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

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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

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North Shore Home Tasks to Check Off Your List Before Fall

Fall is nearly here! But before the leaves begin to drop from the trees and we finally turn down the AC, there are a few tasks to tackle around your Glencoe, Highland Park, Winnetka, Deerfield, and Northbrook area homes. From cleaning the gutters to turning off the water to the garden hose, I've compiled a list of fall home maintenance tasks to add to your to-do list.

Clean out the gutters
To make room for the leaves and debris that will fall into your North Shore yard this fall, it's important to clean out your gutters now. While you're on the roof, you can also check for any damaged shingles that may have occurred over the summer and take the necessary steps to repair them.

Turn off outdoor water
You probably have your garden hose hooked up and have used it all summer, but you'll want to turn off that outdoor water supply as the weather begins to get cooler. Of course we can have summer-like temperatures well into October here on Chicago's North Shore, so just keep an eye on the dropping temps to determine when to disable the outdoor plumbing.

Clean and store outdoor furniture
You likely won't be entertaining or lounging on your outdoor furniture during the autumn months, so now is the time to clean your outdoor chairs, tables, and other garden fixtures and put them into storage for the winter. At the very least, consider investing in a cover to shield your furniture from the elements over the next few months.

Inspect your furnace
When the temperatures drop, we'll reach for the thermostat, but make sure yours has been inspected by a professional and is in excellent working condition before you throw it into overdrive. Now is the perfect opportunity to make an appointment as HVAC experts' schedules will quickly fill up as we get closer to winter.

Organize a mudroom
If you don't have your entryway stocked with floor mats for dirty (and wet!) shoes, coat hooks, and an umbrella stand, take a weekend and organize accordingly. With wet weather and colder air comes the need for bulkier clothing and footwear, so you'll want to have a space to keep it stored and easily accessible.

Questions about buying or selling a home on Chicago's North Shore? Do not hesitate to contact me! I'm here to help with everything from finding your home value to starting a new home search!

Happy fall!

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. 

North Shore Yard Projects That Could Help Sell Your Winnetka or Glencoe Home

There is still plenty of summer weather left to enjoy and trust me, buyers are still out in droves searching for their dream homes! So does that mean all you need to do is stick a For Sale sign in the yard and sit back to wait? Absolutely not! There are a few projects that can help you increase your chances of landing a buyer and some of the most important are outdoors!

Below are five yard projects that could help you sell your home in Deerfield, Highland Park, Glencoe, Winnetka, Northbrook, and the surrounding areas:

Remove Debris and Overgrowth
There is nothing that can stop a North Shore homebuyer from coming to your door quicker than the appearance of an overgrown yard. Set aside a weekend to simply clear away debris like weeds, sticks and dead flowers, as well as give the lawn a good mowing.

Clean the Driveway
The elements can take a serious toll on your driveway and leave signs of dirt, grime, and even oil or grease from vehicles. Consider renting a power washer to clear away the stains from the driveway and pathways outside your home.

Remove Yard Clutter
Your home should present its best possible self when buyers arrive for a showing, so start by removing all clutter. This includes picking up kids toys from the yard, storing all lawn tools like rakes, hedge trimmers, and shovels, and even moving your vehicles to the garage. This helps your property to look as tidy as it possibly can.

Cater to the Buyer
If your home is in a great area, note that families may be looking to move in with their children and do your best to cater to them. Do you have a play set in the backyard? Now is the time to clean it up, so these family buyers can envision themselves living in your home.

Set the Scene
Buyers want to imagine entertaining their family and friends in the property and you can help them do so by setting the scene. Arrange your deck furniture in an inviting manner, complete with a clean grill, and maybe even a simple table setting with a candle and flower pot.

Ready to sell, but don't know if your home is ready? As your North Shore real estate expert, I will be your guide to prepping your home and seeing it through the sale! Give me a call today to get started on the selling process!

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 is a Bump Clause in North Shore Chicago Real Estate?

Let's face it, every seller on the North Shore wants to get top dollar for their home. Even when you receive your first offer on your property, you might find yourself wondering if a better one will come along. But can you entertain other offers if you already accepted one? Is there a way to ensure you're maximizing your potential profit as a seller?

There is— and it's called the bump clause. This clause allows sellers to enter into a contract with a buyer while still marketing their property  to others. If a better offer comes along, you will essentially be able to "bump" the original offer you accepted.

These clauses are typically used when a buyer has a contingency attached to their offer. For instance, they need to sell their current home in order to purchase the property or have made the offer contingent upon the home inspection or appraisal. The bump clause will allow the seller to potentially move forward with another buyer who does not have such contingencies attached to their offer or one who would offer a higher price.

So how does it work? The bump clauses can only go into effect if the seller notifies the original buyer that they would like to take a "better" offer. The buyer has a specific number of days to respond, either letting the seller know they have sold their home (thus removing the sale contingency) or that they are removing the contingencies altogether. If they cannot remove the contingencies, their original contract is void. The seller is then able to enter into a new contract with the new buyer. However, if the buyer informs the seller that they did sell their home, their contract stands and the seller can no longer market the property to other buyers.

Bump clauses can be a wise choice for home sellers in today's fast-paced real estate market on Chicago's North Shore, offering a sense of security and control. As I mentioned above, every seller wants to maximize their home sale profits, and this is one way to do so.

As your North Shore real estate expert, I am here to walk you through the selling process from home prep to home closing and everything in between. Give me a call today for more information about selling your home in Winnetka, Glencoe, Highland Park, Northbrook, Deerfield and beyond.

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. 

Your North Shore Home Summer Maintenance Checklist

Now that summer is here (at least the temperatures!) on Chicago's North Shore, we're all eager to get outside and enjoy the sunshine. But even if you plan to spend your time boating, gardening, swimming, or vacationing, there are a few tasks to check off of your home maintenance to-do list to ensure everything runs smoothly this season.

Protect your deck
When the weather warms up, your deck becomes a popular place! However, if you haven't sealed it properly, it can absorb all of the summer rain and excess moisture from your hose and watered plants, paving the way for wood rot. Test a patch by pouring a small amount of water and if the water beads up, it's ready for the season. If not, you'll want to purchase a sealant.

Clean your patio furniture
Months of being covered or—worse yet—standing out in the elements likely took a toll on your patio furniture. You might even find some resident cobwebs hanging around! Before you invite anyone over for summer gatherings, or lounge by yourself, give your furniture a good cleaning and spray down with the garden hose.

Inspect your AC
Did you AC unit have a cover over it this winter? If not, it may be covered with debris and dust. Now is the time to brush it off and replace your air filter before you run the machine all summer long.

Add mulch
Plants and flowers need to absorb as much moisture as possible in the summer heat to grow and thrive— which can be hard to do if you don't give them a little extra care. Consider adding mulch in your flower beds to allow the moisture to get to your plants and hydrate them without the sun interfering.

Ready to start your North Shore home search or sell your current home in Winnetka, Glencoe, Highland Park, Northbrook, or Deerfield? Give me a call today!

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. 

Why You Should Sell Your North Shore Chicago Home This Month

As a homeowner on Chicago's North Shore, making the decision to sell your home should not be taken lightly. In fact, there are a number of factors that should go into your decision— from the right price to pique buyer interest right down to the time that you list. Timing is key in the local real estate market and if you've been on the fence about listing, you'll be glad to note that now is one of the best possible times you can sell!

According to a Zillow survey of real estate markets across the country, May is the best month to sell your home. Not just for the financial gains you can yield, but also for the time it takes to land a buyer!

Fewer Homes for Sale, More Buyers

One of the main reasons May has been heralded as an ideal time to sell is due to the lack of inventory we've seen during the beginning of this spring season. There are fewer homes for sale, but no shortage of buyers which means more competition and more of a chance that they will pay over asking price to secure their dream home.

Quicker Sale

Just as North Shore buyers are willing to pay more to land their dream home in Winnetka, Glencoe, Highland Park, Deerfield, and Northbrook, you can bet they aren't willing to wait. Home sellers who listed this month can expect to see an offer 18.5 days sooner than homes listed during any other time of the year, according to the survey.

Timing is Everything

I mentioned above that timing is key to the success of your North Shore home sale, but that does not simply mean the month that you list. The day is equally as important and in the Chicago area, Friday is said to be one of the best days for your home to hit the market.

Ready to take advantage of everything the real estate market in Winnetka, Glencoe, Highland Park, Deerfield, and Northbrook has to offer? As your North Shore real estate expert, I am here to help you sell your home quickly and for top dollar!

Give me a call today!

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. 

4 Things You Don't Need to Fix Before Selling Your North Shore Home

In my last blog post, I shared the answer to the common North Shore homeowner question of whether or not you should sell your home or simply renovate this spring. This week, I'm elaborating for those homeowners in Deerfield, Northbrook, Highland Park, Glencoe, or Winnetka who choose to list their property and take advantage of the numerous buyers in the market.

But does everything need to be fixed before you can officially place that For Sale sign in the yard? Read on for four things that you can pass on this spring:

Half updates
Unless you plan to renovate your entire kitchen or bathroom, you don't need to bother making partial updates. For instance, don't bother placing an expensive new stone like a marble or granite on top of your old cabinets. Making these half updates tends to only accentuate what still needs fixing.

Cosmetic repairs
If your North Shore home has good bones, the foundation is solid, the roof doesn't need replaced right off the bat, and the running systems are in decent shape, smart buyers will know that the necessary cosmetic work is not a big deal. Things like chipped paint or even scuff marks on the floor can all be easily fixed by the buyer and shouldn't hinder your home sale.

Trendy charm
Even though you may feel your home needs a modern edge to hook today's homebuyers, don't feel obligated to add trendy touches before you list. Most importantly, don't spring for a bold, trendy color on the walls. It's still best to keep a neutral palette as bright colors tend to deter buyers more often than not.

Kitchens and baths
While it may be true that these two rooms in your North Shore home can sell the property, you don't need to plan a full-fledged renovation in order to list. The idea of the perfect kitchen or bathroom differs for every buyer and you can never be sure that the design choices you make in your renovation would appeal to them. It's best to err on the side of smaller, neutral changes like a fresh coat of white paint rather than put money into all new fixtures.

Contact me today for more information about selling your home in Deerfield, Northbrook, Highland Park, Glencoe, or Winnetka this spring! I'm here to walk you through the entire process, from home prep to home closing.

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. 

Should You Renovate Your North Shore Chicago Home Or Sell?

Every year, spring tends to bring out much-anticipated warmer weather, beautiful flowers, greener grass, and of course, more homebuyers! But before you decide to list your home on Chicago's North Shore—determined to get your property in front of today's motivated buyers—it is important to consider whether it may be better to renovate and stay put for a while longer.

Below are four questions to ask yourself to decide if you should renovate your Glencoe, Winnetka, Highland Park, Evanston, Northbrook, or Deerfield area home this spring or sell:

How long have I been in my home?
If you have lived in your North Shore home for many years and are feeling the need to either upsize to a more spacious property or downsize, it may be best to sell and move on. However, if you've only been in your home for a short time, you may like to consider staying at least five years and decide what improvements you could make to allow the home to better suit you.

Is this the best location?
Location is everything in real estate! Take a look at your neighborhood, your North Shore community, your neighbors— Do you love your location? If so, it is likely wise to stay put and make a few improvements to the home, perhaps updating the kitchen or bathrooms. If you could think of somewhere else you'd rather be, now is a great time to sell and make a move!

Do you know what renovation entails?
It is easy to dream of all of the changes you could make to your home in Glencoe, Winnetka, Highland Park, Northbrook, or Deerfield, but mapping out everything that requires is another topic entirely. Before you decide to renovate your home, go over every permit necessary, your timeline, and of course, your budget. You don't want to get in over your head this spring!

Will your renovation over-improve your property?
One other factor to consider in the question of renovating or selling is whether you will over-improve your home once all is said and done. Remember that home prices are based on comparable properties in the area, so it's important to make sure you won't price yours right out of the neighborhood when you're done.

Need more information to help you decide to renovate or sell? Give me a call today! As your North Shore real estate expert, I have helped numerous homeowners do the same!

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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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 Tell If You're in a Seller's Market in Winnetka, Glencoe, Highland Park, Northbrook IL

It's no secret that the real estate market on Chicago's North Shore is always changing. Some years it leans in favor of buyers, others it's in favor of sellers— but how do you know which is which? What are the signs to watch for? There are specific factors to identify in the local real estate market to determine the best time to buy or sell and I'm happy to help you point them out!

As your local North Shore real estate expert, I'm sharing below three ways you can tell if you're in a seller's market:

Days on Market
The average days on market, sometimes referred to as DOM, shows the average age of the listing. If homes are selling quickly in your area—anywhere from 7 to 10 days—you are likely in a seller's market. This means sellers on the North Shore can expect their home to sell quickly and at a favorable price due to the number of buyers present in the market.

Home Prices
If you notice home prices on Chicago's North Shore are rising steadily over time, it is a good sign you're in a seller's market. I am always happy to share home prices in your area as well as what your property may be worth today— just give me a call!

Final Home Price vs. Asking Price
If the final sales prices of homes in you area are typically the seller's asking price or even more due to a bidding war, you can assume you're in a seller's market. It is when a property sells for below asking price that you are in a buyer's market as this would favor the buyer.

Ready to make a move in Glencoe, Winnetka, Deerfield, Highland Park, Evanston, Northbrook, or the surrounding areas? Give me a call today! No matter the type of market, I'm available to answer your questions, big or small!

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. 

Tax Benefits of Owning a Home on Chicago's North Shore

There are many benefits to living on Chicago's North Shore— and even more if you're a homeowner! If you own a home in Glencoe, Winnetka, Highland Park, Northbrook, Deerfield, or the surrounding areas, you are entitled to a specific set of deductions on your tax return. But don't get too comfortable with them, not all will be returning next year!

Below are five tax benefits of owning a home on Chicago's North Shore:

Mortgage Interest
As of now, homeowners are able to deduct the interest on a mortgage loan of up to $1 million. Next year, those who closed on a home after December 15, 2017 will only be able to deduct their mortgage interest on a loan of up to $750,000— a new cap. Those who closed prior to that date can continue deducting interest up to $1 million as usual.

Property Taxes
If you own a home on the North Shore, your taxes are likely built into your mortgage payment each month and you will be able to deduct those on your tax return. Next year, this will no longer be a separate deduction. Homeowners can take one deduction that will encompass their property taxes, state, and local sales and income taxes.

Energy Efficient Upgrades
If you've made improvements to your home, you may be eligible for the energy efficiency upgrade credit. While many of these credits expired after December 2016, there are still credits available for solar electric and solar water heating equipment through December 31, 2021.

Home Office
Work from home? You can deduct your office expenses and your office space on your tax return! There are strict rules about what exactly makes an office space, but the deduction is typically $5 per square foot for up to 300 square feet of office. Next year, the deduction will be eliminated for those who have an office to go to, but only occasionally work from home.

HELOC Interest
For those North Shore homeowners who have a home equity line of credit (HELOC) taken out in 2017 or before, you can deduct the interest on that loan, no matter what you used it for— college, home repairs, you name it. Next year, however, you can only use this deduction if the loan was used specifically to "buy, build, or improve a property," says the IRS.

I've shared North Shore Tax Deduction Mistakes to Avoid and now the perks of owning a home in Glencoe, Winnetka, Highland Park, Northbrook, and Deerfield. Give me a call today for more information about buying a home this spring or how you can sell your North Shore property for top dollar!

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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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 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
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. 

What Not to Do When Staging Your North Shore Home

There are a lot of moving parts when selling your home on Chicago's North Shore. From finding the best listing price to making any necessary repairs and of course, staging the home to pique buyer interest. Staging can go a long way for home sellers as staged properties oftentimes sell quicker and for more money than those that skip this step. However, that is if you do it correctly.

Below are five things to avoid when staging your home in Glencoe, Winnetka, Highland Park, Deerfield, Northbrook, and beyond:

Over-designing the home
The best mindset to adopt when selling your North Shore home is to keep it simple. Even though you think the home would look great by filling every corner with thought-out trinkets and knick knacks, it's best that you leave it clean and neutral. Buyers will want to envision themselves living there and it can be difficult when every room is filled to the brim with decor and furnishings.

Using the wrong size furniture
If you have a beautiful, sprawling dining room or open living space that is really one of the highlights of your North Shore home, use your furniture wisely when staging. Don't place a small round table or a petite sofa in a grand space and move on to the next room. You may think this creates the illusion of more space, but in fact, it tells the buyers that it could be difficult to decorate or that there isn't enough room to live in the space. Think about the size of your furniture thoroughly before staging.

Closing doors
Remember that buyers are not familiar with your home in Glencoe, Winnetka, Highland Park, Deerfield, or Northbrook. They don't know that the closed door is not just a closet, but the stairway to the basement. Open the doors before buyers arrive to view your home to ensure they are getting the best impression of the property.

Being too artificial
As I mentioned above, you want buyers to be able to imagine themselves living in your home, so refrain from using too many artificial decor elements. Faux plants and fruit give the illusion that a home is cold and not easily lived in. Do your best to incorporate real plants to give off cozy, realistic vibes.

Over-neutralizing the home
In the same way that over-designing is wrong when staging your home, so too is over-neutralizing. It is true that a neutral palette will appeal to the most buyers, but your home should also have unique characteristics that allow it to stand out in a buyer's mind. Now that doesn't mean that you should paint a wall a bold, red hue, but it is fine to bring in subtle pops of color here and there.

Ready to sell your North Shore home and move on this year? Give me a call today! I'm here to guide you through the entire process and prepare your home to attract the most buyers.

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 Things Not to Do During the Holidays If You Plan to Sell Your North Shore Home

My recent blog posts have had a major focus on the holiday season— For instance, Should You Buy a Home During the Holidays?, Should You Sell Your Home During the Holidays?, and even How to Protect Your North Shore Home During the Holidays. This week, I'm continuing in the holiday spirit with a few tips on what not to do if you plan to sell your North Shore home in the coming year.

Below are five things to avoid as a North Shore home seller this holiday season:

1. Avoid damaging decorations
Before you climb up to the roof with your holiday lights and staple gun in tow, you'll want to remember not to do any damage during your decorating spree. Avoid any decorations that might put holes in the walls, marks on the ceiling or floors, or damage the siding of your North Shore home. While it is nice to add a festive edge to the neighborhood, home buyers will take note of these mishaps when you're ready to sell.

2. Don't display large gifts
The holiday season is indeed filled with gift-giving, but if you plan to give (or happen to receive) any large gifts, it's best to put them away while your home is for sale. Just as you wouldn't want your closets to be filled to the brim, creating the illusion that there isn't ample space, you don't want your home to be cluttered with large presents, including children's toys.

3. Avoid holiday debt
If you plan to buy a new home in the new year, it is important to avoid acquiring any holiday debt. Your chances of being approved for a new mortgage are much better when you haven't made any large purchases or racked up your credit card bills.

4. Don't buy for your current home
You may be tempted to buy appliances or decor that fits with your current home, but if you plan to sell and move in 2018, these items will have nowhere to go. As you check off your holiday shopping list, remember to think of your new home and not just the one you are living in now.

5. Don't buy a new pet
While many would love to get a puppy for the holidays, home sellers would be wise to wait until after their home sale to take in a new pet. The excitement of a new furry friend roaming about, plus house-training, and curious paws on carpet, walls, you name it, can easily make more work for sellers and turn away some buyers.

Ready to start the new year in a new home in Glencoe, Winnetka, Highland Park, Northbrook, or Deerfield? Need to sell your property to be able to start fresh? Give me a call today!

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. 

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
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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 Prep Your North Shore Home for Winter Right Now

While we haven't even made it to Halloween yet, we've seen temperatures dropping rapidly and here on Chicago's North Shore, certain forecasts have even called for flurries as early as next week. Even if you're not fully ready to accept that winter is just around the corner, there are a few quick and easy steps you can take to ensure your home is when the time comes.

Below are top tips for preparing your home in Glencoe, Winnetka, Highland Park, Deerfield, Northbrook and the surrounding areas:

Clean out the gutters
The last thing you want to do when temperatures really take a dive is climb up on the roof and empty the gutters, so cross that off of your list now! You want to have clean gutters, free from leaves and debris, to allow for water to flow away from your home and avoid water damage.

Have the HVAC inspected
If you've already turned up the heat, don't worry, it isn't too late to have your HVAC system inspected! A technician will check that all parts are in working order so you don't have to worry about a break down during the frigid North Shore winter months and if you haven't already, replace the furnace filter.

Seal gaps and cracks
Have you found any cracks in windows or gaps around doorways? Now is the time to seal them! In order to keep your energy bill down and the warm air inside your Glencoe, Winnetka, Highland Park, Deerfield, or Northbrook home, there should be no where for cold air to enter! Feel questionable areas with your hand, noticing any drafts, and seal them with a bead of caulk.

Clean the chimney
If you plan to use your fireplace this winter, it wouldn't hurt to have it professionally cleaned. Not only does this allow for proper ventilation and ridding the chimney of any animals that have taken up residence there, but it lessens your risk of a fire from creosote build-up.

Protect your pipes
To keep pipes from freezing this winter, you will need to insulate any exposed piping that may be in an attic, crawlspace or on the exterior of your North Shore home. Foam insulation works best for protecting pipes and if you haven't already, remember to disconnect your garden hoses, drain, and store them properly.

Do not hesitate to contact me with any questions about buying or selling a home on Chicago's North Shore yet this year! 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. 

Costs to Expect When Rehabbing Your North Shore Home

If you're a homeowner on Chicago's North Shore, chances are you have a list of upgrades you would like to make around your home. These might include smaller projects like changing light fixtures and boosting curb appeal with new landscaping to full-blown renovations like opening up a kitchen and living space or overhauling a bathroom.

Each comes with their own set of costs and if you haven't crunched the numbers ahead of time, you may find yourself wishing you would have better prepared both yourself and your wallet. As your local North Shore real estate expert, I've included a few costs to expect when rehabbing your property in Glencoe, Winnetka, Deerfield, Highland Park, Northbrook, Evanston, Glenview, Wilmette, Lake Forest, and the surrounding areas:

Initial Set-Up
Before even the smallest nail can be removed, it is important to look into building permits. Will you need a permit for your project? In certain areas, even removing flooring to replace with new will require the proper permit. Permits do have a cost associated with them that you will need to prepare for, as well as any team you intend to hire for your project.

Supplies
Will you need to purchase specialized tools to complete your project? For instance, are you installing a new backsplash? You may need a tile cutter or saw to ensure the best fit for your kitchen. Are you gutting your bathroom? Plumbing tools may be in order. Be sure to factor in the costs of supplies before diving into your home rehab.

Inspection
If your intent is to sell your North Shore home when the rehab is complete, a home inspection may be in your future if you'd like to know all of the issues have been taken care of prior to listing the property.

Sale
As I mentioned above, if you plan to sell when the renovations are finished, you can expect the traditional costs of selling a home. For instance, the real estate agent's fees, staging, legal fees, and even certain tests like radon or lead may fall on the seller's shoulders.

Considering selling your home in Glencoe, Winnetka, Deerfield, Highland Park, Northbrook, Evanston, Glenview, Wilmette, Lake Forest or beyond? Give me a call today!

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. 

Your North Shore Home Improvement Checklist for September

Now that September has arrived on Chicago's North Shore, it's hard not to begin to think about what the fall season has in store. Cooler weather will soon set in and the leaves will start to fall from the trees, meaning—aside from raking—there are a few extra tasks to check off of your home improvement list this month.

Below are five tasks to complete around your home in Winnetka, Glencoe, Deerfield, Highland Park, and Northbrook in September:

Check for air leaks
When the weather gets cooler, your hand will reach for the thermostat and the last thing you want is for warm air to escape through cracks around windows and doors. Take some time to inspect seals around window frames and doors, identifying anywhere air could leak out. If you spot a problem area, you can simply apply a new bead of caulk or weatherstripping to remedy the issue.

Clean the gutters
Autumn is notorious for lower temperatures on the North Shore, as well as wet, windy weather and of course, falling leaves. Make sure your gutters are cleaned and working properly to route water away from your home and catch any new debris that may accumulate during this next season. There should be nothing left over from the summer inside your gutters as we head into fall!

Clean the chimney
It's best to leave this dirty job to the pros, especially as failing to do it well could result in a higher risk for fire inside your home. Schedule an appointment now as chimney cleaning companies can tend to book up quickly as the weeks progress and more homeowners look to cozying up by the fire.

Inspect your HVAC
Just as I mentioned above that chimney cleaners will book up quickly, so too will HVAC specialists. You will want to make an appointment now to have your system inspected and confirm everything is in working order for the cold months ahead. Also, if you haven't already, now is the time to change out your furnace filter.

Put away outdoor tools and gear
We likely have a few more weeks where your yard equipment (like lawn mowers) will come in handy, but you can take the necessary steps to store everything else. Clean garden tools to prevent rust, flush out the garden hose and turn off outdoor water, and clear a place either in your garage or another storage unit to store your patio furniture.

Whether you're ready to start fresh and sell your home on Chicago's North Shore or are a first-time buyer looking to find your dream home, you can count on me as your real estate expert to make your experience as seamless as possible.

Give me a call today for more information about the local real estate market and your next steps to achieve your buyer or seller goals this year!

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. 

Getting Ready for Your Home Appraisal in Glencoe, Winnetka, and Northbrook IL

When it comes to selling your home on Chicago's North Shore, one of the first things to pop into your head will be the listing price. How much can you sell the property for? Many factors go into determining this key number, but the appraisal is what can really make or break the home sale. As your North Shore real estate expert, I've listed four ways to prepare for your appraisal so you can showcase your home in its best light.

Below are four ways to get ready for your home appraisal in Glencoe, Winnetka, Northbrook, Deerfield, Highland Park and beyond:

1. Check off maintenance tasks
If your home still has a long list of repairs to make, you will want to complete them before the appraisal. Even tasks like cleaning out the gutters should be marked off your list before the appraiser arrives. Remember these may not always add value to the home, but will help to show your home at its best.

2. Remove clutter and clean
Just as you would before a potential buyer arrives to tour your home, the property should be free of clutter and cleaned thoroughly before an appraisal. The appraiser's opinion of your home is what could make or break the sale—if the appraised value is too far off from the listing price your deal could fall through—so be sure to make a good impression.

3. Put on your buyer hat
Before you decide that all is said and done with your North Shore home, put on your buyer hat and take a walk around the property. Use your critical eye to notice things like leaky faucets, a toilet that constantly runs, or nails that have poked through or left marks on the walls. It's best to make a list of all of these items that could leave a negative impression on the appraiser and then start to tackle them one by one.

4. Work with your agent
Your real estate agent on Chicago's North Shore is a wealth of resources, so don't be afraid to talk to them! What your home appraises for is somewhat impacted by what other homes in the area have sold for in the past few months and your agent can provide you with those statistics. Your agent can often pull a list of comparable properties to give to the appraiser.

Do not hesitate to reach out to me with any questions you have about selling your home in Glencoe, Winnetka, Northbrook, Deerfield, Highland Park and beyond— now is a great time to list your property and move on to your next dream 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.