago's North Shore!


As many of you know, Chicago’s beautiful North Shore is wonderful place to call “home.”  In my years of living here and working as a North Shore Real Estate agent; I can attest to the excellent quality of life, vibrant communities and its’ naturally stunning setting.
With Memorial Day quickly approaching, our thoughts turn towards summer on the North Shore, and the fun events and opportunities to enjoy time outdoors with family and friends.  It seems that whether you live in Winnetka, Northbrook, Deerfield, Glencoe or Highland Park; there’s always something to do! 
If you don’t currently live on Chicago’s North Shore, but are wondering about the North Shore lifestyle; I would encourage you to visit this weekend to get a sense of what the North Shore has to offer!  Below are just a few of the highlights of events taking place this weekend around the North Shore.
Northbrook Garden Club Perennial Sale
Meadowhill Park Chalet
1479 Maple Ave, Northbrook
Friday, May 18 at 9am
- Join in this free event as the Northbrook Garden Club holds its Perennial Sale at Meadowhill Park Chalet!  The Northbrook Garden Club members take growing perennials from their own immaculate gardens, and allows the public to purchase them for their continued flourishing.  There are over one hundred plants from which to choose to enhance your garden; so don’t miss out!  Proceeds from the days sales will go to fnd various garden club projects, such as the public gardens in Northbrook, as well as the local scholarship to a GBN graduating senior.  For more information, please visit the Northbrook Garden Club website
Glencoe Park District Plant Sale
Glencoe Park District
999 Green Bay Rd, Glencoe
Saturday, May 19 at 9am
- In honor of the Glencoe Park District’s 100th Anniversary, the Glencoe Park District’s Greenhouses are open for plant sales the entire month of May!  Each Saturday, there will be a special plant giveaway, in which all are invited to participate.  The park district will also be available to answer any questions you have, solve plant problems, provide information and resources for all of your plant needs.  Horticulturist, Tom McDonald, will be on hand to fire up your enthusiasm for gardening, keep your project on a “hands-on” track, teach you gardening secrets, or offer house calls, should your garden be in distress.  Learn more about the plant sale by visiting the Glencoe Park District website.  
Community-Wide Beach Clean Up Day
Tower Road Park
Sheridan Road & Tower Road, Winnetka
Saturday, May 19 at 10am to 1pm
- This is a great opportunity to give back to the community of Winnetka!  All are invited to help clean up the Winnetka beaches just in time for summer.  The Winnetka Park District Lakefront staff will be heading up the project at the three swim beaches: Tower Road, Elder Lane and Maple Street.  Those who volunteer to help will be treated to a complimentary BBQ lunch at the Tower Road Beach.  To register online, go to the Winnetka Park website.  
Jammin' With Orphans
Orphans of The Storm Animal Shelter
2200 Riverwoods Rd, Riverwoods 
Saturday, May 19 at 11am to 3pm
- “Jammin’ with Orphans” is a free event hosted by the Deerfield Key Club to benefit the North Shores oldest animal shelter, Orphans of the Storm.  This event will feature local bands, barbeque and an opportunity to meet the dogs and cats at the shelter that need a home!  Admission is free, but all donations and purchases will go directly to fund the living conditions and necessities of the animal orphans.  Jammin’ with Orphans is fun for all ages and a great way to support the community!  Visit the Orphans of the Storm website to learn more.
WCH Centennial Gala
Winnekta Community House
620 Lincoln Ave, Winnetka

Saturday, May 19 at 6:30pm
- The Winnetka Community House is extending an invitation to the community to join in the 100th Anniversary of the Winnetka Community House.  Dinner and dancing will lend to this upscale evening.  The highlight of the evening will be the unveiling of the Centennial Starts scultpures.  This is an evening you won’t want to miss!  To purchase tickets, visit the Winnekta Community House website
I hope you’re able to get involved in one of these events this coming weekend in the North Shore.  You’ll find that, no matter what you enjoy doing; there’s something for everyone!  
If you have questions about living on the North Shore or are interested in viewing some of the homes currently on the North Shore Real Estate market; please contact me!  I would enjoy telling you more about these charming North Shore communities
I look forward to hearing from you!
Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert


North Shore Real Estate
View North Shore Listings
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Wednesday, May 9, 2012

Deerfield Market Stats for April 2012


Deerfield Active Listings: There are a total of 142 properties actively on the market with the average price of $542,000 in Deerfield.
Deerfield Sold Listings: 20 properties closed last month in Deerfield with an average sales price of $392,552, the average time on market for these properties was 99 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
View North Shore Listings
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Winnetka Market Stats for April 2012


Winnetka Active Listings: There are a total of 164 properties actively on the market with the average price of $1,861,048 in Winnetka.
Winnetka Sold Listings: 14 properties closed last month in Winnetka with an average sales price of $636,375, the average time on market for these properties was 89 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
View North Shore Listings
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Glencoe Market Stats for April 2012


Glencoe Active Listings: There are a total of 89 properties actively on the market with the average price of $1,633,317 in Glencoe.
Glencoe Sold Listings: 11 properties closed last month in Glencoe with an average sales price of $907,227, the average time on market for these properties was 114 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 April 2012


Highland Park Active Listings: There are a total of 299 properties actively on the market with the average price of $966,867 in Highland Park.
Highland Park  Sold Listings: 38 properties closed last month in Highland Park with an average sales price of $423,312, the average time on market for these properties was 98 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
Visit My Website

Wednesday, May 2, 2012

How To Choose A Listing Agent for Your North Shore Home!


Selling your North Shore home can seem daunting, unless you have an experienced North Shore Real Estate agent by your side.  They know the ins and outs of the North Shore Real Estate market and will be able to guide you through every step of the home selling process.
However, finding a North Shore Real Estate agent that you can fully trust to get your home sold in an efficient and stress free manner can be challenging!  As a North Shore Real Estate agent for over twenty years, I believe there are a solid number of real estate agents that will do a great job in helping you.  It’s a matter of finding the right fit for you, while also not being afraid to “interview” the agent before listing your home with them.
Here are some questions you’ll want to ask a potential North Shore Real Estate agent if you’re considering hiring them to sell your North Shore home
1. How Much?  The question the price the listing agent will want to sell your home at can be very telling.  If you’ve been told $500,00 by other agents and the agent you’re talking with says $600,000; you’ll want to be careful.  Sometimes agents will make promises of a big sale on your home in order to “win” the listing.  You’ll find that if your home is priced too high in the beginning, you’ll end up having to lower the price and your home will sit on the market longer than necessary.  An agent who wants to price your North Shore home correctly from the beginning is one worth hiring!
2. What’s Your Specialty?  Most North Shore Real Estate agents will have a niche market.  If you’re attempting to sell your high end home, an agent who deals mostly with first time sellers won’t be your best choice.  You’ll want to make sure your agent is a match for selling your North Shore home
3. How Will You Market My Home?  Marketing is one of the key aspects in getting your home sold!  The more visibility your home receives, the better the opportunity for potential buyers to see it!  Your North Shore Real Estate agent should be listing your home on multiple real estate websites, offer a visual tour of your home, and produce other online and offline marketing materials for your home.
4. What Do You Expect of Me?  A good listing agent will be able to give you advice on what you can do to help your home sell.  Unless your home is in perfect condition for current buyers; you’ll want to get feedback on paint color, appliances, curb appeal, etc... 
5. How Many Homes Are You Currently Selling?  An agent with a full marketing team may still be able to give you very personalized attention if they’re working on selling 15 homes, so you’ll want to know who they have working with them.  If they’re on their own, chances are they’ll only be able to successfully handle a few homes at a time.  On the other hand, if you’re they’re only selling client at the moment; you may want to consider their lack of connections and experience. 
Of course there are other questions you can ask regarding their selling record and testimonials from past clients, but these are oftentimes the questions sellers miss out on asking.  It’s important to do your research to ensure you’re getting the best North Shore Real Estate agent to sell your home!
If you are considering selling and would like to talk with me more about selling your North Shore home; please contact me!  I’d love to talk with you about your home, the current housing market and my marketing plan for your home.
I look forward to talking with you!


Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert


North Shore Real Estate
View North Shore Listings
Visit My Website