The Power of Paint
Sometimes, the simplest updates create the biggest impact.
Paint is one of the first things buyers notice when evaluating a home, and it can often become a perceived obstacle. Our goal is to remove that hesitation before it ever becomes a concern.
Chuck Welch and Jeff of Northside Painting have been trusted partners in that process. Their ability to provide quick, cost-effective solutions has helped many of our clients prepare their homes for the market and, just as importantly, helped buyers move forward with confidence.
Chuck is known for providing fast, accurate quotes that give buyers clarity on cost, often helping them get comfortable enough to move forward with an offer. On the seller side, his team can often repaint an entire home in just one to two days, allowing us to quickly transform a space before it hits the market.
We have also seen firsthand how impactful the right updates can be. In many cases, painting kitchen cabinets alone has helped our clients achieve up to three times the return on investment when selling their home.
There have been countless moments where Chuck has helped us “save the day,” whether by stepping in to paint a home prior to listing or by providing a clear, reasonable quote that helps a buyer move past uncertainty. He has also supported many of our buyers by completing work immediately after closing, helping make their transition into a new home seamless.
It is a simple service, executed at a high level, that consistently delivers meaningful results.
“Communication with Busby Group is top-notch. I work with many top brokers, and there is no doubt that Busby Group’s communication and attention to detail is the best.”
— Chuck Welch
Picture Perfect
In real estate, photography is the first showing.
Nick (Atanas) Kan of Positive Image has been a trusted partner of Busby Group for more than 15 years, helping us present homes at their absolute best. His experience, attention to detail, and technical precision have played a meaningful role in the successful sale of many of our listings.
Nick uses multiple exposures and carefully balanced lighting to ensure both interiors and views are captured accurately and beautifully. The goal is not just to photograph a space, but to create an image that draws buyers in and tells the right story.
One example stands out. We were preparing a downtown condo that faced a neighboring building, limiting the natural view. Rather than forcing the shot, we worked together to strategically lower the shades and highlight the lake view in a way that felt clean and intentional.
The result made an impact.
An out-of-town buyer from New York purchased the home for $30,000 more than a comparable, remodeled unit fifteen floors higher, largely driven by the strength of how the home was presented online.
That is the power of thoughtful preparation and the right partnerships.
“I always love working with Busby Group as I know we will get incredible images, due to their partnership in helping capture the perfect shot. I always plan to have extra time for a Busby Group photoshoot as I know they’ll be perfectionists.” 😊
— Nick
Protection When Needed
Owning a home in Chicago comes with its share of unexpected challenges. From frozen gutters and roof leaks to sump pump failures and water intrusion, these moments can be stressful and disruptive.
Having the right partner in place makes all the difference.
Kevin Grady of Allstate Insurance has been an invaluable resource to our clients when these situations arise. What sets Kevin apart is his hands-on, local approach. Rather than navigating a claim through a distant call center, our clients have a trusted advocate who works closely with them to ensure the process is handled properly and efficiently.
Kevin helps guide homeowners through claims with clarity and care, making sure they feel supported and protected every step of the way.
This is not just a professional relationship. Julie personally relies on Kevin for her own insurance needs and has experienced firsthand the level of service he provides. During a challenging situation involving water intrusion, Kevin brought both solutions and a sense of calm to what could have been an overwhelming process.
That level of care is exactly why we confidently connect our clients with him.
Having trusted partners like Kevin is an important part of how we support our clients beyond the transaction. It is not just about buying or selling a home. It is about protecting it long after the closing.
“I love working with Busby Group. They are the most prepared real estate team I have ever encountered, whether it’s city or suburban homes. They are incredibly organized, friendly, and honest with their clients.”
— Kevin Grady
Over a Decade Together
Felix and Delia are some of our favorite long-term clients, and our relationship with them spans more than a decade.
When we first met, they were understandably skeptical about working with a Realtor. After navigating a few challenges on their own, they decided to partner with Busby Group and take a more strategic approach.
Early on, Julie identified a property with strong upside potential. Despite being in a multiple-offer situation, we successfully secured the home and worked closely with them on a vision for the renovation. From design guidance to connecting them with trusted vendors, the goal was to create both a home they loved and a strong, long-term investment.
The outcome exceeded expectations, resulting in a significant profit and setting a strong foundation for what would become a long-standing partnership.
From there, our relationship continued to grow. We have since worked together across a range of opportunities, including renovations and resales, new construction, lot acquisitions, multi-unit investments, and custom home development.
What started as a single transaction evolved into a trusted partnership built on consistency, communication, and shared goals.
“For us, it comes down to three things: availability, responsiveness, and incredible depth of knowledge and connections. We've worked together on everything from lots and new construction to multifamily properties, buying and selling, and Julie and her team have always come through.”
Delia & Felix
The Michael Jordan Penthouse Sale
One of our favorite sales along the way was a truly iconic Gold Coast penthouse once owned by Michael and Juanita Jordan.
Our client, Amit Dadhwal, purchased the home and later partnered with Busby Group to bring it back to market. From the beginning, we knew this property required a highly intentional and strategic approach that matched its significance.
Rather than launching traditionally, we designed a thoughtful off-market strategy focused on creating demand and reaching the right audience:
A dedicated property website
Hand-delivered and mailed invitations to a private event
Staging in collaboration with our preferred designer
Architecturally driven photography and cinematic video
Targeted, off-market broker and buyer outreach
We culminated the strategy with a curated event held on February 23, 2023, a subtle nod to Michael Jordan’s iconic number. Approximately 75 guests attended.
The result was immediate.
The penthouse sold that same day, entirely off-market, setting a record price for the Gold Coast.
This sale is a great example of how preparation, creativity, and relationships can come together to produce an exceptional outcome.
“I interviewed many top brokers in Chicago and selected Busby Group because of their vision, expertise on pricing, hands-on service, and robust marketing. I could not be happier with the outcome of the sale.”
— Amit Dadhwal
Busby Group Gives Back
One of the accomplishments we are most proud of is our ongoing partnership with the Greater Chicago Food Depository.
Giving back has always been a core value for Busby Group. After every closing, we make a donation to the Greater Chicago Food Depository, helping provide meals to individuals and families across Chicago. In addition, we host two annual pantry pick-up drives where we personally collect and deliver non-perishable items from our clients’ homes.
We also recognize that moving can be overwhelming. If coordinating a pantry donation feels like one more thing on the list, our team will step in to pick up and deliver those items directly. It is a small way we can make the process easier while ensuring nothing goes to waste.
Through these efforts, we have helped provide more than 125,000 meals to families across Chicago and have had the opportunity to volunteer directly with the organization.
This partnership reflects something we believe deeply. Real estate is about more than homes. It is about supporting the communities we are fortunate to be part of.
Busby Group Named to Compass Legend Society
Busby Group is honored to be recognized as a Compass Legend Society honoree, an annual distinction awarded to top-producing agents across Compass Chicagoland based on performance in the previous year.
This recognition reflects not just results, but the consistency, care, and collaboration that define how we serve our clients every day.
What the Compass Legend Society Represents
The Compass Legend Society is an exclusive, annual recognition program that highlights top-performing brokers within the Chicagoland market.
Agents are selected based on their production, professionalism, and overall contribution to the Compass community. Being included in this group places Busby Group among a select network of brokers who are consistently delivering results in a competitive and evolving market.
A Team Effort
While this recognition is based on performance, it is truly the result of a collective effort.
Our team works behind the scenes to ensure every detail is thoughtfully managed, from initial strategy and marketing to negotiation and closing. That level of coordination allows us to create a seamless experience for our clients.
We are incredibly proud of our team and the standards they uphold every day.
Gratitude to Our Clients and Partners
We are especially grateful to our clients and partners who trust us to guide them through important real estate decisions.
Our clients who continue to refer friends, family, and colleagues
Our broker partners who collaborate with professionalism and integrity
Our attorneys, lenders, and vendors who help support each transaction
These relationships are the foundation of our business and a major reason we are able to achieve results like this.
Looking Ahead
As we move forward, our focus remains the same:
Thoughtful, data-driven strategy
Strong communication and advocacy
A seamless, concierge-level experience
Recognition like this is meaningful, but what matters most is continuing to deliver for our clients and community.
If you are considering buying or selling in Chicago or the surrounding suburbs, we are always happy to connect and share insight tailored to your goals.
Chicago Named #1 U.S. Metro for Corporate Relocation for the 12th Consecutive Year
Chicago continues to stand out on a national level. For the 12th consecutive year, Chicago has been recognized as the top U.S. metro for corporate relocation, according to a recent announcement from World Business Chicago.
What This Means
Corporate relocation refers to companies choosing to move their headquarters or expand operations into a new city. This recognition reflects continued demand from businesses selecting Chicago for its infrastructure, workforce, and central location.
For 12 straight years, Chicago has led the country in new and expanded corporate facilities, reinforcing its position as a consistent and stable market compared to many other major metros.
Why Companies Continue Choosing Chicago
Several key factors continue to drive corporate relocation into Chicago:
Central location with access to major national and global markets
Diverse economy spanning finance, healthcare, logistics, and technology
Talent pipeline supported by major universities and a large workforce
Transportation infrastructure, including O’Hare International Airport and extensive rail networks
These fundamentals help support long-term economic stability, which directly impacts the housing market.
The Impact on Chicago Real Estate
Corporate relocation plays a meaningful role in housing demand across the city and surrounding suburbs.
Consistent buyer demand from relocating employees and executives
Increased rental demand in neighborhoods near major employment hubs
Steady home price growth, rather than extreme volatility seen in other markets
Ongoing interest in both city and suburban housing options
This type of sustained demand is one of the reasons Chicago’s market has remained relatively balanced over time.
What We Are Seeing Locally
From our perspective at Busby Group, relocation continues to be a consistent source of activity across Chicagoland.
Many buyers are relocating for corporate roles, healthcare positions, and professional services
We are seeing interest across both downtown neighborhoods and suburban communities
A portion of these opportunities occurs through off-market and private networks, where relationships play an important role
Busby Group has built strong partnerships with many of the top national relocation companies, as well as human resources departments within major corporations and hospitals across Chicago. These relationships allow us to support clients early in their transition and provide insight that extends beyond the public market.
Concierge Support for a Seamless Move
Relocating to a new city involves more than just finding the right home. Our in-house concierge team is dedicated to making the process as seamless as possible.
From coordinating movers and setting up utilities to connecting clients with trusted vendors and service providers, we help streamline every step so our clients can focus on settling into their new home and city.
A Long-Term Advantage for Chicago
Unlike markets that experience sharp swings, Chicago’s strength has been its consistency.
Recognition like this reinforces:
Long-term economic stability
Ongoing job growth and business investment
Continued housing demand across multiple price points
For buyers, this provides confidence in long-term value.
For sellers, it supports a steady pool of potential buyers entering the market.
You can read the full report here:
https://worldbusinesschicago.com/allnews/chicago-named-1-u-s-metro-for-corporate-relocation-for-12th-consecutive-year/
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Chicago ranked highly for corporate relocation?
Chicago offers a central location, diverse economy, strong workforce, and major transportation infrastructure, making it attractive for companies expanding or relocating.
How does corporate relocation impact the housing market?
Relocation increases demand for both homes and rentals, particularly in areas near major employers and transportation hubs.
Is relocation activity consistent in Chicago?
Yes. Chicago has ranked as the top metro for corporate relocation for 12 consecutive years, reflecting sustained business investment.
Busby Group Perspective
Relocation has always been an important part of the Chicago market, and it continues to shape demand across neighborhoods and suburbs.
At Busby Group, we regularly work with clients relocating both into and out of Chicago. Our role is to provide local insight, strategic guidance, and access to opportunities, including off-market properties, along with full-service support through our concierge team.
If you would like to better understand how relocation trends may impact your buying or selling plans, we are always happy to share market insights and neighborhood-specific data.
Contact Us
College Basketball Comes to Chicago This March
Where to Watch the Big Games Across Chicago and the Suburbs
March is one of the most exciting times of the year for college basketball fans, and Chicago is right at the center of the action this season.
The Big Ten men’s postseason basketball tournament is currently taking place at the United Center, bringing together programs from across the conference including Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maryland, Michigan, Michigan State, Minnesota, Nebraska, Northwestern, Ohio State, Penn State, Purdue, Rutgers, Wisconsin, Oregon, UCLA, USC, and Washington.
The excitement continues later this month when the national college basketball championship tournament regional rounds return to Chicago, also hosted at the United Center. These games are part of the annual national championship tournament that determines the college basketball champion each spring and draws fans from across the country.
Whether you are attending the games downtown or simply enjoying the atmosphere around the city, Chicago offers countless places to catch the action on big screens with fellow fans.
Below are some great spots to watch the games across Chicago, the North Shore, West Suburbs, and Southwest Suburbs.
Where to Watch the Games in Chicago
Chicago’s sports bar scene is one of the best in the country, and tournament season brings packed rooms, alumni gatherings, and game-day food and drink specials.
River North / Downtown
• Theory
One of Chicago’s premier sports bars featuring dozens of screens and stadium-style viewing. Known for wings, burgers, and an energetic game-day atmosphere.
• Timothy O'Toole's Pub Chicago
A longtime favorite with 70+ TVs and plenty of space for large groups. Often runs game-day drink specials and classic pub food.
Wrigleyville
• DraftKings Sportsbook at Wrigley Field
A two-level sportsbook and sports bar experience adjacent to Wrigley Field. Expect huge screens, stadium seating, and a lively crowd during major sporting events.
Logan Square
• The Moonlighter
Neighborhood favorite with a rooftop patio, great tacos and burgers, and TVs throughout the bar.
West Loop
• Kaiser Tiger
A West Loop staple with a large beer garden and strong beer selection. Great for watching games indoors or outside on warm spring days.
• Haymarket Pub & Brewery
Local brewery with excellent craft beer and a fun sports crowd during big tournaments.
North Shore Watch Spots
For fans watching from the North Shore, several excellent neighborhood sports bars host tournament viewing.
• Buffalo Joe's
A North Shore institution known for its wings and casual sports atmosphere.
• Ten Mile House
Neighborhood tavern with excellent burgers and a welcoming sports crowd.
• Tap House Grill
Spacious bar and restaurant with a wide beer list and plenty of TVs for tournament games.
West Suburbs
If you are watching from the western suburbs, these spots are popular during big sporting events.
• Old Town Pour House
Known for its massive TV wall and large craft beer selection.
• Two Brothers Roundhouse
Historic brewery venue with multiple viewing areas and a lively sports crowd.
• Burger Antics
Great burgers and a relaxed neighborhood vibe while catching the games.
Southwest Suburbs
Sports fans in the southwest suburbs also have several great options to watch the games.
• Durbin's of Tinley Park
Local favorite known for pizza and a casual sports bar atmosphere.
• Bailey's
A lively neighborhood bar with lots of TVs and frequent game-day crowds.
• Hailstorm Brewing Co.
Popular craft brewery that regularly shows major sporting events.
Pregame Spots Near the United Center
If you are heading to the games at the United Center, there are several excellent restaurants and bars just minutes away for food and drinks before tipoff.
• The Ogden
A go-to spot for fans attending Bulls, Blackhawks, and major tournament games.
• Billy Goat Tavern & Grill
Classic Chicago tavern famous for burgers and casual game-day dining.
• Kaiser Tiger
Another strong option just a short ride from the arena with great beer and plenty of seating.
Chicago and College Basketball
Chicago has long been a host city for major college basketball events thanks to the United Center’s central location, passionate sports culture, and strong alumni presence from Big Ten universities across the Midwest.
When the conference tournament and national championship tournament come through the city, fans from across the Midwest travel to Chicago to watch the games and celebrate with fellow alumni.
The result is a citywide atmosphere filled with watch parties, packed sports bars, and a lively sports energy throughout Chicagoland.
FAQ: College Basketball Tournaments in Chicago
Where is the Big Ten basketball tournament being played in Chicago?
The Big Ten men’s postseason tournament is currently being hosted at the United Center on Chicago’s Near West Side.
Will Chicago host games from the national college basketball championship tournament?
Yes. Chicago is hosting regional round games at the United Center as part of the national championship tournament.
What are the best sports bars in Chicago to watch college basketball?
Popular options include Theory in River North, DraftKings Sportsbook at Wrigley Field, Moonlighter in Logan Square, and Kaiser Tiger in the West Loop.
What neighborhoods are near the United Center for pregame food and drinks?
The Near West Side and West Loop neighborhoods offer several great restaurants and bars just minutes from the arena.
Chicago Lifestyle
One of the many reasons people love living in Chicago is the energy that major sporting events bring to the city.
From packed arenas to neighborhood sports bars filled with alumni and fans, the city truly comes alive during major college basketball events.
If you are thinking about buying or selling a home in Chicago or the surrounding suburbs, our team is always happy to share neighborhood insights, market data, and local recommendations. Message us!
Representing Pro Athletes in Real Estate: A Look Inside the Relocation Playbook
Today marks the start of the NFL’s new league year, when free agents can officially begin signing with new teams. For athletes, coaches, and front office staff, this moment often comes with a major life transition that extends far beyond the field. In many cases, it also means relocating to a new city on extremely short notice.
A recent article in Forbes Global Properties, “The Realtor’s Playbook for Representing Pro Athletes on the Move,” explores what it takes to guide professional athletes through real estate decisions during these high-pressure transitions. The piece features insights from our colleague Terry Sprague, CEO of LUXE | Forbes Global Properties, who has extensive experience advising athletes and high-profile clients.
While the article highlights Terry’s experience, the themes it discusses reflect how many top luxury brokerages approach these unique clients. At Busby Group, our team structure and services are designed to support similar needs. As Chicago’s representative for Sportstar Relocation, we are equipped to assist professional athletes, coaches, and sports industry professionals moving to and from Chicago.
One of the key takeaways from the article is how unique these transactions can be. Athletes often face compressed timelines, heightened privacy needs, and logistical considerations that require a broker with both discretion and strong operational support.
As Sprague notes in the article, representing professional athletes requires a different level of preparation and adaptability because timelines can shift quickly, and agents must be ready to act while maintaining strict confidentiality.
You can read the full article here:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbes-global-properties/2026/02/13/the-realtors-playbook-for-representing-pro-athletes-on-the-move/
Chicago and the Constant Movement of Professional Sports
Chicago is home to some of the most iconic franchises in professional sports, including the Bears, Bulls, Cubs, White Sox, Blackhawks, Sky, and Fire. With these organizations come athletes, coaches, executives, and support staff who relocate to and from the city throughout the year.
These moves rarely happen on a typical timeline. Trades, signings, and coaching changes can require housing solutions within days, not weeks.
That is where experienced relocation professionals play a critical role.
Busby Group and Sportstar Relocation
Busby Group is proud to serve as Chicago’s representative for Sportstar Relocation, a national network that specializes in assisting professional athletes and sports industry professionals with housing transitions.
Learn more about our role here:
https://sportstarrelocation.com/julie-busby/
Sportstar Relocation connects athletes and teams with trusted local experts who understand the unique demands of sports-related moves, including:
Privacy and discretion
Rapid timelines and off-market opportunities
Luxury property sourcing
Coordination with agents, teams, and family members
Concierge-Level Service and Discretion
At Busby Group, we understand that many clients in the sports world value both privacy and efficiency. Our team provides concierge-level service that supports every aspect of a relocation, from identifying homes that meet security and lifestyle needs to coordinating move logistics and trusted vendors.
Whether working with professional athletes, executives, or relocating families, our approach remains the same: thoughtful strategy, complete discretion, and full-service support throughout the process.
A Global Network of Trusted Advisors
Relocation is rarely limited to one city. Athletes and sports professionals often move across the country or internationally throughout their careers.
Through our relationships with relocation networks, brokerage partners, and industry professionals around the world, Busby Group is able to help clients transition smoothly whether they are moving to Chicago or from Chicago to their next chapter.
If you are relocating to Chicagoland, or know someone in the sports industry who may be making a move, our team is always happy to help provide insight, guidance, and trusted local expertise. Contact us today.