How to Appeal Your Real Estate Taxes

How to appeal your property taxes in Cook County -

I know, it seems like a daunting task... However if you do it right, it's not hard and you can save thousands. I've successfully done it twice and my taxes are significantly lower than they would be otherwise - here's how.

First thing you need to know is that Cook County property taxes are reassessed on a triennial schedule (every three years) and for that reason, a successful appeal lasts for three years. When your taxes will be reassessed depends on what neighborhood you live in.

Option 1: The easy way

Hire a law firm to represent you in the appeals process. This is what I've always done and although it does cost money, it saves lots of time and energy. They've done it thousands of times,…

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Trendy Chicago Lofts

Chicago Lofts for Sale

- Trendy, cool, urban living. Population density and soaring land costs in large cities has lead to the adaptive reuse of existing buildings. One of the results - The Chicago loft. In the late 90s and early 2000s the conversion of old factories and warehouses to condos began in the West Loop and other formerly industrial areas of the city. The popularity for this style of home has risen steadily ever since. Upon entering a loft, the expansive ceilings, exposed brick, beams and open floor plans offer so much character and history, it’s easy to understand why this style is so sought after!

A few of my favorite neighborhoods to keep in mind when looking for Chicago lofts are:

West Loop: The most obvious choice, we know,…

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The Chicago Workers Cottage

Chicago Workers Cottages for sale 

- The Chicago workers cottage was once a symbol of middle-class housing in the city, but they have become increasingly rare. As new development and rising home prices continue to transform Chicago's neighborhood's, these historic homes are often targets for demolition and redevelopment. These small, often modest homes were built primarily for factory/trade workers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They provided affordable housing and created neighborhoods that thrived on shared experiences and cultural ties. More than 100 years after their introduction, well cared for workers cottages can still be found in many neighborhood's throughout the city. Today, worker's cottages offer buyer's a refreshing and…

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Chicago Fall Experiences

CHICAGO FALL EXPERIENCES

The air is crisp, the leaves are turning – it is officially Fall! Although the season can feel short here in Chicago, nothing quite compares to when those leaves turn a beautiful burnt orange and the sweaters come out of storage. You light the first of many fires in your fireplace and suddenly crave anything and everything apple or pumpkin spice. As we head into October, fall activities in Chicago are in full swing, so here are our top five Chicago fall experiences that you don’t want to miss, take out your calendar and pencil these in!

Open House Chicago (Oct 19-20)

Architecture & Real Estate will always be number one in our book, so buckle up for an incredible architectural experience. Hosted by the Chicago…

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Timing Your Real Estate Photography

Sellers: Fall Pictures are a smart move

Selling in the next 6 months?

The seasons are changing and unfortunately this beautiful weather won't last much longer. If you are considering selling in the next six months, now is the time to get your home photographed. 

Homes sell all year long regardless of the weather, but homes photograph best with green landscaping and clear summer views.

High quality pictures and video are the keystones of your home's marketing.

We all know the internet and social media has revolutionized how real estate is marketed. The first time a buyer sees your home will not be in person - they’ll see it online from wherever they may be. Making your home stand out during this crucial first impression is an essential…

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The Best Brunch in West Town

Best West Town Brunch Spots

Brunch is probably my favorite meal. You can go either sweet or savory (or both - who are we to judge?) and it’s entirely appropriate, nay, encouraged to enjoy a cocktail midday, so what’s not to love?! As we embark on our brunch tour of Chicago we’ll start this series in the neighborhood of West Town. Known for its eclectic boutiques, and laid back vibe, the West Town dining scene offers everything from little hole-in-the-wall gems to Michelin starred restaurants. So whatever cuisine (or scene) you’re in the mood for this neighborhood offers them all.

For those who want a scene: Beatnik

This instagram friendly restaurant is not only aesthetically beautiful, the food is also delicious. The plates are meant to be shared…

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How Chicago Neighborhood's Got Their Names

How Chicago neighborhood's got their names-

Have you ever wondered how Chicago neighborhoods got their names? If you're reading this, I bet you have... Below is a history of some of Chicago's most popular neighborhood's along with pictures of some of my recent sales in each neighborhood. If you are interested in buying or selling in any neighborhood, let's talk!

Streeterville Neighborhood

Captain George Streeter docked (ran aground) his boat near the mouth of the Chicago River in the area now known as Streeterville in the late 1800s. Following the Great Chicago Fire, the city deposited debris and construction waste in Lake Michigan around Streeter's boat effectively making him a squatter. Streeter claimed the land as his own, forged documents of…

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Chicago Restaurant Opening - Bucktown’s Newest Addition... Pompette

Chicago Restaurant Opening - Bucktown’s Newest Addition: Pompette

Already known for its great dining scene and tree lined streets, the now open Pompette is one of the newest restaurants the neighborhood of Bucktown has to offer. This city is perfect for the absolute foodie and this new Bucktown cafe is no exception. Led by a team of renowned chefs (who previously worked at Michelin starred Alinea, Elska, and Moody Tongue) this restaurant is a cafe by day, intimate wine bar by night. The menu is French and Italian influenced and features items like the seasonal daily quiche and grilled texas shrimp. For larger plates they offer items off their charcoal grill, we know we’ll be trying the CDK Ranch Bavette with fingerling potato, black trumpets, rapini, salsa…

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Chicago Lofts For Sale | Neighborhood guide for trendy loft condos

One of the most quintessential Chicago architecture styles are downtown Chicago lofts. In the late 90s and early 2000s the conversion of old factories and warehouses to condos began in the West Loop and the demand for this style of home has only risen! Upon entering a loft, the expansive ceilings, exposed brick, beams and open floor plans offer so much character and history, it’s easy to understand why this style is so sought after!

A few of our favorite neighborhoods to keep in mind when looking for Chicago lofts are:

West Loop: The most obvious choice, we know, but there’s a reason this neighborhood is so popular! The nightlife, dining scene and historic buildings create an ambiance of rock and roll luxury that can’t be beat.…

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