Raising kids, finding home & living well in Chicagoland

As a Realtor and lifelong Chicagoland resident, I see every day how housing decisions shape family life. This blog brings together my real estate work and real life, with local insight on neighborhoods, housing options, and the small, practical details that matter when you’re raising kids and making confident housing decisions across Chicago and the suburbs.

Feb. 28, 2023

Sell Your Home Faster In 2023

Sell Your Home Faster with a Millennial or Xennial Real Estate Agent



Selling your home can be stressful, but it doesn't have to be. When you work with a millennial or xennial real estate agent like Laurie Christofano, you're in good hands.

With 15 years of experience under her belt, Laurie knows the ins and outs of the industry and can help you navigate the complexities of the real estate market with ease.

As a member of the xennial generation, Laurie combines the best of both worlds: she's tech-savvy and understands the importance of digital marketing, but she's also experienced and knowledgeable about traditional real estate practices. She knows that sometimes, old-fashioned techniques are the best ones, and she's not afraid to use them when they're needed.

When you work with Laurie, you'll receive a comprehensive marketing plan that will help your home get maximum exposure. She uses digital marketing tactics like online advertising and social media promotion, but she also knows the value of personal connections and word-of-mouth marketing. She'll use all the tools at her disposal to make sure your home sells quickly and at a great price.

If you're looking for a millennial or xennial real estate agent, you're in luck. Laurie is an expert in digital marketing for real estate and can help you get your home in front of the right buyers. She'll help you create a compelling listing that showcases the best features of your home and will use social media to promote your listing to potential buyers.

But Laurie isn't just a marketing expert. She's also an expert in real estate market analysis and can help you determine the best price for your home based on local market trends and comparable sales.

She'll give you expert advice and guidance throughout the process, and you'll be able to sit back and relax knowing that you're in good hands. She'll help you every step of the way, from pricing your home to closing the deal.

So why wait? Contact Laurie today to learn more about how she can help you sell your home faster and with a smile on your face!

Feb. 27, 2023

Sell Your Home in Chicago or Suburbs this Spring with Laurie Christofano

Expertise without the fuss

Are you considering selling your home in the Chicago suburbs this spring? You might be wondering how to maximize your selling price and find the right real estate agent to help you navigate the process. Look no further than Laurie Christofano, a trusted and experienced local real estate agent with a proven track record of success.

With Laurie's extensive knowledge of the Chicago real estate market, she can help you sell your home quickly and for the best possible price. She understands the nuances of different neighborhoods and can provide insights into what buyers are looking for in the local market. With her help, you can sell your home with confidence and ease.

One of the keys to Laurie's success is her effective digital marketing plan. Using targeted social media advertising, professional photography, and virtual tours, she can give your home maximum exposure to qualified buyers. Her customized marketing plans are tailored to your property, so your home will stand out from the competition.

Laurie also knows the importance of effective negotiation skills. With her years of experience, she can help you navigate the negotiation process to get the best possible offer. Whether you're dealing with multiple offers or a particularly challenging buyer, Laurie will be there to help you navigate the process with confidence.

If you're looking to sell your home in Chicago this spring, don't hesitate to reach out to Laurie Christofano. She can provide valuable tips on how to prepare your home for sale, what buyers are looking for, and how to get the most value for your property. With her expertise in properties ranging from deeded parking spaces to $1M+ new construction homes, you can rest assured that you're working with a knowledgeable and dedicated professional who has your best interests in mind.

Feb. 21, 2023

Estates for sale near me

Estate for Sale Near Me: Trust Laurie Christofano, an Experienced Estate Realtor to Find Your Dream Home

Are you looking for a new estate property to call home? Look no further than Laurie Christofano, a leading estate realtor with years of experience and a deep understanding of the market. Whether you're searching for a grand mansion, a sprawling farm, or a cozy cottage, Laurie can help you find your perfect match.

If you've recently inherited a house, Laurie can help you navigate the process of selling an estate home. She has extensive experience in dealing with inherited homes and can help you understand the intricacies of the sale. Her expertise will help you get the best possible price for the property, while also ensuring that the process is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

If you're looking to buy an estate home, Laurie can show you a wide range of estates for sale near you. She can help you find the perfect property that meets your unique needs and preferences. Her vast network and in-depth knowledge of the market will allow her to find properties that are not even on the market yet.

And if you're thinking of selling an estate home, Laurie can help you through the process from start to finish. She can help you set a competitive price and market the property to attract potential buyers. She has extensive experience in estate sales, including foreclosure estate sales, and can guide you through the process with expertise and compassion.

So why choose Laurie Christofano as your estate realtor? With her track record of success, in-depth knowledge of the market, and dedication to her clients, she's the perfect partner for anyone looking to buy or sell an estate property. Contact her today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards finding your dream estate home.

Feb. 20, 2023

What Your Home is Really Worth: A Guide to Researching Home Sales Near You

How to Research Home Sales Near Me to Determine Your Home's Value


If you're looking to sell your home, one of the most important factors to consider is its value. But how can you determine the value of your home? By researching home sales near you, you can get a better sense of what homes in your area are selling for, and use that information to price your home competitively. Here are some tips for researching home sales near you:

Search for Real Estate Sales Near Me

Start by searching for real estate sales near you. You can use online resources like Zillow or Realtor.com to get an idea of what homes in your area are currently listed for, and what they've sold for in the past. This can give you a baseline for pricing your own home.

Work with a Local Real Estate Agent Near You

Another great way to research home sales near you is to work with a local real estate agent. A local agent has extensive knowledge of the local real estate market, including recent home sales and pricing trends. They can provide you with expert advice on how to price your home competitively, and how to stage and market it effectively to attract potential buyers.

Consider Residential Real Estate Sales Near You

When researching home sales near you, be sure to consider residential real estate sales as well. These can provide valuable insights into what homes in your area are selling for, and what features and amenities are most important to potential buyers. You can also get an idea of how long it typically takes for a home to sell in your area, and how much competition you might face when selling your own home.

Look for a Real Estate Agent Near You

Finally, if you're planning to work with a local real estate agent, be sure to look for one near you. A local agent has years of experience in the local real estate market, and knows how to negotiate with buyers and other agents to ensure that you get the best possible price for your home. They can also guide you through the often-complex process of home inspections, appraisals, and closing, to make sure that your sale goes smoothly and without any surprises. By researching home sales near you, you can get a better sense of what your home is worth, and how to price it competitively to attract potential buyers.

Whether you choose to work with a local real estate agent, or simply do your own research, the more you know about home sales in your area, the more confident you'll be in pricing and selling your own home. So start researching home sales near you today, and get one step closer to selling your home!

Take the first easy step: type in your address below to get your home’s instant trending value!

Feb. 8, 2023

How do I pick a real estate agent in Chicago?

Choosing an experienced realtor is like picking a superhero to save you from the housing market crash of 2008.

When it comes to buying or selling a property, having an experienced realtor by your side can make all the difference.

An experienced realtor who has been in the business for a while and has survived the 2008 housing market crash is like a superhero in the world of real estate. They possess the knowledge and skills to navigate a difficult market, and have the experience to help you achieve your real estate goals.

An experienced realtor has a deep understanding of how to price properties correctly, how to negotiate effectively, and how to market properties to potential buyers. They are well-versed in the art of real estate and have honed their skills over the years, just like Batman honing his detective skills.

An experienced realtor also has a wide network of contacts in the industry, including other realtors, mortgage brokers, and home inspectors. This can be invaluable when trying to sell or buy a property in a tough market. It's like having a whole Justice League of professionals at your disposal.

An experienced realtor has a proven track record of success. They have likely helped many clients buy and sell properties, even in difficult market conditions. This gives you confidence that they will be able to do the same for you. It's like having Superman's invincibility on your side.

Finally, an experienced realtor can provide valuable perspective and guidance during the buying or selling process. They can help you understand market trends, provide insight into the local housing market, and offer advice on how to make your property stand out. It's like having Wonder Woman's wisdom and insight on your team.

Choosing an experienced realtor who has been in the business for a while and has survived the 2008 housing market crash is a smart decision. It's like assembling your own Avengers team to help you conquer the real estate market. With their knowledge, experience, and network, you can rest assured that your real estate goals will be achieved in the most efficient and effective way possible.

((Hint: your experienced realtor in Chicago and suburbs is Laurie Christofano, RE/MAX In The Village))

Experienced real estate agent in Chicago Laurie christofano remax

Feb. 7, 2023

Making the Move: How to Declutter and Downsize Your Possessions With Ease

The Ultimate Guide To Decluttering and Downsizing Your Possessions



Decluttering and downsizing can be an overwhelming task, especially when you've lived in your home for many years and have accumulated a lifetime of possessions. It's normal to feel sentimental about your belongings and have trouble letting go of things that hold memories or have sentimental value.

But, the good news is that with a little bit of planning and organization, downsizing can be a manageable and even rewarding process. Here are some tips for decluttering and downsizing your possessions before selling your home.

1. Start early: Don't wait until the last minute to start decluttering. Give yourself plenty of time to go through your belongings and make decisions about what to keep, donate, or sell.

2. Create a system: Create a system for organizing your belongings and deciding what to keep, donate, or sell. This could be as simple as making three piles for each category, or using boxes or containers to keep similar items together.

3. Focus on one room at a time: Rather than trying to declutter your entire home at once, focus on one room at a time. This will make the process feel less overwhelming and allow you to make more thoughtful decisions about each item.

4. Let go of items you haven't used in a while: If you haven't used an item in the past year or two, it's unlikely that you'll need it in the future. Consider donating or selling items that haven't been used in a while.

5. Be honest with yourself: It's important to be honest with yourself about what items you truly need and what items are holding you back. Ask yourself questions like "Do I love this item?" and "Is it worth the space it takes up in my home?" to help you make decisions.

6. Get support: Enlist the help of friends, family members, or a professional organizer to help you declutter and downsize your possessions. Having someone there to support you and provide a fresh perspective can make the process easier and more enjoyable.

Decluttering and downsizing your possessions can be a challenging but rewarding process. By starting early, creating a system, focusing on one room at a time, and being honest with yourself, you can make the process manageable and successfully prepare your home for sale.

Think it might be time to downsize your home, too? Download your FREE guide to help you decide!

Or start by getting your home’s estimated value!

Feb. 1, 2023

Is Chicago a good place to invest in residential real estate?

Attention Chicago Investors! Are you looking to invest in the Windy City's thriving real estate market?

Look no further! We have fantastic opportunities for you with our listings direct from the MLS of apartment buildings for sale in Chicago.

Benefit from a growing population, high rental demand, and a strong local economy. Many properties are located in prime locations, offering easy access to popular neighborhoods, transportation, and amenities.

The available apartment buildings range from small, intimate communities to larger, multi-unit properties, providing a variety of investment options to fit your investment goals.

Is Chicago a good place to invest in residential real estate?

Don't miss out on the opportunity in this year’s weird market to be a part of Chicago's thriving real estate culture. Learn more about why Chicago IS a good place to invest in real estate, browse the latest listings, and be sure to contact us to schedule an intro meeting and learn more about the available apartment buildings for sale!

Is it a good time to sell your apartment building in Chicago?

As the real estate market continues to evolve in 2023, many property owners are wondering if now is the right time to sell their apartment building in Chicago. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, there are several factors to consider when making this decision.

Demand for rental properties in Chicago remains high, with many people choosing to rent rather than buy due to the current economic climate. This has resulted in a competitive rental market and high occupancy rates, which is great news for property owners. Additionally, the city’s strong economy and growing population continue to drive demand for rental properties.

However, there are also some challenges to consider when selling a property in Chicago. The city has seen a significant increase in new construction in recent years, which has led to an oversupply of rental properties in some areas. This competition can make it difficult to attract renters and may impact the sale price of your property.

It’s also important to consider your own personal and financial goals when deciding whether to sell. Are you looking to retire or downsize your investment portfolio? Do you need to free up capital for other investments? Are you ready to take advantage of current market conditions?

In conclusion, whether or not now is the right time to sell your apartment building in Chicago depends on a variety of factors. It’s important to consider your own personal and financial goals, as well as market conditions and the current state of the rental market. If you’re considering selling, it may be wise to speak with a real estate professional who can provide a market analysis and help guide your decision.

You can also dip your toes into the water, so to speak, and get your estimated instant property value below!

 

 

Jan. 30, 2023

Best Brewery in Chicago: Short Fuse Brewing Company

Have you been to the best brewery in Chicago -- Short Fuse Brewing Company?

Best brewery in Chicago Short Fuse Brewery near rosemont ohare photo by Laurie Christofano realtor oprfhomesforsaleShort Fuse Brewing Company is a brewpub located near the Rosemont Convention Center and O'Hare International Airport in Chicago, Illinois. The brewery offers a wide selection of craft beers, including IPAs, stouts, and sours, as well as seasonal and limited edition brews.

Best brewery in Chicago Interior view from 2020 of Short Fuse Brewery near rosemont ohare photo by Laurie Christofano realtor oprfhomesforsale.comThe brewpub features a casual and welcoming atmosphere, with a long bar, plenty of seating, and a large selection of board games.

In addition to the beer, Short Fuse Brewing Company also serves a menu of pub-style food, including burgers, sandwiches, and appetizers — and don’t miss their in-house smoked meats, too!

My personal favorite: a custom-built burger and crispy tater tots that you'll never forget (pictured above) -- and don't miss the Nacho Libre, a massive mound of freshly fried tortilla chips piled high with your choice of smoked meet and beer cheese (all made in-house, of course), cheddar cheese, smoked bacon, sour cream, jalapenos, and green onion. I'm salivating just writing about them!

And from the bar -- honestly I haven't tasted a beer here that I haven't enjoyed, but the staple I keep bringing home with me is Vocal Jam (or as it's known in my head, Jam Band hehe), a fruited kettle sour (blueberries and boysenberries) that's been recirculated on single origin Guatemalan coffee (collab with Ipsento in Chicago). Try it and let me know what you think!

Beer and food take-out, online to-go ordering near O'Hare & Rosemont

Their beers and food are available for online ordering for quick stops on your way to or from work or the airport. If you want to try something new, they have a huge selection of craft beers on tap that you can sample while you wait.

Brewery tour at best brewery in Chicago Short Fuse Brewery near rosemont ohare photo by Laurie Christofano realtor oprfhomesforsale.comCraft Brewery Tours Chicago

Curious about the beer brewing process? You’re in luck! Short Fuse Brewing Company also offers tours of the brewery. I was geeking out during my behind the scenes tour with a local beer club (right before Covid).

Beer on the way to O'Hare airport

If you're looking for a place to grab a flight before or after your flight, look no further than Short Fuse Brewing Company. You might even get to meet my wife behind the bar!

Short Fuse Brewing Company Info

The most up to date info will be found on their website, linked here, or on google.

Be sure to follow me for more food & drink highlights around Chicago, as well as expert real estate guidance from a friendly fellow Chicagoan!

@lauriecfano on Instagram

@lauriecfano on YouTube

Jan. 28, 2023

What do home buyers think when they see price reductions?

What do you think of when you hear the word "overpriced?"

High-end clothing, maybe? A fancy restaurant? A new car?

Well, it turns out that even though those things can be overpriced, there's one thing you might be overlooking: your own home.

If you're selling your house, it's important to price it correctly from the start.

If it's priced too high, it'll sit on the market for longer and ultimately sell for less than if it were priced correctly in the first place.

And if you're buying a home, an overpriced property is going to make you feel like you're getting ripped off—and that's not a good feeling!

So how do you know if your house is priced too high? Here are a couple tips:

1) If few buyers (or even worse, no one) has seen your house yet and you know that they're looking at other properties / other homes are going under contract in your area — you may have priced yourself out of contention! So lower the price now before it's too late! The rule of thumb is if it's been on the market for 10 days or for 10+ showings without an offer, it's overpriced.

2) If someone has seen your house and made an offer on it but hasn't gotten back in touch with any questions or another counter offer yet… ask yourself why this person hasn't called or emailed since you last responded. What terms aside from price could you be negotiable on to sweeten the deal a bit for them?

What do buyers think when they see price reductions?

Recently one of my friends commented on the meme pictured above that I had posted online, and we had the exchange here. She said that logically she understands that the seller is likely just correcting for making a pricing mistake, but that she can't help but wonder what's wrong with it that it can't sell... And she's not alone in this thought!!

Catch up with your friendly realtor in Oak Park, Chicago & suburbs, Laurie Christofano with RE/MAX, as she discusses what buyers are thinking when they get price reduction alerts. And comment below -- do you feel the same?

If you need expert advice on how to sell your home and get to your next chapter, let’s talk! I've been selling homes in Chicago & suburbs since 2007, so I've seen stellar markets, slumping markets, and everything in between. I have the tools and experience to help ensure you get moved on your timeframe.

Thinking about downsizing? Download your free guide to help you make sense of things! https://rem.ax/DownsizeMe

Laurie Christofano, Realtor in Oak Park, Chicago & Suburbs | OPRFhomesforsale.com

Jan. 16, 2023

Is it time to downsize? Grab your free guide and find out!


Are you ready to downsize?

We're here to help.

Whether it's a small-ish change — like moving from a 2 story home to a condo or single level home nearby — or a big change — like moving across the country, downsizing can be an exciting and liberating experience. But it can also be stressful, which is why we're here to walk you through the process from start to finish.

We've got a FREE guide for you that will help you decide if downsizing is right for you. It will walk you through some questions you’re probably already asking yourself (and maybe a few you haven’t even thought of yet!) to help you figure out if you should downsize sooner rather than later.

If you're feeling overwhelmed or unsure about what to do next, don't worry: there's no wrong choice here. We just want to help guide you along as best we can so that whatever decision you make feels right for YOU.

You can download our free guide by clicking here. Or share it with your parents and other family & friends who could use our help — or a gentle nudge (wink).

And get your instant estimated home value while you're at it, below.