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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The most expensive home for sale in Chicago

Chicago's Most Expensive Home

What's the most expensive home for sale in Chicago? 

Have you ever wondered? Sometimes it's a condo, but usually it is a single family home. Either way, this post will always display the most expensive home for sale in Chicago - so check back for updates.

5 of the most expensive homes ever sold in Chicago

1. 9 W Walton St | $58.750m

9 W Walton. Ken Griffin, the billionaire hedge fund manager and founder of Citadel, made headlines with his record-breaking purchase of a penthouse at 9 W Walton in Chicago. In 2018, he purchased the property from the developer for $58.75 million, setting a new benchmark for the most expensive home ever sold in the city. At the time, the penthouse spanned multiple…

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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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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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Best Happy Hours in Chicago's River North

Best Happy Hours in Chicago's River North

After a long day of work it’s always nice to grab a drink with some co-workers or friends. And who doesn’t like when those drinks and snacks are good deals to boot!?

It’s 5:00 somewhere so rally the troops and head out after work to take advantage of these happy hour specials. This week we’re focusing on the neighborhood of River North, with its convenient downtown location, close to many offices and condo buildings, these options have something for everyone!

For those who want a little Mezze with their wine!

EMA - 74 W Illinois (M-TH 4-6pm)

This Mediterranean restaurant in River North is a sight for sore eyes (especially during these Chicago winters) and the food is just as good as its…

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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 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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