From Drab to Fab: Transforming Your Chicago Home’s Curb Appeal

 

You can’t judge a book by its cover, but people will certainly judge your home by its curb appeal. A home that has great curb appeal will be the envy of the neighborhood. It will also attract more buyers and increase the value of your home when it’s time to sell. So how can you produce great curb appeal for Chicago homes? This article offers a complete guide.

What Are the Latest Trends in Curb Appeal for Chicago Homes?

Natural Borders: Natural borders are the top landscaping trends in Chicago. Homeowners are using natural elements to define the borders of their homes. They are replacing fences with hedges. They are opting for bamboo and ornamental grasses for added appeal.

Copper Fixtures: Metal fixtures are trending for home interiors and exteriors. Copper is a good choice for outdoor use because it is weather-resistant and offers increased durability and longevity. It also has a terrific vintage appeal.

Earth Tones and Moody Paint Colors: When it comes to exterior paint colors for Chicago homes, you can follow environmental trends by choosing earthy colors like green and brown. Or you can take it in the opposite direction with moody tones like deep eggplant and burgundy.

Mixed Textures: Keep things interesting by integrating various textures in your exterior design. Mix up stone, metal, wood, and brick on your facades. It will highlight architectural details like dormers, porticos, and gables.

Monochromatic Color Schemes: From one extreme to another, monochromatic color schemes are also trending in home design. You can choose one primary color and mix it up with different tones. Or color block different areas of the home to produce a striking appearance.

What Role Does Curb Appeal Play in Attracting Potential Buyers in Chicago?

Attracting buyers with curb appeal in Chicago is not difficult. You know how important first impressions are. If a buyer likes the look of your home, they will have a positive attitude towards it that sets the tone for the showing.

According to Homelight research, improving curb appeal can increase your home’s value by 1-5%. A Michigan University study showed the right curb appeal for Chicago homes can increase their value by 5 to 11%. An attractive exterior will also help the home sell faster.

How Can I Enhance the Curb Appeal of My Chicago Home on a Budget?

Enhancing curb appeal in Chicago doesn’t have to be expensive. These simple improvements will cost you under $500.

• Trim overgrown foliage
• Install flower boxes
• Paint or stain the front door
• Upgrade porch light fixtures
• Power-wash the driveways and walkways

Are There Any Local Regulations or Guidelines for Improving Curb Appeal?

Some Chicago landscape ordinances set guidelines on where you can plant trees and create construction areas. But few refer to stylistic choices. However, you may be limited by HOA or neighborhood rules that prevent you from using unusual paint colors or including distracting elements in your exterior design.

If this is the case, you can wow them by creating a stunning design in your entryway. Visitors may feel underwhelmed while walking up to your home, but you will hit them with the wow factor as soon as they enter. It’s a creative strategy for people that live in townhomes and condos that are restricted by HOA rules.

Are There Any Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Curb Appeal Ideas for Chicago Homes?

Use Eco-Friendly Paint: Eco-friendly paint can be integrated into your home exterior improvements. These paints are low or zero VOC minimizing the chemicals they release into the atmosphere. They are available in a wide range of colors.

Use Drought-Tolerant Plants: Drought-tolerant plants do not require much water. They are a good choice for homes in dry climates.

Integrate Recycled Elements: Use recycled materials whenever you can. Decorate with patio furniture made with recycled wood. Use coffee cans or even an old boot as a charming planter option. Add new house numbers made of recycled steel.

THIS ARTICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED AT: https://www.terribuseman.com/chicago-home-curb-appeal-guide/

 

Leaving your home is not an easy decision to make. It’s likely you have become sentimentally attached to your house and the people and places around it. There are also economic factors to consider. This article will review the pros and cons of staying or buying a home. It will help you evaluate your current home and explore the prospects of a new home. It will assist you in arriving at the decision that’s best for your family.

Evaluating Your Current Home

The first step in the stay-or-buy home decision-making process involves evaluating your current home. You must consider:

• Location
• The school district
• The home size and condition
• Current market conditions

You will get an idea of how much your home is worth by using online valuation tools or by finding out how much comparable homes are going for in your neighborhood. However, these methods will not account for the condition of your home. Consider reaching out to a realtor or an appraiser for a more personal detailed analysis.

Exploring the Prospects of a New Home

People weighing the options of staying vs. buying a home must explore the prospects of buying a new home. They should do some online home research to find out what’s available in their target areas at their price range. They should also consider factors like walkability, schools in the district, and amenities.

The next step involves setting up appointments to see the homes you are interested in. Actually, being in the home will give you a totally different perspective than viewing the home online. How does it feel, smell, etc.?

Weighing the Pros and Cons of Staying in Your Home

Pros: Considering Staying in Your Current Home

You Know Your Neighborhood and Your Neighbors
If you stay in your home, you will be in an environment where you are familiar with your neighbors and your neighborhood. You are used to your schools and nearby amenities. You don’t have to deal with finding new places to shop, enrolling in new schools, and networking with new people.

You’re Already Invested in Your Home
As a homeowner, you’ve already invested in your home in terms of paying off the mortgage and interest and making upgrades. If you move into a new home, you will have to start from scratch.

You May Be Able to Refinance and Get a Lower Mortgage Rate
Not in today’s market, but the time will come when interest rates will drop again. When that happy time comes, refinancing your current home will help you lower your costs.

You Can Stay in Your Home While You Save Up for a Down Payment
If you don’t have the money to move right away, you can stay in your home longer while you save up for a down payment on your new home.

You Have an Emotional Connection to Your Home
A home is a place where your family has created special memories. You may have also become emotionally attached to neighbors and nearby businesses. These feelings will make it difficult to leave.

Cons: Considering Staying in Your Current Home

You May Not Have Enough Space for Your Growing Family
Family additions often call for a larger home. If you have a child on the way, your current home may be too small to comfortably accommodate everyone.

Your Home May Need Repairs or Renovations
Your home may require repairs that make it more economical to sell than fix.

You May Be Stuck in an Undesirable Neighborhood
If you’re not happy with the neighborhood you are in, selling will be the only way to upgrade to a better area.

Your Home May Not Be as Energy Efficient as a Newer Home
New homes are more energy efficient considering their construction, layout, and appliances. Moving can help you save on your utility bills. It can also benefit the environment.

Weighing the Pros and Cons: Buying a New Home in Chicago

Pros of Buying a New Home in Chicago
You Can Choose a Home That’s the Perfect Size for Your Family
Chicago has a wide variety of homes available including condos, townhouses, 1-bedroom, 2 bedrooms, 3 bedrooms, and more. The many options ensure you will find one that’s perfect for your family.

You Can Choose a Home in a Neighborhood You Love
Chicago offers a variety of diverse neighborhoods. You can enjoy the culture and cuisine of Chinatown, the beaches and arts of the South Shore, or the history and architecture of Pullman. Which neighborhood do you feel is right for your family?

You Can Choose a Home That’s Energy Efficient and Environmentally Friendly
Chicago is a modern city that’s very much on top of the environmental movement. You can find houses that are energy efficient and environmentally friendly. You will save on energy costs helping balance the expenses of a new home.

You Can Get a New Mortgage with Lower Interest Rates
Many people are reluctant to move because of high-interest rates. They don’t want to lose the low-interest rates they have now. But if you shop around, you may find loans with interest rates that you can live with for the time being and refinance in a couple of years.

You Can Start Fresh in a New Home That’s Just Yours
A new home presents new opportunities. You can remodel and make updates to transform your home into a haven.

Cons: Considering Buying a New Home in Chicago

The Real Estate Market is Competitive
Chicago is a great place to live, so the market is always competitive. Properties in the city tend to be at a premium. Once the interest rates come down, the prices will only go higher.

You Need to Pay Closing Costs
Closing costs can be expensive for new owners. They can run thousands of dollars. Additional expenses include property taxes, insurance, and a down payment that can be 20% or more. You may also be dealing with unexpected repairs and renovations. Smart budgeting choices and the money you get from selling your old home can offset some of these expenses.

Making the Right Decision for You and Your Family

When it comes to deciding whether to stay in your current home or buy a new one, it’s important to carefully weigh your options. Consider your financial situation, personal preferences, and future goals to determine the best path forward.

As a trusted realtor in Chicago, I am here to support you in this decision-making process. I can provide you with a comprehensive home value assessment, giving you a clear understanding of your current property’s worth. Additionally, I can help you explore the available homes on the market, so you can get a sense of what’s out there.

THIS ARTICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED AT: https://www.terribuseman.com/stay-or-buy-home-pros-cons-right-choice/

Celebrating Chicago’s Cultural Diversity: Exploring Unique Neighborhoods and Their Histories

 

Chicago is renowned for its diverse neighborhoods, each offering a unique blend of history, culture, and opportunities. These cultural neighborhoods not only provide a rich tapestry of experiences but also present exciting possibilities for those looking to find their ideal home. Let’s look at a few of the city’s vibrant neighborhoods

Chinatown: A Taste of China in the Heart of Chicago

Step into Chicago’s Chinatown for an authentic taste of Eastern Asia. The community was established in the 1920s when Chinese community leaders decided a bold Chinese statement would enhance the area. The neighborhood is known for its vibrant shops, cultural institutions, and Asian-themed restaurants.

Travel through the city to have your picture taken at the Chinatown Gate. Picnic at Ping Tom Memorial Park. Or learn more about the area’s culture at the Chinese-American Museum of Chicago.

You will find a wide variety of mid-priced accommodations in this neighborhood . The bustling metro feel of this community make apartment and condo living a popular op’on. However, there are townhomes and some single-family homes for sale.

Pilsen: A Colorful Tribute to Mexican Heritage

Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood overflows with Latino heritage. Located on the Chicago Near West Side area, it was a main port of entry for many immigrant groups in the mid-19th century.

It was largely populated by Irish and Germans at first, but Mexican immigrants currently make up most of the population. Pilsen is a premier destination for art, music, food, and nightlife. Find out more about its culture by spending a day at the National Museum of Mexican Art. Or take in a show at the impressive Thalia Hall.

Those who wish to live in the neighborhood will find a range of apartments, condos, 3flats and single family homes.

Andersonville: A Slice of Sweden in Chicago

Located in the Chicago Northside, Andersonville is one of Chicago’s neighborhoods that celebrate Swedish culture. Its development was an indirect result of the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. The fire illegalized the building of wooden homes in Chicago. Swedish immigrants who could not afford to build stone or brick homes were forced to move further north.

Though once predominantly Swedish, the neighborhood has since welcomed other ethnic groups including Mexican, Lebanese, and Korean residents. It is also home to the Midsommarfest. This festival started as a nod to Swedish heritage and old world Swedish traditions.

Visitors can spend a day in Andersonville checking out the architecture or visiting the Swedish American Museum. Those wishing to move to the area will find a variety of single and multi-family homes in the upper price ranges.

Little Italy and the University Village: Blending Italian Traditions with Urban Living

Several Italian immigrants settled in Chicago and spread throughout the city in the 19th and 20th century, but the metropolitan area of Taylor Street was their main port of call. It was given the name “Little Italy” in the 1950s, due to the large presence of Italians in the area. It is often combined as one neighborhood with University Village due to its proximity to the University of Illinois at Chicago.

Although Little Italy has since been populated by a variety of cultural groups, it maintains its Italian culture. You can spend a day in the area browsing through the National Italian Sports Hall of Fame. Enjoy nature at Arrigo Park or check out some of the recommended Italian eateries.

The prevalence of students in the area means there are several apartment and condo options to choose from. And there are several single-family homes and 3 flats available. Prices vary from mid-range to high.

Bronzeville: Where Culture, Diversity, and Real Estate Converge

Those interested in Chicago neighborhoods and culture will not want to miss out on a trip to Bronzeville, located in the Chicago Near South area. Known for its rich African-American cultural heritage and thriving arts scene, Bronzeville offers a diverse range of real estate opportunities.

Immerse yourself in the neighborhood’s history by visiting landmarks such as the DuSable Museum of African American History and the Harold Washington Cultural Center, a performance venue devoted to the neighborhood’s history.

From apartments to beautifully restored historic homes, and further to modern condominiums, Bronzeville provides a variety of real estate options to suit different preferences. Experience the unique blend of culture, diversity, and real estate in this remarkable neighborhood.

THIS ARTICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED AT: https://www.terribuseman.com/some-chicago-diverse-neighborhoods-their-histories/

A Guide to the Homebuying Process

Chicago is a fantastic city, filled with historic sites, modern attractions, deep cultural roots, and diverse cuisine. The homebuyer process in Chicago is an exciting one, but understanding what’s involved is helpful. Detailed information will guide you to make a decision, ensuring a successful purchase.

Understand the Local Real Estate Market

Understanding your local real estate market is crucial for determining trends, knowing the best times to buy, and identifying what properties make good investments.

The current Chicago market is competitive. Homes receive 2 offers on average and sell typically within 69 days. Median home prices are around $335,000, down 2.9% since last year. The median price per square footage is $236, down 4.1% since last year. This means now is an excellent time to be a buyer.

Establish a Budget and Secure Financing

A home is a major expense. You will need to decide how much you can afford considering the down payment, closing costs, insurance, and other fees. You must also think about ongoing expenses such as mortgage, property tax, maintenance, and repairs.

Getting pre-approved by a lender before house hunting is a must. A pre-approval lets you know how much you can afford to spend on a home. It also tells sellers that you’re serious about buying and have the finances to move forward. A letter of approval is expected when making an offer.

There are several online calculators you can use to determine how much of a home you can afford. 28/36 is a good rule of thumb. It states that you shouldn’t spend more than 28% of your gross income on home-related costs, nor should you accrue more than 36% in total debts.

Various loan types are available to buyers:

• Conventional Loans: A conventional loan is any type of loan not insured or guaranteed by the government. You will need a decent credit score to qualify. Down payments can be as low as 3% but the lower your down payment, the higher your ongoing payments will be.
• FHA Loans: Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loans make buying a house more affordable for low- and moderate-income individuals. They offer interest rates as low as 3.5% and competitive interest rates.
• Local Mortgage Programs: There are several local mortgage programs aimed to help Chicago homebuyers. For example, First Time Homebuyers offers several programs that provide down payment and closing cost assistance.

Choosing the Best Neighborhood for You

Selecting the right neighborhood is extremely important, since location is key when buying a home. The city is filled with great neighborhoods, but finding one that suits your unique lifestyle, budget, and preferences is vital.

Chicago neighborhoods that are currently trending include:

The Loop-Downtown Chicago: So-named for the L that forms a rectangular loop around the area, this downtown neighborhood is  traditionally known as the city’s financial district. The Loop is home to numerous high-rise office buildings. However, there is a growing trend in 2023 towards converting some of these business buildings into residential spaces, making it an increasingly attractive option for potential homebuyers. The Loop is perfect for people who want to be close to work and enjoy the downtown lifestyle.

West Loop: The West Loop within the Chicago Near West area is a Chicago neighborhood well known for its emerging high-rise buildings and trendy restaurants.

River North, Gold Coast, and Streeterville: This section, Near North, is just north of downtown. It features a mix of high-rises, townhouses, and single-family homes. It is home to a variety of food and shopping destinations.

Tips to consider when selecting the neighborhood:

• Visit the neighborhood at different times of the day: This will give you an idea of what the area is like in the morning, afternoon, evening, and night.
• Check local amenities: Walk or drive around the neighborhood to see what’s nearby in terms of food, restaurants, shops, and more.
• Review nearby schools: If you have children, find out what the schools in the area have to offer.

Assemble Your Homebuying Team

An important part of the buyer process is assembling your home buying team. You will need a real estate agent, a mortgage broker, an inspector, and a real estate attorney.

Real Estate Agent: Finding an agent that is the right fit for you is important. The agent you work with should be attentive to your needs and communicate with you continuously throughout the process. They should have a deep knowledge of the market and demonstrate how they will strive to make every step of the process as easy and stress-free as possible, from  the first consultation through closing.

Ask questions to assess their expertise and personality before moving forward.

Mortgage Broker: A mortgage broker will help you find a home loan. You can find a mortgage broker by looking at reviews and asking for referrals. Your realtor should be a great resource for lender referrals.

Inspector: Once your property is under contract, an inspection is required. The inspection often occurs within the 1st five days after agreeing to terms for purchase. There are several great home inspectors to select from, however if you need further referrals, ask you realtor.

Real Estate Attorney: The state of Illinois uses real estate attorneys for closing. Once again, your realtor should have several referrals for an attorney.

House Hunting in Chicago

Once your team is assembled, your realtor will start sending you properties that meet your needs. You can also start your own search by checking local active home listings.

When you find homes you are interested in, have your realtor schedule a private showing or attend an Open House.

Once “the home” strikes you, move forward and make an offer. Your realtor will help you with an offer price by looking at comparable properties in the area that are active, under contract or have closed in the recent past. If it’s a buyer’s market you may be able to negotiate a discounted price, if it’s a seller’s market you may be facing a multiple offer situation and therefore, may have to increase your offer.

Once you find the perfect home, negotiating a deal with the seller can be complex and buyers need to be savvy negotiators. Here is a guide for the negotiation process with critical steps to help in getting the home of your dreams.

Closing the Deal

Closing day is finally here! It’s the final step of the homebuyer process Chicago. Are you excited? You will sign quite a lot of documents. To name a few you will sign:

• A mortgage or deed of trust that shows you are putting up the home as collateral for the loan.
• A closing disclosure that outlines the fees and costs of the loan
• A settlement statement that details the financials of the transac8on.

You will also do a final walkthrough before closing. This allows you to confirm that everything is in the same condition as it was when you agreed to buy the home. You can also inspect it to make sure the agreed-upon repairs have been made.

Once the closing is complete, you’re ready to move in. Moving can be overwhelming, but you can make it easier by keeping everything organized in labeled boxes.

Settle into your new home by cleaning everything before you unpack. Get familiar with the floor plan by figuring out where your outlets and circuit boxes are. Walk around the neighborhood to get acquainted with your surroundings.

I Can Help

Buying a home is complex. However, if you have done your research, along with establishing a great team of professionals to guide you, a successful purchase is on its way.

It is best to work with an experienced Chicago real estate agent to help you through it all. I would like to be part of your team. I won’t give up until I’ve found you a place you can proudly call home.

THIS ARTICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED AT: https://www.terribuseman.com/navigating-homebuyer-journey-guide-ch

Exploring the Chicago Gold Coast: The Ultimate Guide

 

The Gold Coast neighborhood is a historic neighborhood within the Chicago Near North Side community. Bounded by North Avenue, Lake Shore Drive, Oak Street, and Clark Street, it is known for its mix of vintage 19th-century buildings, modern high-rises, quiet tree-lined streets, and upscale businesses. It offers residents and visitors a variety of fun activities.

The Gold Coast neighborhood developed after the Great Chicago Fire. Millionaire Potter Palmer moved there in 1882. Once mostly swamp, he transformed the area by building the Potter Mansion on its grounds. Other wealthy Chicagoans followed Potter, moving into the neighborhood, and adding their businesses and properties.

Today, the Gold Coast is known as a luxurious, glamorous, and wealthy  place to visit and live, and it is rich with history. This article will review the many reasons you may want to call the Chicago Goal Coast home.

Reasons Why the Gold Coast is a Great Place to Visit or Live

Culture and Entertainment

The Gold Coast is a great place to live or visit thanks to its many cultural and entertainment attractions. You can enjoy a variety of activities including:

Shopping

• Oak Street: Oak Street is a shopaholic’s dream. Its streets are lined with high-end boutiques like Prada, Chanel, and Harry Winston. And when you get hungry, you can enjoy a meal at one of the many upscale restaurants along the way.
• Magnificent Mile: The Magnificent Mile offers over 450 retailers including boutiques, department stores, sporting goods stores, and more. While some are upscale, others offer deep discounts. You are guaranteed to find something that suits your needs.

Nightlife

• Bars and Clubs: There are several bars and clubs in the Gold Coast neighborhood that contribute to its vibrant atmosphere. The Luxbar offers feel-good food and hand-crafted cocktails. McFadden’s features theme nights, drink specials, and large TVs for game days.
• Live Music Venues: If it’s live music you are after, Oak St. has it all. The Zebra Lounge is a historical piano bar featuring live music seven days a week. Original Mothers offers a variety of events including karaoke, live music, and even film festivals.

Gold Coast Dining

Indulging in a meal at one of the Gold Coast’s top restaurants is an experience in itself. From iconic steakhouses to elegant French-Vietnamese cuisine, there’s a diverse range of dining options to choose from in this neighborhood. Here are just a few of the area’s most noteworthy restaurants to consider.

• Gibson’s Bar & Steakhouse: This iconic steakhouse has been a Gold Coast staple since 1989. It offers classic American fare and an extensive wine list. The sophisticated atmosphere adds to its sense of glamour.
• Hugo’s Frog Bar and Seafood: Hugo Frog Bar, also a part of the Gibsons Restaurant Group, is a renowned seafood known for its lively atmosphere, exceptional food, and extensive drink menu. Indulge in their signature garlic butter-soaked king crab legs while enjoying the energetic ambiance of this classic Chicago spot. Don’t forget to try one of their specialty cocktails or craft beers while you’re there.
• The Cape Cod Room: Located inside the historic Drake Hotel, the Cape Cod Room serves up fine seafood and cocktails in an atmosphere that exudes old-school elegance.
• Tavern on Rush: Tavern on Rush is an old-school steakhouse that has been a Gold Coast fixture since 1996. It is known for its prime cuts of beef, its fresh seafood, and its lively bar scene.
• Le Colonial: This elegant French-Vietnamese restaurant has been serving Gold Coast diners since 1996. Its menu features classic and contemporary dishes crafted with fresh ingredients and bold favors.
• Nico Osteria: Nico Osteria offers elevated Italian seafood in an elegant yet refined setting.

Art and Architecture

The Chicago Gold Coast is not only known for its luxurious homes and fine dining, but also for its rich art and architectural heritage. From museums to stunning historic mansions and buildings, this neighborhood has it all. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or an architecture lover, you’ll find plenty to explore and admire in the Gold Coast

• Museum of Contemporary Art: The Museum of Contemporary Art is one of the largest contemporary art museums. Spend the day experiencing the work of today’s artists and understanding their historical, cultural, and social significance.
• Historic Mansions and Buildings: The Gold Coast is an architecture lover’s dream. Walk through the neighborhood to see it’s many historical buildings and mansions. You may also view the Potter Palmer Mansion that started it all.

Beaches

• Oak Street Beach: Oak Street Beach is a popular summer destination. It offers a spectacular view of the city skyline. Amenities include chair rentals, volleyball rentals, and food and beverage options at Oak Street Café.
• North Avenue Beach: North Avenue Beach offers a variety of fun activities. You can jet-ski or paddle board, bike along the boardwalk, engage in a yoga session, or have a great meal at Castaways Bar and Grill.

Parks and Trails

• Lakefront Trail: Lakefront Trail is a prime location for pedestrians, joggers, and bikers. It features an 18.5-mile combination pedestrian and bike trail.
• Washington Square Park: Chicago’s oldest small park located at the intersection of Walton and Dearborn Streets, featuring a fountain, benches, and a peaceful atmosphere.

 

Find Your Dream Home in the Heart of Chicago’s Gold Coast

The Chicago Gold Coast is a hub of Chicago activity. It offers historic architecture, exciting nightlife, great shopping and dining, and tons of cultural attractions. It’s easy to see why it’s such a great place to live and visit.

If you want to be in the center of it all, contact me to find out how I can assist you in achieving domestic bliss.

THIS ARTICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED AT: https://www.terribuseman.com/chicago-gold-coast-neighborhood-guide/

Creative Ways to Make the Most of Your Home’s Storage

 

When buyers look for a home, there are many factors to consider. A good location, hardwood flooring, energy efficient/smart appliances and a laundry room are all desirable features. And then there’s storage space. People want to have ample storage. 

Also, important are exterior and interior spaces that will accommodate all their belongings. It seems that no matter how much storage space a person has in their home they tend to outgrow it. Things accumulate and they are rarely checked to determine what needs to go. But decluttering regularly, along with implementing ways to create more storage in your home, can help you optimize space.

This article will focus on how to make the most of your home’s storage.

Tips for Decluttering

One way to optimize storage space is to declutter regularly. That way, you won’t have items you don’t need taking up precious real estate.

• Declutter on a Regular Basis: If you put yourself on a decluttering schedule, you will be less likely to let clutter accumulate. The schedule you create will be up to you. It can be weekly, monthly, or seasonal. Remember, the more time you leave between declutters, the more items you will have to deal with.
• Throw Away Things You Don’t Want Immediately: That piece of junk mail that just came in, that Christmas card that’s been sitting on the dining room table for a week. Instead of leaving them on a table or storing them somewhere where they will end up getting thrown out months later, put them in the trash right away. That dress or suit that you have not worn for decades. You will not miss them once you give them to Goodwill or another charitable organization.
• Be Hard on Yourself: When things hang around for a long time, they tend to gain sentimental value. But you must be tough when you declutter. If the item is just going to collect dust for the next few years, throw it out.

Tips to Create More Storage in Your Home

• Buy Multi-functional Furniture: There are plenty of multi-functional furniture tips and options that provide terrific storage solutions. For example, you may consider purchasing a coffee table with shelves underneath. There are also beds with headboard areas that can be used for storage.
• Add Shelving: Shelving is a great way to create more storage in your home. You can install them up high, so they don’t take up floor space. You can use them to hold books as well as decorative items so they will enhance your home’s aesthetic.
• Use Under-Bed Space: Beds take up a lot of room, but you can get some of this space back by storing items underneath. Some beds even come with drawers and fold out compartments on the bottom that are ideal for this purpose.
• See Through Storage Containers Are Ideal: See through storage containers can serve as great makeshift dressers. You can stack them in open areas to store clothing, art supplies, tools, devices and more. You can also put them inside closets to keep them more organized.

Optimizing Your Space When Selling Your Home

When it comes time to sell your home, you want to declutter it and make the most of your storage space. This will help show the property to its fullest potential.

THIS ARTICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED AT: https://www.terribuseman.com/creative-ways-to-make-the-most-of-your-homes-storage/

What Makes Printers Row One of the Most Exciting Chicago Neighborhoods

 

There are so many great neighborhoods in Chicago to enjoy. Printers Row is one that has withstood the test of time as a community that continues to develop and thrive. Printers Row is in downtown Chicago in an area known as the Loop, although it’s technically more part of the South Loop.  It is defined by Ida B. Well Drive on the north, Polk St. on the south, Plymouth Court on the east and the Chicago River on the west.  Printers Row is a neighborhood that has a special place in my heart.  I moved to the area back in 1985 and, even then, it was flourishing.  I worked to find many clients the perfect properties in the community, some of which were over 100 years old. In recent years, the community has experienced a huge boom in building, restaurants, and river development providing new attractions on a regular basis.  Read on for a Printers Row Guide that lets you know the things you can enjoy when you explore the area.

Printers Row is so called because the area was once populated with businesses that specialized in printing and publishing. Today, many of these buildings have been converted into fun and trendy residential lofts. The attractions, shops and restaurants contribute to the neighborhood’s fantastic urban vibe.

Key Real Estate Attractions and Living in Printer’s Row

There are several great looking historic buildings on Printers Row, Chicago. The ones you will want to check out include:

M.A Donahue: This historic 19th century building was designed by Julius B. Speyer and built in 1883. Its design is considered Romanesque. The building features a rounded arched sandstone and granite entry bay and historic vault lights.

Franklin Building: This 14-story brick building is one of the many historic buildings in the City of Chicago Printing House Row landmark district.  It was designed by George C. Nimmons and built in 1916 and is an example of Chicago school architecture.  It features large skylights; terracotta tiles and it is topped with a unique parapet.  The Franklin Building also contains a mural over its main entrance depicting various artisans involved in the printing process.

Dearborn Station: Dearborn Station was in operation from the late 1800’s through to 1971.  It was one of six intercity train stations serving the downtown Chicago area.  The building is now a shopping mall and entertainment space. The exterior is characterized by a 12-story clock tower made of pink granite and red pressed brick.  It is topped by various steeply pitched roofs.

Cultural & Entertainment Attractions

Chicago offers its share of attractions throughout the year and many take place in the Printers Row, Chicago area.  They include the following:

Printers Row Literary Fest: This annual event brings the community the largest free literary showcase in the Midwest.  The Fest happens over the course of a weekend in mid-September.  It includes speakers, exhibitions, children’s programs, reading, workshops and more.

Printers Row Park: Printers Row Park is a small green space that spans .38 acres.  The Park offers a community garden, seating, and a fountain sculpture.

Jazz Showcase: The Jazz Showcase is a great venue for celebrating the city’s musical heritage.  It features local, national, and international acts.

Printers Row Nearby Attractions

There are also several attractions near to Printers Row, Chicago.  These include:

• Grant Park is an urban public park that spans over 300 acres.  It contains Maggie Daley Park, Buckingham Fountain, The Art Institute of Chicago, the Museum Campus and Millennium Park.
• Shedd Aquarium is a terrific place to check out a variety of aquatic animals.
• Field Museum is a natural history museum that offers interactive, educational exhibits.
• The Adler Planetarium is a fantastic destination for learning about space.
• The Art Institute is one of the world’s most famous art museums featuring collections from around the world and various time periods.

Printers Row Restaurants, Bars and Shops

Restaurants and Bars

Chicago is known for its great food and drinks.  Bars and restaurants in the area you should be checking out in the Printers Row, Chicago area include:

• Chicago Curry House Indian Restaurant is the place to go if you’re in the mood for Indian & Nepalese Himalayan Cuisine.
• Bar Louie is a casual dining chain that offers quality American cuisine, martinis and microbrews and happy hour specials.
• Roots Handmade Pizza is your destination for authentic Chicago style pizza. It also offers draft beer in a modern setting with a retractable roof.
• Umai: This Japanese restaurant offers a sushi bar, a full bar and authentic cuisine in a loftlike space.
• Sociale: Sociale is a great place to find wood fired pizza and authentic Tuscan specialties.  Its casual atmosphere is ideal for socialization.
• Half Sour: Half Sour is a unique deli style restaurant that is new to Printers Row.  Stop in to try one of their innovative dishes served in a casual setting.
• Amarit Thai Restaurant: Amarit Thai has become a cornerstone of the Chicago community.  It is known for its excellent cuisine, superior service, and fresh ingredients.
• Sofi: Sofi features classic Northern Italian dishes with an authentic flair.  It offers delectable desserts, house made pastas and an extensive wine list.

Shops

If you enjoy shopping, there’s plenty of cool shops and boutiques in Printers Row Chicago to enjoy.  You won’t want to miss out on a trip to:

• Printers Row Wine Shop is a terrific place to find unique wines and features a very cool wine bar.
• Sandmeyer’s Bookstore is the perfect addition to Printers Row.  Established in 1982, it’s a mom-and-pop shop offering the hottest new books.
• Totto’s Market is a recently established, hip grocery market offering fresh food and great customer service.

Schools and Colleges Near Printer’s Row

There are several schools and colleges in the Printers Row community. Top rated public schools include the South Loop Elementary School and William Jones College Preparatory, a selective enrollment high school.

There are also many higher education facilities in the area. The University Center of Chicago houses over 3000 students. Other nearby colleges include IIC John Marshall Law School, Roosevelt University, the Loop campus of De Paul University, Columbia College and Robert Morris University.

Check out the South Loop page of my website to find out about more schools in the area.

Medical Facilities and Hospitals

It’s convenient to live in a neighborhood with quality medical facilities and hospitals close by.  There are several near the Printers Row area including:

• Northwestern Hospital: Northwestern offers several doctors that specialize in a variety of conditions as well as emergency services.
• Rush University Medical Center: Rush ranks as number 19 on the Best Hospitals Honor Roll. It is known for providing top notch adult specialties, procedures, and facilities.  It is a general medical and surgical facility as well as a teaching hospital.
• University of Chicago Medical Center: The University of Chicago Medical Center offers 75 specialties and services. Their research and discovery program has paved the way for breakthroughs in the medical field.

THIS ARTICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED AT: https://www.terribuseman.com/printers-row-exciting-chicago-neighborhood/