FINDING HOME IN CHICAGOLAND
isn’t luck. it’s strategy.

Oak Park • River Forest • Elmwood Park • Chicago • western suburbs

I help people find home in Chicagoland

Real estate is about numbers. But it is also about belonging.

I do not just help people buy and sell houses. I help them find home.

Whether you are relocating to Chicagoland, downsizing in Oak Park, selling in the western suburbs, or buying your first home in Chicago, you deserve clear strategy and steady guidance.

Licensed since 2007, I have helped buyers and sellers navigate competitive markets with smart pricing, strong negotiation, and thoughtful preparation.

Selling your home in Oak Park or the Chicago suburbs

Getting top dollar is not about luck. It is about preparation and positioning.

Before your home hits the market, we will talk through:

  • As-is value vs. improvement strategy
  • Accurate pricing based on hyper-local data
  • Professional marketing that creates demand
  • Negotiation strategy that protects your bottom line

When you get paid, I get paid. No upfront fees. Just thoughtful preparation and strong representation.

Learn more about selling your home   |   What is my home worth?

Buying a home in Chicagoland

Whether you are searching in Oak Park, Chicago, or the western suburbs, I will help you:

  • Understand neighborhood differences beyond listing photos
  • Navigate taxes, commute realities, and market timing
  • Compete strategically in multiple-offer situations
  • Access off-market opportunities through the Private Listing Network and Top Agent Network

Buying a home is not just about inventory. It is about fit.

What is your Oak Park or Chicago home worth?

Curious what your home could sell for in today's market?

Get a data-backed estimate and a real strategy conversation, not just an automated number.

Find your home's value

Why work with Laurie Christofano with RE/MAX?

  • Deep local knowledge of Oak Park and the near-west suburbs
  • Clear, honest communication without jargon
  • Licensed since 2007 with experience across multiple market cycles
  • Strong negotiation in competitive markets
  • Inclusive representation for first-time buyers, downsizers, relocators, and LGBTQ+ families

I live here. I raise my family here. I care deeply about the communities I serve.

Meet Laurie

Ready to make your next move?

If you are thinking about buying or selling in Chicago or the western suburbs, let us talk through what your next chapter looks like.

Call or text: 630-248-1976
Email: laurie@OPRFhomesforsale.com

Let us find the right fit, not just the right house.

Read next

Chicagoland Realtor helping you find home - a quick read on why community matters just as much as the house.

FAQs

As a top-performing Realtor with RE/MAX in Oak Park, Chicago, and its western suburbs, I offer a full range of real estate services, including buying, selling, and relocation assistance. I specialize in helping families find their dream homes, first-time buyers navigate the market, and sellers get the best value for their properties. Whether you are looking for homes in Oak Park, River Forest, or other nearby communities, I am here to guide you every step of the way.

Pricing your home correctly is crucial to a successful sale. I use a combination of comparative market analysis, local market trends, and an in-depth understanding of the Oak Park and Chicago housing markets to set a competitive and fair price for your home. I also factor in your home's unique features, its as-is value versus its fixed-up value, and current buyer demand.

Before your home hits the market, I work closely with you to ensure it is in top shape. This includes advising on necessary repairs or updates, staging for maximum appeal, and professional photography to showcase your home in the best light. I also create a strategic marketing plan to generate buzz and interest from qualified buyers, so we are fully prepared from day one.

I use a multi-channel marketing approach that includes online listings, social media promotion, email campaigns, and targeted ads. My marketing strategies are designed to reach both local and out-of-town buyers, highlighting the best aspects of your home and the surrounding community. I also leverage my network and local connections to spread the word about your listing.

As someone who has lived in the Chicago area my entire life and has been in real estate since 2007, I understand the challenges first-time buyers face. I offer personalized guidance through every step of the process, from securing financing to finding the right neighborhood and making a competitive offer. My goal is to make your first home-buying experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.

What sets me apart is my deep knowledge of the Chicagoland area, especially Oak Park and the western suburbs, and my commitment to my clients. I am not just selling houses. I am helping people find their place in a community. I am also tech-savvy, using modern tools to give my clients an edge in the market, and I am committed to inclusive representation.

Getting started is easy. Whether you are looking to buy or sell, I offer a free consultation to discuss your needs and how I can help. You can reach me at 630-248-1976 or laurie@OPRFhomesforsale.com to schedule a meeting. From there, we will create a tailored plan to achieve your real estate goals.

I serve a wide range of communities in the Chicagoland area, with a focus on Oak Park, River Forest, Berwyn, and the surrounding western suburbs. I also have extensive experience with the city of Chicago, particularly neighborhoods that offer a suburban feel with easy access to urban amenities. My goal is to help you find the right home in a community that fits your lifestyle.

Absolutely. I specialize in helping clients who are looking to downsize, whether that means moving to a smaller home, a condo, or a different type of property that better suits their current needs. I understand the unique challenges downsizers face, such as maintaining key features like garage space or minimizing stairs while finding a home that still feels like the right fit.

Yes. I regularly share market updates and insights to keep clients informed about trends in Oak Park, River Forest, and the western suburbs. Whether you are curious about median sales prices, market time, or inventory levels, I can provide current data and explain what it means for your buying or selling strategy.

The amount you will make selling your house depends on several factors, including your home's location, condition, and the current market. I will help you evaluate your home's potential by analyzing local sales and factoring in its unique features. Reach out for a personalized home value estimate and selling strategy.

Yes, you can sell your home as-is. While making updates can increase the sale price, some buyers are willing to purchase homes in their current condition. I will help you decide whether selling as-is or making a few key improvements is more likely to get you the best return.

Finding homes for sale near you is easy with my customized home search tools. You can search by neighborhood, price, and home type. I will also help you narrow down your options and schedule showings to find the right fit in your desired location.

Latest homes for sale in Oak Park and surrounding suburbs

$699,000

3 Beds ⋅

2 Baths ⋅

12767257 MLS ⋅

NEW Status

Set in the heart of coveted Northwest Historic Oak Park, this beautiful brick center-entrance Colonial welcomes you with timeless curb appeal and the kind of warmth that immediately feels like home. Step through the gracious front entry and discover sun-filled rooms, pristine oak floors, custom lighting, and oversized windows that bring an inviting glow throughout the home. The elegant living room is anchored by a stately marble-surround fireplace and charming built-in bookshelves, while double doors provide access to the expansive rear deck, creating an effortless connection between indoor and outdoor living. The spacious dining room sets the stage for everything from intimate dinners to lively holiday gatherings, while the newer cook's kitchen is designed for both everyday cooking and enjoyment, with beautiful granite countertops, stainless steel appliances (new sleek Samsung refrigerator), abundant custom cabinetry, and generous workspace. A highly sought-after mudroom and newer powder room add thoughtful convenience to daily living. Upstairs, three generously sized bedrooms provide comfortable retreats along with the home's main bath, while the lower level offers abundant storage and a large unfinished area ready to become a fabulous recreation room, home gym, office, or additional living space. Outside, the expansive 2017 deck invites you to linger over morning coffee, enjoy a glass of wine or gather with friends on warm summer evenings. Fresh sod installed in 2025, a partially fenced yard, and a detached two-car garage completes your outdoor space. Recent improvements include a new furnace in December 2023, new air conditioner in June 2024, and new sump pump in 2023. Ideally located within easy reach of sought-after schools, beautiful parks, transportation, shopping, dining, and all the charm that makes Northwest Oak Park such a special place to call home.

810 N Oak Park Avenue, Oak Park

$299,000

2 Beds ⋅

2 Baths ⋅

12765546 MLS ⋅

NEW Status

Charming 2-bedroom, 2-bath Georgian in desirable South Berwyn, offering a wonderful combination of classic character, thoughtful updates and additional living space. The main level features updated flooring, a spacious living room, formal dining room and updated kitchen with stove, refrigerator, microwave and wine cooler, with the option to replace the wine cooler with a dishwasher. Upstairs, two generously sized bedrooms and a beautifully updated full bath complete the second level.The finished basement adds an entirely different dimension to the home and is currently arranged as a guest space, while easily serving as a family room or entertainment area. Gather around the gas fireplace or enjoy the built-in bar area with wine rack, perfect for movie nights, game days or entertaining. A second full bath with Jacuzzi tub and a separate laundry room complete the lower level. Outside, enjoy a spacious backyard with established perennials, a large deck for outdoor entertaining, newer fencing and new front concrete steps. Additional features include radiator heat, a roof approximately six years old, a 1-car garage and private driveway. The South Berwyn location puts everyday conveniences close at hand, with nearby Freedom Park, Proksa Park and other neighborhood green spaces. Enjoy convenient access to Ogden Avenue, I-55 and Berwyn's Depot District, where restaurants, shops and the Berwyn Metra Station along Windsor Avenue provide BNSF service to downtown Chicago.

3611 Home Avenue, Berwyn

$535,000

5 Beds ⋅

3 Baths ⋅

12765669 MLS ⋅

NEW Status

A true gem of a home, your classic Chicago bungalow, elevated. Conveniently located near the downtown Elmwood Park entertainment and business circle in the sought after neighborhood of Elmwood Park, this beautiful brick bungalow features 5 bedrooms (+1 bonus bed/flex room in the basement), 3 full baths, gorgeous hardwoods throughout and tons of character just waiting for you to call it home! All windows, appliances, 1 of 2 sets of furnaces/ac condensers, and roof replaced in 2023, this one will be low maintenance for years to come. The first floor combines a traditional floorplan with modern updates, from the large living room with tons of windows and built in bookshelves, to the central formal dining room, 2 opposing bedrooms, nicely updated central full bath and beautifully appointed rear kitchen with breakfast nook and attached, enclosed rear porch/mud room. Upstairs holds the massive primary bedroom with huge walk-in closet, reading nook opening to a brand new terrace roof deck, and shared primary bath. You'll also find two additional tandem jumbo bedrooms with a convenient front attic passthrough and additional storage. There's also a tremendous amount of finished space in the basement with family room, additional full bath, extra bonus bedroom, mechanicals, and large laundry room with sink. Meticulously maintained, tastefully updated, this is not one to miss. Schedule your tour today!

7815 W Westwood Drive, Elmwood Park

$650,000

6 Beds ⋅

4 Baths ⋅

12766158 MLS ⋅

NEW Status

Rare Oak Park 3-unit opportunity on a deep 50x171 lot! This classic stucco two-flat plus coach house offers flexibility few properties can match: live in one unit and let the other two help fund the mortgage, keep extended family close while everyone has their own space, or add a solid income property to your portfolio. Each unit has its own kitchen and hardwood floors, and old-world character shines throughout with high ceilings, crown molding, and working pocket doors. Tenants pay their own electric, gas, and heat. Outside, relax on the backyard patio and garden beneath mature trees, and enjoy 5 exterior parking spaces, a true rarity in Oak Park. The full, partially finished basement adds storage and flexibility, and there's room for dedicated home offices. Long-time owners are moving on and thoughtful updates offer a clear path to growing rents. First floor unit in main house has 2 bedrooms on first floor and 2 in the basement. Second floor unit has 2 bedrooms. The main house has been owner occupied for over 20 years. Coach house has 1 bedroom on the first floor and 2 in the basement. Tenants pay 1,800 in rent per month and are month to month with 60 day notice. The location is hard to beat: walk to the L train, Whittier School, Oak Park and River Forest High School, Pete's Fresh Market, the GRC, skate park, Ridgeland Common's pool and ice arena. The Daily Bagel and Thai Neighbor restaurant just steps away. Easy access to downtown Chicago. Don't miss this one!

540 N Harvey Avenue, Oak Park

$329,900

2 Beds ⋅

2 Baths ⋅

12763806 MLS ⋅

NEW Status

Welcome to 8909 Village Square Ln - a charming townhome in a wonderful Brookfield neighborhood, where comfortable living and carefree convenience come together. Freshly painted and thoughtfully refreshed, this 1,296-square-foot townhome welcomes you with a light, neutral palette, inviting spaces, that is ready for its next chapter. With 9 rooms, 2 bedrooms, and 1.1 updated baths, there is room to relax, entertain, work from home, and simply enjoy the comforts of everyday living. The living and dining rooms are beautifully connected by a fireplace, creating a warm and inviting setting for quiet evenings or gatherings with family and friends. Freshly painted walls, neutral carpeting, and recessed lighting add to the home's clean, comfortable ambiance. The cheerful, windowed kitchen overlooks the rear green space and features a breakfast bar, newer gas range, range hood, and stainless-steel dishwasher. A convenient door leads directly to your patio, a lovely spot for morning coffee, casual dining, or unwinding at the end of the day. A refreshed powder room completes the main level. Upstairs, the home's two-story foyer adds a sense of openness and leads to a versatile loft area - an ideal reading nook, creative space, or home office. The generously sized second bedroom offers a double-door closet and tranquil views of the patios and common green space. A separate, 2nd floor laundry room is an added everyday convenience. The primary bedroom is a peaceful retreat of its own, with a vaulted ceiling, two closets including a walk-in, and a flexible sitting area that can easily become a home office, exercise space, or cozy reading corner. A private west-facing balcony invites you to step outside and enjoy beautiful evening sunsets - one of those special touches that makes this home feel uniquely yours. Beyond the home's inviting interior is a location that makes life easy. Enjoy a short walk to nearby parks and the elementary school, quick drive to downtown Brookfield, up Prairie Avenue to the commuter train, and convenient connections to Plainfield Road, shopping, and I-55. Come discover a home that feels comfortable from the moment you arrive

8909 Village Square Lane, Brookfield

$799,000

6 Beds ⋅

5 Baths ⋅

12767898 MLS ⋅

NEW Status

Mid-Century Modern four-unit property in a highly desirable Elmwood Park location! Offering more than 5,000 square feet of living space, this fully leased building with 100K in RECENT IMPROVEMENTS presents an outstanding sole investment or owner-live-in opportunity! The current rent roll includes Unit 1 at $1,995 per month, Unit 2F at $1,350, Unit 2R at $1,250, Unit G at $1,250, and the garage at $175. GMR totals $6,020 per month, or $72,240 annually. The property includes six bedrooms and five full bathrooms across four apartments. Each residence has its own thermostat and individually controlled AC unit. Tenants share a basement common area and laundry room with a free, owner-owned washer and dryer. The detached garage accommodates approximately 2.5 cars and is leased separately. The building combines vintage character with thoughtful updates, including striking tiger mahogany cabinetry and stainless-steel appliances. Approximately $100,000 in improvements have been completed since October 2024, with major investments in the property's systems. Updates include a brand-new Weil-McLain gas boiler, a new common water heater with annual service, a full electrical upgrade, sewer-main hydro jetting, camera inspection and repairs, new copper piping in the mechanical room, a new hot-water supply line to the garden unit, and a sprinkler system in the basement common area. Additional improvements include repainting, carpet cleaning, rent-ready repairs, new locks, deep cleaning, and new laminate flooring in Unit 1. Earlier improvements include tuckpointing, glass-block windows, and plumbing work. The building is also a prime value add candidate with large basement common room that can easily become a unit addition. As well as the opportunity for cosmetic upgrades to increase an impressive rent toll. Conveniently located within walking distance of the train, parks, and schools, this well-maintained income-producing property offers a compelling combination of location, vintage character, modernized building systems, and future rental upside.

2631 N 74Th Avenue, Elmwood Park

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