What to Know Before Buying a Fixer Upper on Chicago's North Shore

While television shows on HGTV may make it look easy, buying a fixer upper home is not for everyone. There is much more time, dedication, money and labor that goes into bringing a property in need of repair back to life— or back to your standards. As your real estate expert on Chicago's North Shore, I am sharing a few essential things to keep in mind before you seal the deal on a home in need of TLC.

Hire a home inspector
Hiring a home inspector is one of the most important parts of any home purchase, not to mention the purchase of a property that you know will require remodeling. Bring along an inspector to tell you what needs replacing now, what you can replace later and if there are any structural issues that could raise major red flags with your renovation plans. You will thank yourself later for taking this essential step!

Research zoning
Every community—Glencoe, Deerfield, Winnetka, Highland Park, Northbrook and the surrounding areas—has zoning districts and restrictions. Check into these before you purchase a home as your specific plans for the property may not be allowed. For example, buying a historic home in certain areas does not always mean you can replace and renovate as you see fit— the renovations will likely need to follow guidelines to maintain the integrity and history of the property.

Look into tax benefits
It is dependent on the location of the home, but some homeowners who improve their property's value are eligible for tax credits. You may want to look into this before you purchase the home and start construction.

But no matter if your dream home in Winnetka, Highland Park, Northbrook, Glencoe or Deerfield is a fixer upper, move-in ready or new construction, do not hesitate to give me a call! I can help you find the perfect property for your needs and walk you through the process of making it your own!

I look forward to hearing from you!

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. 

What Not to Do When Landscaping Your North Shore Home This Summer

Summer has officially begun here on the North Shore and we're all looking forward to spending some much-needed time in the sun! If you're a homeowner, you might even be ready to tackle your yard and landscaping as an activity that lets you enjoy the weather and boosts your curb appeal.

But before you start digging and watering, it's important to mind these few tips that will allow your garden and lawn to flourish without over—or under—doing it.

Don't water unless necessary

While you may be tempted to grab your garden hose and dust off the sprinkler, instead you'll want to reevaluate your strategy. Only water your plants after they've just been planted, when the dirt looks a little dry in your garden or if you see plants wilting or losing leaves.

One rule of thumb to remember: Don't water in the afternoon in Winnetka, Glencoe, Deerfield, Highland Park, Northbrook or the surrounding areas. Watering your plants during the hottest part in the day will cause most of the moisture to evaporate. 

Don't leave the garden alone

Unpredictable weather, heat, pests and other variables can take a toll on your garden and lawn very quickly. Pay attention to the forecast and adjust your watering schedule accordingly, watch for plants that may be overgrowing the rest and if necessary, pull them out.

Don't let weeds bloom

The price to pay for a beautiful garden and lawn this summer is pulling weeds. You will want to pull them as soon as they make an appearance or they could seed and bloom, spreading rapidly all over your hard summer's work!

Don't cut your lawn too short

Another rule of thumb when mowing your lawn is to cut high. Cutting too short will promote weeds, shallow roots, irregular patches and a tendency to dry out.

Don't skip the fertilizer

There is no harm in fertilizing your lawn this summer, in fact, it's encouraged! Find a fertilizer suited for your lawn type and follow the instructions for application using a handheld or spreader. Although, you will want to avoid fertilizing on hot days where temperatures rise above 85.

Summer curb appeal is a major factor for home sellers on Chicago's North Shore and in fact, it can be what attracts buyers to your property in the first place! Give me a call today for more tips and information about selling your home in Winnetka, Glencoe, Deerfield, Highland Park, Northbrook or the surrounding areas!

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. 

Northbrook Real Estate Market Stats for May 2016

City Active Listings: There are a total of 311 properties actively on the market with the average price of $761,053 in Northbrook.

City Sold Listings: 85 properties closed last month in Northbrook with an average sales price of $501,579. The average time on market for these properties was 50 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. 

Winnetka Real Estate Market Stats for May 2016

City Active Listings: There are a total of 216 properties actively on the market with the average price of $1,894,620 in Winnetka.

City Sold Listings: 23 properties closed last month in Winnetka with an average sales price of $1,261,739. The average time on market for these properties was 67 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. 

Highland Park Real Estate Market Stats for May 2016

City Active Listings: There are a total of 346 properties actively on the market with the average price of $962,041 in Highland Park.

City Sold Listings: 47 properties closed last month in Highland Park with an average sales price of $608,032. The average time on market for these properties was 74 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

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 Real Estate Market Stats for May 2016

City Active Listings: There are a total of 171 properties actively on the market with the average price of $663,374 in Deerfield.

City Sold Listings: 32 properties closed last month in Deerfield with an average sales price of $463,944. 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 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. 

Glencoe Real Estate Market Stats for May 2016

City Active Listings: There are a total of 115 properties actively on the market with the average price of $1,449,869 in Glencoe.

City Sold Listings: 18 properties closed last month in Glencoe with an average sales price of $1,528,556. The average time on market for these properties was 48 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. 

The Extra Costs of Buying A Home in Winnetka, Glencoe, Deerfield, Highland Park, Northbrook IL

The two major costs associated with buying a home on Chicago's North Shore are the down payment and the monthly mortgage. However, there are a few others that buyers tend to overlook— causing both surprise and shock when the time comes to sign on the dotted line.

It is always wise to do your homework prior to house-hunting in Deerfield, Glencoe, Winnetka, Highland Park, Northbrook and the surrounding communities, to ensure that you understand each and every one of the costs involved. Below are four hidden costs of buying a home and to avoid disappointment later, it is important to factor them into your budget before you find the one.

Closing Costs
North Shore buyers can expect closing costs to span anywhere from 2 to 5 percent of the home's value. Your mortgage lender will go over all of the fees and costs with you, but be sure to consider closing costs in your research. And while the seller may cover some of these costs—depending on how you work your offer—you may have to contribute toward the grand total that can add up to a few thousand dollars.

Home Inspection
Although the home inspection can cost up to $500, it ultimately provides buyers with peace of mind, knowing that they are not purchasing a property with major issues or one that requires extensive repair.

Home Warranty
A home warranty provides extra security to buyers who may be purchasing an older home, with older appliances and operating systems (plumbing, electrical, HVAC). Warranties can be paid for at times by the seller, but if taken on by the buyer, they can cost around a few hundred dollars per year.

Maintenance
A large yard may be on your wish list for a home in Deerfield, Glencoe, Winnetka, Highland Park or Northbrook, but that also requires timely upkeep— and the tools to do so. Do you have a lawn mower? A snowblower? Take these expenses into account before you are faced with having to buy them quickly.

If buying a home on the North Shore is on your agenda this summer, do not hesitate to contact me! I have years of experience in helping buyers find their dream homes!

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. 

5 Reasons to Never Buy A North Shore Home Without an Agent

When it comes to buying a home on Chicago's North Shore, you have many options laid in front of you— from the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, to the location, to your initial offer. However, one option you will want to avoid altogether is the decision to go it alone, without a real estate agent on your side.

Purchasing a home may seem like something you can handle yourself, but after doing all of the research, you will find the process is best left to the pros. Below are five reasons why you should never buy a home without the help of a real estate agent:

They have the experience
You could be on the brink of purchasing your second, maybe even fifth, home, but keep in mind that real estate agents have been doing this for years, some maybe even decades. Navigating the real estate market, home purchases and home sales day in and day out means agents know every possible step and hiccup that can arise in the process.

They have access
You can search for homes online, but did you know that real estate agents have access to even more homes? A real estate agent can find your dream home that may be hiding in plain sight. After all, it is our job to know the in's and out's of every neighborhood.

They do the negotiating
As you move further into the home buying process on Chicago's North Shore, you will notice that there are dozens of parties to negotiate with. And with the market heating up, those negotiations are going to be a bit more heated than they have been in the past. A Realtor knows how to seal the deal with your best interests in mind— Remember, we've done this before!

They have connections
With my years of experience as a real estate agent on the North Shore, I can help direct you to the best lenders, inspectors, moving companies and more. Realtors have a wide net of contacts that can help you with just about everything in your home buying journey.

They can provide advice
Your real estate agent is indeed searching listings for you, negotiating contracts and marketing your home (if you're selling also)— but they are also here to provide advice and listen to your concerns. This is the biggest purchase you will make, don't you want someone in your corner who knows the ropes?

Contact me today with any questions you have about buying a home in Glencoe, Winnetka, Deerfield, Northbrook, Highland Park or the surrounding areas this year!

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.