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

Oak ParkRiver ForestElmwood ParkChicago • 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

$549,900

3 Beds

3 Baths

12721838 MLS

NEW Status

This stunning penthouse duplex condo in the heart of Oak Park is truly move-in ready. Offering 2,200 square feet of living space, this beautifully designed home features 3 spacious bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, soaring 17-foot vaulted ceilings, and expansive windows that fill the home with natural light. The sun-drenched, open-concept gourmet kitchen showcases rich cherry cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, and an oversized breakfast bar with additional storage. The kitchen flows seamlessly into the spacious dining and living area, highlighted by a cozy gas fireplace. The main level offers three generously sized bedrooms and two full bathrooms, including an impressive primary suite featuring a double shower and dual-sink vanity. Upstairs, a sprawling loft provides flexible space for a home office, family room, fitness area, or a combination of all three, along with an additional full bathroom. Step outside onto the large private balcony, perfect for entertaining guests or simply enjoying the warmer months. Located in an unbeatable location, the home sits directly across from Percy Julian Middle School, just one block from Fenwick High School, and within walking distance of Oak Park and River Forest High School. Residents will also enjoy convenient access to downtown Oak Park, shopping, dining, and nearby train lines. Additional features include two heated garage parking spaces and a private basement storage area. This exceptional top-floor residence offers the perfect combination of space, style, convenience, and location. **sold as is**

421 S Ridgeland Avenue Unit #3S, Oak Park

$1,275,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

12705605 MLS

NEW Status

Timeless French Provincial elegance meets thoughtful modern updates in this beautifully maintained 4 bedroom, 3.1 bath smart home on one of North Oak Park's most desirable tree-lined streets. Enter into a gracious foyer where sunlight pours through newer windows and doors (2006), reflecting off rich hardwood floors and highlighting classic architectural details. The living rooms flow effortlessly into the dining room which features Sub-Zero wine center and a wall of windows overlooking the private front paver patio, creating an inviting setting for both intimate dinners and lively gatherings. At the heart of the home is the completely remodeled 2019 chef's kitchen-crisp, clean, and designed for both serious cooking and easy entertaining. High-end stainless appliances, generous stone counters, and an expansive island invite you to linger over morning coffee or evening wine. Just beyond, the updated family room (2019) is bathed in natural light from a large picture window with power shades-perfect for movie nights, reading, or simply watching the seasons change in the backyard. Sound is woven thoughtfully throughout the home with integrated Sonos speakers, creating an immersive atmosphere whether you're hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening in. Upstairs, four comfortable bedrooms offer abundant closet space, including several with custom California Closets for exceptional organization. Both second floor baths and the first-floor powder room were tastefully updated in 2006, balancing fresh finishes with classic style. The master bath features heated floor. The dedicated office, enhanced in 2007 with a built-in desk and cozy baseboard heat, provides a quiet, comfortable space for working from home, studying, or managing daily life. The lower level is a true extension of the living space-warm, inviting, and exceptionally functional. The theatre room has been upgraded with built-in digital surround sound, a gas fireplace and outfitted with two cleverly designed Murphy beds, easily transforming it into welcoming guest quarters when needed. There is a handy snack bar adjacent to prepare drinks, popcorn and more for movie or game nights. A full bath with a luxurious steam shower, heated floors and heated shower bench offers a spa-like retreat after a long day or tough workout. The added workout room makes it easy to maintain your fitness routine at home, regardless of the weather. Thoughtful mechanical and structural updates deliver peace of mind: A/C (2022), furnace (2007), water heater (2021), upgraded electric panel (2007), secondary electric panel (2023) and upgraded copper plumbing. The flat roof was replaced in 2025, minimizing future maintenance concerns. Outdoor living is equally appealing. Enjoy the expanded deck (2021), ideal for grilling and al fresco dining, where you can relax with a book or gather with friends at twilight. Two storage sheds (2021) neatly tuck away tools, toys, and seasonal items, keeping the yard tidy and functional. The updated 3-car garage is ready for the modern homeowner, with a new door and rollers (2025), upgraded high-end cabinetry, a fresh Swiss Trax floor (2025), and an EV charger-ready power source (2024), for effortless at-home charging. Wi-Fi system includes all doors, appliances, lighting, air-conditioner and furnace. ADT phone-controlled security system and 4 Ring exterior cameras for peace of mind. All of this is set in an enviable Oak Park location-close to top-rated schools, parks, and playgrounds, with easy access to shopping, restaurants, and the train for a quick commute to downtown Chicago. This French Provincial beauty offers the warmth of an established home, the confidence of extensive updates, and the comfort of thoughtfully designed spaces-ready for you to move in and enjoy.

1049 N Elmwood Avenue, Oak Park

$1,199,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

12720853 MLS

NEW Status

Welcome to the Gunderson on Elmwood! An extraordinary, fully renovated historic masterpiece where timeless architecture meets modern luxury. Designed by renowned architect Frank A. Gunderson for his daughter, this one-of-a-kind residence showcases exquisite original craftsmanship, including stunning stained-glass windows and tray ceilings! All while offering every modern convenience today's buyer desires. This exceptional home features 4 spacious bedrooms, 3.5 beautifully updated bathrooms, and three full finished levels of living space! Providing the perfect balance of elegance, comfort, and functionality. The designer kitchen with a separate breakfasts nook, opens seamlessly to expansive living and dining spaces! While the luxurious primary suite boasts a spa-inspired bathroom and an impressive custom walk-in closet worthy of a boutique. The finished basement offers additional living and entertaining space! Ideal for a recreation room, home gym, media room, or guest accommodations. Completely renovated in 2020, major improvements include: New HVAC, Plumbing, Electrical Roof & Central Air. Situated in one of Oak Park's most desirable locations, you'll enjoy the convenience of close proximity to: Green and Blue CTA Lines, award winning schools, grocery stores, restaurants, parks, and everything downtown Oak Park has to offer. Adding even more value, the sale includes the adjacent 507 S. Elmwood buildable lot on a separate PIN, creating an incredible opportunity for future development, expanded outdoor living, or long-term investment. A rare opportunity to own one of Oak Park's most iconic historic homes with the added benefit of a buildable lot offering luxury, history, and unmatched potential in one remarkable package. Schedule your private showing today.

511 S Elmwood Avenue, Oak Park

$475,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

12717530 MLS

NEW Status

Charming, spacious, sun-drenched, character-filled Oak Park home beckons! The welcoming front porch invites you into the foyer, where you can pause to appreciate the gleaming hardwood floors, original woodwork, art glass, high ceilings, and tall, bright windows. Gather with loved ones in the oversized living room, featuring a stunning stone woodburning fireplace, Prairie-inspired woodwork details, and an entire wall of west-facing windows, boasting plenty of space for multiple conversation areas--perfect for entertaining or for cozy nights in. Easily host your largest holiday parties in the adjacent, spacious dining room with a wall of southern-exposure windows and more lovely woodworking. Creating your feasts and everyday meals is a delight in the vintage kitchen that's been freshened up for today's needs with beautiful new quartz countertops; all stainless appliances; new, deep undermount sink; new faucet; freshly painted cabinetry and hardware, and a smart floorplan for easy workflow. The kitchen leads to a large, sunny, newly-carpeted, premium first-floor family room addition--ideal for modern living and where everyone will cluster for movie or game nights. And with three walls of windows that overlook the charming backyard, it will be a year-round, all-day, sunny hangout! Rounding out this spacious main level is a roomy, practical mudroom off the back door; a convenient water closet that's perfect for guests and everyday living; and a large entry closet. When you're ready to retire, head upstairs to find three generous bedrooms. The massive primary easily fits a king bed with space to spare. (And with its vast floorplan, is primed for an affordable primary en-suite bath if needed!) The second bedroom is nearly as large and just as bright as the primary, with a serene tree-house feel, and the third bedroom is also a delightful size, with both bedrooms also boasting spacious closets and tall, bright windows. The hallway bath is retro-cool, squeaky clean, and spacious, and a large hallway linen closet provides additional storage and completes this level. For even more room to roam, head to the high and dry lower level where you'll find another full bathroom, laundry room, and storage, plus loads of space and potential for an office, playroom, exercise room, or guest space. An overhead sewer and ejector pit keep the basement dry and offer peace of mind. Al-fresco, you'll find even more to love with a spacious backyard, patio, and two-car garage, with potential to easily convert the patio to an outdoor parking space if needed! Many updates in the home along with the beautiful, original charm - fresh paint throughout; new light fixtures; new quartz countertops, sink, faucet, hardware; new carpet; new fans; new porch steps and treads; efficient newer window units ('24); updated electrical to code ('23); added shut-off valves throughout ('23); and more. All this in a fantastic Oak Park location on a quiet, friendly block with 2 block parties a year, that's close to all that this village offers - schools, parks, tennis, library, shopping, coffee, bagels, restaurants, public transportation, and so much more! This is the one you've been waiting for--welcome home!

1010 N Lombard Avenue, Oak Park

$629,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

12708477 MLS

NEW Status

Welcome to this beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 3-bath home in one of Oak Park's most welcoming, family-friendly neighborhoods. Thoughtfully updated and move-in ready, this home combines modern improvements with comfortable living spaces designed for everyday life and entertaining. Recent major updates provide peace of mind for years to come, including a new roof (May 2025), new furnace and HVAC system (December 2023), and a completely rebuilt deck with new flooring, railings, and caps (August 2025). The interior has been freshly painted, the basement carpet has been professionally steam-cleaned, and the siding and exterior windows are scheduled for professional washing, ensuring the home is ready to impress. Inside, you'll find spacious living areas, four bedrooms, and three full bathrooms. The finished basement offers outstanding flexibility, including a potential fifth bedroom with the addition of an egress window. Music lovers, remote professionals, and creatives will appreciate the converted garage, now a fully insulated, soundproofed four-season studio complete with heating and air conditioning. An additional soundproofed room in the basement utility area provides even more possibilities for recording, practicing, working, or pursuing hobbies. The backyard is a true retreat, featuring beautiful flower and vegetable gardens, a patio, and a spacious deck-perfect for outdoor dining, entertaining, or simply relaxing. The location is equally exceptional. Just two blocks from Fox Park, you'll enjoy easy access to green space, playgrounds, and recreation. Daily conveniences are just around the corner, with Pete's Market, Sugar Beet Co-op, and Walgreens all within a short walk. Families will appreciate the highly regarded school assignments: Lincoln Elementary School Brooks Middle School Oak Park and River Forest High School Beyond the home itself, this neighborhood is something special. It's a vibrant, kid-friendly community filled with young families, elementary- and middle-school-aged children, and friendly neighbors who truly know one another. Annual block parties, active community engagement, and welcoming dog owners make it easy to feel connected. Whether you're taking an evening stroll, walking to the park, or chatting with neighbors, you'll quickly discover why so many people love calling this neighborhood home. This is more than just a house-it's an opportunity to join a warm, active community while enjoying a home that has been thoughtfully updated and lovingly cared for.****QUICK CLOSING POSSIBLE***

532 S Grove Avenue, Oak Park

$710,394

3 Beds

2 Baths

12720824 MLS

NEW Status

Welcome to Oak Park Commons! Become an owner in the first cohousing community in Illinois. Owners will enjoy the best of both worlds: ownership of individual condo units and shared common spaces that foster social interaction among residents. This light-filled 3 bedroom/2 bath unit has a modern floor plan designed for today's living. The open concept living room and kitchen have gleaming hardwood floors and open to a private balcony. The kitchen boasts 42" cabinets, quartz countertops, island with breakfast bar, designer fixtures and lighting, and stainless steel appliances. The primary bedroom has a walk-in closet and a balcony! The en suite bathroom has a custom shower, custom mirrors with designer lighting, and quartz countertops. Enjoy quiet and comfortable living with a truss joist silent floor system, advanced sound attenuation between units and floors, high efficiency low e windows and balcony doors, and high efficiency split system a/c with heat pump. This unit is equipped with a home network connection for home entertainment and CAT 5 Rg interface. All of this plus in-unit laundry. Common rooms on the fifth floor include a large room designed for dining, celebrations, and social events. The common great room includes a kitchen with two stoves, several sinks, a pantry and multi-level counter space for ease of access. There is a fireplace alcove and large windowed doors that open to the terrace and adjoining roof garden. Other common rooms include the quiet room with workspace and common Wi-Fi, meeting rooms that can facilitate small group gatherings, an exercise room, and a guest suite to provide overflow space for visitors. All of this in a sustainable building with National Green Building Standard "Silver" certification with an advanced high-efficiency hot water system and electric car charging stations in the covered garage. State-of-the-art intercom and security systems. In addition, this building is fully accessible. Conveniently located near parks, schools, and Downtown Oak Park. A great location for commuters! Just two stops to downtown's Ogilvie Transportation Center via Metra UP West line. Enjoy easy access to the CTA Blue and Green Lines and Madison Street buses; biking is a breeze with many tree-lined side streets and the Madison Street bike line that runs right past the Commons. NOTE: interior unit photos are from other units to provide a sense of the fixtures and finishes.

839 Madison Street Unit #301, Oak Park

Start Your Search



The data relating to real estate for sale on this website comes in part from the Broker Reciprocity program of Midwest Real Estate Data LLC. Real Estate listings held by brokerage firms other than our company are marked with the MRED Broker Reciprocity logo or the Broker Reciprocity thumbnail logo (the MRED logo) and detailed information about them includes the names of the listing brokers. Some properties which appear for sale on this website may subsequently have sold and may no longer be available. The accuracy of all information, regardless of source, including but not limited to square footages and lot sizes, is deemed reliable but not guaranteed and should be personally verified through personal inspection by and/or with the appropriate professionals. The information being provided is for consumers personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing.

Copyright 2026 MRED LLC. All rights reserved.

Based on information submitted to the MLS Grid as of . All data is obtained from various sources and has not been, and will not be, verified by broker or MLS Grid. MRED supplied Open House information is subject to change without notice. All information should be independently reviewed and verified for accuracy. Properties may or may not be listed by the office/agent presenting the information.

NOTICE: Many homes contain recording devices, and buyers should be aware they may be recorded during a showing.

The Digital Millennium Copyright Act of 1998, 17 U.S.C. § 512 (the DMCA) provides recourse for copyright owners who believe that material appearing on the Internet infringes their rights under U.S. copyright law. If you believe in good faith that any content or material made available in connection with our website or services infringes your copyright, you (or your agent) may send us a notice requesting that the content or material be removed, or access to it blocked. Notices must be sent in writing by email to DMCAnotice@theMLSGRID.com.

The DMCA requires that your notice of alleged copyright infringement include the following information: (1) description of the copyrighted work that is the subject of claimed infringement; (2) description of the alleged infringing content and information sufficient to permit us to locate the content; (3) contact information for you, including your address, telephone number and email address; (4) a statement by you that you have a good faith belief that the content in the manner complained of is not authorized by the copyright owner, or its agent, or by the operation of any law; (5) a statement by you, signed under penalty of perjury, that the information in the notification is accurate and that you have the authority to enforce the copyrights that are claimed to be infringed; and (6) a physical or electronic signature of the copyright owner or a person authorized to act on the copyright owner’s behalf. Failure to include all of the above information may result in the delay of the processing of your complaint.

Some listings have been excluded from this website.