ChicagoPremierHomes

Roscoe Village Bargain Rental $800

2011-07-19T12:30:00.010-05:00

Looking for a resaonble rental in Roscoe Village? Look no further!

Bright English garden apartment in a small building,
offers laundry, yard and EZ street parking.
It's a 1 bedroom PLUS!
The bedroom has a decent closet and the office or bonus room
has a double deep closet.. make it your office or dressing room.
Nicely sized living room and an eat in Kitchen with pantry.
Owner is a licensed realtor in Illinois.

Available Aug 1 or Aug 15
Application/Credit check
Contact renee with questions 312-404-5383

let's get going.. we have lots to do...Houses to see

2011-04-05T19:02:00.007-05:00

Come on .. this is a market of opportunity.. Rates are great, there is property galore- deals are there to be made. Visit an open house this weekend.. How about 2734 Southport B- a Lincoln Park Townhome! Open this SundayApril 10th, 1-3pm This is a wonderful 4 bedroom Towwnhome! Yes a real 4 bedroom plus a huge Family room and a bonus office leading to a private roof deck. Listed $649,900.

MORE on the Mortgage interest Deductions

2011-01-12T09:14:00.006-06:00

Well, it is still on the table.. Congress is still looking at it!
Talk about the far reaching, tremendously negative impact this would have!

Check out this great article in the Chicago Tribune .

Ponder the impact if we lose the Interest Deduction

2010-12-14T13:38:00.005-06:00

It is unimaginable to me that anyone would think this was the time to consider this.
The mortgage interest deduction (MID) has been around for a long, long while and
does create value and motivation for purchasers. The impact if we lose it, I believe could be devastating to an already troubled real estate market and economy. I think it would stop it all dead in its tracks. The little bit of traction made of late... GONE.

I believe the MID to be a huge benefit for all.. I don't think a flat fee deduction and the elimination of the second home or equity loans benefit to be a solution.

Follow this link and Take a read of this and would love to hear your opinions!

Fewer homes in Chicago area worth less than owners owe - Chicago Sun-Times

2010-12-14T10:33:00.001-06:00

Well at first glance this sounds like good news..
But is it ?
Not from how I read it!
Fewer homes in Chicago area worth less than owners owe - Chicago Sun-Times

Call today to Insure the Mortgage Interest Deduction Remains!

2010-12-12T16:28:00.006-06:00

In case you haven't heard...
The Mortgage Interest Deduction (MID) may be modified.
The federal deficit commision endorsed a plan, just days ago, that call for tax changes.
The MID is among them. There is a number of ideas out there of what they may do.

The talk includes:
-converting the MID to a non-refundable tax credit of 12 percent
-reducing the eligible mortgage amoint to a lesser amount
-restricting the tax credit to principal residences only.
This would eliminate second homes and home equity loans.
Certainly, this will not in any way help with a recovery of the housing market.

As a fellow homeowner,and a Realtor, I reach out to you.
We cannot allow Congress to make any changes to the MID.
Call today and let your representative know where you stand! Let them know you DO NOT want any changes to this very important tax deduction that would impact thousands and thousands of homeowners.

Rates are up!

2010-12-10T11:11:00.005-06:00

Watch those mortgage rates..
They are still bouncing along and but have gone up ...UGH
Still darn good . They are in the upper 4%..
Up from the low 4.25 we had been seeing.

Still, historically, pretty terrfic rates.

It's been quite a year!

2010-12-09T16:53:00.005-06:00

It has been quite a real estate year...
Terrific Buys! but ...Short Sales...Foreclosures...
Sellers under Water ...Tough lending- a mixed bag!

But I am still excited with Real Estate! I love what I do!
And have been representing buyers and sellers, as always, putting together
tranactions... most smooth and stress free!
Playing the waiting game with short sales.. I have become quite expert in these matters!

It has been all about pricing... it is the number one marketing tool.
If its not priced right it is NOT going to sell.
Lots of homes on the market, lots of competition. The bargains are those that move!

Nearing the end of the year,the numbers should be interesting.
Check back for a snapshot of 2010

Reductions galore Producing Priced to sell Homes

2009-07-11T17:40:00.007-05:00

Boy oh Boy- there are deals out there-
The opportunities exist in a BIG way for those who get it..But, then not everyone does!

I have had more offers on well priced properties that buyers still low ball!
And they cannot see the difference between that which is priced at or below market to trigger an offer and those loosely priced from non motivated sellers.

It seems some want to use percentages to offer and to use to conclude a sale ...hmmm
and this percentage varies wildly. And to boot, has no bearing on the available comps of the last month or two

But when you look at those homes that sell and their percentage list to sales price they are SOOOO MUCH higer-
Why??? Because they were priced to sell. These numbers depending on property location and type are very often at 96 - 98 % of the listing price!

So if you want to buy, get in the game and be clear on what the deals are - And you might just find the opportunity you wished for.

Real estate market needs a Boost- some stimulous proposals could help

2009-06-27T11:23:00.005-05:00

Will there be an expansion of the first time home buyer tax credit? This current credit is good only through November 09.
Lots of variations out there... the current 8k could be potentially raised to 15k (wishful) and include all buyers. Boy, wouldn't that light a fire under some buyers.
One can only hope as some earlier proposals were voted down.

I think the best and more likely scenario is to extend the current credit to ALL buyers; get rid of the income cap and extend though 2010, to really get things moving.
We will have to wait and see

Help Chicago's Homeless Animals- Realtors to the Rescue June Towel Drive

2009-06-01T17:34:00.001-05:00

TOWEL DRIVE

REALTORS® TO THE RESCUE
OF HOMELESS ANIMALS

In conjunction with The Chicago Association of Realtors®, Realtors to the Rescue is sponsoring a towel drive during the month of June. We are collecting used, clean towels to donate to a group of shelters in the city of Chicago. Please join us in providing this needed resource to the shelters who are caring for the needy animals of Chicago.

Realtors® To The Rescue is a 501c3 organization and a program of the Chicago Association of Realtors® dedicated to helping homeless animals in the Chicago area by promoting adoption of homeless pets and supporting local area shelters in their missions.
Check out our website at:

www.realtorstotherescue.com

This is huge!! Tax credit for down Payment! Read all about it!

2009-05-13T10:19:00.003-05:00

From Realtor Magazine
Daily Real Estate News May 12, 2009

Tax Credit Can Be Used for Down Payment Shaun Donovan, secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, on Tuesday said that the Federal Housing Administration is going to permit its lenders to allow home buyers to use the $8,000 tax credit as a down payment.Previously, most buyers wouldn't receive the funds until after they filed their tax return, and that deterred some people from using the credit. The NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® has been calling for the change. “We all want to enable FHA consumers to access the home buyer tax credit funds when they close on their home loans so that the cash can be used as a down payment,” Donovan says. His remarks came in an address to several thousand REALTORS® gathered Tuesday morning at "The Real Estate Summit: Advancing the U.S. Economy," at the 2009 REALTORS® Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo in Washington, D.C..He says FHA’s approved lenders will be permitted to “monetize” the tax credit through short-term bridge loans. This will allow eligible home buyers to access the funds immediately at the closing table.Other Solutions for Today's MarketDuring his address at the summit, Donovan went on to say that the Obama administration plans to further stabilize the housing market. “I do think we have some early signs that the market overall is stabilizing,” Donovan says. “Since January we’ve seen both home sales moving up and down around a relatively stable number and we are seeing the first signs that the rapid decline in home prices is starting to abate.”The morning session included a panel discussion that was moderated by CNBC’s Ron Insana. Panelists examined cutting-edge solutions necessary to promote and preserve homeownership and real estate development, stimulate the economy, and protect the nation’s taxpayers. They also shared their ideas on what the role and responsibility of the federal government is in the revitalization effort. “Right now the Federal Reserve is the market,” said panelist Jay Brinkman, chief economist for the Mortgage Bankers Association. “What will be the effect when the Fed stops buying?” Brinkman explained that an exit strategy must be planned for the long-term; the federal government cannot continue to support the mortgage markets indefinitely.“We are thrilled that so many high-caliber individuals were able to join us today at this important meeting to promote stability in the housing market and the U.S. economy,” said NAR President Charles McMillan. “We look forward to an ongoing dialogue and action toward this goal, during our midyear meetings this week and beyond.”The real estate summit is part of the 2009 REALTORS® Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo. During the week ending May 16, more than 8,500 REALTORS® will attend meetings, visit lawmakers and inspire action on Capitol Hill.
Source: NAR

West loop Townhome-Price Slashed to $635,000

2009-05-07T09:43:00.005-05:00

Seller of 1137 West Madison #8 wants it sold...
and slashed price to sell after just a week on the market!

This home located the west loops popular Chelsea townhomes,
built by the esteemed Belgravia Group, is beautifully maintained and move in ready! A 3bedroom home with 2 car garage, a patio, deck and balcony... and located in the preferred secured, landscaped courtyard.

Check out the video tour:

And great new price for land in Lakeview

2009-05-01T14:32:00.003-05:00

Great new price $1,200,00

The corner lot 48 x 125 located at 1034-36 Wellington
With the neighboring parcel at 1040 Wellington available and also, a 48 x 125 lot
There are loads of possiblities.

2009-05-01T13:55:00.008-05:00

New West loop listing at 1137 West Monroe #8
it a beaut- listed at $649,500
Located at the favored Chelsea townhomes, built by the Belgravia group.

Check out all the details at http://1137wmonroe8.rubloff.com/

It's a 3 bedroom plus family room, 2 1/2 bath home with 2 car attached garage. Oh, and it has a patio, deck and balcony.

There is an OPEN HOUSE sunday may 3rd 12-2 pm
See you there!

About the Lakeview LAND..

2009-03-02T14:24:00.003-06:00

Somehow the price was NOT posted..

$1,290,000

1034-36 West Wellington
48 x 125
Zoned R3

Frame multi-unit on property.
Highest and Best use is tear down and BUILD-
For more info:
http://1034wwellington.rubloff.com/
or request survey

The double lot to the west is also available

Homebuyer credit is laden with CAVEATS

2009-03-01T17:36:00.009-06:00

Seems we went through numerous convolusions of this ACT before settling on it-
Although it may seem like old news it not readily understood.
So here goes!! LOADS OF CAVEATS ....

Dont get me wrong it is a great benefit but not necessarily a stimulous for ALL

-It is an $8000 MAXIMUM credit for 1st time homebuyers ( but IF you previously owned but it 's been 3 years you can still qualify)

-Your adjusted GROSS income can be no more than $75K or $150k if filing jointly to recieve the entire 8000 credit. If you have more than ( 95k or 170k jointly you get NOTHING! )

-The credit does NOT have to be repaid ( so long as you live in the home for at 3 years, if you sell it the FULL amount is due)... You might remember that the 2008 credit had to be repaid.

-The home must be a principal residence and purchased between January 1, 09 but before December 1,09

-The credit reduces tax liability and is filed for on your federal tax return. It is not received at the time of purchase

So those of you who qualify, go for it! Lets move some property and get the economy moving!

Corner Double lot opportunity in Lakeview

2009-02-18T23:07:00.002-06:00

Looking for an opportunity to build your dream home...
This 48 x 125 lot could be it- Current zoning is R3 and is perfect for single family home
development. Drive by this beautifully developed area close to everything you desire .
Then go get your builder and architect.
Survey is available.
Located at 1034- 36 Wellington

the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act of 2009

2009-02-07T18:40:00.003-06:00

So many misunderstandings about this...

Yes, it is a $15,000 buyer credit BUT it has not yet passesd the legislature.

It will be for ALL buyers primary residence ( not for investments or second home purchases), and it will NOT be repaid in most circumstances.

If you reside less than 2 years I believe there is a pay back.

The purchase will need to be made within year of passage
This will be good NOT ONLY for purchasers but everyone ..let's get thing moving ...

let us hope it passes next week! We all need this one-

Buyers Bill will get them $15000 tax break

2009-02-05T09:22:00.003-06:00

lets hope this passes...
yesterday the senate voted this bill for home buyers BUT it must pass the legislature next week-
This would replace the first time buyers $ 7500 credit that had to be repaid...
Is this one for all and without a repayment?

More details to come

Looking for a house in the heart of Roscoe Village?

2009-02-04T18:00:00.007-06:00

This is the one you have been looking for and the price just Reduced after deal fell apart-
Now $719,900 plus an buyer incentive of $5000 at closing.
It is absolutely move in ready-

It's the right floor plan for casual living-Nicely sized living room and dining room combo with 2 sided fireplace and a "great room" off the kitchen.
Big deck, yard and garage are reached off of both great room or the slate mudroom

The bedrooms are just where you need them ..
All three, on the skylit top floor, and includes a master suite.
Nice extra large marble master bath. Organized closets too
all are generous in size and have amazing closet space.

It is MUCH bigger than it looks!

check it out at: http://www.3248nleavitt.rubloff.com/

2009-02-03T09:27:00.003-06:00

Well it sure has been along time-
lots of social networking in between..

And the challenges of the new year long under way.

I am sensing some traction in the market -

You can't judge this book by its cover...!

2008-05-18T17:22:00.012-05:00

Well, so it's not that special on the outside....But, it's what's inside that counts! right?

Check out this top floor, renovated 1 bedroom with parking. It is like new and it is a big, beautiful one bedroom on a great, quiet residential block at 1941 Touhy.

And NOT ONLY is it a Great Buy

at$145,000- it as has low assessments to boot that include just about everything INCLUDING heat and gas.

All of this and it is a really well managed, small association with great reserves.

So if you are looking for a sweet deal this could be it!

Let There Be No Mistake..Chicago Sellers you now pay $4.50 in transfer stamps!

2008-04-04T16:51:00.000-05:00

It seems that there is a lot of confusion over the (recently passed) transfer tax that went in to effect on April the 1st.

This tax is assumed by the sellers... Yes, originally it was being passed on to the buyers... BUT then it was changed and passed on to the sellers.

How this breaks out is-

The sellers will now pay a Chicago transfer tax of $3.00 per thousand. This is on top of their responsibilty of the county and state tax of $1.50.

So, that is a Sellers total of $4.50 for every thousand of the purchase price.

For your information, the buyers continue to pay the existing city transfer tax of $7.50 for every thousand of the purchase price. This has gone unchanged.

Chicago Buyer or Seller Real Estate Tax Proposals

2008-03-11T18:32:00.000-05:00

Whether the proposed tax is for the seller or the buyer it is TOO much-

Proposed and previously approved, was a City of Chicago real estate transfer tax increase of 40% to be picked up by the buyer. The buyer already paying $7.50 cents per thousand purchase price, would in April begin to pay a hefty $10.50.

Now hold on..

Instead the burden is being moved to sellers. This proposal will be heard in the city council this week. So in turn the sellers, who have already been addressing a challenging market, have been paying their share of transfer taxes from other taxing bodies; would then, have but another expense to bear. Yes, it would be a $3.00 per thousand of purchase price tax for them.

So for the privilege of owning property in Chicago, there is a pretty steep and increasing tax burden. It doesn't matter who gets the increment (buyer or seller) it is just TOO MUCH BURDEN for the homeowner.

Spring forward ..Think Spring

2008-03-08T17:12:00.000-06:00

With daylight saving upon and visions of spring why not get out to the 2008 Chicagoland Flower and Garden show. Shake the winter doldrums and head to the Donald Stephens Center in Rosemont. There is a lot to see at this 14th annual event. From themed gardens; a garden market place, seminars, demos to a home lifestyle expo.
This is the opening weekend.
Check it out from tomorrow the 8th of March or anytime through the 15th.

Looking closer to home. The Spring Flower show is underway at the Lincoln Park Conservatory.
The free annual show located, of course, in Lincoln Park has spring blooming plants; both annuals and perrennials. The show continues until May the 11th.
If you have never been to this Chicago city gem it is the perfect get away from the current cold Chicago temps.

Spring forward

2008-03-07T13:03:00.000-06:00

Well, it is the Spring Real estate market...with all the inventory and the negative press ...don't be fooled ... All the good stuff, the property that is priced right and shows well is selling... and the rates remain really great!

So get out there, what better time to buy-

I know that winter has a grip that doesn't want to let go BUT spring is around the corner.

In fact don't forget to SPRING FORWARD this Saturday night, the 8th.

It's time to move your clock forward 1 hour... a step in the right direction. Yes, its early this year, 3 weeks and I am all for it. So what if we lose an hour..

More daylight, more of the promise and change that spring offers. I can't wait!

And what better time to change the batteries in your smoke detectors. Safety first!

Looking for a townhome in Lakeview, Roscoe Village..

2008-03-07T12:05:00.000-06:00

Look no further!

New on the market, this three level home lives like a townhome. Located at 1714 Belmont, hidden from the street, in an intimate 7 unit courtyard.

It is like new, and in move in condition. Have it all including generous rooms, roof deck and patio, hardwood floors, granite/ SS K and of course, gfa/cac plus a deed heated garage space.

With true 3 bedroom homes ( so many of these are really just 2 bedrooms with the possibility of converting the den or family room) this is the real deal with all bedrooms on one level and still a family room. So hard to come by this is a winner!

Check out all the photos

And check out the neighborhood. You can walk to it all, enjoy great restaurant, bars , cool shopping and great transportation... Shop at Whole foods, work out at Xsport, dine on Lincoln, on Roscoe and Southport!

Listed at $465,00 with low asseessment of only $156

getting started...looking for an investment?

2008-02-21T14:50:00.000-06:00

Been trying to get this blog started ...Well no time like the present!

Great new listing in North Center-Check it out.
It is close to everything you can want for in the best neighborhoods: Roscoe Village (I have lived there for nearly 10 years), and nearby Lincoln Square. And it is in the Bell school district!
Looking for an investment? This is a super clean 2 flat on a wide lot. Move in one apartment and rent out the other; can get decent rent to help pay the mortgage. Has great potential to duplex both units or just one....would also make a great single family home. It's new on the market.

3936 Oakley listed at $589,000 -Take a look lots of photos to view.