Meet our amazing new client concierge!
At Busby Group, we’re always looking for ways to better serve our clients, not just during the transaction, but well beyond the closing table. That’s why I’m thrilled to introduce Katie Mazzuca, our new Client Concierge.
Katie brings a rare blend of experience to this role: a successful career as a real estate broker, a lifelong connection to the real estate industry, and a luxury customer service background with brands like Neiman Marcus, Henri Bendel, and Splendid. She knows the power of great relationships and the difference that trusted resources can make throughout the homeownership journey.
We are excited about Katie in this role because we see her expanding it even further with her focus on vendor partnerships and providing our clients with true concierge services for life. We are so excited for our clients to experience the wealth of knowledge that Katie brings to the table. Get to know her story below—and join us in giving her a warm welcome to the team!
You've recently joined the Busby Group as a real estate concierge. Can you tell us a little about your background before this role?
Real estate has always been part of my life – my parents have worked together as brokers for over 20 years, so I grew up immersed in the business. It was only a matter of time before I got my license myself, which I did in 2015 and joined my family at the Meyers Group.
My business has always been split between the city and the North Shore. I've lived in Logan Square, the West Loop, Old Town, and Lakeview, so I know the city well! Now I live in Deerfield with my family, and I’ve built a strong network across the North Shore, expanding my already strong network from the city.
What drew you to the Busby Group in particular?
I met Julie years ago at an office meeting in Winnetka and immediately thought, “She’s a go-getter.” She's a fantastic communicator and I was so impressed by the volume her team has consistently done. I think a big reason for Busby Group’s success is the team’s organization. Honestly, it’s one of the most structured and intentional groups I’ve seen in this industry. I was also really impressed with the content on the Busby Group website, and have sent the school information to friends. I can’t think of another group that offers so much valuable information.
You’ve worked in both real estate and luxury retail. How does your previous experience influence your work today?
My background is in luxury retail management at Neiman Marcus, Henri Bendel and then for Splendid, where I managed all the Chicago stores and eventually oversaw operations across the East Coast and Midwest. The customer service and trouble shooting skills I acquired along the way are invaluable in my new role as Busby Group’s client concierge. I learned how to transform what could be a stressful experience into a calm and personalized experience.
What part of your work do you love most?
Two things stand out: First, helping people find their dream home (cliche, but true!). Second, I genuinely love problem-solving. No two deals are the same, and that challenge keeps me engaged every day. I also love the long-term relationships that grow from this work. Real estate is so personal, and that trust is everything.
What’s been your biggest professional ‘ah-ha’ moment so far?
After working with my parents for several years, I will never forget the day my dad said to me, “You know what you’re doing.” That moment stuck with me. It reminded me that even with mentors, the best answers come from your own instincts.
What are you most excited about in your new role?
The concierge role blends everything I love: real estate, problem-solving, and high-level client care. I’m licensed, so I bring a strong understanding of how the transaction works, but I also love taking things to that next level in terms of service.
Where do you live now, and what’s your favorite thing about your neighborhood?
I live in Deerfield with my husband and our two daughters, who are 18 months and four-and-a-half. We chose it to be close to family and for the amazing park district, pools, and overall walkability. Our house backs up to the elementary school our kids will attend, which feels very special.
What do you love doing when you're not working?
In the city, I love being near the lake—beach days, summer dining, and just soaking up the energy of Chicago. Some of my go-to spots are Athenian Room, Sai Café, and Girl & the Goat. I also love shopping on Southport. In the suburbs, we spend a lot of time at a local park district pool (Mitchell Pool) or playgrounds. And the Lincoln Park Zoo is a favorite for our family.
We can’t wait for you to meet Katie and see all that she has to offer!
Q1 Chicagoland Market Recap (Good News!) + 3 Ways to Avoid Renovation Pitfalls
With all of the national and international headlines floating around right now about the stock market, it is only natural that my phone rings several times a day with clients and friends asking how the Chicago real estate market is faring right now. First and foremost, it remains to be true that real estate, especially in Chicago, is a solid investment. And after digging deeper into the current data, I feel more confident in our market than ever. If you’re like me, analyzing real estate data is incredibly fun, interesting and useful – but, if you would rather have me give you the highlights you’re in luck!
Chicago Real Estate Is Still a Solid Bet in
When the stock market wobbles, many people freeze. But seasoned investors know: that’s when opportunity opens up. Real estate has always been more consistent than the stock market, especially when approached strategically. In fact, the average price of detached and attached properties in Chicago increased from $378,343 in March of 2022 to $444,714 in March of this year – that is a 17.5% increase in just three years. And multi-unit properties are on a similar trajectory with a 14% price increase in just three years.
The trick is knowing how to find the right property, and also where to look. As you may have read, Chicago’s inventory is still at historic lows. At Busby Group, this means we are getting creative for our clients everyday. We scour private listing databases, reach out to our networks and contacts, and at this point about 30% of our transactions are with properties that never hit the market.
How to Avoid Renovation Pitfalls
The other big question right now is how all of the new trade policies will impact renovation plans for buyers or current home owners. To me, the best way to avoid the potential long wait times and price increases that new tariff policies may create is to think local, and be really smart about the properties you consider. Here is my latest advice:
Builder-grade cabinets have come a long way! Check out your local suppliers and then pair with custom finishes or updated hardware. Even consider using MDF instead of hardwood, especially if you are planning to paint your cabinets anyway.
Skip the imported quartz and go for local stone, or better yet, use remnants. When I remodeled my home I used remnants in nearly every room and probably saved 60%, plus you get a totally one-of-a-kind look.
Support local tradespeople and small businesses. These are the folks who’ve been hit the hardest by tariffs and material delays—and they’re also the ones doing some of the most creative, high-quality work around.
Of course the other way to avoid renovation pitfalls is to buy a move-in ready home! I always encourage clients to consider properties they can enjoy for a few years, and then figure out how they want to personalize and update. A few of our current listings are perfect move-in ready options!
So whether you’re buying, investing, or prepping to sell—don’t let global noise keep you from making local moves. Focus on what you can control: smart sourcing, smart spending, and real estate that works for you. If you're thinking about making a move, or just want to talk strategy, I'm always here to help you navigate it.
Busby Group Life Hacks
HOUSE HACKING
Volume 3 of our Life Hack series features the ultimate life hack: house hacking! House hacking is an incredible way to increase your purchasing power. In this blog post you will learn what house hacking is, why you should consider it and how to get started!
INSURANCE
Volume 2 of our Life Hacks series features our friend and favorite insurance agent, Kevin Grady at Allstate. Over the summer I chatted with Kevin about how to select the best insurance, and I recently called him again because my insurance went up 156%! He helped me slightly adjust my deductible, and we are now saving thousands of dollars! Today he is giving even more tips on how to save money when it comes to insurance. Kevin’s best recommendations include:
Looking at higher deductible options (this is what we did!)
Make sure you bundle all your insurance with one company so that you receive a multi-policy discount
Consider not filing smaller claims on your home because rates will go up regardless of the amount you file for
REAL ESTATE TAXES
It’s Volume 1 of our running Life Hacks column! In this column we plan to share not only our own expertise, but also tips, tricks and hacks from experts all across Chicagoland on one important topic: how to save you MONEY! It has been a year of high inflation and expenses, so our goal is to meet you where you are.
This month we are focusing on property taxes, more specifically tax exemptions, of which there are many! If any of the below brings up a question, or you would like a referral for a real estate tax attorney, please reach out! We know the best in the business and are happy to make an introduction. Most importantly: don’t miss the opportunity these rebates offer. Most offer thousands of dollars!
General Homestead Exemption
If you are a homeowner, you are eligible for this exemption, which is available for any residential property occupied by its owner (so no investment/rental properties). Even if you have a second home, the one you live in primarily is eligible for this exemption – up to $10,000 in Cook County. The amount of exemption is based on the increase in the current year’s assessed value. This means that every year you should file a dispute, no matter what! We know amazing real estate tax attorneys that are available to assist. Please contact us for a referral!
Veterans Homeowner Tax Exemptions
For veterans returning from active duty, Cook County provides a $5,000 reduction to the assessed value of their property. For veterans with a service-connected disability, Cook County offers an even greater reduction based on a sliding scale depending on the level of disability. More information here.
Old Historic Home Tax Exemption
If you live in an old home, it may be eligible to become part of the Illinois Register of Historic Places, which also makes it eligible for an Illinois Historic Preservation Tax Credit. These credits provide state income tax credits equal to 25% of the project’s Qualified Rehabilitation Expenditures, to owners who undertake certified rehabilitations. Find out if your home qualifies and more information here.
Senior Citizens Homestead Exemption
If you are a homeowner and 65 years of age or older, then you are eligible for this annual exemption – which is up to an $8,000 reduction in equalized assessed value. More information here.
Regardless if you file for an exemption, we recommend appealing your taxes. You can do this on your own, but we have seen greater success through attorneys. Please contact us for a referral to an excellent attorney.
Should You Consider House Hacking? A Chicago Real Estate Investment Strategy
Quick Answer: What Is House Hacking?
House hacking is a real estate strategy where you purchase a property, live in one portion, and rent out the remaining space to generate income. In Chicago, two-flats and three-flats can work particularly well for this strategy because owners can occupy one residence while collecting rent from the others. With interest rates remaining elevated, that rental income can help offset higher monthly mortgage costs, along with property taxes and other ownership expenses, while the owner builds equity over time.
What Is House Hacking?
Have you heard of the term “house hacking”? Over the past few years, it has become increasingly popular in the real estate world, and for good reason.
House hacking can be an opportunity to leverage your primary residence to generate rental income, making homeownership more affordable while building long-term wealth.
House hacking, in its most basic form, means buying a property and renting out some portion of it, using that income to help cover mortgage payments, property taxes, and other costs associated with homeownership.
For some, house hacking can be a great entry point into real estate investing and provides a way to own property without having to bear the entire financial burden alone.
Why House Hack?
House hacking offers a variety of potential benefits for homeowners, including:
1. Help Offset Higher Monthly Housing Costs
With today’s higher interest rates, monthly mortgage payments can be a significant consideration for buyers. House hacking provides another way to approach affordability because rental income from the additional unit or units can help offset a portion of the mortgage and other ownership expenses.
Instead of evaluating a two-flat or three-flat solely based on the full monthly payment, we can help buyers look at the potential net monthly cost after anticipated rental income.
Of course, rental income isn’t guaranteed, and buyers should budget for vacancy, maintenance, repairs, insurance, property taxes, and other operating expenses.
2. Build Equity While Generating Income
House hacking makes it possible to build equity in a property while potentially receiving rental income from the other residences.
While appreciation isn’t guaranteed, you’re building ownership in an asset while also gaining firsthand experience owning an income-producing property.
3. Potentially Expand Your Buying Options
When you plan to rent out a portion of a property, certain financing programs may allow qualifying rental income to be considered.
This can potentially expand the properties a buyer is able to consider, particularly in a higher-interest-rate environment.
One of our clients, for example, was originally targeting condos and townhomes around $650,000. After exploring house hacking, she began considering a $1.2 million two-flat with a larger backyard and two-car garage.
Not only could she enjoy more space, but she could also begin building a real estate portfolio with the potential for additional income.
The amount of rental income a lender will consider depends on the loan program, property, appraisal, and individual borrower qualifications.
4. Potential Tax Benefits
Owning investment property can come with potential tax advantages, including deductions for certain property-related expenses such as mortgage interest, repairs, and property taxes.
Tax treatment depends on how the property is used and each owner’s individual circumstances, so we recommend consulting a qualified tax professional.
How to Get Started With House Hacking in Chicago
Ready to explore the possibilities? Here are a few things to consider first.
1. Analyze Your Finances
Take a deep dive into your finances and evaluate everything from your available down payment to your full monthly ownership costs.
You’ll also want to consider realistic rental income, vacancy periods, maintenance expenses, insurance, property taxes, and reserves for unexpected repairs.
This becomes especially important when interest rates are higher. Rather than looking only at the purchase price or mortgage payment, we help buyers understand the bigger picture, including what the property may actually cost each month after potential rental income.
2. Choose the Right Property
This part is crucial.
One of our favorite property types for house hacking is a two-flat, where the owner lives in one unit and rents out the other.
But a three-flat can offer even more flexibility, allowing an owner to occupy one residence while potentially collecting income from two additional units.
Two Current Chicago House Hacking Opportunities
House hacking can look very different depending on the property. A traditional Chicago two-flat may offer a more approachable entry point, while a three-flat can provide multiple sources of rental income. Here are two current Busby Group listings that show both approaches.
7532 N Winchester Avenue | Rogers Park | $729,000
This meticulously maintained two-flat on an extra-wide lot offers two spacious 3-bedroom residences, each with an updated kitchen and bath, hardwood floors, abundant natural light, and original vintage details.
The house hacking opportunity: A buyer could live in one residence while renting the other, helping offset monthly mortgage and ownership costs. The full lower level already has a bathroom, private entrance, and laundry, creating potential for a future ADU or duplex-down, subject to applicable requirements. A two-car garage may provide another potential source of rental income.
The property also offers a large fenced backyard with gardens and outdoor space, plus easy access to the lakefront, Red Line, Evanston, and neighborhood favorites including Ward Eight.
1637 N Richmond Street | Logan Square | $1,589,000
For buyers looking for a larger multifamily investment, 1637 N Richmond is a fully reimagined three-flat on an extra-wide 31-foot lot approximately 1.5 blocks south of Logan Square.
The property includes a 2-bedroom garden residence, 3-bedroom main-level residence, and 4-bedroom duplex-up penthouse, along with separate utilities, in-unit laundry, outdoor space, and three parking spaces.
The house hacking opportunity: An owner could choose the residence that best fits their lifestyle while potentially renting the other two. With $132,600 in projected annual income and a projected 6.1% cap rate if fully leased, Richmond demonstrates how a three-flat can combine a primary residence with a longer-term investment strategy.
The location also provides convenient access to The 606, Humboldt Park, Logan Square, restaurants, shopping, and transportation.
Which House Hacking Strategy Is Right for You?
These two properties illustrate why there isn't one formula for house hacking. Winchester offers the simplicity of living in one residence and renting the other, with additional future flexibility in the lower level. Richmond offers three residences and the potential for two income streams while an owner occupies the third.
Especially with today's higher interest rates, the important number isn't simply the purchase price. We help buyers evaluate the potential monthly cost after rental income, along with taxes, insurance, maintenance, vacancy, financing, and longer-term investment potential.
NOTE: Pricing and information are accurate as of the article's publish date and subject to change. Reach out to confirm details.
3. Get a Feel for Financing Options
As a house hacker, you may be eligible for financing programs designed for owner-occupied multifamily properties.
Some programs allow qualified buyers to purchase properties containing two to four residential units while occupying one as their primary residence. Depending on the program, a portion of the property’s anticipated rental income may also be considered when determining mortgage qualification.
Our trusted lending partners can help buyers evaluate the available options, determine how much rental income may qualify, and compare the monthly economics of a multifamily property with a condo, townhome, or single-family home.
4. Understand Landlord Responsibilities
As a house hacker, you also become a landlord.
Make sure you’re familiar with Chicago’s rental regulations, tenant rights, property maintenance requirements, and the financial responsibilities associated with managing rental property.
You’ll also want to consider whether you prefer managing tenants yourself or hiring a professional property manager.
House Hacking in Chicago: Frequently Asked Questions
Is house hacking a good investment in Chicago?
House hacking can be an attractive strategy in Chicago because the city offers a variety of two-flats, three-flats, and other multifamily properties.
However, the investment potential depends on the purchase price, realistic rental income, operating expenses, financing terms, property condition, and your longer-term goals.
Does house hacking make more sense when interest rates are high?
It can. Higher mortgage rates increase monthly borrowing costs, and rental income from additional units can help offset a portion of those costs.
That doesn’t automatically make a multifamily property a better financial decision. Buyers should compare the purchase price, financing, realistic rental income, taxes, insurance, maintenance, vacancy, and reserves to understand the property’s true monthly cost.
Can I use rental income to qualify for a mortgage?
Potentially. Certain mortgage programs allow qualified buyers to use a portion of anticipated rental income when purchasing an owner-occupied multifamily property.
The amount considered depends on the lender, loan program, appraisal, property, and borrower qualifications.
Can I house hack a three-flat in Chicago?
Yes. A common strategy is to purchase a three-flat, live in one residence, and rent the other two.
This provides the opportunity to generate income from multiple units while maintaining a primary residence within the property.
What are the best Chicago neighborhoods for house hacking?
Chicago neighborhoods with established two-flat and three-flat housing stock can offer opportunities for house hacking.
Areas worth exploring can include Logan Square, Humboldt Park, Avondale, West Town, and Rogers Park. The best fit depends on property prices, achievable rental income, transportation access, property condition, and your individual investment goals.
What happens if I eventually move out?
Depending on financing requirements and applicable regulations, homeowners may eventually convert their owner-occupied multifamily property into a fully rented investment property.
This can create an opportunity to retain the property as part of a longer-term real estate portfolio.
The Busby Group Perspective
House hacking is one of the strategies we enjoy exploring with clients because it combines the lifestyle benefits of homeownership with the potential financial advantages of real estate investing.
That can be particularly relevant in a higher-interest-rate environment. Instead of focusing solely on the mortgage rate or purchase price, we can evaluate the full financial picture, including potential rental income, monthly carrying costs, future flexibility, and long-term equity.
Whether you’re considering your first Chicago two-flat, evaluating a three-flat in Logan Square, or looking to expand an existing real estate portfolio, understanding the numbers and selecting the right property are essential.
At Busby Group, we help buyers evaluate both sides of the equation: how a property lives today and how it may perform as an investment over time.
Considering house hacking in Chicago? Contact Busby Group to explore available properties and build a strategy around your goals.
Welcome to the team, Riley!
Welcome to the team, Riley! We are very excited to have Riley join us. As an entrepreneur myself, I love the energy that a self-starter, out-of-the-box thinker brings, and Riley definitely has had those qualities from the very beginning. For almost a decade, Riley has been a top-producing, award-winning broker as well as a sales partner at one of Chicago’s top developers. With his creativity, industry knowledge and robust background, Riley is the perfect addition to our team.
We put together a fun interview to introduce Riley, and know that he is going to help take Busby Group to the next level!
What did you do before starting in real estate?
I’ve actually been fortunate enough to have worked in real estate my entire career, even obtaining my real estate license, and selling properties while still in college. I started my real estate career in Southwest, Michigan where I worked with buyers, sellers, and investors and quickly grew this facet of my business. Through strong marketing and customer service skills, I quickly became the top broker at my brokerage. I was then recruited by one of Chicago’s top developers where I further developed my skills as a real estate broker, including in-depth knowledge of construction as well as advanced training in showing property.
What drew you to the Busby Group Team?
Busby Group was recommended to me by my previous employer, Belgravia, who spoke very highly of Julie. I value my time with Belgravia and see how Julie runs Busby Group in a similar way with team collaboration, strong ethics and morals, as well as high caliber results.
Which part of your real estate career do you love the most?
This might sound cliche, but I’ve always enjoyed architecture and viewing properties. I really love a great view, so it's exciting to explore different parts of the city and new developments because each tour offers a different perspective of the city.
What has been your biggest professional ah-ha moment so far?
Very early in my career, I was fortunate to win several production and customer satisfaction awards that made it clear to me that I was on the right path, and real estate was the right career for me.
What are you most excited about in the coming year?
I’m excited to be a part of a high-functioning team and assisting in achieving new goals, setting new limits and challenging the norm/thinking outside of the box.
Where do you live in Chicago, and what is your favorite neighborhood?
I live in Lakeview, but my favorite neighborhoods are downtown Chicago such as Gold Coast and River North. Being close to the water/lake/river has also always been important to me.
What are some of your favorite things to do in the city?
I am an artist and love painting. So, I love finding the beauty in our city and getting inspiration. I spend a lot of my time by the lake and I love bike riding along Lake Shore Drive from Lakeview to downtown and watching the buildings get taller and taller.
Northwest Side Preservation Ordinance: How it can impact you
As a real estate agent in Chicago, we know how important it is for our clients that we stay on top of the latest ordinances, policies, and regulations. One piece of legislation that's gained attention recently is the Northwest Side Preservation Ordinance, which focuses on maintaining the character of neighborhoods on the city's Northwest Side. Those who should take note of this new regulation are people with a rental property within the new boundaries (link below), and those who are looking to buy and/or build in the same area.
What are the most important parts of the ordinance to note?
The cost to build in the area is increasing from $5,000 per unit to $20,000 per unit and $15,000 per building to $60,000 per building (whichever is greater) for the 606 Pilot Areas and Pilsen
Amends the affected neighborhood boundaries click here to see a map of all impacted neighborhoods
If you own an income-producing property within the new boundaries, your tenant will have first right of refusal per the new Tenant Opportunity to Purchase (606) Block Pilot Program. This will be a very specific and time-consuming process that must be followed
How will the new ordinance impact buyers and sellers in this area?
For buyers:
Patience! Because renovations to specific properties may now be required to meet specific guidelines, buyers looking to renovate or remodel should be prepared for a longer approval process. Also the seller will need to provide the tenant first right of refusal, which will also take time.
1031 Exchange: A tenant-occupied property within the boundaries of the ordinance will likely not meet the stringent timing requirements of a 1031 Exchange.
New costs: There are new costs involved for rehab and development in the area that may make it cost prohibitive to buy.
Design restrictions: You may also not be able to complete renovations exactly to your preferred specifications since the ordinance aims to maintain visual consistency. We strongly recommend that buyers consult with city officials as early on as possible in the process to help understand timing and what is possible.
For sellers:
Patience! Because renovations to specific properties may now be required to meet specific guidelines, buyers looking to renovate or remodel should be prepared for a longer approval process. Also the seller will need to provide the tenant first right of refusal, which will also take time.
Hardship: Sometimes sellers need to sell urgently for one reason or another – every sale must pass through the process regardless of circumstance/hardship.
Liability: If you do not follow the new process, you will be held liable by the city particularly when it comes to tenant first right of refusal.
Value: While it is too early to tell which way it will impact value, the ordinance will impact home values in some way.
How to Best Work Within the New Framework?
Working with local experts will also make the whole process easier, faster and more streamlined. Busby Group is here and ready to help you navigate this difficult process, plus we recommend attorney Bob Floss, who is also very knowledgeable on the ordinance and the constant changes.
If you’re considering buying or investing in a property within the boundaries of the Northwest Side Preservation Ordinance, upfront research of whether or not a property is impacted by this ordinance will save valuable time and money. Visit the City’s Landmark Division website to start your investigation.
Please contact us anytime if you are considering buying or selling in the impacted areas, we are here to help!
A focus on clients going through a transition
Times of transition are a difficult space for all involved, which is why Busby Group is focusing now more than ever on clients who are in this time of change, including our senior-specific client service. Just recently, our own Barb Steinhauser received her Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) designation. This was a very natural progression for us as we have always offered specialized care for all clients – but it never hurts to make it official!
While our white glove level service is universal for all Busby Group clients, there are particular facets of our service that are appealing to seniors, including:
Professional coordination. Some of our senior clients own multiple homes requiring conversations and coordination with other trusted professionals such as a family office and medical, financial and legal advisors for their real estate transactions. For senior sellers it’s sometimes more than simply down-sizing or upsizing – it can involve an interstate move or a move to some sort of care facility or community. We are not only accustomed to these situations, but have developed specific strategies and logistics to make sure the process runs smoothly.
Privacy and communication protocols. Unfortunately there are unexpected relocations as the result of an unexpected life/death or disability/medical event. Compounding the situation, the nature of these latter real estate transactions can be fraught with emotion and family dynamics. We offer the professionalism, experience and care each situation demands.
Top broker referrals across the country. Many of our senior clients are lucky snowbirds, headed to the sunny skies Florida, Arizona, or California. We have worked hard to create a closeknit network of likeminded brokers across the country, so that as the need arises we are able to make a great referral. And when we say closeknit, we mean it! We are in constant communication with many of the leading brokers in major cities.
Inventory expertise. For our senior clients, there are a few themes that come up again and again. Most of our senior clients prefer single-story living with easy access to an elevator. A location convenient to retail and grocery shopping is also many times important. Bonus points for an indoor pool, since many of our senior clients love this form of exercise!
One of our current listings at 132 E Delaware Place actually hits every item on this list if you are interested in taking a look!
First-time opportunity to own this meticulously maintained, spacious home featuring incredible lake, city and sunset views perched atop the Four Seasons Hotel with access to the hotel’s unparalleled amenities
Living space with expansive windows and third bedroom area, currently an open office, boasts full walls of custom built-ins with wet bar
Picturesque west views (sunsets!) from the spacious and bright eat-in kitchen
Generous primary suite with more west-facing views, 2 walk-in closets, and the ensuite primary bath with double vanity soaking tub, and walk-in shower
Unbeatable Gold Coast location with all of the city’s best at your fingertips, plus easy access to Lake Shore Drive, Oak Street Beach and the lakefront trail
Convenient self-park and valet options available
Our goal is to successfully facilitate any type of move to make it as seamless as possible. If you or your family member are going through a time of transition, we have a complete list of vetted professionals and services that can make that work very well. Take advantage of our expertise and call if you see a potential real estate transaction coming into focus, we are here to help.
Midwest really is best: the great migration home
We all know at least a few people that moved during the pandemic – and if you’re like me, you know a lot! And Chicago was no exception. People left the city in search of wide open spaces, which made total sense in 2020. But, times and priorities have changed, and as a team we have seen a new trend: people are returning to the Windy City! In fact, the population of Chicago has increased every year since 2020, with last year’s gains as the biggest since the pandemic at .53% to 8,984,000.
Over the last year, we have seen a resurgence of lifestyle moves. We recently helped an attorney who moved to Park Ridge during the pandemic, move back to the city to be closer to the courthouse. Anecdotally, we have also noticed an influx of Floridians and Coloradans at showings, looking to move to Chicago. We are also seeing a revival of suburban empty nesters moving to the city to be closer to Chicago’s cultural and dining scenes.
When speaking to our clients and buyers, a few themes come up again and again that are prompting their move.
Lower cost of living for a top city
Of the most populous cities in the country, Chicago remains the cheapest in terms of cost of living! Forbes put together this fun Cost of Living Calculator that lets you compare your cost of living of where you live now with where you want to go.
Returning to work
Outranked only by New York as the city with the most Fortune 1,000 company headquarters, many people are moving back to be closer to their office as reopening continues. Public transportation becomes a huge factor too, and people miss the ease the L and Metra provides.
Natural disasters
Chicagoans moved to Florida in droves throughout the pandemic period. In 2022 alone, over 35,000 relocated there. But in the past few years, the number and intensity of hurricanes in Chicago have dramatically increased. In contrast, the midwest is always at the top of the list of safest cities from natural disaster. Hurricanes are not only a major lifestyle inconvenience, but have financial impact as well, specifically in regards to homeowners insurance, repairs, and potential loss of income.
Midwest is best!
We hear it over and over again: there is something about Chicago, and more importantly, something about Chicagoans! People who move south miss the midwest charm, the culture of the city, the weather, the lake, and everything that makes Chicago, Chicago.
The Sandwich Generation: Welcome to the club! Plus my best tips for how to make it easier
%20District%2007-12-2024%20(2).jpg){kind=link}
A few months ago, my mom made a comment to me while we were discussing the number of things I had on my to do list. She said, “You are stuck right in that sandwich generation, unfortunately.” To which I responded, “What are you talking about? Are you saying that millennials love sandwiches? Cause we totally do.” She laughed off my comment, agreed, and went on to tell me about the term Sandwich Generation – which is basically defined by: middle-aged adults who are simultaneously caring for their children and their aging parents (Thanks Google!)
If that definition sounded familiar, welcome to the club! Being stuck in the sandwich generation during your lifetime comes with its unique set of challenges and rewards. Balancing the demands of raising children while also caring for aging parents can feel overwhelming at times. This dual responsibility can be emotionally and physically taxing, but it also brings a deep sense of fulfillment and purpose. As a young mom, I often find myself juggling school runs, playdates, homework and doctor’s appointments and ensuring my parents’ well-being.
Is there a solution to make all this easier? Not really. But I am here today to give you some ideas as to how to get through these years as smoothly as possible.
Seek Support: Don’t be afraid to reach out to friends, family, or support groups. Sharing your experiences and challenges can provide emotional relief and practical advice. Chances are, most of your friends are going through the same thing as you and sometimes it eases stress to just chat about it with someone familiar.
Stay Organized: Use tools like planners, apps, or calendars to keep track of appointments, tasks, and deadlines. Staying organized can help you feel more in control. I keep it old school with the larger sticky notes. One to-do list for the week and then break that down every morning into things I need to do that day.
Communicate Openly: Keep the lines of communication open with your family. Discussing your needs and concerns can help prevent misunderstandings and foster a supportive environment.
Prioritize and Delegate: Identify the most critical tasks and focus on those first. Don’t hesitate to delegate responsibilities to other family members or seek professional help when needed.
Set Boundaries: Clearly define your work and personal time. This helps prevent burnout and ensures you have time to recharge.
Practice Self-Care: Make time for activities that rejuvenate you, whether it’s exercise, reading, or spending time with friends. Taking care of yourself is essential to being able to care for others.
As someone who is also navigating these waters, I am well-equipped to assist you in finding the right solutions for your family. Whether you’re looking to buy a new home that accommodates your growing family or helping your parents downsize to a more manageable space, I am here to guide you every step of the way. My journey as a real estate agent is deeply intertwined with my personal experiences. Having older parents has given me a unique perspective on the challenges and needs of families like ours. I understand the emotional and logistical complexities involved in helping parents downsize or transition to a new living situation and this has allowed me to better connect with my clients on a deeper level.
Being a young parent in the sandwich generation is no easy feat, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. As a real estate agent who understands the unique challenges you face, I am here to help you and your parents find the perfect living solutions. Together, we can create a future where everyone feels supported, comfortable, and at home.
Feel free to reach out to me for a consultation or just to chat about your needs. Let’s make this journey a positive and empowering experience for your entire family.
Our favorite 2024 design trends
Has anyone else noticed all of the 90s inspired fashion lately? Baby doll t-shirts, platform shoes – what’s old is new again! The same is true in interior design. Recognizing these cycles always makes me feel more comfortable taking design risks because chances are the trend will return in due time! Check out some of our favorite design moments of the year thus far.
Arched windows
When in doubt, add more windows – I would bet my life that our love of windows never goes out of style, but arched windows are a different story. What once read is a 90’s look, is totally back. Arches throughout interior design are huge right now including arched hallways, arched built-ins and windows too! Our listing at 4831 Lamb in Oak Lawn has beautiful arched windows looking out over the lush yard.
Concrete loft
I love layering different textures throughout rooms, and concrete lofts come with so much texture as a foundation. Juxtaposing the concrete ceiling (they’re quiet too!) with softer textures like a plush rug and linen curtains creates that quiet luxury look everyone is after right now. Check out the incredible ceiling height and textures at our listing at 900 N Kingsbury St #859 and 659 W Randolph #1416.
Parquet is back!
Parquet flooring has had ugly step-sister status for many years now, but she is back and better than ever! New construction has started utilizing parquet for texture and interest while still maintaining a neutral palette, but the downside is it is very expensive. We love the vintage parquet in our 1100 N Lake Shore Drive # 36B listing.
Built-ins, always
It is true that built-ins never went out of style, and I can’t imagine they ever will. Built-ins are such a great way to add value, storage and design. We love a multi-tasking built-in like the one at our LaSalle listing that doubles as a cocktail bar and coffee bar – a full drink station!
Statement libraries
For many years, interior design has been extremely neutral, but we are seeing the trend return to darker, moodier and more colorful – and we love to see it! Especially in dining rooms and libraries, darker color palettes are having such a moment. Painted ceilings and high-gloss finishes on built-ins and walls are very popular right now. We love the intricate design and wood grains in this gorgeous library in our 1100 N Lake Shore Drive #24B and the high-gloss black built-ins at 132 E Delaware #5601.
On the other side of the spectrum is this light and bright library statement in our 229 Lake Shore Drive listing. What was once a boring entry foyer becomes a total moment with built-in bookshelves lined with literary treasures.
Designer home offices
It makes total sense that people have really invested in their home offices the past few years. Working in a beautiful, thoughtfully designed space makes the workday go by that much faster, after all. The vaulted ceilings, exposed brick, lush treetop views and scale of the home office/bedroom at our Honore listing stopped us in our tracks!
Making the most of the great outdoors
Creating the perfect outdoor space doesn’t have to be complicated. A little privacy, a little something green, and a little space, and you have the perfect recipe for a relaxing oasis! Our clients at our listing Linden Ave Western Springs listing totally transformed their backyard into multiple separate spaces – think a dining area, lounging zone and yard to run around! Our listing on Kenmore has a sizable private balcony, plus a huge roof deck ready for ideas and creativity! For water lovers, check out the amazing pool setup at our Mokena listing!