Exciting Holiday Decorating Trends for 2020

 

Festive lights and decor get us excited for all things gift-giving and feasting. And to be honest, holiday decor just gives us something different and uplifting to look at. Here are a few holiday decorating trends that are likely to get us excited about and bring warmth to this year’s holiday at home.

DIY Decor

 

Without added commutes and social obligations, many of us find ourselves with time to spare. So why not create your holiday decor this year? The internet is full of fun ideas to make wreaths, garland, throw blankets, custom ornaments and so much more!

The great thing about DIY is that you can share what you make with others. The decorations you made yourself are great gifts for friends and family. Use what you have at home: scrap paper, yarn, ribbon, paper plates, and plastic cups. All these materials are useful when creating your own decor items. Not to mention, DIY decor is a wonderful way to reuse and recycle items.

Neutrals and Natural Elements

Holiday decorating trends 2020 are pushing neutrals — we’re talking wool, burlap, lumberjack checker patterns, woodland creatures, and chunky knits. We’re loving the basics this year; just the simple decor and subtle items seamlessly integrated into your home. You can put a wooly yarn wrapped wreath on your coat stand or a few new pillows on your couch with creamy colors and soft textures. It’s about creating a sense of warmth and comfort this holiday season.

Also, using neutrals is less disruptive to your home. If you’re looking to sell your home, this is a plus for buyers. They want to see your house as it is without too many distractions.

Front Door Decorations

Bring the holidays out to your neighbors this season. While we are all at home this year, you can add to the joy in your neighborhood or building by adding a festive wreath and signs on your front door. If you’re feeling in the DIY mood, wreaths are easy to make yourself! You can even make it a project that children can help with.

Whether you live in a South Loop townhome or New Eastside high rise, you can boost neighborhood morale by adding simple, festive touches to your front door. Check Pinterest for fun and easy front door decorations.

Spread Holiday Themes Throughout the House

Christmas decor is not limited to your living room. We suggest bringing a little bit into every room of your home! Here are some ideas to sprinkle holiday cheer throughout your home:

• Add seasonal hand towels and scented soaps to bathrooms.
• Place cheerful tea towels in the kitchen.
• Drape garland on the banisters.
• Buy cinnamon scented pine cones and place them around your home.
• Seasonal pillows make fun and cozy additions to sofas and beds.
• Warm flannel bed sheets aren’t an obvious addition, but they sure are nice.

 

Nostalgia Decor

 

These days, people are craving what they remember — grandma’s aluminum Christmas tree, this ceramic tree that everyone seemed to have, or mercury glass ornaments. Bring it all back and into your home for a beautiful and nostalgic holiday mood. Deck your halls with tinsel, baubles, and more. Bring on the kitsch!

If you have a home with a mid-century or Victorian aesthetic, you can work some of the era’s decor into your home. Mid-century decor relies on fun pastels, geometric shapes, and plastic accent pieces. Victorian decor, on the other hand, is quite traditional: luscious evergreen garlands, big bows, and stockings hung on the mantle are an exemplar of the season. Don’t be afraid to embrace something different this year if it boosts the overall look of your home.

Holiday Decorating Trends:  Do What You Like

This year, there is no right or wrong way to celebrate the holidays. It’s really about doing what feels right. What are your needs and wants? That’s what you should be rewarding yourself with this year when it comes to stylizing your home. Some people need cozy while others need bright and shiny. There are even those who want to celebrate their holiday the way their parents and grandparents did. Now is the time to start new traditions and fully immerse yourself in the mood of the season.

Need more style tips or want to discuss your next moves on buying or selling your home? I can help guide you! Contact me today to get started, and have a safe and happy holiday season!

 THIS ARTICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED AT: https://www.terribuseman.com/exciting-holiday-decorating-trends/

 

 

Prepare Your Home for the Winter in Pandemic Year

The weather is already changing and the idea of living through cold weather during a pandemic is becoming a reality. Last year, we gave some simple tips to prepare your home for winter, but this year, things are different. We’re living through a time that has changed and will continue to change our behavior in order to ensure our safety. But don’t be discouraged! You can beat cabin fever with some creativity and at the same time, do some practical maintenance to protect your home from frigid temperatures. Let’s start with the practical action items to prepare your home for the winter this fall, and keep your home in top-selling condition.

Do a Fall Cleanup

While the weather is tolerable, let’s start winterizing the outside of the home with a fall cleanup.

When you prepare your single-family home or townhome for the winter, here are a few things you can do:

• Clean the Gutters: Clean gutters help snowmelt run smoothly. It prevents dangerous icicles from forming and moves water away from your home, preventing leaks and water damage.
• Trim Perennials: If your plants are coming back in the spring, trim them now to encourage new growth. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, there are many landscape companies that offer a winterizing package. They will mow your lawn for the final time and trim anything needed. The best part? They take clippings with them!
• Cover Outdoor Furniture: Protect your patio or balcony furniture by investing in good-quality covers. Windy, ice, and water can severely damage even the toughest materials.
• Sprinkler and Water Spigot Maintenance: Sprinkler systems should be drained and shut down for the season. Water in pipes can freeze and burst, causing a slew of issues. Garden hoses should be brought indoors, and water spigots should be covered. An insulating cover will reduce heat loss that is naturally transmitted through your home’s pipes.

For those in condos in neighborhoods like The Loop or New East Side, you don’t often have to worry about building and landscaping maintenance. However, there are some things you can do in your unit to make things more comfortable during the coldest winter months:

• Install Draft Stoppers: These foam or bean-filled rolls are placed at the bottom of your doors to keep cold drafts from entering your home. If you have any exterior doors, these are a must.
• Reverse the Rotation of Ceiling Fans: Changing the rotation of your fan will pull cool air up and displace the warm air near the ceiling.
• Get Insulated Curtains: Large windows bring lots of light in but they also cool your home. Heavy insulating curtains will keep your room much warmer.
• Buy a Humidifier: Humidifiers will put moisture into the air, relieving you of sinus congestion and dry skin so common during cold months. More moist air also means more efficient heating in your home.

Have Your HVAC System Checked & Ducts Cleaned

Comfort begins with temperature and humidity. So, one great thing you can do is to get your HVAC system serviced by a professional. They will make sure your filters are in good shape, check your home humidifier (or install one if you don’t have one), and let you know if there are any possible issues. You don’t want something to go wrong in the middle of a cold snap.

Have you noticed your allergies get worse when you turn on your heat for the season? You probably need to order a duct cleaning service. Duct cleaning is especially important if you have done any construction or remodeling in the home. The service is very affordable. Keep an eye out for deals or coupons in the mail from area companies. The deep cleaning will leave you breathing better.

Prepare Your Home for the Winter by Creating Cozy Spaces in Your Home

When you’re stuck inside, it’s important that you enjoy your surroundings. So, now’s the time to get some new throw pillows, lap blankets, and even an electric fireplace to create ambiance. The Danish people call this coziness “hygge,” and they understand how this feeling can lead to contentment.

Don’t just create one cozy space in your home, create several. That way, you can move around your home for a change of scenery. For instance, you can do your morning reading at the kitchen table with a lit candle that smells of your favorite things. Then, you can migrate to a window that faces the street to do some people watching. You can move a chair right in front of the window for the season (that means possibly rearranging your room). Embrace the change!

Make Plans for Being Inside

Movie nights, game nights, catching up on those books piled next to your bed — these are all things to do while you’re indoors. If you have kids, include them in your routine. Kids of all ages can help cook or clean, or at least they can watch you work. There are plenty of opportunities for teachable moments and quality time when you’re all together.

Make Plans for Being Outside

Cabin fever is a real thing. And cortisol levels will raise, along with your blood pressure. And the pandemic limits the indoor spaces we can visit. But in Chicago, we’re no strangers to cold weather, and we know what it feels like to bundle up and walk to the local drinking hole or grocery store. So, now’s the time to buy any outerwear you need to get outside even when it’s cold. With the right clothing, you can take walks, head to the dog park with your fur baby, or visit your favorite local shops without too much discomfort. Getting outside will revitalize you.

Planning to Sell your Home? Take Photos

While the leaves are changing and the snow is still a memory from last winter, take photos of your home if you’re planning to sell within the next six months. Not only will your home look flattering, but if you wait, snow can distort the look of your home. Pale gray skies can wash out colors and thus, the beauty of your home. Pick a sunny autumn day and have a photo shoot that shows off the best aspects of your property!

As we head into the cooler seasons, I want you to know that I’m here for you. These last months have been unusual to say the least, but rest assured, the housing market continues to operate with remarkable success. As you prepare your home for the winter, I’m here to guide you and help you sell your home no matter what the circumstances.

THIS ARTICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED AT: https://www.terribuseman.com/prepare-your-home-for-the-winter-pandemic-year/

5 Design Tips for a Multifunctional Home

When it comes to city life, finding the space in your home to do all things you love can be challenging. And these days, we’re home more than ever. As we adjust to our new normal, we need to adapt the way we live and the way we work. Many of us are using our kitchen counters as offices and our coffee tables as desks for remote learning. Therefore, our homes need to be more versatile than ever. So, here are some clever interior design tips to make your home a masterpiece of multifunction.

Where do you start in Designing a Multifunctional Home?

The first thing to remember when designing a multifunctional home is to consider your personal needs. Do you need a quiet place to work? Are you comfortable working where you sleep? Are your kids comfortable virtual learning in their bedroom? Those things matter because your productivity matters. Here are 5 interior design tips for a multifunctional home that will make your space more workable for you as well as more desirable for prospective buyers.

1. Elevate Beds to Create More Space

Especially when it comes to kid’s rooms, space to play and space to sleep is crucial. Many city homes don’t have space for a dedicated play area. Bunk beds and loft beds elevate the sleeping space, making more room for play or study. Beneath loft beds, you can place a desk, book nook, or a pretend play area. These spaces grow with your child too. This extra space can be whatever it needs to be as your child ages. Bunk beds are ideal for children sharing a room and gives them communal space to play.

Adults benefit from loft beds too. These days, there are many small space solutions for sleeping. The space beneath the loft bed may be used for work or even as a petite wardrobe. Again, this bonus space is the key to creating a multifunctional room.

2. Eat-in Kitchens Can Be Formal, Too

In small homes, eat-in kitchens are often your only dining option, and that’s okay! These days, everyone congregates in the kitchen, and that’s because it’s where all the action is happening: drinks are being poured and appetizers being prepared! You can capitalize on all that magnetic energy to which your guests are called. While you might not be hosting much these days, that doesn’t mean you can’t make a space that’s attractive for prospective buyers. Help them envision dinner parties and get-togethers around your kitchen island. Even a two-seater eat-in kitchen can be made more exciting by adding cloth napkins and place settings. Mood lighting may be added with small lamps or a set of lovely candles, and fresh flowers are always a welcome sight.

3. Bring Back the Murphy Bed

The Murphy Bed was born of necessity – the inventor had a driving desire to hide his bed, so he could entertain his friends.  Murphy beds have come a long way from their beginnings in small New York apartments. These days, there are murphy beds set into wardrobes, secret wall compartments, or can be mounted horizontally! Murphy beds are a unique way to hide away a sleeping area to reclaim floor space. Now a room can be used for study, crafting, playtime, and so much more. The only limit is our imagination!

4.  Integrate Your Home Office… Anywhere!

Most of us living in the city are not lucky enough to have a dedicated office space. Thankfully, there are so many ways to integrate your home office anywhere you want to work in your home. It’s really about your comfort and ability to focus while you work. So, if you are happy to stand at your kitchen counter sipping coffee while catching up on your emails, that’s totally an option. If you prefer a dedicated area to sit and work, take a look around your home. There are plenty of murphy desks or tiny desks available to help you get your work done. A lamp will add extra lighting to work by, and a small area rug under the desk will define the space. Just like that, your workplace vignette will be complete.

5. Clutter Has No Place in a Multifunctional Home

Multifunctional spaces don’t work well if they take too long to transition. A multifunctional home should have integrated spaces, like the home office we discussed above, or it should take one or two steps to transition to another space. You can limit the effort needed by keeping things simple. In small spaces, home decor needs to be minimalist. Everything should have its place and utilize baskets and bins where necessary. Baskets and bins are easy to pick up and move to another area to make room for the desired activity. A clutter-free home also makes your rooms feel larger, and that’s attractive to home buyers.

If all these ideas and interior design tips are not enough to help you reclaim some space in your home, up-sizing is always an option. Today, many buyers are taking advantage of the low-interest rates to buy larger homes. As always, I’m here to offer guidance on today’s real estate market and to guide you in selling your home. While the pandemic is a challenge for us all, we’re learning so much about how to cope in order to continue living our lives, working, and educating our children.

THIS ARTICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED AT: https://www.terribuseman.com/chicago-real-estate-resources/

The Market is Strong: Selling & Buying Real Estate During COVID-19

Buying or selling your home is a big step that’s often emotionally challenging. Trying to do it during a pandemic can feel even more daunting. However, despite the fluctuations in different markets, real estate has been resilient – buying real estate and selling real estate are both active. Or, as The Economist puts it, America’s housing market “seems strangely oblivious” to today’s current issues. Is this something we will continue to experience? Our perceptions of what normal looks like are being challenged more so than ever before.  

But in this post-COVID-19 real estate market, what is the new normal? Now isn’t time to pass up on your dream home or avoid listing your home. There is solid evidence showing that not only is now a great time to buy or sell your home but that doing so now could be an advantageous long-term investment.

Buying Real Estate: Incentives Await You

Buyers, we’re always waiting for the “right” time. And with all the things going on in the world, now might not feel like the right time to buy a home. However, COVID-19 isn’t having quite the impact we expected. While we have to change our behavior to keep ourselves safe and healthy, it doesn’t have to stop us from establishing a life in a new place. Here are some reasons I believe now is a special window of opportunity for home buyers:

Interest Rates are Low

In the past few weeks, Freddie Mac has reported the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate has dropped to record lows – down to 3.03%. This means your dollar will stretch more. Over a 30-year mortgage, you can find homes with higher price points, opening the menu of homes available to you.

Home Buying Assistance

In Illinois, during COVID-19, people buying real estate had 60 home buyer programs to choose from, depending on their requirements. For many millennial home buyers, this might be your chance to stop renting and own a home. Homeownership is a worthwhile investment because, as this pandemic is proving, the real estate market is relatively stable.

Flexible, Safe Options for Home Tours

You don’t have to put yourself and your loved ones at risk to find your future home. Instead, you can book special private house tours, view virtual tours, or utilize several other ways to access the details of a listing. With the varieties of technology at our fingertips on our mobile phones alone, you have options for safe home tours.

Selling Real Estate: The Demand is Here

Demand is putting it lightly. With fewer homes on the market over the past few years, buyers are motivated to find their home and put down an offer. Therefore, now is the time to list your home on the market.

Interest in Single-Family Homes is Strong

Demands for single-family homes are increasing. It’s now higher than pre-pandemic days. According to Forbes, buyer demand is now 25% higher than before the pandemic. That’s impressive, but it’s also reassuring. When you put your home on the market, you can do so knowing that the current environment weighs in your favor.

Homes are Selling – Fast

With fewer houses on the market and lots of buyers, it’s easy to see why homes are selling fast. While it might make things more challenging for home buyers, it’s a boon for home sellers. If you’re selling real estate in this COVID-19 world, your success is almost guaranteed. Fast sales and bidding wars are not uncommon these days. Constant communication is necessary, and you’ll rely heavily on your agent to guide you through this exciting process.

Marketing a Home Has Never Been Easier

Since COVID-19 led to a stay-at-home order in Illinois earlier this year, real estate agents like myself were faced with a special moment. To keep our clients and ourselves safe, we had to leverage the technology we already had at our disposal. And it was extremely successful. Here are some ways I am using digital channels to market my client’s homes:

Virtual Tours: Virtual tours can be pre-recorded or hosted in real-time using apps like FaceTime, Zoom, or Duo. These virtual tours are a great substitute for in-person home tours. For a live virtual tour, prospective home buyers can ask questions and learn as many details as possible without stepping foot in your home.

Digital Flipbooks: Digital flipbooks are interactive online brochures. The high-quality layouts and stunning photos cast your home in the best light possible to attract interested buyers. These digital flipbooks are convenient, and URLs can be provided to anyone who wants to see your home.

Videos: Videos are common enough in the real estate world and are no longer in the purview of high-ticket homes. With a mobile device, high-resolution, motion-stable video recordings are possible.

Social Media: Social media is the place to be when selling your home. I love using social media to reach home buyers. It’s a great way to reach a lot of people at once. Images and hashtags make it easy for buyers to find your home.

Buying real estate or selling your home doesn’t have to be much different than it was five or six months ago. Agents, along with buyers and sellers, have become savvier in the face of disruptions to the way we’ve been doing things. The new normal is this:

1.  Increased virtual communication

2.  More flexibility in the way we do business by utilizing technology

3.  Optimism in the face of adversity by continuing to live our lives the safest way we can

3.  Relying on our communities to keep our neighborhoods protected and local businesses flourishing

 I hope we can enjoy this vision of the new normal together as we continue to live life and do business in 2020.

Work with the Best, Talk to Terri Buseman – Your Chicago Realtor: 1-312-208-5166

THIS ARTICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED AT: https://www.terribuseman.com/selling-buying-real-estate-during-covid-19/

Good News! It’s the Right Time for Selling or Buying a Home

If you have been keeping tabs on the pandemic as I have, you know that the stock market has been affected tremendously, and the economy is taking a colossal hit because of the coronavirus. Naturally, many wonder how that financial hit translates into the real estate market. If you were thinking about buying or selling a home in 2020, the pandemic may have you wondering if you should rethink that plan. Despite the challenges of social distancing and life in the age of COVID-19, signs of resilience in the real estate market are strong and the news is good. Buyers are buying and sellers are selling!

According to Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist with the National Association of Realtors, after a pause from the pandemic “home sellers are gearing up to list their properties with the reopening of the economy… plenty of buyers also appear ready to take advantage of record-low mortgage rates and the stability that comes with locked-in monthly payments into future years.” 

As we reemerge from sheltering-in-place and adjust to life in a “new normal”, the basic process of selling and buying a home remains the same with finding solutions and adjustments to keep everyone involved as safe and protected as possible.

If you are in a position where you would like to buy or sell a home during this time, here are some important tips to help you successfully navigate selling your property and buying your dream home!

A Chicago Realtor’s Best Tips for Selling or Buying a Home During a Pandemic

 

Top 5 Tips for Home Sellers

1. Plan Ahead. Getting your home ready to sell takes planning and patience. From decluttering to cleaning, most sellers find there is much to do to get their house ready for potential buyers. Keep in mind, if you need to schedule work to be done by a handyman, home stager, or another professional, planning ahead is very important as their availability will impact the date your house is ready to be on the market. Be prepared for some delays when booking a designer, painter, or contractor as they may not be as readily available as they were prior to the pandemic.

2. Access to Your Home. Discuss with your realtor how comfortable you are with prospective buyers coming in and out of your home. Our utmost concern is to keep you healthy and protected. So, during showings, we will require that everyone wears gloves, booties, and masks. It is also reasonable to ask potential buyers to limit touching furniture, surfaces, and other items in your home as much as possible.  And of course, after a showing, you will want to ensure all commonly touched surfaces are cleaned and sanitized like light switches, door handles, faucets and surfaces.

3. Take Advantage of Technology.  From virtual tours and 3D walkthroughs to videoconferencing and Facetime, today’s technology makes it easy to view a property and minimize face-to-face meetings when discussing the sale of your home. Be sure you (or your realtor) upload a floor plan as well as high-quality pictures of your home to many different real estate websites such as MLS, Zillow, and Trulia and your social media channels online.

4. Create Virtual Tours and Showings. When your home is staged and camera ready, make sure you or your realtor film a virtual tour of your home. If a virtual tour is done well, a potential buyer can experience your home as they take a virtual walkthrough its rooms. Once filmed, these virtual tours can be uploaded on the many real estate sites and social media channels allowing potential buyers to easily view your home day or night. If a potential buyer shows serious interest, offer the opportunity to schedule a virtual showing via FaceTime or Zoom to allow viewing the home in real-time.

5. Get a COVID-19 Waiver. When potential buyers are serious about your property and want to schedule a showing, those potential buyers should sign an appropriate COVID-19 waiver confirming that they do not have COVID-19 and that they have not come into contact with anyone with COVID-19 in the past 14 days.

Top 5 Tips for Home Buyers

1.  Investigate Best Mortgage Options. Mortgage rates are attractive right now which is good news. However, it is important to evaluate different lenders and their requirements. With the financial uncertainty caused by the pandemic, some lenders have more stringent income guidelines. Excellent financing is available but be well-advised on requirements and gather all important documentation to make for a smooth process. An experienced realtor is a great source for quality mortgage providers so be sure to seek their guidance and recommendations.

2. Be Mindful of Seller’s Rules for Showings. Speak to your realtor about that particular seller’s rules regarding in-person viewings. We want to minimize the number of people who come in contact with the home. Some sellers will have certain, stricter limitations, while others do not.  You want to respect the sellers so that you can keep everyone as safe as possible and set the tone for positive negotiations when you’re ready to present an offer to a seller.

3. Narrow Down Your Top Contenders. Screen your options as much as possible so that you minimize the number of homes you have to see in person.  Many real estate websites provide easy search features for you to find, filter, and save homes for sale that interest you so that you can keep track of their status, request a showings, or get up-to-date market value of the property.

4. Take Advantage of Digital Technology in Your Home Search. Today more than ever, digital technology makes finding and falling in love with the perfect new home easy. With all of the online tools and internet options readily available like real estate websites and social medial channels, it’s possible for you to look at detailed floor plans and pictures of rooms, special features, interior details, and exterior views of homes offered for sale. Since the pandemic, digital technology plays a vital role in the house-hunting process. Whether by FaceTime, Zoom, or other video call technology, savvy realtors are holding virtual tours and taking advantage of video call options to show homes virtually.  Check listings daily, and subscribe to real estate sites to keep up-to-date with the most recent listing posts.

5. Start the Process Early.  The coronavirus has slowed down nearly every aspect of the home buying process – whether that be with obtaining financing and locating the right property to obtaining home inspections and getting necessary appraisals. There are extra hoops to jump through, additional regulations, and more time needed for the various professionals involved in closing a real estate transaction. Dealing with these additional requirements naturally slows down the process. Starting early and armed with an extra dose of patience will make the process of buying your dream home during a pandemic a smooth one.

Regardless of these extra precautions and changes, remember that everything else involved in the process to prepare your home as a seller or search for homes as a buyer remains the same. The changes in response to the pandemic are just to add these extra precautions to keep ourselves and those around us safe.

When you are ready to sell your property or begin your search for your new home, it is my honor to help you, we can navigate your journey together!  Contact me today to discuss your purchase or sale.  I am passionate about helping every client succeed in every aspect of the buying and selling process.

Work with the Best, Talk to Terri Buseman – Your Chicago Realtor: 1-312-208-5166.

THIS ARTICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED AT: https://www.terribuseman.com/good-news-its-the-right-time-for-selling-or-buying-a-home/

Home is Your Sanctuary – Especially in Uncertain Times

We have all been spending a lot more time at home lately, navigating a “new normal” from inside four walls. This time has given me a chance to think and reflect upon the meaning of the home. For me, a home extends much further than a financial asset or a roof over my head – it is a mindset that can be created anywhere you need it to be with the right approach. In the traditional sense, a home is a gift, whether you own or rent.  By taking an active approach to minimizing stressors in your space and amplifying what makes you feel at ease, you can turn any space into a physical and mental sanctuary.

Bring balance to your living space

Wherever you currently find yourself, it’s important to reflect on what comforts you about your home. Start by making a list of things you love. A few questions you can ask yourself are:

• What qualities of your home feel the most comfortable for you?
• What aspects of your home do you appreciate?
• What decisions in your home design or arrangement are pleasing to you now?
• Where is your happy corner?
• What areas do the children love the most?

Consider the aesthetics of your home. You likely have rooms that you naturally gravitate towards. This could be for several reasons. For example, neutral tones may give you a sense of calm and reassurance. Take note of your preferences and incorporate those themes in the other rooms of your home.

Similarly, there may be parts of your home or its aesthetics may actually be causing you stress.  Common stressors are:

• Outdated look Lack of light
• Confined or cluttered space
• Aging appliances that require unplanned financial investment

Identify and address what is causing you stress in each room and write it down. Engage the people you live with. Even if you don’t have the funds to update your furniture or paint, de-cluttering is a free way to improve home equity and re-imagine your space. Keep in mind, it’s important to combine functionality with aesthetics. You want to aim to create a beautiful space that is also functional to your lifestyle.

Find opportunities to re-purpose space

When you look at your space through a new lens, you might be surprised to find that it could be used for multiple things. Optimize the space that you have to organize and fulfill your various needs. Consider making rooms multifunctional. This takes creativity and out-of-the-box thinking. Can the kitchen island be transformed into an online learning classroom during certain hours, or can the bedroom become a virtual meeting room for when ‘no distractions’ are needed? The point is to re-imagine spaces in the house, configure them for flexibility, and set guidelines for multiple uses.

Make your home your own

During these uncertain times, one thing is irrefutable — the home has taken on an added emphasis as our shelter and safe haven. Our homes have evolved into our workplaces, virtual classrooms, and family entertaining spaces. Now, more than ever, we are motivated to make our homes more beautiful, safe, multi-functional, and comfortable.

Here are a few resources that you can use to jumpstart your reorganizing and redecorating your home.

• Pinterest is a great resource for saving ideas that inspire you. Once you’ve pinpointed an aesthetic or an interior design style that you seem to be gravitating towards, start listing items that you would like to purchase for the home.
• Decorating does not have to be expensive. Here are some practical ideas for budget-friendly decorating.
• If you also need some further interior design inspiration, this blog gives you 33 tips on how to make your home cozy. Apartment Therapy has a great article on making your home as inviting as possible.

While there are many ideas and resources available to help you create your sanctuary, it’s best to follow your heart. Because that is where home is.

THIS ARTICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED AT: https://www.terribuseman.com/meaning-of-home-in-uncertain-times/

6 Things You Can Do Right Now to Help Your Community During the Coronavirus

 

 

We are now living in an unprecedented scary time and nerves are high from the frightening daily updates about the latest coronavirus outbreak.  It is now more important than ever to come together as a community to not only fight the virus and flatten the curve but to also help out others in need.  Some of you may be wondering how you can help out, but have no idea where to start. Here are five things that you can do right now to help out your community during the Coronavirus Pandemic.

 

1. Put your mask on before assisting others

Do you know how on airplanes, they tell you to put your oxygen masks on first before assisting others?  The same goes for right now. Before doing anything else, take precautions to protect yourself first from COVID-19.  Stay inside, and practice social distancing.  Social distancing (which should be called physical distancing), if you don’t know, is the conscious group effort to reduce close contact between people to hopefully stop community transmission of the virus.  By staying home, you are not putting others at risk, and protecting those in high-risk populations. Ultimately, social distancing will help flatten the curve. Here is a simulator that shows you how we can flatten the curve.   

2. Avoid gathering in public places

 Ideally, you should be six feet away from your neighbor.  Remember to also disinfect places around you that people are always touching.  I know that I will be disinfecting door knobs and all the surfaces in my home.  Governor J.B. Pritzker had issued a stay at home ban starting March 21st. Unless you must run necessary errands, try to respect this ban as much as possible — and stay inside.   

This also means that you should limit in-person visitation to people who are in assisted-living facilities and nursing homes.  While it may upset you that you cannot be with your mother or grandmother during this time, by visiting her in person, you would actually be putting her at a higher risk of catching the coronavirus.  So try visiting your loved ones virtually – through FaceTime or Skype – so that you can say hello without putting them at extra risk. 
 
And most importantly, wash your hands regularly.  Sing happy birthday to yourself twice, if it helps you remember to do a thorough clean. 

 

3. Support local businesses

Governor J. B. Pritzker had ordered that all bars and restaurants must be closed to dine-in customers from March 16th to March 30th.  Your local mom and pop shops will be feeling the blow from this ban. While dining in the restaurant is not an option for the time being, you will still be able to order for take-out.  Some restaurants now even offer curbside pickup! If you can, order takeout and support your restaurants. If you are in the position to, remember to tip well.  But if you feel that it is unwise to go in person to order takeout, purchase gift cards for the restaurants to use at a later date when the ban has been lifted.  This helps the restaurants because it gives them cash to use right now during this difficult time.  And you’ll have a gift card to treat yourself or your significant other to a wonderful dinner in the future!

4.  Foster a dog or a cat

If you feel that you and your children will go stir crazy from having to stay inside, foster a pet!  Now is the perfect time to foster a dog or cat so that you can teach your kids what it is really like to have a dog or a cat!  Animal Care and Control, as well as the many adoption and rescue centers, are always overflowing with pets who need a home.  Having a foster pet will not only help you pass the time, but it will also help with your stress and anxiety levels during this difficult time.
 
Here are some recommended places to look for a foster pet: Second City Canine Rescue, PAWS Chicago, K9 for Keeps, Safe Humane, and Chicago Canine Rescue, among many others.  If you would like more information on helping out with emergency relief fosters, click here.  Click here if you would like to sign up to foster!

5. Take care of the elderly and those in need

If you are young and in the low-risk population, offer to help out those in the high-risk populations.  Reach out to elderly people in your community or someone who is immunocompromised, and offer to go grocery shopping for them and run errands for them.  It will be much safer for you to walk about than for them to leave the house. 

Also, if you have extra resources, try to reach out to families with children that are in need that may need help with lunch, now that schools are closed.  Any way that you can offer assistance and support to your community will be greatly appreciated in this trying time

6. Join your local Facebook group

Now, for South Loop, there is a Facebook group called “Hello, South Loop!”.  These Facebook groups are wonderful because it allows you to stay in touch with your community.  Oftentimes, moms will post on there and ask if there is someone willing to watch her kids at a short notice.  Others will post that they are immunocompromised and need help running errands. By joining this group, it gives you the opportunity to help out your community when you can, and interact with others who live close to you.  Staying in touch with your community will provide many opportunities to offer a lending hand when you can, especially during the unprecedented Coronavirus pandemic in our lifetime.

We are in this together as we work through the Coronavirus Pandemic 

 

While this is an extremely stressful situation for many, if we look on the bright side of things, you may become more in touch with your community now more than ever.  Just keep telling yourself – this too shall pass. In the meantime, try to keep yourself as healthy as possible and show compassion to businesses and people around you.  Whenever you can, lend a helping hand and heart virtually or physically. I am here to provide support to my south loop community in any way I can.  If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out.  I would love to help out in any way I know-how.  Stay strong; we are in this together.  If you have any specific COVID-19 questions, be sure to check out the CDC’s website.

THIS ARTICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED AT: https://www.terribuseman.com/help-your-community-during-coronavirus-pandemic/

7 Tips To Make The Most Of Your Open House

Have you noticed it yet? The days are getting longer. The sun is starting to shine again. And, as the temps slowly begin to rise, people are venturing outside once more. The time is right to take advantage of Open Houses. Here, we discuss tips a successful open house experience for both sellers and buyers.

Open Houses are beneficial for sellers and buyers. It’s a great way for sellers to showcase their home. It’s also a stress-free way for buyers to learn more about a neighborhood, as well as determine what they like and don’t like in a home.

When done correctly, open houses can often help sell properties faster and sometimes for more money.  Depending on the condition of your home, this might mean simply sprucing a few things up. Or, it may mean a major overhaul with staging. My goal is to help sellers successfully prepare their home for viewing and get buyers to see potential opportunities.

Prepare for a Successful Open House

I’ve put together a list of tips to help sellers and buyers make the most of Open Houses. From townhomes and single-family homes to condos and lofts, you’ll be prepared to either sell or find your dream home.

1.  Sellers Need to Declutter, Declutter, Declutter!

Spend a few days getting rid of your clutter. Clear off the hall table, the dining room table, and your kitchen and bathroom counters. To make your space seem larger, consider moving some of your furniture to storage, the basement, or the garage. Now would also be a good time to remove personal and expensive items throughout the house, including prescription medicines and financial documents. You want buyers to feel welcome with the freedom to imagine their own items in the home.

2.  Focus On Detailed Cleaning For Your Open House

Before you set a date for your open house, do a major cleaning. You may even want to hire a service initially. No corner should be left untouched. This includes baseboards, windows (inside and out), window screens, windowsills, ceiling fans, lamps and lampshades, fireplaces, floors, walls, and appliances. In addition, make sure to clean bedding, towels, rugs and carpets, etc. Scour all of your bathrooms. Wash shower curtains and make sure tubs and toilets sparkle. Sweep your front porch or balcony, as well as your garage. Make sure your lawn is well maintained and clear of any toys or debris.

 Keeping your home clean throughout the week is the hardest part. To avoid major housework, do your best to tidy up every day.  On the day of your Open House, if the weather allows, open your windows to get fresh air circulating.

Just as sellers focus on every detail, buyers should do the same. Carefully look at baseboards, walls, and ceilings for signs of leaks, cracks, mold, or mildew.

3.  Set the Mood for Your Successful Open House

Set the tone for a pleasant experience by creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Place flowers and plants on your porch or deck. Hang a wreath on your front door. Replace your outdoor mat with something fun for spring. If you have a driveway, move your car to the street for a better, unobstructed view.

As the homeowner, you may not realize your home harbors certain odors. Ask a friend or your realtor for their opinion. House odors are a major turnoff. However, rather than use air fresheners or highly scented candles, take time to thoroughly clean carpets, drapes, and other soft surfaces that may retain odors. It’s easy to rent carpet cleaners from Home Depot or your local grocery store. Add fresh scents and a burst of color with a few beautiful bouquets of flowers. Place them in your dining room, the kitchen, or the bathroom. Also, consider some sort of refreshments for visitors to enjoy.

Adjust your temperature depending on the weather. If it’s cold outside, make sure your home is warm and cozy. In warmer months, keep it cooler. This will also let potential buyers know your heating and cooling systems work.

Let the light in to make your home bright and cheery. Open the blinds, shutters, and drapes. Turn on all the lights and lamps. If certain rooms are dark, consider adding a table or floor lamp to improve your lighting.

If you have a yard, deck, or balcony, put out photos showcasing your outdoor space during warmer months so buyers can envision enjoying summer activities.

4.  Repairs and Staging

Go through your home and make a list of all the things that need to be repaired or replaced. Many of these can be quick fixes that will improve the appearance of your home. One of the easiest things you can do to freshen up your home is to paint it. Replacing cabinet doors and fixtures, rusty faucets, wall outlets, or scratched toilet seats won’t break the bank, but could potentially increase the value of your home. If some repairs, like leaks or electrical issues, are beyond your expertise, consider hiring a handyman.

Staging is another option to improve the marketability of your home. Making a few simple changes, inside and out, can drastically increase the value of your home, and potentially cover the expense.

While staging can make a home look better and diminish some superficial flaws, buyers should still pay close attention to every detail. What specific imperfections are deal breakers?

Open Houses can help buyers figure out their priorities when purchasing a home.

 5.What About Pets?

It’s best to remove your pet from your home on the day of the open house. With buyers coming and going, removing pets ensures their safety. You don’t want them to escape without anyone noticing. Take your dog for a walk, go to the dog park, or ask a friend if Fido can hang out at their place. Put your kitty in the carrier and head to a friend’s home. Before you go, it’s a good idea to remove all pet toys, food, and water bowls, beds, litter box, etc. Make sure to clean any pet stains and vacuum up pet hair.

While we love our pets, they can also be a source of stains and odors. Buyers should be wary of heavily scented homes, as well as carpet and flooring stains. This may not affect your decision to purchase a home, but it should be considered, especially if you have allergies.

6.  Setting a Date for Your Open House

Most open houses are scheduled on the weekends, but check the calendar before you set the date. While you don’t want to compete with major events or holidays, you may want to take advantage of neighborhood activities. Also, check the weather. If a snowstorm or frigid temperatures are predicted, not many will want to leave the comfort of their own home.

7.  Marketing and Social Media for Your Open House

Discuss advertising options with your realtor. Work together to create dynamic flyers with photos and pertinent information about your home. Promote your open house on your personal social media and don’t forget bulletin boards at your local grocery or coffee shop.

Sellers and Buyers:  Make the Best Of Open Houses and Get the Results you Want

While getting your home ready for an Open House may seem overwhelming at first, once everything is in order, it’s just a matter of maintaining your hard work.

Whether you’re selling or buying a single-family home, townhome, condo, or loft, the basics are the same. As a seller, your goal is to create a welcoming atmosphere that will assist potential buyers in seeing themselves as the next homeowner!  For buyers, it’s your opportunity to see what’s out there and determine what is most important when purchasing a new home. For more information about selling your home or finding a new home, visit my website.

THIS ARTICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED AT:  https://www.terribuseman.com/tips-for-successful-open-house/

Top 4 Reasons to Live in Wicker Park

In 2017, Wicker Park was named one of the 25 hottest neighborhoods in America by Hot Spot Rentals. Since then, it’s only continued to impress as one of the most vibrant communities in Chicago. While it received this accolade based on things like walkability, transit, budget, entertainment, and lifestyle, the soul of this dynamic area comes from its diversity and not just ethnic diversity, but its ability to blend all of its unique characteristics in harmony. While the area has been called a hipster spot thanks to an established arts community, as well as eclectic restaurants, bars, and nightlife, it’s also known for its family-friendly atmosphere. Located just west of the Kennedy Expressway, its boundaries are the 606/Bloomingdale Trail, Division St., Western Ave., and Ashland Ave. Wicker Park’s proximity to downtown makes it a great option for anyone working in the Loop. But there’s more! Check out these top four reasons to live in Wicker Park!

1. Variety of Real Estate in Wicker Park

From warehouse lofts and high-end condos to landmark designated mansions, historic cottages, brick walk-ups, townhomes and single-family homes, Wicker Park has an ample variety of housing for just about anyone. Whether you’re young and single, just married, starting a family, or an empty nester, you can find a place in the middle of all the excitement or a quiet, tree-lined street adorned with quaint gardens and remarkable architecture. There are many options to consider.

2. Wicker Parks and Recreation

Think living in the city means less green space? Think again. Wicker Park is home to some lovely outdoor public areas, beginning with its namesake, Wicker Park. Located at 1425 N. Damen Ave., this Chicago Park District facility covers almost five acres and features a field house with a gymnasium, an outdoor children’s playground with water extras, community gardens, a historic fountain, and a dog-friendly area, as well as a baseball field, basketball courts, and an athletic field for soccer or football.

Wicker Park is also home to part of the 606 Trail, (the Bloomingdale Trail) an exceptional elevated trail for walkers, cyclists, and joggers. This trail truly exemplifies the spirit and diversity of the community. You’ll find families going for a bike ride, friends strolling while enjoying a cup of coffee, or serious athletes getting their workout done surrounded by the sights and sounds of Wicker Park.

3. Entertainment & Dining

You’re never at a loss for something to do in Wicker Park. The intersection of N. Damen Ave., Milwaukee Ave., and North Ave. is a hotbed for nightlife, dining, and shopping. Cozy sidewalk cafes, sophisticated eateries, and trendy bars coexist with neighborhood pubs, music clubs, art galleries, vintage shops, and independently owned boutiques. Whether you want to listen to live music, dance the night away, laugh till it hurts, or add a little culture to your life, Wicker Park offers a variety of concert halls, dance clubs, comedy clubs, art galleries, and theaters. If you’re a foodie, then there’s plenty to explore here. There’s something for every palate – from comfort food like pizza, burgers, barbecue, and hot dogs, to a range of ethnic choices including Italian, Mediterranean, Latin, Asian, and Indian – just to name a few! You can also find exceptional vegan cafes, as well as warm and friendly spots for breakfast and brunch.

4. Transportation and Walkability

One of the perks of living in the city is being able to walk everywhere or take public transportation. Not having to rely on a car to get everywhere is liberating! Wicker Park scores high in this category. It’s easy to navigate whether it’s for recreation or purpose. When walking isn’t the quickest option, public transportation and cycling are great alternatives. With a number of Blue Line stops, and approximately eight CTA bus routes, getting to and from Wicker Park, neighboring communities, and into downtown couldn’t be any easier. And, between the 606 Trail, Milwaukee Ave. and a number of designated bike paths, cyclists can get to their destination with ease.

Find Your Dream Home in Wicker Park

If you’re ready to learn more about this exciting Chicago community, contact me or visit my Wicker Park Neighborhood page for more details including school information, market reports, and real estate listings. I’m passionate about finding the right home and community that best fits your lifestyle. Let me help you find your dream home in Chicago!

THIS ARTICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED AT:  https://www.terribuseman.com/reasons-to-live-in-wicker-park/

Happy New Year! Begin the New Decade by Decluttering Your Home

2020 – a new decade and a fresh start! New Year’s resolutions have been made around the world for thousands of years and unfortunately for most of the time, few of us are successful in achieving our goals. One of the main reasons for this is that we set unrealistic goals with vague outcomes. Change can be overwhelming, but if broken down into small measurable steps, you’ll find you can succeed at your resolutions for 2020! So, start the decade with a clean slate by decluttering your home. Check out these simple tips to get you motivated and on your way!

1. New Resolutions – New Home  

For example, if one of your resolutions is to finally get your house in order and ready for sale, that can be a tall order! There are so many things to do that you may want to give up before you get started. But if you begin with one specific goal, you can tackle it and move on to the next. Whether you are planning on selling your home or just want to get organized, I suggest your first resolution for 2020 should be to declutter! Not only will it help make your home more presentable, it will also make you feel better! Clutter can be a huge source of stress and anxiety for many. Even the act of decluttering may seem too general, but we’ve broken it down for you by rooms and seasonal events to get you motivated! Pick one area each weekend or a simple project a few minutes each day and you’ll see the results quickly!

2. Seasonal Home Decluttering

The holidays are over. If you haven’t already, recycle your live tree. Chicago’s 2020 Tree Recycling Program runs January 4th – 18th at dozens of parks across the City. You can also recycle the lights that don’t work (you know you’re not going to find the one bulb that’s not working!). Take a look at your seasonal equipment and outdoor decorations.  Get rid of equipment that no longer works and cannot be repaired, etc. Before you buy new supplies, check what you have on hand.

3.  Decluttering Garage/Storage Closet/Kitchen

Over the years, the garage and the cabinet under the sink seem to accumulate a variety of items – empty and half-filled cans of old paint, tools you’ve never used, old batteries, light bulbs, car parts, deflated or broken sports equipment, and cleaning supplies for specific uses, etc. As Marie Kondo,  the tidying expert and bestselling author, would say – “Do these items spark joy?” Probably not, so say goodbye! Counter space in the kitchen is a premium! Take a look at your small appliances. If you don’t use them once a day or even once a week, find a place for them in your pantry or a cabinet or donate them.  Also, how many coffee cups do you actually need? Time to free up some space and donate them. The pantry is another space that seems to collect lots of clutter – spices, canned foods, utensils, and the aforementioned small appliances. One of the easiest tasks is to start with your spice rack. If you’ve had certain spices for years, it’s time to clear them out, especially the ones you never use! Next tackle all those canned goods, miscellaneous types of oils and vinegars, dry goods, and plastic containers! Toss expired items and the things you can’t remember the year you bought them. If your Tupperware doesn’t have a matching top or bottom, put it in the recycling bin.

4.  Living Room/Dining Room Decluttering

Does your dining room table double as a spot for mail, miscellaneous papers, bills, and magazines? This is one of those decluttering your home projects you could do for 5-10 minutes each day and it’s easy to see your results! Each day go through your mail. If you’re still getting bills, catalogs and flyers, go online and request to received bills and statements online. Request your name be removed from their mailing lists. If you still want to get their information, sign up for emails. For some reason, going through old papers can be paralyzing! There are so many, covering so many years! This is where small steps can be very beneficial. Grab a cup of coffee or a snack and set a timer for 5-10 minutes. Toss, shred, or file as many papers as you can in that time and then save the rest for another day. Do you have drawers filled with old cell phones, laptops, chargers, cameras, remotes, and electronic devices? What about those old TV’s that don’t work anymore? It’s time to let go. You can recycle or donate.  Make sure to erase your data from every device. Wipe the hard drive so it can’t be retrieved by anyone else.

5. Decluttering Bathroom and Bedroom

Remodeling your kitchen can be a costly venture. And, if you’re thinking of selling in a few years, you want to make sure that you will get a return on your investment. If you don’t want to go all out, but want to make some simple changes, there are some simple enhancements you can make. Start with painting your kitchen or your cabinets. Change out your hardware. Revamp your faucets. You can also update your lighting. Pendant lights or a linear fixture will give your kitchen a whole new feel. If your appliances are on their last leg, consider splurging on statement appliances or hoods. One of the easiest ways to dispose of items is to check the expiration date! It can be so satisfying to fill a bag with items you no longer need or can use. These are also tasks that will take just a few minutes. First go through all your medications – prescription and over the counter. Put anything expired in a bag and take to a pharmaceutical drop-box located at over 20 Chicago Police Stations citywide. In addition, many pharmacies, including Walgreens, now have these drop boxes. Rush Medical Center also has them. Cosmetics also create a lot of clutter. While we all have our favorite blushes, lipsticks, and eye shadows, we really don’t need to save the containers with just a smidgen of make-up left. And, if you haven’t worn a specific item in months or even years, toss it! Doing laundry is also a good time to weed out extra items. Do you really need all of those towels, pillows, and extra sets of sheets? As you put clothes away, notice the ones you haven’t worn in months or years, as well as the items your kids can no longer wear. Pack them away to donate.So, keep to your resolution – just a little each day or maybe a few hours every weekend and you’ll see noticeable results in decluttering your home. Tackling these small tasks will motivate you to do more and take on bigger projects. It’s a great way to begin preparing your home to sell and it’s a positive start to the New Year! Best wishes for a happy and healthy New Year. May your home be filled with love, laughter, and happiness!

Need Help in Decluttering your Home and Preparing For Home Sale?

 

If you are thinking about selling your home and would like to talk with a professional realtor as to how to declutter and prepare your home for sale, give me a call.  I would be happy to help you assess what is best for selling your home.

Don’t throw certain items out with the trash.

 

The city offers a range of services to help residents reduce their waste. The city’s Household Chemical and Computer Recycling Facility (1150 N. North Branch Street) accepts a variety of items, including household cleaners, oil-based paints, solvents, cell phones, compact fluorescent light bulbs, computers and related equipment.For items not accepted by the city, search Earth911. With over 350 materials and 100,000+ listings, it maintains one of the most extensive recycling databases.

THIS ARTICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED AT: https://www.terribuseman.com/decluttering-your-home-tips/

Charitable Giving Opportunities During the Holidays: Making a Difference in your Local Community

The holidays are officially upon us.  Congratulations on surviving the excitement of Thanksgiving and the madness of Black Friday. But, we’ve still got weeks to go! For some, the stress of parties, gift giving, and decorating will begin to overshadow the true meaning of the season. If you’re looking to take a step back and make a difference this year, then you’ll appreciate these suggestions of charitable giving opportunities you can do during the holidays in the South Loop. We’ve put together a list of ideas with help from a number of local sources including Gazette Chicago, the award-winning free monthly newspaper that serves 10 Chicago neighborhoods. Every December, since 1984, the Gazette publishes its Spirit of Giving, a listing of organizations working to help those in need throughout the Chicago area. Check out their December issue for the complete listing. Our blog focuses on charitable giving opportunities during the Holidays in the South Loop, Near South, and Loop communities.

Charitable Giving Navigator for this  Holiday Season – South Loop, The Loop, and Near South

 

Coat & Winter Clothing Drives:

 

Prairie District Neighborhood Alliance – 10th Annual PDNA Holiday Winter Coat Drive, Sat., Dec. 7, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Give the gift of warmth! Drop off coats, gloves, scarves, hats, and boots for adults, boys, and girls at the Chicago Women’s Park Field House Lobby, 1801 S. Indiana Ave. (*Uniforms are a plus – navy blue button down or khaki pants.) For more information, email pdna.chicago@gmail.com

Second Presbyterian Church hosts a winter coat drive through February 2020. Donate warm clothes, sweaters, caps, hoodies, scarves, and sweatshirts. Drop off donations at 1936 S. Michigan Ave., Tues. through Sat., from 9:30 a.m. until 1 p.m.

The church’s Lunch Bag Program is also collecting used winter coats, sweaters, sweatshirts, hoodies gloves, scarves, mittens, caps, and socks. Donated items can be placed in the receptacle in Fellowship Hall. For more information, please call the church office (312) 225-4951.

True Rock Ministries (57 E. 16th St.) provides a variety of immediate needs in conjunction with various agencies and organizations within the South Loop and throughout the city of Chicago. Known for extensive community outreach projects such as their Acts of Kindness Initiative, the organization’s charitable giving opportunities include donating furniture to families, sponsoring Holiday Coat and Christmas Toy Giveaways and participating in the LaRabida Christmas Clothing Drive. If you are interested in donating or would like to volunteer please call 312-939-1109.

Chicago Cares – Warm Up Chicago
Help sort and pack donations for Chicago Cares’ Warm Up Chicago Drive.  The Warm Up Chicago Drive has over 20 community partners that include shelters, schools, and social service agencies. Those who receive donations will include veterans, the homeless, and immigrants. For more information, call or email 312-780-0800, info@chicagocares.org.

Meals & Food Drives:

Every Saturday morning from 8:30 to 11 a.m., volunteers with The Homeless Ministry of the First United Methodist Church (Chicago Temple) serve meals to men and women at Grace Place Episcopal Church, (637 S. Dearborn St.) in Printer’s Row. Approximately 15-20 volunteers are needed each Saturday to help with registering guests, preparing and serving meals, set-up, clothing distribution, and clean up. They also need volunteers to help during the week with cooking, donation pick-ups at local establishments, clothing organizations, and driving on Saturdays. Call (312) 912-1246 for more information. To volunteer, sign up at http://gracechicago.org/contact-us/
Second Presbyterian Church, 1936 S. Michigan Ave., The Lunch Bag program provides lunch to approximately 150-200 neighbors a week. Volunteers serve salads and sandwiches donated by local establishments and supplemented by purchased food from the Greater Chicagoland Food Depository. For more information, call (312) 225-4951.

Lakeside Bank lobbies will serve as drop-off sites for non-perishable foods as part of its annual food drive in conjunction with the Greater Chicago Food Depository. Drop off donations during normal business hours at 2200 S. Archer Ave., 1350 S. Michigan Ave., and 1055 W. Roosevelt Rd. Call (312) 435-5100 or go to www.lakesidebank.com for more information.

The food pantry at St. James Catholic Church, (2907 S. Wabash Ave.) accepts nonperishable food items and toiletries. The church seeks help preparing distribution bags, stocking shelves, and many other tasks for operating its food pantry. Call (312) 842-1919 for more information.

Holiday Gift/Toy Drives:

First United Methodist Church at the Chicago Temple is participating in ChildServ’s annual Holiday Gift Drive and will collect gifts for families in need on Sundays, December 1st, 8th, and the 15th at 8:30 a.m. Gift ideas include: books for all ages, stuffed animals, footballs, basketballs, soccer balls, coloring books, puzzles, Legos, building blocks, hats and gloves.

U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program collects new, unwrapped toys and distributes them as Christmas gifts to less fortunate children in the community. Drop off locations near the South Loop include: National Louis University (122 S Michigan Avenue), Mon. – Fri., 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. till Dec. 6, and DePaul University (1 E. Jackson Blvd.), 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. till Dec. 10.

BLACKHAWKS Toy Drive

Vienna Beef is proud to sponsor the Chicago Blackhawks Foundation Annual Toy Drive at home games on Dec. 15th and 18th. Fans are encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys or monetary donations to be entered into a nightly drawing to win Blackhawks prizes. The toys will be given to patients and their families at hospitals and local organizations throughout the Chicagoland area. Collection bins will also be located at all Blackhawks Store locations and Fifth Third Arena through Wednesday, Dec. 18.

Operation Santa makes it possible for individuals and organizations to adopt letters to Santa and send responses and thoughtful gifts. Each year, hundreds of thousands of letters sent to Santa arrive at Post Offices around the country. Letters ask for toys, games, and basic necessities.

Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago seeks donations of new, unwrapped toys in their original packaging for distribution to children at the organization’s Toy Shower. Drop off toys for this special event until Fri., Dec. 12, at 721 N. LaSalle St. or at any of the organization’s suburban sites. Catholic Charities also seeks monetary donations for Sponsor-a-Family and volunteers to sort and package donated gifts. Contact Catholic Charities at (312) 655-7401, COG@catholiccharities.net, or www.catholiccharities.net/celebration.

The Salvation Army Angel Tree Program is an opportunity to spread joy and cheer to the less fortunate during the holidays through Dec. 22. Families and children have their specific needs and wants met for a warm and joyous holiday experience. To participate in the program, simply view and select Angel Tree tags online, shop from home, and even ship Christmas toys directly to The Salvation Army center closest to you! Or you can purchase a new toy, boots, gloves, outerwear—anything you would like to give to a needy child—and drop it off (unwrapped) at your nearest Salvation Army location. You can also print Angel Tree Tags to exhibit or distribute at your place of business. For more information, call 773-205-3516 or email uscmet.holidaydonate@usc.salvationarmy.org.

Explore these Charitable Giving Opportunities During the Holidays and Make a Difference in our Chicago Communities

 

2019 has been an amazing year. I am humbled and grateful to all of you for entrusting the selling and purchasing of your family’s home. It is a great privilege. I hope you and your loved ones find joy in all the magic of this season. Make sure to take time for yourself and time to explore these charitable giving and volunteer events. May you enjoy everything the holidays have to offer including the opportunity to make a difference in our South Loop community.

THIS ARTICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED AT: https://www.terribuseman.com/charitable-giving-opportunities-during-the-holidays/