August hotter than July for our Chicago home sales

The hazy heat can't stop us!

Although it was 90 degrees and 99% humidity in July, Bob and I are creating even hotter traffic in August. Our showings have increased already in August since basically crawling through July. Although we did sell a few homes quickly and write purchase contracts in July with our clients, we're poised for more activity this late summer and fall season.

We have advised several clients to get their homes on the market now, or, just after the Labor Day weekend. We still want them to take advantage of low interest rates for potential buyers (below 5% for most of our clients and those buying our listings). Their property, if priced aggressively, will look fresh compared to the places that have been hanging around for months over-priced.

We are looking at one of our biggest months ever in property closings and purchase contracts this September. Please call us for consultation if you are buying or selling property.

West Town's Wicker Park property sold in five days: 1309 N Greenview

We're hot in West Town's Wicker Park with two recent sales back to back... both under contract in less than a week. Both clients worked closely with us on staging preparation and price. They both received great offers immediately, saving themselves the inconvenience of showing their home over and over.

Check out the photos for 1309 N Greenview #3 HERE

We have a new listing for sale in West Town's River West neighborhood at 824 W Superior #609... including heated garage parking for $325,000.

View more photos of 824 W Superior #609 HERE

Best Value in River West Chicago? We got it at $325,000!

We recently listed 824 W Superior #609 in River West for $325,000. For new construction, this is the best value. The unit includes heated garage parking in an elevator building. We don't see a better buy for a top floor private home with unobstructed views.

Walk-up condos in other West Town neighborhoods like Wicker Park can not compare to the level of security, privacy and space you get at $325,000. Give River West a look. You'll be surprised how fast you get to downtown... many people walk and ride their bikes to work in the Loop from this location!

Please call us for details and VIEW MORE PHOTOS HERE

Ravenswood Gardens has curb appeal! Do you?

This center entrance six flat has some of the best curb appeal in Ravenswood Gardens. However, curb appeal can be easier to attain if you're building is currently Plain Jane!

Curb appeal is not just for single family homes. It's important to know how your condo building stacks up compared to other condo buildings in the neighborhood. More importantly, how does your condo curb appeal stack up with buildings that are selling condos in your price point?

Another center entrance six flat with understated, but effective landscaping.

Buying and living in Northcenter, Chicago 60618 for $449,900

Check out this video introduction to the heart of Northcenter Chicago.

We talk a little bit outside on Lincoln Avenue and head into a unique three level condo with two car garage parking for sale at $449,900. My wife and I use to live a block from this location and we are only a mile or so north now. We love all the amenities, restaurants and bars and how easy it is to get to other popular neighborhoods like Roscoe Village, Lincoln Square or Lake View.

4152 N Lincoln Avenue #1, Chicago IL 60618 Part 2 (and no my arm is not that long... just the way I formatted the video!).

While in Northcenter visit Sola for upscale dining, Brown Trout's unique top notch sustainable menu, Brownstone for the games, Red Eyes for coffee and pastries, Martyr's for music, T-Spot for sushi and tea... you name it, it's five minutes away!

Click the "video" label below for more neighborhood and property videos.

House of the Week: We love the Lincoln Park (painted) ladies!

Hello sunshine!

This grande dame at 2418 N Surrey Court in Lincoln Park is all class with a touch of whimsy. Great fence!
Although I prefer hints towards modern architecture and this is more Bob's thing... a pretty lady is a pretty lady no doubt.

From what we can tell, the house was acquired in a bank sale in June of 2001 by the current owners. What a wonderful contribution they have made.

Click our House of the Week label below to view all our featured single family homes...it's fun!

Cook County property tax payers rejoice!

Owners get a "break" with signed tax legislation this weekend:

"The law continues a 7 percent limit in annual growth of a home's value for tax purposes. Chicagoans will get up to a $20,000 exemption on property taxes billed this fall under the law, according to Assessor James Houlihan's office. Without it, the tax exemption would have dropped to $6,000."

Read the Tribune story here.

New photos: 4152 N Lincoln Avenue #1 in Northcenter

Asking $449,900 for this three level, two bedrooms plus family room, two and one-half baths home. View more photos HERE

I was out filming the neighborhood in Northcenter today and also received our professional photos back for our listing. Check them out! This is a three level condo that lives and feels more like a town house. There are no neighbors above or below you. Plus, you get a rare two car heated attached garage.

The penthouse level offers really flexible space. You can have a family room, guest bedroom and office all on this floor to really maximize the quality of life.

Considering an Au Pair? Attend this reception August 18th and learn more!

Au pair Charmaine with our youngest Amalia.

My wife Jillian and I will host a casual wine and cheese reception for those interested in au pairs. This is a great way to learn if this child care option is right for you. We've hosted an au pair for eight months and love the relationship. Learn ins -and -outs, shatter some myths and meet other parents curious about au pair programs. It can be very affordable and flexible compared to full time nannies.

*Please contact me (Eric) at 773-510-1597 or by email at erojas@rubloff.com for specific information. Just mention the au pair meeting. Below is the general time, date and location.


What: Au Pair informational wine and cheese reception
When: Wednesday, August 18th at 7:00PM
Where: Lincoln Square area (location will be sent in an e-vite)

House of the Week: Flawless Ravenswood Manor Chicago bungalow

Pride of ownership! Not a hair out of place! Windows, brick, roof tile, fences, awnings... wow. Great detail on this pretty West Wilson Avenue bungalow near the North Branch of the Chicago River. And this is just one beautiful house in a crowd for the Ravenswood Manor neighborhood.