The Ugliest and the Best!

Two ingenious Crown Point, IN gentlemen have discovered a way to make the most of a truly inexplicable Christmas tradition. Here’s a hint: the photo above features one of the items for sale on their website.

Follow this link to see all the wonderful ways you can join in the reindeer games. The hilarious product names are an added holiday bonus!

FREE Energy Efficiency Kits Available at Alderman Reilly’s Office

ComEd and Niagara Conservation has provided Alderman Reilly’s Office with a limited number of Energy Efficiency Kits for 42nd Ward Residents.

The kits contain the following items to help reduce energy usage and protect the environment:

* CFL Light Bulb: 13 Watt CFL bulb – 60 Watt equivalent. This energy-saving CFL bulb lasts 13x longer and averages 78% less electricity than its 60 Watt incandescent bulbs equivalent.
* Air Filter Whistle: Snap this product onto air filters to hear a whistle when the air filter is full. Cleaning your air filters regularly saves energy and money.
* Refrigerator/Freezer Thermometer: Use in the refrigerator or freezer. Comes with a magnet and has adhesive backing so it can be mounted virtually anywhere. Recommended temperature setting for refrigerators should be 37-40 degrees Fahrenheit. Freezers at 5 degrees Fahrenheit and stand-long freezers for long storage at 0 degrees Fahrenheit
* (12) Draft Stoppers: (4) switch gaskets, (8) outlet gaskets. This product replaces the empty space behind switches and outlets with insulation to prevent drafts.
* Energy Wheel: A convenient energy conservation tool, the energy wheel gives users helpful tips on ways to conserve energy every day.

In order to receive your FREE Energy Efficiency Kit, please stop by Alderman Reilly’s Constituent Services Office located at 325 W. Huron Street, Ste. 510 during regular business hours.

House artwork courtesy of http://www.realestateclipart.com/Free/free1.htm

Smart Off-Season Tips for Buyers

Everyone’s been saying “Now’s the time to buy,” for quite a while, but for many who’ve been waiting on the sidelines, the autumn “off-season” of real estate may indeed be the right time to act.

“Anybody who is trying to sell a house going into the winter months has to be flexible, and you should be able to get good deals,” says Guy Cecala, publisher of Inside Mortgage Finance. With mortgage rates at record lows and favorable home prices, buyers should be active.

Here are some tips for buyers to help ensure a successful close:

• Secure Employment: Buyers must have a stable job in order to feel comfortable about the purchase and to get approved for a mortgage.
• Spotless Credit: Credit scores above 720 still get the best mortgage rates, as lending remains tight. Help buyers to correct any errors on their credit reports.
• Build Cash: Let house hunters know that the days of no-down-payment loans are a relic of the past. Depending on the situation, they’ll need to put down at least 3.5 percent of the purchase price.
• Follow Uncle Sam: Though the first-time home buyer tax credit is set to expire November 30th, there’s talk it may be extended into 2010. Buyers may still be able to take advantage of this opportunity, but pay attention to the news out of Washington to see if eligibility will be extended.
• Be Ready to Bargain: Purchasers are in a position to ask for a lot more if a seller needs to move. If you think the floor needs to be replaced, ask for it. “In my market, buyers still have a great deal of influence and sellers will do just about anything, assuming it is doable and legal,” says NAR First Vice President Ron Phipps, a broker with Phipps Realty in Warwick, R.I.

Free Real Estate Clipart obtained from RealtyClipArt.com

Source: U.S. News & World Report, Luke Mullins (10/14/09)

Homeownership Still A Good Investment

Some encouraging news from the National Association of Realtors' "Daily Real Estate News."

The American dream of homeownership is still a good bet, financial advisors say firmly.

Despite the downturn in the last couple of years, homes have still appreciated an average of 4 percent a year since World War II. Plus, it’s a leveraged investment; a 10 percent down payment yields a 1,000 percent return if the price of the home doubles.

There are also valuable intangibles. Owning a home provides independence, security, community, and a roof over the owner’s head. No one can say that about investing in stock.

Source: Associated Press, Dave Carpenter (10/12/2009)

Show Your Creativity Here!

SOAR, the Streeterville Organization of Active Residents, is now accepting applications for artisans who would like to participate in this year’s Artisan Market, open to the public on Saturday and Sunday, November 14 & 15.

Applications and more detailed information is available at Soar Chicago.

You can also contact artisans@soarchicago.org or call 280-2596, ext. 2.

Looking for a Fab Streeterville Apartment? Welcome Home!

One-Bedroom/One-Bathroom

Extra-spacious living/dining room // Brand new top-quality carpeting throughout// Private Balcony w/ lake & city views

Rent includes heat, a/c, basic cable, well-equipped fitness center, landscaped sundeck w/ grills, bike room, 24-hour doorstaff

Available now for just $1,425/month! Schedule your exclusive showing now. (312) 296-9249.

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-Men, Women Vary on Home Shopping

When it comes to buying a home, women are in a bigger hurry, according to a national survey for Coldwell Banker Real Estate that delved into the homebuying psyche.

Coldwell Banker wanted to understand the difference between men and women in the homebuying process so it could help its practitioners do a better job of guiding first-time homebuyers who must make up their minds before the tax credit expires on Dec. 1.

Here are some key findings:

* When asked how long it took before they knew their home was “right” for them, almost 70 percent of women had made up their minds the day they walked into the house vs. 62 percent of men. On the other hand, significantly more men needed two or more visits (32 percent of men vs. 23 percent of women).

* 55 percent of women find it more important to be closer to their extended family than to their job, compared to only 37 percent of men.

* 64 percent of women said that if they found the home of their dreams but had concerns about its security, they would no longer be interested. More than half of men agreed (51 percent).

* When the respondents were asked how they would use an extra 12x12 room if it could be anything they wanted, men and women agreed on the top three responses: Bedroom, office/study, and family room/den.

* 8 percent—nearly all of which were men—said they would use the extra space for recreation/entertainment.

* 70 percent of couples said the responsibility for making major financial decisions--such as homebuying--are shared equally.


Source: Coldwell Banker Real Estate (08/17/2009)


Shared via AddThis

Daily Real Estate News

Practitioners' Lucky Numbers

Some practitioners are convinced that selling real estate is a numbers game.

Washington D.C.-area Long & Foster associate Juliet Zucker made multiple offers on a condominium on behalf of a client, but none of them were successful. Finally, she wrote an offer that ended in the number “18,” which in Hebrew symbolizes “chai,” which means life. The ploy was successful. Her client signed a contract for $384,118.

When Margaret Rome, a Baltimore-area practitioner, began selling homes 20 years ago, she drove a Porsche 944. In its honor, she ended the price on her first listing with 944. It sold within a week. Since then she has used the number for every property.

Glenn Kelman, CEO of Redfin, says there is truth in picking the right number. Redfin research shows that homes with a list price ending in “500” sell for more than properties whose price ends in three zeroes. They also spend slightly less time on the market.

Why is this? Nobody knows for sure. "You shouldn't sweat the weird stuff, because it will just drive you nuts,” Kelman says.

Source: Washington Post, Ylan Q. Mui (08/08/2009)

Summer Real Estate Search: Where They're Looking

I'm working with four sets of buyers, all of them looking for condo homes north of the Chicago River and within eight blocks of Lake Michigan. Together, my buyers represent some interesting demographics.

These folks are looking at properties ranging from $300,000 to nearly $1,000,000. Two of these buyers are first-time buyers planning to take advantage of the first-time buyer's $8,000 tax credit. One of them is a couple looking for an investment property. And the fourth couple is looking for a property for their upcoming retirement years.

What does this suggest? Well, I think it says a few important things:

• Confidence in the Chicago real estate market is beginning to creep upwards, once again. Can I get an "amen"?
  
• Downtown Chicago is a very desirable area in which to live. Like we didn't already know that? :)
• Housing inventory is decreasing as the market improves and buyers close on their transactions. Now is the best time to find the best deals. Especially for first-time buyers using the $8,000 tax credit -- it's set to expire on November 30 of this year.

Are you interested in what's going on in your neighborhood? Drop me a line. I'll fill you in!

For Fans & Residents of the Clinton Street Lofts in the West Loop

I’m sharing some stats I just put together for a client who is considering his first home purchase at the Clinton Street Lofts, 226 N. Clinton. It’s a very unique loft building with a very pretty courtyard just inside the main entrance.

I’m impressed by how quickly most of the units went under contract, as well as the healthy sale prices. Hmmmm. WHAT housing recession?
# 303 / Days on Market: 42 / Sale Price: $235,000 parking included which reflects 95% of asking price / Closing Date: Feb. 2009
# 524 / Days on Market: 45 / Sale Price: $332,000 which reflects 98% of asking price / Closing Date: June 2009
# 618 / Days on Market: 24 / Sale Price: $405,000 parking included which reflects 95% of asking price / Closing Date: May 2009
# 722 / Days on Market: 176 / Sale Price: $428,000 parking included which reflects 95% of asking price / Closing Date June 2009
# 704 / Days on Market: 95 / Sale Price: $650,000 which reflects 97% of asking price / Closing Date: Jan. 2009

Would you like to find out what’s happening in your building? Drop me a line and I’ll pull the numbers for you!

Children’s Memorial Heliport: Speak Up!

I haven’t seen anything spark this much controversy and sniping since I witnessed a debate on whether guests’ shoes should be removed before entering a host’s home!

It’s been a hot topic in the neighborhood for months. It’s brought out the worst in Streeterville citizens who feel passionately about protecting their neighborhood’s best interests. The Children’s Memorial Hospital heliport proposal is still pending approval. But beginning Wednesday, July 22, a series of four meetings is planned, in which all “sides” will be offered time to speak.

WHERE

Hughes Auditorium, Robert W. Lurie Medical Research Center, 303 E. Superior St., Streeterville

WHEN

Wednesday, July 22 – 6-10 p.m., Presentation by Children’s Memorial Hospital

Thursday, July 23 – 6-10 p.m., Presentation by Streeterville Organization of Active Residents and its experts

Friday, July 24 – 6-10 p.m., Public statements

Saturday, July 25 – 1-5 p.m., Public statements

The announcement says anyone wishing to submit materials or make a public statement should contact Gary Stevens to schedule his/her testimony: Gary D. Stevens, Illinois Department of Transportation, (217) 785-5746. Or e-mail him at gary.d.stevens@illinois.gov

You are asked to send a copy of your materials to issues@soarchicago.org

If you have something to say but you’re not comfortable sharing it in public, IDOT will accommodate you! Just mention your preference to Mr. Stevens when you contact him.

And from Alderman Reilly’s office: “The Administrative Law Judge has determined that cross examination of witnesses, whether citizens, attorneys, public officials, or experts, will NOT be allowed. As this is an informational process, the Judge will not be making any rulings on the core issues, cross examination is not warranted. However, if questions are submitted to the Judge either before or during the hearing, he will ask those questions which in his discretion advance the information to be gathered during the hearing.”

Kriser’s: Feeding Your Pet for Life. Go. Stay. Very good!

I admit it: I love this store! The management is knowledgable, helpful and engaging.

The company’s website indicates that Kriser’s “sells only the highest-quality, all-natural, pet-safe foods and products… all made by industry top standards, free of chemicals, additives and preservatives.”

You’ll find food brands including Eagle Pack, California Natural, Canidae, Wellness and Innova. My own little furry one gobbled up the canned version of Fromm’s Senior Blend — chunks o’ chicken mixed with carrots and peas in a savory gravy. Yum!

I love that they offer small sample paks of food. It’s a great, low-hassle way to see if the food is right for your pet. The store does ask that you limit your sampling to two paks per visit.

Kriser’s also has a colorful assortment of fun toys in all price ranges for cats as well as dogs. Beds, carriers, cleaning supplies, bags and fashionable harness/leash sets round out the inventory.

Kriser’s offers grooming services for cats and dogs using only hypoallergenic shampoos. Grooming hours are 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday. If you need a Friday or Saturday appointment, they ask that you book one week in advance.

My local Kriser’s is in the South Loop. Bonus: there’s short-term parking available right outside the front entrance!

Here’s a listing of all Chicago-area Kriser’s:

South Loop; 1103 S. State St.; Chicago, IL 312-765-8883
Hours: 10:00-8:00 Monday-Friday; 10:00-6:00 Saturday-Sunday

Lincoln Park; 2037 N. Clybourn; Chicago,IL 773-871-3663
Hours: 10:00-8:00 Monday-Friday; 10:00-6:00 Saturday-Sunday

Lakeview; 1033 W Belmont; Chicago, IL 773-244-1600
Hours: 10:00-8:00 Monday-Friday; 10:00-6:00 Saturday-Sunday

Park Ridge; 168 N Northwest Highway; Park Ridge, IL 847-685-0210
Hours: 9:00-7:00 Monday-Friday; 10:00-6:00 Saturday-Sunday

Chicago North; 3232 Lake Ave.; Wilmette, IL 847-251-7744
Hours: 9:00-7:00 Monday – Friday; 10:00-6:00 Saturday-Sunday

Barrington; 100 W Higgins Rd STE L-20; Barrington, IL 847-844-1921
Hours: 10:00-8:00 Monday-Saturday; 12:00-5:00 Sunday

New downtown rental! 480 N. McClurg Ct., # 1106, Chicago, IL

480 N. McClurg Ct., # 1106, Chicago, IL | Powered by Postlets

Save Energy, Save Money: Chicagoland Natural Gas Savings Program

The State of Illinois, along with the City of Chicago Department of Environment, Citizens Utility Board, Environmental Law and Policy Center, Illinois Attorney General’s Office, Peoples Gas and North Shore Gas urge you to “warm up to efficiency with hot rebates!”

A rebate is being offered by Peoples Gas to customers who purchase high efficiency furnaces and boilers, hot water heaters, clothes washers and insulation. The rebates apply to items purchased and installed on or after May 15, 2009 and by October 31, 2009.

The following products are eligible; listed below with the minimum efficiency level and rebate amount:

• Ceiling Insulation: R 38: 75% of total cost up to $750
• Wall Insulation: R 11: 75% of total cost up to $750
• High Efficiency Clothes Washer: ENERGY STAR qualified: $100 per home
• Storage Water Heater: ENERGY STAR qualified: $140 per home
• Tankless Water Heater: ENERGY STAR qualified: $400 per home
• Gas Condensing Water Heater: ENERGY STAR qualified: $400 per home
• High Efficiency Gas Furnace: 92-93% AFUE rating: $350 per home
• High Efficiency Gas Furnace: 94% or greater AFUE rating: $450 per home
• High Efficiency Gas Boiler: 85% AFUE rating: $350 per home
• High Efficiency Gas Boiler: 95% AFUE rating: $600 per home

Rebate applications forms are available online and for download along with eligibility requirements here. In addition, a listing of contractors familiar with these rebates and the installation of high efficiency equipment can be viewed at the Midwest Energy Efficiency Alliance website. Please call 866-964-7345 for more information.

Alderman Reilly asks, “Got stickers?”

From 42nd Ward Alderman Brendan Reilly's Office:

City Vehicle Sticker and Residential Permit Parking Reminders

The 2008-2009 vehicle sticker expires on June 30, 2009. The City Clerk’s Office provides a 15-day grace period before vehicle sticker enforcement begins on July 16th, 2009.

The 2009 Dog Friendly Chicago-themed sticker features several new updates and security enhancements. The new vehicle sticker will include the annual residential parking permit zone number (when applicable), the vehicle’s license plate number and a barcode of the sticker number as an added security measure.

Residents are encouraged to purchase their 2009-2010 vehicle sticker online, residential zone parking and daily guest passes are also available. There is no additional charge for online purchases and vehicle sticker prices remain unchanged from last year. For those who choose to purchase their city vehicle sticker in person, the City Clerk’s Office is located at City Hall, 121 N. LaSalle St., Room 107.

Please note that a current city vehicle sticker is required to purchase an annual residential permit parking sticker. Proof of purchase must be presented in addition to proof of residency. Residential parking permit (RPP) zones limit parking to residents and their guests during specified hours. This program helps to ensure that residents of densely populated areas have reasonable access to parking near their residences. Vehicles parked in an RPP zone must display an RPP annual permit or daily pass on their windshield or they may be ticketed. Motorcycles and scooters may park in RPP zones without displaying an annual or visitor residential parking permit.

Residents can check to see if their address falls in a residential parking zone by clicking here.

A city vehicle sticker is not required to purchase daily guest passes. Daily passes are for guests of a RPP zone resident. The pass is valid for no more than 24 hours from the time written on the permit. All other traffic restrictions must be followed while displaying a permit. By ordinance, an RPP zone resident can purchase up to 30 daily passes every 30 days.

Please be advised that residents will need to bring a photo id and with their current address or proof of residency (mortgage or lease, water, gas, light, satellite or cable television or land line phone bill), in order to purchase the annual residential permit parking sticker or daily guest passes.

I’ll have a peony, straight. Make it a double.

Happy hour is back at City Scents in Streeterville! This beautiful neighborhood shop is offering a floral buy-one-get-one-free every Friday 4:00-7:00 p.m. for the months of June, July and August.

City Scents is at 209 E. Ohio. Don’t miss this great summer promotion!

Grab a Blanket and Go: Movies on the Park is Back!

The Chicago Park District is holding FREE Movie in the Park nights at Erie Park located at 630 N. Kingsbury St. Each film will begin at dusk along the river.

Come early and bring a blanket and picnic basket (no alcohol is allowed). Fresh, hot popcorn will be provided free of charge.

Here's the Summer 2009 line-up:

Tues. June 16th - The Dark Knight (PG - 13) (filmed partially in this very neighborhood!)

Tues. July 7th - Mamma Mia! (PG - 13)

Mon. August 3rd - Kung Fu Panda (PG)

Tues. August 25th - American Graffiti (PG)

For more information about the Chicago Park District, visit www.chicagoparkdistrict.com or call 312-742-PLAY or 312-747-2001 (TTY).

Realtors to the Rescue: Helping Chicago’s Homeless Pets.

…a program of the Chicago Association of Realtors…

This is a new, not-for-profit organization, created by some of my Rubloff colleagues, and I hope you’ll help us. Through our website, Realtors To The Rescue, RTTR works to achieve two goals:

1) To promote the adoption of homeless animals.

2) To support area animal shelters’ fund-raising and educational events.

We’re showing our support during the month of June with a towel drive, and you can help! Shelters always need towels. Realtors to the Rescue is placing donation boxes in business offices and retail establishments around Chicago. You can drop off towels at the location of your choice. Drop me a line for a list of box locations and stay tuned for other news and events!

This Just In from MSNBC: Chicago Parks For Free — Today Only!

Police officers received orders on Wednesday not to issue any parking tickets in areas with pay-and-display meter boxes due to “issues” with the meters, the Chicago Tribune’s Clout Street is reporting.

Motorists are reportedly paying for their spots, but the boxes aren’t printing receipts that are to be displayed on dashboards. Some have resorted to leaving notes on their dashes instead.

The private company that assumed operations of the city’s paid parking spots has sent out crews to fix problems affecting roughly 23 percent of the 556 pay boxes in the city, according to City Budget Department spokesman Pete Scales. A spokeswoman for the parking meter company said the problem will be fixed by this afternoon.

Let the Chicago Police Department Keep You Informed.

Stay connected to what’s happening in Chicago and other locations that are relevant to you! You can receive trusted, up-to-the-minute neighborhood information directly from Chicago Police Department.

You choose the information you want, from urgent public safety alerts to community information. They send them the way you want them – by text, by email, or just over the web. Just follow this link and fill in the blanks.

http://www.nixle.com/chicago-welcome.html

Homebuyers to Use the $8,000 Tax Credit as a Down Payment

From the National Association of Realtors, late-breaking news on how first-time home buyers could use the $8000 tax credit if they qualify: Shaun Donovan, secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, this week said that the Federal Housing Administration is going to permit its lenders to allow home buyers to use the $8000 tax credit as a down payment.

Previously, most buyers wouldn’t receive the funds until after they filed their tax return, and that deterred some people from using the credit. The NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® has been calling for the change.

“We all want to enable FHA consumers to access the home buyer tax credit funds when they close on their home loans so that the cash can be used as a down payment,” Donovan says. His remarks came in an address to several thousand REALTORS® gathered Tuesday morning at “The Real Estate Summit: Advancing the U.S. Economy,” at the 2009 REALTORS® Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo in Washington, D.C.

He says FHA’s approved lenders will be permitted to “monetize” the tax credit through short-term bridge loans. This will allow eligible home buyers to access the funds immediately at the closing table.

I have a handy list of FAQs about the tax credit. Get in touch if you’d like a copy! (312) 296-9249; karen@karenpatton.net

A Sure Sign It's Spring: Farmer's Markets are Back!

Fresh, unhusked corn, bouquets of sunflowers, brownies baked by hand and individually wrapped...

These are a few of my favorite things from my own local farmer's market. At last -- after the longest, worstest winter in the history of weather -- Chicago's outdoor farmer's markets are coming back. Grab your recyclable shopping bag and go support some of our local growers!

These markets open this month in downtown Chicago:

Federal Plaza-Adams and Dearborn May 12-October 27 Tuesdays 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Daley Plaza-Washington and Dearborn May 14-October 27; Thursdays 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Division Street-Divison and Dearborn May 16-October 31; Saturdays 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

These markets open next month in downtown Chicago:

Prudential Plaza-Lake and Beaubien Court June 9-October 27; Tuesdays 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Museum of Contemporary Art/Streeterville-Chicago and Mies van der Rohe Way June 9-October 27; Tuesdays 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Erie Street-500 West Erie Street June 21-October 25; Sundays 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.


Want more information? Go to www.chicagofarmersmarkets.us

A Brilliant Idea!

Alderman Reilly, the Citizens Utility Board (CUB) and the Department of Environment want to help you save energy and money this summer.

Compact fluorescent light bulbs are available at Alderman Reilly's Constituent Office (one per person). In order to receive a free bulb, please be prepared to sign up with your name, address and email.

These bulbs use up to 75% less energy and last up to nine years. That's 10 times longer than regular light bulbs! Stop by the Constituent Service Office during normal business hours to pick up your free light bulb.

For more information please visit www.citizensutilityboard.org or www.cityofchicago.org/environment.

Chicago's Most Active Housing Markets

Are you curious how your neighborhood is holding up in this topsy-turvy real estate market? Following is a report card on recent sales activity as presented by the Chicago Tribune.

These statistics reflect the time frame of January-March, 2009. Statistics are broken down by neighborhood, immediately followed by the total number of transactions for the time frame.

Prices shown are the median sale price for that neighborhood, followed by the percentage (up or down) by which that price changed in one year. (I originally had everything in neat little columns but Blogspot wipes out the columns every time I hit "publish." Go figure! lol)


Near North Side 370 $438,500 -8.0%

Lakeview 202 $366,000 -6.15%

Near West Side 166 $316,000 -2.32%

West Town 157 $365,000 -11.08%

Loop 140 $339,000 -15.25%

Near South Side 133 $433,500 29.40%

Lincoln Park 99 $475,000 3.83%

Logan Square 93 $277,000 -18.05%

Uptown 80 $256,000 -8.90%

West Ridge 77 $256,000 2.40%

Do you have questions about specific properties in specific neighborhoods? Give me a call. I'll fill you in! (312) 296-9249; karen@karenpatton.net

Streeterville Town Hall Meeting Recap

I attended the May 2 Town Hall Meeting featuring State Representative Will Burns and State Senator Kwame Raoul. They came to the neighborhood to discuss state programs and services, and to hear residents' views on important community issues.

Mssrs. Burns and Raoul emphasized that the number one issue is restoring credibility and reforming state government. They and their colleagues plan to do this in a number of ways, including:

Overhauling the Illinois Teachers' Retirement Pension System

A pension ethics reform bill has already been passed. A transparency policy of contracts has been instituted, along with the criminal penalties for any trustees found to have a conflict of interest. They have also provided for education programs for trustees, so they will have the proper knowledge and skills to oversee this pension fund.


Exploring a Cap on Illinois Campaign Contributions

Unlike many other states, there is currently no limit on campaign contributions in Illinois. State Representative Burns mentioned "it's the subtle influence of money" that needs to be lessened and hopefully eliminated. He expressed a desire to level the playing field and pledged that reformers will continue pressing on this issue.


2016 Olympics

Senator Kwame Raoul said many constituents have expressed a concern over the $250 million in funds Illinois has promised to the Olympic Committee. Senator Raoul emphasized that this money will only be paid should the 2016 Olympic Games go into the red. He also pointed out that this has never happened. He further stated that the Olympics would have to go into debt by $750 million before Illinois would be required to pay the $250 million.

Senator Raoul also said the 2016 Olympics is projected to bring $22 BILLION in income to Chicago.


Children's Memorial Hospital: Heliport Debate

By far, the hottest topic of the meeting was the proposed heliport at Chidren's Memorial Hospital's new Streeterville location! Residents expressed many, many concerns over safety issues. Their primary concern is whether the Illinois Dept. of Transportation's review will be thorough. They also worry that the review is being conducted by professionals who are not thoroughly qualified to conduct such a review. Mssrs. Raoul and Burns reassured residents that a VERY thorough review will be done. They also hinted that a final determination might be available by this July.


Do you have questions about what else was discussed at the meeting? Drop me a line. I'll fill you in! karen@karenpatton.net

Snapshot: Streeterville Condo Sales

It's natural that the first question people ask me is, "How's the real estate market doing?"

The last six months have been a true roller coaster ride. I thought you'd like to see what's been happening during that time in my neighborhood -- Streeterville, downtown Chicago.

Parameters: the Chicago River north to East Lake Shore Drive; the Lakefront west to Michigan Avenue.

One Bedroom/One Bathroom units: 29 sold, ranging in price from $175,000 at 850 N. DeWitt; to $523,500 at 505 N. McClurg Ct. Average sale price: $349,250.

Two Bedroom/Two Bathroom units: 53 sold, ranging in price from $220,000 at 253 E. Delaware; to $1,060,000 at 445 E. North Water. Average sale price: $640,000.

Do you have specific questions about specific properties? Give me a call. I'll fill you in! (312) 296-9249

Another Day, Another Gorgeous Chicago Sunrise.

If you live along the downtown Chicago lakefront, you probably recognize this view. It’s daybreak over Navy Pier.

The folks at www.ChicagoSunrises.com, led by local Illustrator, Designer and Head Photographer Jim Bayne, scour the city for THE shot of the morning. Weather permitting, they always find one.

This beautiful shot is part of an on-going series that you can receive at no cost, in your e-mail in-box.

Simply e-mail your request to Enroll@ChicagoSunrises.com What comes next will be the latest glorious view of Chicago as it begins another beautiful day!

Cheap Chicago: Have Fun for Free!

Did you know that many Chicago attractions charge no admission on certain days? Here's a brief overview of the freebies courtesy of www.thelocaltourist.com. All dates are for 2009.

Adler Planetarium:

April 21 & 28
May 5, 12, 19 & 26
June 7-12
September 1, 8, 14-18, 22, & 29
October 6, 13, 20, & 27
November 3, 10, 17, & 24
December 1, 8, 15, & 22

Art Institute of Chicago:

Free Thursdays 5 to 8pm

Chicago Children's Museum:

1st Monday of every month free admission for children 15 and under

Free Thursdays 5 to 8pm for everyone

Chicago History Museum:

Free every Monday

Field Museum:

• 2nd Monday of every month, plus
  
  September: 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 23, 24, 30
  October: 1, 7, 8, 14, 15
  November: 11, 12, 18, 19
  December: 2, 3, 9, 10
  

International Museum of Surgical Science:

Free on Tuesdays

Jane Addam's Hull House Museum:

Always Free

Loyola University Museum of Art:

Free on Tuesdays

McCormick Tribune Freedom Museum:

Always Free

Museum of Contemporary Art:

Free on Tuesdays

Museum of Contemporary Photography:

Always Free

Museum of Science & Industry:

• June 1 - 5, 19
• October 8, 9, 12 - 16, 19 - 23, 26 - 30
• November 26
• December 24
  

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum:

Free on Thursdays (donations suggested)

(Photo of the Art Institute interior courtesy of aviewoncities.com)

What's on tap for Streeterville? Find out this Wednesday!

Neighborhood officials will be on hand this Wednesday to discuss the Central Area Action Plan. This plan outlines economic development and land use goals that will affect our neighborhood's design, transportation, open space and waterfront projects. So if you've got an opinion about how things are shaping up in Streeterville, this is your chance to speak up! Details follow below. Hope to see you there. Come over and introduce yourself!

What
Presentation of the Proposed Chicago Central Area Action Plan

Who
Hosted by Alderman Brendan Reilly of the 42nd Ward, representatives of the City of Chicago Dept. of Community development, and members of the Streeterville Organization of Active Residents

When
Wednesday, April 8, 6:00-7:00 p.m.

Where
Northwestern Memorial Hospital
Feinberg Pavillion
251 E. Huron Street
3rd Floor Conference Center -- Conference Room A

If you have questions, feel free to contact the Alderman's office at:

42nd Ward Office
311 W. Superior St., Suite 212
Chicago, IL 60654
(312) 642-4242

How Does My Garden Grow?

You may have noticed that I derive a lot of pleasure from the nature that surrounds me -- especially my gardens and the gardens of my neighbors. The one pictured above is my butterfly garden from 1999. The idea of gardening, the anticipation of plotting and digging and nurturing and watching those tiny buds unfold, helps get me through a winter like the one we just had in Chicago.

It's relatively easy to create this kind of beauty. How?

I take full advantage of the gardening resources in this area. Each year I haunt the freshly-delivered flats at Gethsemane Gardens and Fertile Delta and even Home Depot. I always make a road trip to Hauserman Orchids in suburban Villa Park. It's a floral Disneyland for grown-ups! Greenhouses with orchid-laden tables stretch forever, with every conceivable shade and shape. They also have the most amazing sale table of $10-$15 phalaenopsis orchids if you're bargain hunting!

The fun part is buying way more than I should (LOLOL) and then bringing it home, and figuring out how all that "pretty" is going to fit into my tiny gardening space.

Fortunately I have some very helpful internet sources. They instruct and they truly inspire. My favorite group of forums is The Garden Web. It's populated by master gardeners, casual gardeners (that would be me!), nursery owners, people who garden to produce food for their tables or just beauty for their eyes. Garden Web forums include HUNDREDS of topics ranging from Accessible Gardening to Xeriscaping.

Hey, it's Spring. It doesn't matter whether you have an entire back yard or just a couple of window boxes on your juliet balcony. Just dig in and create some beauty in your corner of the world!

Need a Pet-Friendly Home for you & Fluffy & Fido?

Moving is typically not on our list of "10 Favorite Things to Do." And when you have a pet, it can be even more stressful. As the "mother" of a 14-year-old Pomeranian (that's Emma in the photo with me) and an 8-year-old crabby tabby, I understand that stress! But guess what...

It's easier than you think! There are currently over 500 cat- and dog-friendly condo/co-op homes for sale or rent within a Frisbee's throw of the Chicago lakefront. You can choose from studios, one-bedrooms and two-bedrooms, from classic vintage to modern highrise styles.

It's finally spring in Chicago. High season for rentals, also a popular time of year for purchasing. Get out the leash. Go for a walk with your best pal. Take a look at the wonderful buildings that rim our beautiful lakefront. If one of them "speaks" to you, give me a call. We can see about making it the purr-fect home for you & Fluffy & Fido.

Emma and I look forward to hearing from you!

The Next-Best Thing to Being There

My favorite place on earth is an oceanside community in California's Orange County called Corona del Mar, just south of the better-known Newport Beach. The above photo shows one of the lovely side streets in Corona del Mar. Block after block of flowers bursting from their containers. Open windows and doors absolutely everywhere. Sunny and warm all year 'round. And if you listen really carefully, you can hear the seals barking as they splash in the ocean.

What is my favorite part of this village? Aside from its obvious beauty, the residents seem so happy. They smile a lot. They greet each other. The Starbucks at PCH and Goldenrod has become a social hub for the regulars. Every morning the menfolk park themselves with their grande Americanos at the outside tables. A yellow Lab and a Rhodesian Ridgeback sit politely at their masters' feet during these morning confabs. Other neighborhood regulars busy themselves with visits to the local art museum, breezing through the upscale resale shops, just really enjoying every minute of every day. It's pretty close to paradise.

So far away, yet so close

How lucky for me: I enjoy that same village-y feel in my own downtown Chicago neighborhood. Streeterville's McClurg Court is a serene pocket that noise and chaos have, thankfully, overlooked. Neighbors walk dogs together. We meet for coffee at Fox & Obel. We buy our flowers at City Scents. We share dinner and dessert at each others' homes. The postal workers at our neighborhood post office are actually friendly and helpful!

We don't have an ocean. But we do have the Chicago Riverwalk just one block away. This landscaped walkway extends from the Lake westward to Michigan Avenue and beyond. It's another unexpected pocket of nature and quiet, smack in the middle of this metropolis.

It's a surprise to visitors. They marvel at how this wonderful neighborhood could exist under the radar. And what's not to love here? Real estate purchase prices are reasonable; they have also held pretty steadily over the last few years. Everything we need is within easy walking distance.

It's my little Corona del Mar by the Lake.

The Dining Room: Delicious

A couple of weeks ago my friend treated me to dinner in The Dining Room at Kendall College. This is perhaps one of the best-kept secrets for fine dining in the entire City of Chicago.

The Kendall website offers a succinct and perfect description for the overall dining experience: "The Dining Room at Kendall College is renowned for its exceptional food and attentive service. Open to the general public, the Dining Room is also an extraordinary 'classroom' offering culinary and hospitality students the opportunity to gain real-world experience in a professional, fine-dining restaurant."

I've enjoyed a few lovely meals at The Dining Room. This is the perfect lunch or dinner spot! Perfect for business lunches or wonderful dinners with friends and family. Perfectly located at the corner of Chicago and Halsted. The menu remains fresh and lively because they change it every month. Parking in the Kendall lot is free (FREE parking in downtown Chicago!)

Luncheon and dinner hours are available. Check the website for specific times, and to make reservations. Or just call them now! :o) 312.752.2328

Park It!

Part of my job as a Chicago Realtor consists of driving to & through our many downtown neighborhoods. I have a first-hand awareness of how challenging it is to park!

It will be even more challenging with the recent price increase to use Chicago parking meters. In my neighborhood, rates go up this week from $1 or $1.50 an hour to $2 an hour. Man, that's a lotta quarters! This latest wrinkle makes it even MORE challenging to park downtown.

What's a driver to do?

If you live downtown, or if you drive to this area everyday, you might consider buying a parking space. This is a relatively new phenomenon in Chicago real estate. But it has caught on like wildfire in the last decade. The closer you live/work to downtown, specifically the Loop, the more you will value the convenience of having a space that literally has your name on it.

How Much?

I just checked the Multiple Listing Service for what's available. Asking prices in downtown Chicago, north of the river, range from $24,000 for a parking space at 900 N. Kingsbury to $85,000 at 505 N. Lake Shore Drive. The asking price hinges on a variety of factors:

• Location, location, location: the location of the building, as well as the location of the space within the parking structure. You'll pay more for a space close to the entrance of your building.
• Covered or not: Prices are higher for covered spaces -- for example, a carport. Prices are also higher for spaces inside secured structures requiring a fob, combination code or similar device for entry.
• Heated: Spaces in heated garages are more costly.
• Valet or not: You pay for the convenience of having a valet drive your car to your building's front door when you leave, and return it to your space when you come home.

Another Advantage to Owning

There's one advantage that can't be measured in dollars. Is your car being nibbled to death by door dings and bumper gouges from parking on the street? Are you ever stumped to recall where you left your car? "Let's see, was it the 500 block of Deming or Arlington?" And if you can't find your car, do you worry that it's been towed or flat-out stolen?

These worries are moot when you purchase a secured parking space. Believe me: it makes a world of difference in how well you'll sleep at night!

Ready to Buy?

My experienced mortgage lenders will advise you on how to roll a parking space purchase into your current mortgage. Drop me a line. I'll put you in touch with them!

Linking Your Way to a Better Home

The internet provides an endless variety of resources for just about everything. I enjoy visiting a group of forums known as That Home Site and The Gardenweb. They are for the most part intelligently written and well-moderated while maintaining the original "color" of the contributors. Here are some links that will help you buy, sell, build, decorate, landscape and enjoy your home.

Buying and Selling Homes: Get some preliminary info from pros and private citizens alike, on how to select a Realtor, how to price your home, how or whether to stage your home and securing a mortgage. One caveat: Many contributors on this site seem to be anti-Realtor. I like to think it's because they're still looking for a GOOD Realtor. I could recommend someone. :o)

Apartment Living: A forum devoted exclusively to the issues of apartment living.

Home Decorating: Get advice on decorating and share your personal experiences.

Kitchens: Stories and advice related to renovating, decorating and maintaining kitchens. Which eventually leads to.....

Cooking: Contributors share stories about using their new kitchens. Plenty of recipes and food-related stories here, as well. After you've spruced up your home's interior, head outside to.....

Gardenweb Forums: Hundreds of forums devoted to gardening categorized by region, type of plant, size of gardening space, season and personal plant favorites. When you just want to sit back and vegetate for a while (ha!), put on your best sundress or searsucker suit and click on.....

The Garden Party: The oldest forums at That Home Site and The Gardenweb were created approximately 13 years ago. Back then, contributors were expected to stay on-topic within each category. Over time, on-line friendships formed and discussions about this-and-that "broke out." The Garden Party forum was created by the webmaster as a place where contributors could talk about whatever they wanted. You never know what someone will post. It is almost always enjoyable. It is even sometimes informative. My own favorites are posted by a Nebraska native whose user name is Gandle. Lovely, warm vignettes of home and family life in rural Nebraska.

Let the Games Begin!

In Chicago, Super Bowl Sunday traditionally signals the beginning of the spring real estate market. There must be something to it! I hosted an open house yesterday. My plan was to capture folks early in the day, before they settled in for the big game. Hot coffee, munchies and a big open house sign complete with balloons (red for Cardinals; blue for Steelers!) lured neighborhood folks into the property. Wow, what a response!

This ended up being one of the most successful open houses I've ever hosted: a steady stream of visitors who commented endlessly on the huge living space, the complementary decor and the amazing view...while they sipped Caribou Coffee and nibbled on Trader Joe's cookies.

What does this tell us? That people are starting to get serious again about looking for real estate. And if they're looking, they're eventually going to buy.

What better time to kick your own home search into high gear?! There's an abundance of inventory. The weather is getting warmer so you won't freeze to death if you go out looking. There are Realtors -- like me, for example -- who would love to match you with the home of your dreams!

So what's holding you back? C'mon! Get in the game! :o)

Stage Your Home, Sell It Faster!

I love color and visual stimulation! My home is full of both. My living room and bedroom are a blue-ish/gray that I call Golden Gate Fog. My kitchen walls are terra cotta. The contents of my rooms include a 4' x 4' painting of a vase of flowers, wicker baskets, a bunny lamp, a bowl of potpourri and a Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired chandelier. It's not everybody's taste but it works for me!

I've owned this space for six years. I love it and have no intention of selling. But when I do sell, my new mantra will be “minimize, minimize, minimize."

Cleaning and de-cluttering are two important facets of getting your home ready to sell. This process is part of a concept more familiarly known as “staging.” A staged home is certain to attract buyers more quickly than a home that is not staged.

A Case History

I know firsthand the power of staging.

Last year I had a 2-BR/2-BA listing at 222 N. Columbus, the Park Millennium Condominiums. The building had multiple 2-BR/2-BA properties for sale at that time. My client, savvy to the power of staging, asked me to delay listing her property for one week. During that time she cleaned and decluttered her entire living space. Personal items were organized or removed. Carpets were cleaned and regularly vacuumed, beds were always made, dishes were always put away. My client kept her home beautiful and spotless until the day we closed.

Which, it turns out, happened pretty quickly.

We closed at sale price of $400,000. That's a higher sale price than what 88% of comparable listings sold for during the same 12-month time frame. We also sold nearly 20 days faster than the average days-on-market of comparable listings at the Park Millennium. All it took was a little elbow grease and a desire to present the property in its best possible light.

Well, that and a concerted marketing effort by the listing agent! :o)

How to Make Staging Work for You

Staging has become a booming business. But you can stage your own home by following some key guidelines:

1. Scour each room of your home with the eye of a ruthless surgeon. Make a note of what absolutely needs to stay – window treatments, a few pieces of furniture, a lamp or two – and what needs to go away.

2. Doodads and memorabilia should be gently scooped into bags and boxes. Relocate them to your garage or basement storage unit.

3. Clean, buff and polish everything to a fine sheen! No cobwebs. No dust. And definitely no yucky smells. You might even consider hiring a cleaning service.

4. Place a call to your painters. Tell them to order up a few gallons of off-white. A neutral background makes it easier for prospective buyers to picture how their own furniture and possessions would fit into the space.

5. Copy from the pros! Visit an open house or a model unit for sale, to see how they are designed and accessorized.

6. Still not sure what to do? Drop me a line. I have resources and advice to help you stage your way to sales success.

We Interrupt Our Regularly Scheduled Blog...

I need to reserve the next few sentences to acknowledge someone who recently, and very suddenly, passed away.

I hadn't been in touch with him for quite some time. But he was always one of my favorite people. Smart, sweet, gentle, easy-going with a subtle sense of humor.

He loved animals and I'm told he would be delighted to know a donation was made in his name, to any animal welfare organization. I'm sending my check to the ASPCA.

Rest in peace, Warren.

Are you Proficient in the Three Ps?

There are three things every prospective homebuyer must consider and determine before starting a home search:
1) What is your Price range?
2) Will you need Parking?
3) Do you have Pets?

Price Range

Smart shoppers know what their budget is before they go shopping. For homebuyers, this begins with a meeting with a reputable mortgage lender (ask me for some referrals if you don't have your own). This first step is critical. Everything in the homebuying process flows from the information your lender provides you.

At no obligation to you (meaning: it's FREE!), the lender will ask you some questions about your income, assets and debts. You may also be asked to provide documents including a recent pay stub or your most recent income tax return. From that information your lender can determine how much house you can afford...what dollar amount the lender is willing to lend you.

The lender will then provide you with a pre-approval letter. The pre-approval letter tells prospective sellers a number of things:

• That you've done your homework on your finances
• That you aren't just a looky-loo who wants to waste their time
• That you are qualified and serious about making an offer on the property you have chosen
  

This letter will be attached to the contract you submit on whatever home you decide to buy.

Parking

Will you need parking? Do you want to rent or purchase a space?

This is vital information to share with your Realtor. Some condo buildings have an attached parking garage; some do not. Some offer spaces for sale (known as deeded parking); some only offer spaces for rent.

In my neighborhood, for example, the asking price on parking spaces ranges from $35,000-$80,000/space. Rentals range from $225-$350/space/month.

Some of the variables include:

• What level (top floor, basement, etc.) the space is on
• How close it is to the building's entrance
• Whether it's on a level or slanted surface
  
• Whether the garage is heated
• Whether the garage has an attendant and/or valet parking
  

Property taxes and assessments will also apply to your parking space purchase. Your Realtor can tell you what those figures are.

Pets

If you have pets, definitely tell your Realtor! Most buildings have guidelines on the type, quantity and size of pets permitted per unit.

There are some buildings that don't allow pets at all! Don't risk sneaking in your pet and thinking no one will find out. Someone ALWAYS finds out. You could risk being fined, or being told to find another home for your pet. How heartbreaking would it be, to make an offer on the home of your dreams, and learn later that you cannot bring your dear four-legged companion!

When you have these three Ps in order, you'll be well on your way to finding the home that's a pretty darn good fit for you!