Wednesday, December 25, 2013

Happy Holidays from Your North Shore Realtor!



As 2013 wraps into a close and we all ready ourselves for celebrating the season with family, friends and loved ones, I wanted to take a moment to thank all of my clients, past and present, for another wonderful year. Whether we’re currently working together on buying North Shore real estate or you’ve been living on the North Shore for a while now, I take an immense pride in helping my clients find the home of their dreams in the community that works for them. Chicago’s North Shore offers the best of many worlds to its residents and visitors – Safe, desirable communities, award-winning school districts, a convenient location very near to the city of Chicago and public transportation and, of course, a wide array of dining, shopping, entertainment, arts and culture that make the quality of life here outstanding. North Shore real estate has always been highly coveted and I enjoy not only helping my clients achieve their home ownership goals but also introducing new residents to all of what our area has to offer. 

Many of us living on the North Shore will be opening our homes and hearts to guests today for the Christmas holiday. Here are just a few basic tips to keep in mind when preparing your home for an influx of loved ones and guests:

-Make sure high-traffic areas that you know will see a lot of foot traffic today are de-cluttered and ready for guests. This means foyers, bathrooms, hallways and living areas should be neat and organized so guests have plenty of room to sit, stand, talk, mingle and enjoy themselves.

-Use a large rug or welcome mat inside the front door to prevent mud, snow and other debris from being tracked from the outside into your home. 

-Child-proof your home, if necessary. This includes moving things like cleaning solutions, chemicals, lit candles, medications and other potentially dangerous items to areas where little ones can’t get to them. If you’re expecting youngsters in your home today, ask parents to bring baby gates and/or childproof cabinet locks for added peace of mind. 

Chicago’s North Shore is a fantastic place to call home, and I hope that all of my clients, friends and readers have a wonderful holiday. Whether you’ll be buying or selling North Shore real estate in the new year, feel free to contact me with any questions. A very happy and safe Christmas to you and yours!


Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert


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Wednesday, December 18, 2013

Last Minute Holiday Fun on the North Shore!



The holiday season can oftentimes seem like a chaotic and hectic time, filled with family, friends, food, shopping, loved ones and kids all jam-packed into a couple of quick months! Whether you’re considering buying North Shore real estate or are already a longtime resident of one of the many welcoming areas that comprise the North Shore community, there is still plenty of festive holiday fun to be had! Clients past and present frequently tell me that one of the best parts of living on the North Shore is the endless array of activities, community events and social functions hosted throughout the year. While it can be cold during the holiday season, the North Shore real estate market and surrounding communities are always hot! Here is just a sampling of a few festive events still going on around Chicago’s North Shore – I would highly recommend squeezing one or all of them in if you can!

Free Festive Family Film Fest Presents “Home Alone”
Fri., Dec. 20th, 5 P.M.
The Wilmette Theatre, 1122 Central Ave., Wilmette

Stop by for a free family screening of Christmas classic “Home Alone” at the Wilmette Theatre this Friday! As a longtime North Shore Realtor, this film holds a particular fondness for me as the infamous house featured throughout the film is located right here on Chicago’s North Shore! With “Home Alone” having been filmed right in our neck of the woods (in Winnetka), those of us living on the North Shore enjoy both the humorous, fun tale as well as the familiar sights featured in the box office smash. Be sure to stop by the theatre during business hours to pick up your free passes for the special screening. 

Amahl and the Night Visitors @ Winnetka Community House
Sat., Dec. 21st, 3 P.M. and 7 P.M. and Sun., Dec. 22nd, 3 P.M.
Winnetka Community House, 620 Lincoln Ave., Winnetka

A magical holiday classic appropriate for all ages, Amahl and the Night Visitors offers a unique fusion of singing, dancing and acting alongside their live orchestra for a fantastic, family-friendly holiday story. Support Chicago’s North Shore local arts by catching one of three shows scheduled for the upcoming weekend. Featuring both local talent as well as professional vocalists and musicians, this rendition clocks in at just under one hour – Perfect for those with small children!

Wonderland Express Christmas Concert
Sat., Dec. 21st, 2 P.M. and 4 P.M.
Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe

Enjoy a festive Christmas brass concert at one of the Chicago’s North Shore cornerstones – The Chicago Botanic Garden! One hour concerts will be held at 2 P.M. and 4 P.M., and will feature spirited holiday favorites for all ages. Tickets can be purchased in advance or the day of and include the concert and access to the Wonderland Express exhibit. If you’re looking for a reason to get out of the house and do something both local and for the holidays, this fun concert is it!

With another year almost behind us, I am proud to have served many clients throughout our desirable region. Whether buying or selling on Chicago’s North Shore, I encourage you to contact me in the coming year for professional assistance and expertise.


Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert


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Locally or across the country, think of me as your national connection. I can help you with all your real estate needs anywhere in the United States.

Wednesday, December 11, 2013

Winnetka Market Stats for November 2013

Winnetka Active Listings: There are a total of 89 properties actively on the market with the average price of $2,294,358 in Winnetka.


Winnetka Sold Listings: 20 properties closed last month in Winnetka with an average sales price of $1,137,776, the average time on market for these properties was 65 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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Local Expert... with National Connections!


Locally or across the country, think of me as your national connection. I can help you with all your real estate needs anywhere in the United States.

Northbrook Market Stats for November 2013

Northbrook Active Listings: There are a total of 172 properties actively on the market with the average price of $655,539 in Northbrook.

Northbrook Sold Listings: 37 properties closed last month in Northbrook with an average sales price of $418,500, the average time on market for these properties was 61 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
View North Shore Listings
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Local Expert... with National Connections!
Locally or across the country, think of me as your national connection. I can help you with all your real estate needs anywhere in the United States.

Highland Park Market Stats for November 2013

Highland Park Active Listings: There are a total of 147 properties actively on the market with the average price of $1,284,555 in Highland Park.


Highland Park Sold Listings: 36 properties closed last month in Highland Park with an average sales price of $543,739, the average time on market for these properties was 79 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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Local Expert... with National Connections!
Locally or across the country, think of me as your national connection. I can help you with all your real estate needs anywhere in the United States.

Glencoe Market Stats for November 2013

Glencoe Active Listings: There are a total of 60 properties actively on the market with the average price of $1,751,922 in Glencoe.


Glencoe Sold Listings: 10 properties closed last month in Glencoe with an average sales price of $1,637,400, the average time on market for these properties was 28 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
Visit My Website


Local Expert... with National Connections!
Locally or across the country, think of me as your national connection. I can help you with all your real estate needs anywhere in the United States.

Deerfield Market Stats for November 2013

Deerfield Active Listings: There are a total of 75 properties actively on the market with the average price of $664,304 in Deerfield.


Deerfield Sold Listings: 12 properties closed last month in Deerfield with an average sales price of $407,804, the average time on market for these properties was 46 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
Visit My Website


Local Expert... with National Connections!
Locally or across the country, think of me as your national connection. I can help you with all your real estate needs anywhere in the United States.

Wednesday, December 4, 2013

Tips for Creating a Great First Impression of Your North Shore Home This Holiday Season!

Now that we’re in the month of December, the hustle and bustle of the holiday season is well underway!  It’s a beautiful time of year on the North Shore as Winnetka, Deerfield, Northbrook, Highland Park, Glencoe and the surrounding towns decorate for the season and host fun holiday events.
But, what if your attention is divided between the holidays and selling your North Shore home?  You may be worried that your home won’t sell before the end of the year, but as a North Shore Real Estate agent, I can assure you that there are buyers out there!  In fact, showing your home during the holiday season can be very appealing to buyers who will be able to easily envision hosting their own holidays in your home.
One of the key aspects that will make your home stand out this holiday season to buyers is the first impression they’ll have of your North Shore home.  First impressions make lasting impressions and you want to be sure your home is ready to wow!  Here are seven simple tips for making a great first impression this holiday season with your North Shore home!
1. Safety- You may have open houses or showings soon, so you’ll want to put safety first! Be sure your driveway, sidewalk and front porch are cleared of debris or any snow. It’s always better to be on the cautious side and put down salt, as even rain can freeze and make walking up to your home dangerous.
2. Fresh Paint- Your North Shore home is more visible in the winter months as trees are free from their leaves and your home’s condition is more exposed. Touching up chipped or faded paint is a great way to help your North Shore home look refreshed.
3. Tasteful Decorations- While you can have fun with the season’s bright lights and characters of Christmas, it can be easy for some to get carried away. Try small white lights around your homes’ bushes or front porch post, a simple wreath and garland to enhance your home’s appearance without being too distracting. 
4. A Neat Lawn- Whether there is snow covering your lawn or not; be sure to keep your lawn free from any leaves, twigs, etc… that may have blown through with the harsher winds. Just because your lawn is not expected to be as lush as the summer months, doesn’t mean to ignore the state of your lawn. Keeping it cleaned up will show that you care.
5. Clean Gutters- It’s not too late to make sure your gutters are free from leaves and other debris. You’ll want these cleared so that melting snow or rain can easily run through the gutters and not cause damage.
6. Lighting- The use of lights can really make your home stand out with the shorter winter days. Since there is more time without the suns light, using a variety of lighting can give your home a warm glow. Indoor window lights in each room provides a nice appeal, while lights along the pathway up to your home, a bright porch light and tasteful Christmas lights are all ways in which to enhance your North Shore homes’ curb appeal.
7. Cold Weather Plants- Hearty plants and Evergreen trees can withstand the winter months while adding visual appeal to the outside of your home. Evergreen Holly will add a splash of color with its red berries and can stand up to the cold weather.
Following these tips will help take the curb appeal of your home to the next level and give your North Shore home that boost that will set it a part from other homes on the North Shore Real Estate market.
If you have questions about selling your North Shore home or are ready to put your home on the market; please contact me today

Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert


North Shore Real Estate
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Locally or across the country, think of me as your national connection. I can help you with all your real estate needs anywhere in the United States.

Wednesday, November 27, 2013

Host a "Green" Party in Your North Shore Home this Holiday Season!

With Thanksgiving tomorrow, you’re probably busy preparing to get together with family and friends to celebrate!  It’s a wonderful time of year to host loved ones in your North Shore home and enjoy the season.

For those of you who have lived on the North Shore for even a short amount of time, you know that the North Shore is committed to creating an eco-friendly environment.  Throughout the year you’ll find workshops, events and initiatives that promote going green as a community, as well as in your North Shore home.  

If you are hosting a dinner party this holiday season and are looking for ways to be environmentally conscious, I’ve gathered a few tips below that may seem simple, but will go a long way!  Take a look!

1. Switch to Convection- Now, we don’t expect that you’ll run out and buy a new oven before your holiday party, but this is something to consider for the very near future!  Switch from a conventional oven to a convection oven.  The difference?  A convection oven continually circulates heated air, which means food cooks more quickly and reduces energy usage by 20%!  Imagine being able to prepare food faster and save on energy- all from one appliance!

2. Cloth Napkins- These “things of the past” are making a comeback!  The average American will use around 2,200 paper napkins per year- which are never recycled!  Using cloth napkins will cut down drastically on waste and will make any event feel more special.

3. Buy Local- Shopping locally from farmers and other various growers for ingredients for your holiday party (or any time!) is a great way to cut down on our carbon footprint as well as help support sustainable growing in the North Shore communities.

4. Reusable Towels- When cleaning up after your holiday party; be sure to use reusable towels instead of paper towels.  Microfiber towels will hold on to dust, dirt and food particles since the fibers act like a magnet.  After cleanup, throw them in the wash and you’ll be able to reuse them over and over!

5. Nix the Microwave- As much as possible, reheat or cook items in the oven or on the stove.  Certain plastics can produce harmful fumes when put in the microwave and, while not overtly harmful, microwaves do leak radiation.  It’s just better for your health and for the environment to use other options as often as you can!

6. Glass Containers- Storing leftovers or dried foods in glass containers with lids are much safer than the plastic alternative.  When heated, certain plastics can break down and put chemicals into your food.  Learn more about harmful and safe plastics. 

7. Chill Out- Be sure to put a pitcher of water in your fridge at least an hour before your party to ensure it’s completely chilled.  Those that prefer water won’t have to stand at your sink and let the water run until it gets cold.  The average kitchen faucet flows at a gallon per minute!  Thinking ahead can help to chill water before will reduce the waste that a running faucet will produce!

8. No-Cook Dishes- Save energy and give your oven a rest by preparing dishes that don’t have to be cooked. Think: salads, fruit dishes, veggie dips, yogurts and much more!  You’ll find yourself being more creative and spending less time in the kitchen!

9. Fill the Dishwasher- To avoid wasting water and energy, be sure to have a full load each time you use your dishwasher.  Surprisingly, new energy efficient dishwasher can be more eco-friendly than washing dishes by hand!  Be sure to air dry and skip the pre-rinse cycle as most newer models are effective enough to get your dishes clean without the added step!

I hope these tips inspire you to take an eco-friendly approach to the holiday season!  You’ll not only love spending time with your guests, but will feel good about what you’re doing to help the North Shore environment!


Have a wonderful Thanksgiving! 

Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert


North Shore Real Estate
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Local Expert... with National Connections!


Locally or across the country, think of me as your national connection. I can help you with all your real estate needs anywhere in the United States.

Wednesday, November 20, 2013

Kick Off the Holiday Season with These Upcoming Events on The North Shore!

There’s a growing anticipation of the holiday season here on the North Shore as we see decorations going up all around us and the chill in the air.  It’s a beautiful time of year on the North Shore whether you live in Winnetka, Deerfield, Northbrook, Highland Park, Glencoe or any of the other unique North Shore towns.  

As a North Shore Real Estate agent, I enjoy living and working on the North Shore and being a part of these vibrant communities, which is why I love to highlight what’s happening around town!  If you’re planning on hosting loved ones within the next week or two for the Thanksgiving holiday, you may be wondering what you can do to create even more holiday cheer.  Here are a few upcoming events you won’t want to miss!

Toys for Tots
Winnetka
Now through December 20th
- Take the opportunity to give back this holiday season by being a part of the Toys for Tots gift drive!  Residents are invited to drop off new, unwrapped items for the annual Marine Corps Toys for Tots from November 18th through December 20th at the following Winnetka locations: 
Police Department- Lobby 410 Green Bay Road at any time 
Public Works Yards- 1390 Willow Road, Monday – Friday, 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. 
This is a great way to keep with the spirit of giving this season and provide joy for those children who need it most!  For more information on the gift drive, visit the Toys for Tots website
Light up the Tree-mendous Holiday Season in Downtown Highland Park
Downtown Highland Park
Saturday, November 23rd from 3-5:30pm
- Don’t miss the Annual Holiday Lighting this Saturday in Downtown Highland Park!  This is the perfect way to kick off the season as you’ll be surrounded by festivities such as performances by Highland Park High School Marching Band and the Lake Forest Country Day Middle School Choir, as well as performances by Irina Makkai Ballet at Uncle Dan's and readings of the Nutcracker by Clara and the Sugar Plum Fairy at Sprout.  The fun continues with a scavenger hunt with prizes, the arrival of Santa and the official tree lighting of over 275 trees!  For more information, please visit the Downtown Highland Park website
Light the Village Lights
Park and Vernon Ave, Glencoe

Friday, November 29th from 5-9pm

- Glencoe will be hosting its’ annual Light the Village Lights the Friday after Thanksgiving and is another fun way to experience kicking off the holiday season!  Everyone is invited to attend this event hosted by the Village of Glencoe and the Glencoe Chamber of Commerce.  The lighting will take place at the Northwest Corner of Park and Vernon Avenues.  To learn more, visit the Village of Glencoe website.

I hope you’re able to begin your holiday season by attending one of these events!  It’s fun for residents and guests alike to experience the cheer and community atmosphere here on the North Shore!


If you don’t currently live on the North Shore, but have been interested in learning more about the North Shore Real Estate market, please feel free to contact me today!  I would be happy to answer your questions and show you homes currently available on the North Shore!

Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert


North Shore Real Estate
View North Shore Listings
Visit My Website



Local Expert... with National Connections!


Locally or across the country, think of me as your national connection. I can help you with all your real estate needs anywhere in the United States.

Wednesday, November 13, 2013

5 Benefits of Buying a North Shore Home During the Holiday Season!

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, many of us are anticipating the festive holiday season!  It’s hard to believe that soon this year will be coming to a close, yet there’s still time to jump into the North Shore Real Estate market if you’re hoping to buy a North Shore home before the end of the year!

Buyers oftentimes will feel that their best bet is to hold off until the spring because of the holiday season.  However, there are those that find themselves needing to purchase a North Shore home now and, in fact, it can be a great time to do so!

Here are a few of the perks of buying a North Shore home during the holidays!

1. Lower Pricing- With the lack of people searching during the holidays for a home in the North Shore; prices soften a bit. You can view my website, www.JanieBress.com, to see a list of my current North Shore homes for sale. You’ll notice these homes are priced to sell and are a great deal for buyers.

2. Less Competition- Many buyers don’t think to take advantage of house hunting during the holidays, so you’re sure to avoid any bidding wars that would occur at a peak point on the North Shore Real Estate market. This will mean a less stressful home buying experience for you!

3. Motivated Sellers- Sellers dread not being able to sell their homes before the holidays get under way. They’re very aware that most are not in the market to buy a home until Spring rolls around, which means; they’re motivated. They know showings of their home will greatly decrease, so any activity on their home is good news. Oftentimes they’re willing to come down on the price or be flexible with closing dates, and other extras.

4. Favorable Mortgage Terms- Mortgage lenders may be willing to lower interest rates or let go of some of their fees in order to gain your business. With fewer people shopping for homes; they will be experiencing a slower time in their business as well. Be sure to shop around to get the best possible deal. Your North Shore Real Estate agent will help point you in the right direction.

5. Tax Deduction- Closing before the end of the year can mean you are eligible to deduct the interest component of your first monthly mortgage payment from your taxable income for this year. You may also be able to deduct any money you pay for points to reduce your interest rate. Of course you’ll want to consult with a North Shore tax advisor to talk over the full details.

Hopefully these perks will help you take the next step in your North Shore home search this holiday season! 

I’m always available to answer your questions and, as an experienced North Shore Real Estate agent, can walk you through the home buying process with ease!  Contact me today to get started!

Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert


North Shore Real Estate
View North Shore Listings
Visit My Website



Local Expert... with National Connections!


Locally or across the country, think of me as your national connection. I can help you with all your real estate needs anywhere in the United States.

Wednesday, November 6, 2013

Winnetka Market Stats for October 2013

Winnetka Active Listings: There are a total of 103 properties actively on the market with the average price of $2,318,445 in Winnetka.


Winnetka Sold Listings: 21 properties closed last month in Winnetka with an average sales price of $1,482,823, 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 Winnetka market statistics

Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert


North Shore Real Estate
View North Shore Listings
Visit My Website



Local Expert... with National Connections!


Locally or across the country, think of me as your national connection. I can help you with all your real estate needs anywhere in the United States.

Northbrook Market Stats for October 2013

Northbrook Active Listings: There are a total of 176 properties actively on the market with the average price of $672,637 in Northbrook.

Northbrook Sold Listings: 51 properties closed last month in Northbrook with an average sales price of $403,066, the average time on market for these properties was 36 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
View North Shore Listings
Visit My Website


Local Expert... with National Connections!
Locally or across the country, think of me as your national connection. I can help you with all your real estate needs anywhere in the United States.