I attended a terrific meeting yesterday concerning the CTA Brown Line expansion. These community meetings are held each month and outline the progress, future and community/business issues surrounding the expansion project.
On a personal note, I enjoyed the presentation and the chance to speak with local business owners and Aldermans Tunney, Schulter and Vi Daley. Of course, for some reason Laurino's office was not represented... even though the Kimball line will be shut down for 4 months. Hello?
The focus of the meetings is business centric. Local businesses are encouraged to keep in touch with the CTA and the Aldermans' offices. There are many resources offered to local businesses at these meetings... and yes, even a legitimate opportunity to network. I met some great folks and will attend a couple of upcoming events that I learned about.
Below are a couple resources that are a must if you are interested and concerned about the Brown Line expansion project and your business.
Countdown to a New Brwon Line
Chicagoland Entreprenurial Center
Hang in there... it'll all be done in 2009.
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
MarketWatch Realtor Story
I've discussed meeting clients at open houses over the last couple days. Here's a nice little story from Market watch by DowJones about using a Realtor to sell your existing home. Of course, there are a billion arguments on each side of this coin... but I look at it as a case by case basis... just like anything else.
Tell me what you think...
Tell me what you think...
Monday, August 28, 2006
Open House Stories
I work quite a bit of open houses for two reasons; I will meet buyer clients in the need of representation for their home purchase and the home is exposed to potential buyers... and I find potential buyers for my clients' listings when hosting an associate's open house.
Meeting clients in this setting is not for the faint of heart. You NEVER know who will walk in. But how else will legitimate clients and I meet?
This weekend was typical however; seemly serious home buyers want to see the goods, but are tight lipped about what they are looking for. Most folks are pleasant... but sometimes the consumers are rude, condescending, and have some sense of entitlement. But let’s think about this. Holding an open house is a huge investment for me. In addition to the responsibility of caring for ones home, I’m licensed and regulated by the state and held to a code of ethics by my professional associations. It’s actually quite a production to open a home to the public when done the right way… and a crucial time commitment.
What am I saying? Open houses are not a constitutional right… they are a privilege provided to the consumer. Consumer's get to see a home for various personal reasons, fire questions at me, comp their current homes, and get a better sense of the market and the buying process.
So why the attitude? And, why are so many consumers so afraid to discuss what they are looking for and what they think of the home they just came in to?
I think it's perception. They perceive me as a confrontational figure. So let's clear some things up. I work on a daily basis to broker real estate transactions for buyers and sellers. On the buy side I provide research, current market trends, schedule listing appointments, provide expert lenders, inspectors and attorneys (that get the job done time after time), consult on property location and condition, schedule showings and transaction milestones efficiently (a huge logistics and legal challenge), write and negotiate the contract, and manage the partners in the real estate transaction.
This is all at no cost to the consumer because I’m paid by the seller’s proceeds (who need me to meet buyer’s like you so you’re prepared when the right place comes).
If you are at loss organizing your purchase, clueless about how buying property works, out- of -town, out- of- time or just want eyes and ears looking out for you… then I might be your guy.
But even if you will not work with a buyers’ agent… just drop the attitude at the open house. I promise I won’t have an attitude with you. But I will ask you questions and ask for your business... so don't be surprised when you may like the information I can provide you. Just benefit from my expertise and track record for representing clients.
Meeting clients in this setting is not for the faint of heart. You NEVER know who will walk in. But how else will legitimate clients and I meet?
This weekend was typical however; seemly serious home buyers want to see the goods, but are tight lipped about what they are looking for. Most folks are pleasant... but sometimes the consumers are rude, condescending, and have some sense of entitlement. But let’s think about this. Holding an open house is a huge investment for me. In addition to the responsibility of caring for ones home, I’m licensed and regulated by the state and held to a code of ethics by my professional associations. It’s actually quite a production to open a home to the public when done the right way… and a crucial time commitment.
What am I saying? Open houses are not a constitutional right… they are a privilege provided to the consumer. Consumer's get to see a home for various personal reasons, fire questions at me, comp their current homes, and get a better sense of the market and the buying process.
So why the attitude? And, why are so many consumers so afraid to discuss what they are looking for and what they think of the home they just came in to?
I think it's perception. They perceive me as a confrontational figure. So let's clear some things up. I work on a daily basis to broker real estate transactions for buyers and sellers. On the buy side I provide research, current market trends, schedule listing appointments, provide expert lenders, inspectors and attorneys (that get the job done time after time), consult on property location and condition, schedule showings and transaction milestones efficiently (a huge logistics and legal challenge), write and negotiate the contract, and manage the partners in the real estate transaction.
This is all at no cost to the consumer because I’m paid by the seller’s proceeds (who need me to meet buyer’s like you so you’re prepared when the right place comes).
If you are at loss organizing your purchase, clueless about how buying property works, out- of -town, out- of- time or just want eyes and ears looking out for you… then I might be your guy.
But even if you will not work with a buyers’ agent… just drop the attitude at the open house. I promise I won’t have an attitude with you. But I will ask you questions and ask for your business... so don't be surprised when you may like the information I can provide you. Just benefit from my expertise and track record for representing clients.
Sunday, August 27, 2006
Meeting me at an open house
Catch me at my open house today at 4518 N Ashland from 1PM to 4PM. My patner and I will be there to show a great two bed, two bath condo and answer questions about the current market.
I sat another open house yesterday at 1365 N Mohawk. It's a great feeling to have real consumers in this market come up and ask questions. I think people really want a get a place for many different reasons, but are having a hard time committing in this market. They are bombed with information... it's like if I had the media reporting on my health insurance options every day, on all networks, 24/7. I'd go nuts... how to choose?
Believe it or not, I sometimes offer options consumers have not thought of. It's a pretty cool moment when their eyes light up when I mention a building or type of property that would work for them. Mostly, I just address their needs directly and work hard towards them. Simple as that.
The point is, I meet many of my clients this way. As a buyer's agent, meeting clients at the open house is key... but it's tough. I'm sincere about representing buyers and have the track record to prove it. Yet, how do you get this across to a suspicious consumer?
Just ask me a few questions... I think you'll be pleased. An I might even have a listing you will want to buy.
I sat another open house yesterday at 1365 N Mohawk. It's a great feeling to have real consumers in this market come up and ask questions. I think people really want a get a place for many different reasons, but are having a hard time committing in this market. They are bombed with information... it's like if I had the media reporting on my health insurance options every day, on all networks, 24/7. I'd go nuts... how to choose?
Believe it or not, I sometimes offer options consumers have not thought of. It's a pretty cool moment when their eyes light up when I mention a building or type of property that would work for them. Mostly, I just address their needs directly and work hard towards them. Simple as that.
The point is, I meet many of my clients this way. As a buyer's agent, meeting clients at the open house is key... but it's tough. I'm sincere about representing buyers and have the track record to prove it. Yet, how do you get this across to a suspicious consumer?
Just ask me a few questions... I think you'll be pleased. An I might even have a listing you will want to buy.
Saturday, August 26, 2006
Modern Modual Homes; If I Had a Hammer
Friday, August 25, 2006
Diversey Brown Line to SHUT DOWN!
Maybe you have heard... actually, I'm surprised by how many regular riders on this stop have not. The Diversey Brown Line stop will be closed for ten long months starting in November. Yikes.
I was given this update by the Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce due to my office location. I'll be attending a seminar on the upcoming disturbance... hit the link above for more info.
I live near the Kimball stop and work at the Diversey stop... both will be down at the same time. Natch!
Even though I am dependent on my car for most business, I ride the "L" quite a bit... especially for closings Downtown. These trials and tribulations will make me stronger and more innovative... right?
I was given this update by the Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce due to my office location. I'll be attending a seminar on the upcoming disturbance... hit the link above for more info.
I live near the Kimball stop and work at the Diversey stop... both will be down at the same time. Natch!
Even though I am dependent on my car for most business, I ride the "L" quite a bit... especially for closings Downtown. These trials and tribulations will make me stronger and more innovative... right?
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
Not Your Father's Bridgeport
Bridgeport is officially hot. According to the Tribune story that graced the top spot in the Real Estate section, there is some development going on out there. Condos ain't cheap either. I couldn't find one for a client worth buying for under $300K, not much a little over that price point either. Check out the story by Stacy Lonati Ross describing the scene surrounding a couple midwest ballparks.
Although this area has lagged quite a bit more than I thought it would... it's about to hit a renewel stride. Most do not attribute it to the White Sox success... but the timing is kinda of cool. In fact, some of us believe the whole area, from bridgeport through Bronzville West of the McCormick Place expansion will really benefit from Chicago's Olympic bid.
The developers see the revival purely due to the expese of the north side. What kills me is... it's like duh... if Bucktown/Wicker Park can happen purely due to it's proximity to downtown and transportation to said downtown... then why not Bridgeport?
Bottom Line:
Looking for a house close to downtown for under $400K? With a little luck, you may find a "move-in" quality bungalow in Bridgeport. Of course, some of my clients already have done that. We "snatched one up" (as the story suggests) for around $345,000 just south of 31st Street on Union... one of the best streets in the area. Walk to Sox Park, the Jewel, a couple trendy restaurants and old haunts... bike to downtown or take a bus.
It's tough to find a house for under $400K that doesn't need a total re-do east of Halsted from 31st to 38th. Even my clients have to do the baths and kitchen... 1962 finishes just ain't cutting it for them.
Although this area has lagged quite a bit more than I thought it would... it's about to hit a renewel stride. Most do not attribute it to the White Sox success... but the timing is kinda of cool. In fact, some of us believe the whole area, from bridgeport through Bronzville West of the McCormick Place expansion will really benefit from Chicago's Olympic bid.
The developers see the revival purely due to the expese of the north side. What kills me is... it's like duh... if Bucktown/Wicker Park can happen purely due to it's proximity to downtown and transportation to said downtown... then why not Bridgeport?
Bottom Line:
Looking for a house close to downtown for under $400K? With a little luck, you may find a "move-in" quality bungalow in Bridgeport. Of course, some of my clients already have done that. We "snatched one up" (as the story suggests) for around $345,000 just south of 31st Street on Union... one of the best streets in the area. Walk to Sox Park, the Jewel, a couple trendy restaurants and old haunts... bike to downtown or take a bus.
It's tough to find a house for under $400K that doesn't need a total re-do east of Halsted from 31st to 38th. Even my clients have to do the baths and kitchen... 1962 finishes just ain't cutting it for them.
Monday, August 21, 2006
PMI Is Your Friend
Yes, I may have been drinking... but PMI is not so bad anymore. At least, it may be the lesser of several evils in this mortgage rate and housing market. Lew Sichelman writes another great article that YOU should have read. Or at the very least, I should tell you about... which I am.In any event, please read "Most buyers not aware of mortgage insurance options", printed in Sunday's Chicago Tribune by Lew Sichelman. Lew, Lew, if I only knew as much as you. But then again, I'm sure he doesn't know where the best $350,000 condo in Lakeview is... do you?
So, once again I must make the point... get a mortgage broker that knows his/her stuff. And if you don't have one, I'll send you to three that will compete for your business.
Sunday, August 20, 2006
A night off from real estate
Thanks to all my clients for the great evening of sailing Lake Michigan last Wednesday. We were a little more fortunate than last trip... the weather was terrific. No surprise monsoons.I even have to admit to enjoying the Navy Pier fireworks (I think I'm too cool to be impressed by bright, flashing lights and loud booms).
But what a great way to spend an evening. The best part was to hear how each person is progressing in their homes. The stories are interesting and it's special to have a group of people who can relate and trade information concerning owning their home and dealing with condo boards and developers.
Thanks again to the capable captains and crew of the Chicago Sailing Club for a seemless evening of flowing with the waves and forgetting about the work week.
Friday, August 18, 2006
Product endorsements? The iRobot Scooba Floor Washer
I've decided to start a new series of product endorsements based on client testimonial (don't worry, I won't start a new series every night like the new NightLine.. how do you start a new series every single night?).
Anywhoo...
First up is something that is badly needed in my household... the iRobot Scooba floor washer
I went over to a client's new conversion condo a couple days ago to see how things were coming along. The place looked great... but the she pretty much went over the top showing me her new Scooba. The parents bought the floor washer as a house warming gift.
I've always had reservations about these things even though I usually hear, first hand, great reviews. Looking around my house, I'll have to reconsier.
If you have pets, construction dust from new conversions or new construction that never seems to go away, or just decided to out-source cleaning period... this could be the answer.
Anywhoo...
First up is something that is badly needed in my household... the iRobot Scooba floor washer
I went over to a client's new conversion condo a couple days ago to see how things were coming along. The place looked great... but the she pretty much went over the top showing me her new Scooba. The parents bought the floor washer as a house warming gift.
I've always had reservations about these things even though I usually hear, first hand, great reviews. Looking around my house, I'll have to reconsier.
If you have pets, construction dust from new conversions or new construction that never seems to go away, or just decided to out-source cleaning period... this could be the answer.
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