Declutter Your North Shore Home

If you’re running out of ways to fill your time this summer, how about decluttering your North Shore home? There are so many great reasons to declutter your home, and if you plan on selling your North Shore home anytime soon, it’s imperative that you do this. If you’re moving soon, you’ll be happy you did when it’s time to fill those boxes!

As your North Shorereal estate agent, allow me to fill you in on some great reasons to declutter, and to offer you some tips. The hardest part is beginning the process.

Why should you declutter? Aside from home sellers and movers, all homeowners could benefit from the process. Once you have less stuff lying around, clogging up your spaces, you’ll have less to keep organized, less to clean, less to stress about, more space to enjoy, and more financial freedom if you also stop purchasing stuff you don’t really need!

Here are some great tips to get you started on the decluttering process:

1.  Start with what you can manage. If it’s only five minutes you can spare each day, start with that. If you can spare a half hour or hour each day, do that, but plug it into your calendar and stick to the schedule. If it’s only one weekend day you can lend to the process, do that. Just stick with it!

2.  Donate items you no longer need. This way, you’ll feel good about giving the items to someone else who might get more use and value from them. Give one item away a day, or if you’re on a time crunch, fill boxes as you go. Find a great organization to donate to. You could always sell items as well. Extra money always comes in handy and gives you motivation!

3.  Spend time on closets, drawers, cabinets, etc. Anywhere you’ve stuffed/stored stuff will take some time to go through. Try clothes on and get rid of anything that you haven’t worn or that hasn’t fit for the last six months to a year. Same goes for kitchen appliances. If you haven’t used them, time to give away!

4.  Take photos. Take photos of a space before you declutter it, and then after you declutter and organize it. This will give you inspiration to keep going, once you see how much better a space looks and how much potential it has when it isn’t stuffed to the brim!

5.  View your home as a first-time visitor. This is especially smart if selling soon. See the house from the eyes of potential buyers. You’ll notice eyesores that you’ve gotten used to and glazed over. Spend time on those areas. If this is hard for you to do, ask a friend to point out areas in your home that need help.

These tips will get you started on the decluttering process! When ready to buy and/or sell real estate in Glencoe, Winnetka, Highland Park, Deerfield, Northbrook, Lake Forest, Wilmette, Evanston, Glenview, Riverwoods, Bannockburn, or other North Shore communities, give me a call, your North Shore real estate agent! I am always here and ready to answer any questions you have, or to get you started on your goals in the North Shore real estate market.

Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert

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5 New Year's Resolutions to Make as a North Shore Homebuyer

Have you sat down and made a list of your new year's resolutions yet? It's always a fun exercise to take stock of your goals for the year ahead and make a plan on how to achieve them. For many on Chicago's North Shore, you might find that they are personal or health related, but one of them might be buying a home!

There are dozens of steps to take to successfully become a homeowner in 2019 and as your local North Shore real estate expert, I am happy to help you make that a reality! Below are 5 new year's resolutions to make in order to buy a home in the new year:

Eliminate indulgences
It might not be your favorite path to homeownership, but cutting indulgences can be a quick and simple way to save for a down payment. For instance, could you stand to cut cable and instead use Netflix? Or on the same note, is there a streaming service you could cancel? You might want to cut dining out and your morning coffee runs, instead packing your lunch and brewing coffee at home. These little indulgences can mean big savings if they're avoided!

Start a home savings account
You can't save specifically for your home if you don't have anywhere for it to go! Open a savings account specifically for your new home. Get into the habit of making weekly or monthly deposits—whatever you can afford—and watch your down payment grow!

Do a mortgage test run
The only way to truly know if you can swing being a homeowner in Glencoe, Highland Park, Deerfield, Winnetka, Northbrook, Evanston, Lake Forest, Wilmette, and the surrounding areas, is to do a test run. Try saving like a homeowner—meaning you set aside your monthly housing expenses and an amount for your emergency fund—and see if you can live with your new budget. 10% of your mortgage payment is a good rule of thumb to account for maintenance fees, so start there.

Pay all bills on time
There is nothing that can raise a red flag quicker to a lender than unpaid bills. If you intend to get approved for a mortgage in 2019, it is best to make sure you pay all of your bills on time. Not only does this keep your credit score high, but it shows lenders you are capable of managing a monthly payment.

Visit open houses
This may seem counterintuitive if you're not yet ready to buy a home on the North Shore, but attending open houses allows you to see what properties are available in your price range. This gives you a more realistic approach to the market and could even motivate you to save more!

Ready to make your dream of owning a home a reality this year? Give me a call today!

I look forward to hearing from you!

Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert

North Shore Real Estate
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What You Should Know Before Refinancing Your North Shore Home

The idea of cutting your monthly mortgage payment down by refinancing your loan may sound intriguing to you as a homeowner on Chicago's North Shore, but there is much more to consider before diving in. In fact, there are cases in which refinancing does not truly pay off for the homeowner. But don't worry! As your local North Shore real estate expert, you can count on me to help you make the best decision for your situation.

Below are four factors to consider before making the decision to refinance your mortgage:

Refinancing is not free
Just as you likely paid some closing costs when you purchased your home in Northbrook, Winnetka, Evanston, Highland Park, Deerfield, Glencoe, Lake Forest, Wilmette, Glenview, Riverwoods, Bannockburn, and the surrounding areas, you will be required to again with refinancing. Closing costs are typically 2 to 5 percent of your loan amount and will need to be paid up front when you refinance. While your lender may offer a no closing costs refinance, be aware that it may come packaged with a higher interest rate. It's always wise to consider all of your options!

The savings should pay off quickly
When deciding if a refinance is right for you and your North Shore home, you need to look at the savings. Refinancing makes the most sense when your interest rate is more than 100 points above the current interest rates. The savings from your refinance should also recoup itself in under two years. For example, if your refinance cost you $2,800 and you end up saving $179 per month, the savings would be recouped in 15 months. It pays to crunch the numbers!

You may be able to cancel PMI
As we've talked about in the past, private mortgage insurance (PMI) is required for buyers that put down less than 20 percent on their new home. However, if you've gained enough equity in your home over the past years, a refinance may mean you're able to cancel your PMI. Just remember the loan balance needs to be 80 percent or less of your home's value.

Refinancing resets your loan
Perhaps one of the most important factors to consider is that a refinance is essentially hitting the reset button on your home loan. If you've had your loan for many years and have reached the point where you're paying down the principal instead of interest, refinancing may not be the best idea as you will likely reverse this dynamic.

Whether you're ready to tackle the home selling process on Chicago's North Shore or are simply looking to refinance to save a bit more each month, I am here to help! You can call on me to provide everything from a list of available North Shore homes to home seller tips and lender recommendations.

I look forward to hearing from you in 2019!

Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert

North Shore Real Estate
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Celebrate the Holidays with These North Shore Events!

After all of the turkey is put away, it's time to deck the halls for the holidays and better yet, make plans for painting the town red (and green!) with all of the festive events popping up on Chicago's North Shore. I've highlighted several of the holiday happenings in December so you can take advantage of all that Glencoe, Northbrook, Highland Park, Deerfield, and Winnetka have to offer!

Breakfast with Santa
December 1, 2018
Maggiano's Little Italy
Skokie IL

Annual Holiday Open House
December 2, 2018
Evanston History Center at the Charles Gates Dawes House
Evanston IL

Frances Willard Holiday House Tour
December 2, 2018
Frances Willard House Museum
Evanston IL

Red Invitation Sunday Holiday Sale
December 2, 2018
Varying merchants in Winnetka
Winnetka IL

Sunday Brunch with Santa
December 2, 2018
Pinstripes
Northbrook IL

Holiday Cheers
December 5, 2018
Chicago Botanic Garden
Glencoe IL

Downtown Evanston Tree Lighting
December 8, 2018
Fountain Square
Evanston IL

It's a Wonderful Life— Live Radio Play
Through December 30, 2018
Oil Lamp Theater
Glenview IL

Wonderland Express
Through January 6, 2019
Chicago Botanic Garden
Glencoe IL

Ready to call the North Shore your home? Or ready to move on to a new home for the new year? Give me a call today! I'd be happy to help you find the perfect home for you and your family in Glencoe, Northbrook, Highland Park, Deerfield, Winnetka, or beyond.

Have a happy holiday season!

Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert

North Shore Real Estate
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5 Things in Your North Shore Home That Could Turn Buyers Away

As I explained in my last blog post, selling your North Shore home during the fall and winter months can be just as lucrative as selling during the spring and summer! But remember, that's only if your home is prepared for the market! There are many ways to spruce up your Glencoe, Winnetka, Highland Park, Northbrook, or Deerfield home before listing— including removing these common items that have been known to turn buyers away!

Below are five items to consider removing from your North Shore home before listing your property:

Collectibles
Whether you collect stamps or figurines, it may be best to keep them stored away while you're selling your home. Many collections on display in properties can read as clutter to buyers and turn them off of your home. Even if they're just dog accessories, it's best to keep them in storage during this time.

Odors
Food or pet-related odors are one of the quickest ways to send a buyer running out the door. Smells can be the breaking point for buyers, so it's best to be aware of what you're cooking before a showing or if there are any pet odors that need addressing before buyers arrive. It's also best to stay away from strong scented candles as not all buyers will love the same aromas you do.

Pet Damage
You love your pets, of course, but remember that not all buyers are pet people. If your floors are scratched from pet claws or there are stains on your carpet, consider having them re-finished or professionally cleaned or replaced prior to listing your property.

Personal Photos
Have you heard that de-personalizing a home can help it sell? It's true! Buyers want to envision themselves living in the home which can be hard to do when your wedding photos are on the wall. Try to store your personal photos prior to buyers arriving for a showing just to give you that edge over other sellers.

Bugs
Have you spotted ladybugs in the window sills of your North Shore home? Remove them! Bugs can be an easy turn-off for buyers who will get the feeling that the home is not well cared for or clean enough for them to move in.

Need more ideas on how to prepare your Glencoe, Winnetka, Highland Park, Northbrook, or Deerfield home for the market? Curious about your home value? Give me a call today! I'm happy to answer your questions!

I look forward to hearing from you!

Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert

North Shore Real Estate
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4 Ways to Increase Your Winnetka or Glencoe Home Value Before Selling This Spring

Spring is upon us here on Chicago's North Shore and the real estate market will soon begin to buzz with more activity as it does every year around this time. More buyers will enter the local market, searching for their dream home, and yours could be it! But if you've been mulling over selling your Winnetka, Glencoe, Deerfield, Highland Park, Northbrook or Evanston area home, you might like to consider boosting your home value first in order to get the most from your sale.

Below are four ways you can boost your home value before listing this spring:

Paint your bathroom or kitchen blue
You may have heard of choosing a neutral paint color to appeal to the majority of buyers, but you likely have not considered blue. According to Zillow's 2017 Paint Color Analysis, which analyzed photos from over 30,000 sold properties, homes with blue kitchens ultimately sold for $1,800 more than those without. The same goes for blue bathrooms, as the analysis found that properties with blue bathrooms sold for $5,400 more.

Incorporate trendy features
Chalk it up to those renovation reality TV shows everyone loves to watch, but listings with farmhouse sinks and even trendy items like barn doors and tongue and groove paneling (or shiplap) have proved to sell for more money than their more traditional counterparts.

Add smart technology
To stand out in today's real estate market and pull a higher price tag, homeowners might consider installing smart features like digital thermostats and even smartphone-enabled security cameras. Not only do these items add interest, but they help a buyer feel more in control and safe at home— which will prompt them to pay more when they feel their home is light years ahead of the rest on the block.

Replace appliances
One simple way to boost your North Shore home's value is to say goodbye to your old appliances and bring in more energy-efficient models. Today's buyers in Winnetka, Glencoe, Deerfield, Highland Park, Northbrook, Wilmette, Skokie, Lake Bluff, and Evanston are looking for stainless steel appliances that cut down on energy bills and allow them to live a more "green" lifestyle.

Ready to make the move to sell your North Shore home? As your local real estate expert, I am here to guide you toward a successful sale! Give me a call today for more information about preparing for buyers and a home valuation.

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. 

How to Factor Your Commute into Your North Shore Home Purchase

There are many great reasons to buy a home on Chicago's North Shore— picturesque neighborhoods,  great schools, a strong sense of community, proximity to entertainment, you name it! One factor that you may not always consider in your buying decision, however, is your commute. If you plan to buy a home on the North Shore and work in the city or in one of the surrounding areas, there are a few things you should note first.

As your North Shore real estate expert, I'm sharing a few ways to factor your commute into your homebuying decision:

Note the costs
Before you decide on the North Shore community where you will make your purchase, it's essential to consider the costs of your commute. The average commute time in the US is 25 minutes, but the farther away you make your home purchase, the more you will accrue in costs, including gas and vehicle maintenance. When you have a potential home in question, map the time from the front door to your workplace and then estimate gas mileage.

Browse home prices
Perhaps you currently work in Deerfield, but found the perfect homes in Winnetka and Glencoe. One thing you will want to research prior to deciding on a community is the difference in home prices. You will find that certain communities on the North Shore have higher prices than others, so do not hesitate to contact me to find the best area for both your needs and your budget!

Consider your work schedule
As I mentioned above, the costs of a longer commute time can take a toll on your wallet. However, if you have a flexible work schedule—perhaps you can set your own hours—you may be able to open up your options in terms of location and not worry so much about how long it takes to get to your desk in the morning.

Note your stress level
Does a long commute time cause your stress to go through the roof? Does sitting in traffic or behind the wheel for an hour put a damper on your whole day? You will want to ask yourself how you feel about that long commute time and how it affects your mental outlook before you decide which North Shore community to call home.

Ready to browse available homes on Chicago's North Shore in a place that makes sense for your commute? Give me a call today!

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. 

Why 2018 is the Year to Buy a Home on Chicago's North Shore

If you have a fresh start on your mind, you may have already started browsing homes for sale on Chicago's North Shore— and you're right to do so! 2018 will be a great year to buy a home in Winnetka, Glencoe, Deerfield, Highland Park, Northbrook and the surrounding communities for many reasons, some of which I've included for you below!

Prices are rising
You have heard over the past few months that prices are rising and that trend is set to continue throughout 2018, just not quite at the rate they were before. Moderate price increases are expected for the real estate market and if you're ready to buy, now is the time to ensure you don't end up spending more than necessary.

Rates are rising
Just as I mentioned above, you will want to act now on your North Shore dream home to avoid paying more down the road. Interest rates are expected to continue rising, with two to four more hikes over the next 11 months. By the end of the year, rates are projected to be at 5 percent, so don't delay your home purchase!

Inventory is coming back
It is no secret that inventory over the last year has been on the lower end of the spectrum— with very few homes for sale on Chicago's North Shore. However, this year we are expected to see a recovery, with the return of inventory to the local real estate market. Middle to upper level price points will show the most growth in inventory, which means your options for available properties will be much wider than in the past.

Ready to make a move for the new year ahead? Give me a call today! As your North Shore real estate expert, I am here to help walk you through the entire process!

Happy new year!

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. 

How to Brighten Your Glencoe, Winnetka Home in the Winter

It's no secret that winter shortens our hours of daylight on Chicago's North Shore and while it may make for cozy (earlier!) evenings, it can have your home feeling a bit darker than usual. But not to worry! There are dozens of ways to brighten up your Winnetka, Glencoe, Highland Park, Deerfield or Northbrook home and allow it to feel just as fresh and welcoming as it does in the spring!

Below are five ways to brighten your North Shore home:

Take off the screens
If you have screens on your windows, it's time to take them off and allow more light inside! Without them, you'll let 30 percent more sunlight in and warm your home at the same time! But don't let them go too far, you'll want to put them back up in a few months to avoid running your cooling system too much.

Refresh the paint
Darker paint colors can really emphasize the long, cold nights on Chicago's North Shore in the winter. Opt for a paint refresh with brighter, neutral colors like beige, gray, or of course, white. Especially in your living spaces, you will instantly feel as though the room is more airy and open.

Replace light bulbs
There is nothing like a dim light bulb to make your Winnetka, Glencoe, Evanston, Northbrook, Deerfield IL home feel dark and drab. Replace your light bulbs with energy-efficient models in a cool, white hue.

Bring in mirrors
Did you know that mirrors can make your home feel larger? What's more, they help to reflect any light that comes inside! If your home is lacking mirrors or feeling small and cave-like, it's time to bring in a few! You can bounce the winter light all over your home with even just one.

Trim landscaping
Outdoors you may have overgrown landscaping or trees that could be blocking precious light from streaming inside. Take a weekend to trim back any hedges or bushes in front of entryways and windows and remove branches that might be making your home darker than it needs to be.

Ready to get a jump on the new year with a new North Shore home? Give me a call today! I'm here to  help you find the perfect property to start 2018 in style!

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. 

Should You Buy a Home in Glencoe, Winnetka, Highland Park During the Holidays?

In a recent blog post, I shared the answer to the common question— Should I sell my home during the holidays? Now it's time to answer the opposite, Should you buy a home during this time of year? While it may surprise you, the answer is the same for both! The holidays can be a great opportunity to both sell and buy homes on Chicago's North Shore and as your local real estate expert, I'm sharing below a few reasons to buy a new property right now.

1. Less competition
As the holidays come with a great deal of hustle and bustle, not to mention traveling, many tend to put their home searches on the back burner until the spring. In fact, many tend to think spring is the best time to buy a home and as a result, you will have much less competition for homes currently for sale if you buy now!

2. Sellers are motivated
Buying a home on the North Shore during the holidays can allow you to find a great deal. After all, homes that are listed now likely have motivated sellers who need to move on before the new year or the listings are leftover from the fall (sometimes, even summer) market. Unlike buying a home during the busier spring and summer seasons, you may just find flexible more sellers in the current market.

3. You have a clear picture 
During the spring and summer, homes in Glencoe, Winnetka, Highland Park, and the surrounding areas look bright, fresh, and appealing with idyllic landscaping and green grass. During the holidays, you have a much clearer picture of what the property will look like the other six (or more!) months out of the year— you are able to see the home for what it truly is, without being distracted by flowers and sun-lit rooms.

4. Easy access
The holidays are not quite as busy for professionals working in the real estate market. Not only does that mean you have better access to lenders and the like, but your home purchase in Winnetka, Glencoe, Highland Park, Deerfield, Northbrook, Evanston, Glenview, Wilmette, Lake Bluff, or Skokie could move along much faster.

I'm here to help with every aspect of your home purchase on Chicago's North Shore! Do not hesitate to contact me with any questions you have!

Happy holidays!

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. 

Should You Sell Your North Shore Home During the Holidays?

When you think about the holiday hustle and bustle—shopping, events, decorating—it may seem like the last thing you should add to your plate is selling your home. After all, isn't spring the best time to list your home on Chicago's North Shore? In the past, that may have been the case, but this year is shaping up to be different and the holidays could end up being the best time of year to sell your North Shore home.

Why? A recent Foot Traffic report from the National Association of Realtors shows that there are more buyers out right now than there have been at any time in the last twelve months. This also means that there are more buyers currently looking for homes than there were during last year's spring real estate market!

It all comes down to supply and demand and in today's market, that means supply is currently low (with housing inventory much lower than it has been in past years) and demand is soaring!

Supply
The number of homes currently for sale is much lower than it has been in the past, but as a home seller in Glencoe, Winnetka, Deerfield, Northbrook, Highland Park, or the surrounding areas that also means you have less competition. Fewer homes for sale means fewer to compete with and if buyers decide yours is a fit, they might just spark a bidding war to make sure are the ones who get to move in!

Demand
As I mentioned above, demand is high on Chicago's North Shore! Buyers no longer look for homes during one time of the year. In fact, with smartphones, tablets, you name it, buyers can search for available properties 24/7— many even have new listings that meet their criteria emailed to them! Buyers are ready to purchase a home during the holidays if the price is right—not to mention the location and features—so you won't want to wait!

Ready to sell your home in Glencoe, Winnetka, Deerfield, Northbrook, Highland Park, or the surrounding areas? Give me a call today!

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 Questions First-Time Buyers on Chicago's North Shore Should Ask Themselves

Buying a home for the first time on Chicago's North Shore is exciting, especially knowing you could be saving money when you're no longer renting. But before you jump into the local real estate market, there are a few questions you will need to ask yourself to be sure this is the right time for you to purchase a home in Winnetka, Glencoe, Highland Park, Deerfield, Northbrook and the surrounding areas.

Did I just change jobs?
If you've just experienced a job change, it could take longer to be approved for a mortgage through your local lender. Lenders typically like to see a solid employment history of at least two years and will want to see your tax returns and pay stubs as proof of income. But don't worry if you don't meet this requirement, it is not exactly a deal breaker! There are still ways to go about applying for a mortgage during a job transition, just speak to your lender.

Do I have a down payment?
Buying a home on Chicago's North Shore commonly entails putting 20 percent down. However, if you do not have this down payment ready and waiting, you can opt for a lower percentage. A lower down payment will require private mortgage insurance which will add to your overall monthly payment, but allows you to get around the standard 20 percent.

Am I ready for maintenance?
If you're purchase a single family home on the North Shore, maintenance will fall into your hands. Ask yourself if you're ready to take on yard upkeep and repairs like cleaning gutters or fixing leaky faucets. These often come with their own set of costs, so be prepared!

Am I familiar with closing costs?
Did you know most first-time buyers are not aware of closing costs? These include title, insurance, mortgage processing fees, and the like. Ask your lender what closing costs will run with your particular loan product to get an idea of how much you will be expected to pay at the closing table.

Is buying a better option than renting?
In today's market, buying a home is indeed a better investment than renting simply due to rising costs alone. But you will want to run the number to make sure your purchase will make sense in your overall payment. You can use a mortgage calculator to enter in expenses and come up with the number you could be paying each month. Doing the math is always wise before buying!

As your real estate agent on the North Shore, you can count on me to help you prepare to make a home purchase. Give me a call today for a list of available properties in Winnetka, Glencoe, Highland Park, Deerfield, Northbrook and the surrounding areas!

I look forward to hearing from you!

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 Refinancing Myths to Ignore on Chicago's North Shore

Homeowners on Chicago's North Shore have taken notice that rates are still hovering around historic lows and as a result, have begun thinking about refinancing. However, there are dozens of misconceptions and myths surrounding the topic of refinancing and many in Glencoe, Winnetka, Highland Park, Deerfield, and Northbrook may still be on the fence about whether or not it's a good move to make.

As your local North Shore real estate expert, I've included 5 refinancing myths worth clearing up before you make your decision:

1. You Won't Qualify
Your credit may have taken a turn over the past few years or maybe you've changed jobs, but that doesn't mean you won't qualify for a refinance. Guidelines are now loosening again and you may be surprised by what your lender has to tell you.

2. The Term Will Reset to 30 Years
If you've paid off years on your mortgage, you may be hesitant to refinance and reset the clock to 30 years. That is a relevant concern, but keep in mind that a 30-year mortgage is not the only option on a refinance. A shorter term ARM (adjustable rate mortgage) could be the better pick given your timeline and future plans for staying (or not staying) in your North Shore home.

3. You Missed Your Chance
Rates are still at historic lows, as I mentioned above, and while there is talk that they will continue to rise over the next year, there is still time to save money on your mortgage. Don't let hearsay about rising rates keep you from refinancing if it makes sense for your particular situation.

4. If You Have an ARM, You Can't Refinance
If you took advantage of a lower interest rate with an ARM and the higher rate has now set in, that doesn't mean you are stuck. You are still able to refinance into a 30-year mortgage if your credit allows and you are comfortable with the change in your monthly payment.

5. It Takes Too Much Effort
The first step toward refinancing is a call to your local North Shore lender to discuss how much you could potentially save by locking in a lower rate. This only takes a few minutes and if the outcome is favorable, gathering the necessary documents is well worth it.

Contact me today for more information about the North Shore real estate market, buying a home or selling your current home in Glencoe, Winnetka, Highland Park, Deerfield, Northbrook or the surrounding communities!

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 Things Not to Overlook in Homes on Chicago's North Shore

When shopping for a home on Chicago's North Shore, there will be many factors to consider, making it easy to overlook others. For instance, if you're concerned with the number of bedrooms, you may be quick to pass over how long your commute might be in this new location. As your local North Shore real estate expert, I have included below five factors not to overlook in homes in Northbrook, Glencoe, Winnetka, Deerfield, and Highland Park:

Your commute time
As I mentioned above, it is important to take into account how long it will take you to get to work each day from a new location. You may love the home itself, but if it's going to take you much longer to commute every day, you will want to weigh your options.

The neighborhood at different hours
Especially if you visit the home during the day, homebuyers can quickly overlook what the neighborhood might be like at night. Is it noisier once all of the neighbors are home from work and school? If you're strongly considering a home, be sure to visit at all hours.

Homeowners association
Some condos and homes on Chicago's North Shore are part of a homeowners association and are required to follow a set of rules regarding everything from landscaping to paint colors. Be sure to review the bylaws of the association if you find yourself interested in a property.

Resale value
You may not be bothered by a certain feature of a home on the North Shore, but that doesn't mean others won't be when the time comes to sell. It's always wise to be thinking one step ahead—in this case, to resale—as a buyer, especially if you plan to only be in the home for a short time.

Room to grow
From growing families to a growing need for storage, be sure not to overlook how much space the property has for your belongings. Think hard about what you might need in the future and if this home has the potential to accommodate or if you'd need to move again.

If you're shopping for a new home in Northbrook, Glencoe, Winnetka, Deerfield, Highland Park or the surrounding areas of the North Shore, give me a call today! I

Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert

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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. 

4 Home Features That Will Hook North Shore Buyers

When you're motivated to sell your North Shore home, you will likely go to many lengths to ensure that your property is ready for the market, but also to ensure you hook buyers from the start! Of course that is dependent on many factors, one of the most important being pricing, but there are a few home features that can help you grab and keep buyer interest this spring.

The front door
Curb appeal is everything to North Shore buyers, so grab their eye immediately with your front door! A bold color could be just what they need to want to see more, especially if the exterior is rather neutral. But if bold color isn't your cup of tea, consider an architecturally appealing door instead.

Ceiling height
High ceilings are a buyer favorite, but they are not available in every Winnetka, Glencoe, Highland Park, Deerfield and Northbrook home. If you are not among the high ceiling crowd, you can achieve a similar feel by painting your entry white, including the ceiling, to create the illusion of wide, open space.

Privacy
Don't have an open concept home? Don't worry! Many buyers love the idea of privacy between rooms, especially living and dining spaces. It's the differentiation between spaces that will set your property apart! Talk it over with your agent as buyers differ by location, but you may even like to consider adding a wall to achieve this feel.

Separation from the pack
Regardless if your North Shore home is located in a neighborhood full of similar looking properties, if yours has even one different identifying factor like a paint brick instead of the typical red, you could be on your way. Buyers today are looking for that something that sets your property apart from the rest, especially as many homes in today's newer neighborhoods tend to look the same.

I've helped numerous North Shore home sellers prepare their properties for the market and achieve a successful sale— let me do the same for you! Give me a call today for more information about the current market and the best time to list your home.

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 Ways to Ring in the New Year on Chicago's North Shore

The new year is now just a mere days away, so why not start planning how you'll ring in 2017 on Chicago's North Shore? There are dozens of ways to celebrate the new year in Winnetka, Glencoe, Deerfield, Highland Park, Northbrook and the surrounding areas and as your local real estate expert, I'm happy to share a few of them with you below!

It's a Wonderful Life: Live Radio Play
December 30, 2016
Oil Lamp Theater, Glenview IL

This classic North Shore event is back again this year! Attend the show for complimentary cookies and hot chocolate and witness a cast of six actors reenact the popular It's a Wonderful Life story with the help of only a sound effects artist— as though it is Christmas Eve 1946 at WBFR Radio.

New Year's Eve at Pinstripes
December 31, 2016
Pinstripes, Northbrook IL

Head out to Pinstripes to watch two balloon drops, the first beginning at 8 PM (ideal for the kids!) and the second at midnight. There will be complimentary champagne, party favors and live music for all to enjoy. You can also try your hand at the pins as both the bowling lanes and bocce courts will be open!

New Year's Eve Bash
December 31, 2016
Kohl Children's Museum, Glenview IL

One entire wing of the museum will be transformed into a giant Times Square style party with a huge confetti drop to ring in the new year! The event lineup also includes a children's concert with Wendy Morgan & DB, DJ and dance party, hat making and horns, free hair styling, family photos and more! Kids under 12 months are free.

New Year's Day Skate
January 1, 2017
Winnetka Ice Arena, Winnetka IL

The holiday season may be coming to an end, but the winter fun is still alive and well in Winnetka! Celebrate the new year with an open skate around the ice arena. Admission is $2 and skate rentals are $3.50.

Wonderland Express
Through January 2, 2017
Chicago Botanic Garden, Glencoe IL

Kick off the new year on the North Shore with this light show, greenhouse extravaganza, railroad garden and more! Here you can find the city of Chicago in miniature form, explore while it magically snows indoors and take in every holiday exhibition before it ends on January 2! This display has been called one of the Chicago area's top holiday "must-see's," so you won't want to miss it!

The new year is also an excellent time to consider moving to a new home in Winnetka, Glencoe, Deerfield, Highland Park, Northbrook and beyond! Give me a call today for more information about available properties and next steps in the buying process.

Have a safe and happy new 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. 

Getting Your North Shore Home Ready for Halloween

Can you believe Halloween is just a few days away? You may have started carving your pumpkins to set out as spooky decor and filling your candy bowl for trick or treaters— but what about making sure you have enough lighting outside? There are certain tasks that North Shore homeowners tend to forget on Halloween night that can really boost the safety factor as little ghosts and goblins make their way to your door.

Below are four must-do's this week—or weekend—as you prepare to welcome trick or treaters in Glencoe, Deerfield, Winnetka, Highland Park, Northbrook and beyond!

Avoid trips and falls
Kids can get excited about the Halloween season and of course, the candy, so much that they make a dash toward your door. Remove any obstacles in their way such as tree branches, sticks, exposed roots in the ground, extension cords, and cracks in the driveway or sidewalk. If some of these are not so quickly removed, block access to the area to ensure kids don't trip and fall!

Light up the night
A dimly-lit North Shore home may contribute to the vibe of the holiday, but it's just not the safest option for neighborhood children. But before you go installing additional lighting outside your home, remember you can just as easily use tea lights, illuminated pumpkins and decor, porch lights and luminaries to light up your pathways.

Stay away from open flames
Candles may be a long-standing tradition when it comes to lighting your jack-o-lanterns, but that doesn't mean you need to continue them. In fact, LED lights are a much safer option and will help you avoid chances of fire. If you use flammable decor such as cornstalks or hay, you should also be certain they are far from fire sources and even hot light bulbs.

Keep your pets calm and comfortable
Your pets may love children, but their costumes can frighten some pets! Keep your pets in a safe and secure room in your North Shore home while trick or treating is in play so they can remain comfortable and calm.

Want more information about improving your North Shore home to sell this year? I'm here to help! Contact me today for more information about the real estate market and selling your home in Glencoe, Deerfield, Winnetka, Highland Park, Northbrook and the surrounding areas!

Have a happy and safe Halloween!

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. 

Fall Events on Chicago's North Shore

Can you believe September is here? Summer is officially winding down, with just a few weeks left, and we're looking ahead to everything the fall season will bring to Chicago's North Shore. Soon enough, we'll be filling our calendars with trips to the pumpkin patch, apple orchard, fall festivals and more, so why not start now?

As your local real estate expert in Glencoe, Winnetka, Deerfield, Northbrook, Highland Park and the surrounding areas, I'm happy to share a few of the upcoming fall events on the North Shore!

Family Fall Festival
September 11, 2016; 9 AM to 11:30 AM
Kohl Children's Museum, Glenview IL

There is so much for the kids to enjoy at the Kohl Children's Museum's fall festival! From cranking an old apple cider press to riding on a horse-drawn wagon and playing a game of pumpkin bowling, celebrating fall has never been more fun!

Fallapalooza
September 18, 2016; 1 PM to 4 PM
Heritage Park, Wheeling IL

This free festival takes place at beautiful Heritage Park, with live music, a petting zoo, pony rides and hayrides just a few of the fun activities planned!

Doggie Dip
September 16, 2016; 6 PM to 7 PM
Glencoe Beach, Glencoe IL

Soak in the last moments of summer on the North Shore with your pup! Owners can bring their dogs to Glencoe Beach to watch them swim in Lake Michigan during an evening of fun!

Fall Fest
September 17, 2016; 4 PM to 9 PM
Duke Childs Field, Winnetka IL

With food, drinks, family, friends and fun, what more could you ask for in a fall festival? This year's event will include a hay ride, scarecrow building, music, pumpkin roll, chili and dessert cook-offs from 5 PM to 7 PM, science show, free ice cream, and a movie at dusk!

Shermerfest
September 18, 2016; 12 PM to 4 PM
Village Green Park, Northbrook IL

The Northbrook Historical Society and Northbrook Park District organize the annual Shermerfest year after year! You can expect an apple dessert baking contest, kids activities like face painting, balloon twisting and a magic show, afternoon music, food and beverages and more!

Autumnfest
October 1, 2016; 2 PM to 6 PM
Meadowhill Park, Northbrook IL

This free family event will include a fall hayride, hot apple cider, bonfire with s'mores, pumpkin pitch, pumpkin chuckin', magic show, petting zoo, face painting, fall sports challenge, food trucks and more!

Fall Bulb Festival
October 7-9, 2016; 10 AM to 4 PM
Chicago Botanic Garden, Glencoe IL

This fall festivals spans both indoors and outdoors, with live music, a harvest market, a gourd mountain, vendors offering fresh herbs and vegetables, kids activities like a straw-bale maze, and over 225 varieties of daffodils, tulips and speciality bulbs!

Do not hesitate to contact me with any questions about buying or selling a home on the North Shore this fall. I'm here to help!

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.