Lincoln Square – Move With Maggie

QUESTIONS ARE KEY WHEN SHOPPING FOR A CONDO

February 27, 2015 by Victoria Marty Leave a Comment

Have you found that perfect condominium that meets all, or at least most, of your needs? Congratulations! I’ve been in your shoes, so I know it’s an exciting time. But keep in mind that purchasing a condo also means you are becoming part of a condo association. Healthy condo associations can positively impact your property values and also can enhance your condo living experience.

That’s according to Lou Lutz, a condo management specialist and Vice President of Community Management with Realty & Mortgage Co. in Chicago. He helps make sure condo associations are healthy and run smoothly. Some of the ways he does this is by guiding associations on specific considerations, of which there are many.

What are the rules regarding pets? Does the association have a reserve study? What’s the building’s history of special assessments? Does it have any units in foreclosure, and if so, how many? What is the assessment level history for the past five years? What percent of units are delinquent? What are the procedures and fees involved in unit improvements? What are the anticipated capital improvements over the next three years? How much parking is available? Is there guest parking? Are there storage facilities, workout facilities, or pool procedures, if applicable? How many condos are rental units? If there are rentals, what are the rental procedures and constraints? What would your neighbors be like? Are you familiar with the neighborhood? Do you know what kind of maintenance the association provides and the hours during which that maintenance is available? Are there any package delivery procedures?

If you are new to condo associations in Chicago, like I was when I purchased my two-bedroom condo in Lincoln Square/Ravenswood, here are some good questions to ask your realtor before making an offer:

– What is the association’s reputation in the real estate community?

– How long have the units in the building been on the market?

– How many foreclosures and/or short sales has the building had in the last two years?

– How many units sold above market and why?

– Is there a mix between rental and owner-occupied units?

– Are you allowed to rent units?

– How many units are on the market right now?

– How many units have been combined?

– How does this association sell compared to comparable buildings in the area?

– How do the reserves compare to other buildings the realtor has sold units in?

– What information can the realtor provide regarding the neighborhood, schools, shopping, and the crime rate?

– What services are available and what does the association provide?

For more tips and assistance, check out condoboardhelp.com

Victoria Marty has written for newspapers and magazines for more than 15 years and recently moved to the Lincoln Square, Chicago area. A frequent runner who loves learning and exploring new places, she has perfected the art of getting lost while simultaneously finding unique landmarks, boutiques and out-of-the-way nooks worth writing about. Her blogs are geared toward the newly transplanted who want to learn as much about Chicago as they can, as quickly as possible.

Filed Under: Chicago, Chicago Real Estate, General Information, Lincoln Square, Ravenswood, Tips

YES, TAKE ME TO YES THAI

February 20, 2015 by Victoria Marty Leave a Comment

“Yes, Thai” is pretty much my response anytime someone suggests Thai food for lunch or dinner, so to know there’s a restaurant less than 10 minutes’ walk away with that very name is fantastic.

Did I just go for an extra long run and want to reward myself? Yes Thai. Do I want something healthy and full of flavor? Yes Thai. Do I want an affordable Chicago meal in a uniquely decorated restaurant in a fun neighborhood full of unique condos and real estate? Yes Thai.

OK, so I’m probably having more fun than necessary with that name, but seriously, this is a good place. I first went to this restaurant located in Lincoln Square with my sister and brother-in-law on the recommendation of my realtor, Maggie Finegan. Our favorite part of the meal was the $4.75 chive dumplings appetizer with an intense soy sauce. The chives are sliced thin and are stuffed inside a warm pan-fried rice dumpling that essentially melts in your mouth. Paired with the soy sauce, they are a bit spicy, too, but the heat isn’t overwhelming.

This time I went there for lunch and decided to order the $11 chicken Panang curry with 100 percent pure coconut milk, green bell peppers, carrots, lime leaf, and steamed Jasmine rice. I asked for the dish to be prepared mildly spicy, but even with that low heat threshold, it was enough to warm me on this chilly day. The chicken Panang curry is even gluten free.

If interior decorating is your thing, then Yes Thai is also worth a visit. It’s not a big restaurant — it’s a long rectangle on the east side of North Damen Avenue, just north of Foster Avenue — but it certainly makes you take notice of the space. The restaurant’s colors are mostly white with some black, and the main accent wall is made up of partially extruding white tiles. Hanging from the ceiling are large, circular ceiling lamps. The seamless blend of textures and shapes makes up for the small size of the restaurant and gives you something interesting to focus on while you’re waiting for your food to arrive.

Like beer or wine with your meal? You’ll have to bring your own to Yes Thai, which is open Tuesdays through Thursdays from 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays from 11:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., and Sundays from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. It’s located at 5211 N. Damen Ave. The phone number is 773-878-3487.

Filed Under: Chicago, Chicago Real Estate, Lincoln Square

PREMIUM EDUCATION IS JUST A STROLL AWAY: TWO PRIVATE SCHOOLS OFFER CLASSES NEARBY

February 17, 2015 by Victoria Marty Leave a Comment

For parents and soon-to-be parents moving into condos and homes in the Edgewater, Ravenswood, Andersonville and Lincoln Square neighborhoods, there is no shortage of public and private school options for children.

Previously, I wrote about several public schools nearby. This blog post will talk about the Lycee Francais de Chicago (also known as The French International School) and the Rogers Park Montessori School.

The French school is building a new campus, and the Rogers Park school is building a large addition to its current structure to accommodate more students.

The French International School is currently located at Irving Park and Lake Michigan, but its new building on Wilson Avenue between Damen and Winchester avenues will open in July 2015. It’s being built on the site of what was the old Ravenswood Hospital. Bilingual education starts at age 3 at this school, which educates children who are between the ages of pre-kindergarten and grade 12.

The French school is particularly interesting to me, as my mother is French and my father is American. My sister and I grew up in a bilingual household. Now that my sister and her husband are expecting their first child, they are seriously considering sending their son here. This makes my mother, who is from the French province of Brittany, very happy. I’m excited because if James goes to the LFC, I’ll be near enough to pick him up from school.

The LFC program, according to its website at www.lyceechicago.org, offers a rigorous dual-language curriculum that integrates the French educational system with a strong American program and the International Baccalaureate. With the help of an engaged multicultural community, students are prepared to become responsible global citizens.

The school was first founded in 1995 by a small group of French and American families with fewer than 150 students. Now, the school consists of nearly 500 families and more than 700 students.

The Lycee Francais de Chicago teaches French language arts and literature, math, science, music, visual arts, physical education, world history and geography, and philosophy in French.

It teaches English language arts and literature, social studies, American history, math (grades 3-5), dance and drama, and computer science in English.

Another nearby school located in West Andersonville/Lincoln Square is Rogers Park Montessori School. It was founded in September 1966 by 10 Rogers Park parents in a converted space in St. Ignatius parish. Since then, it has moved three times, largely due to its expanding number of students. It is currently located at 1800 W. Balmoral Ave., just west of Ravenswood Avenue, on what used to be the site of Hines Lumber.

Maria Montessori was an Italian physician and educator. The Montessori method allows young children to develop at their own pace. RPMS seeks to deliver quality educational programming; foster community, respect for self, others, and the environment; and build a strong academic foundation for a lifetime of learning,

RPMS offers classes for children who are between the ages of 2 and 14. The school’s vision embodies eight values. Among these are pride in academic achievement, a joy and thirst for discovery, self-reliance, a sensitive and respectful regard for others, the ability to collaborate, and the ability to think analytically.

“Guiding all our practices is the education and promotion of peace within self, in relationships and within the world,” the school’s website says.

For more information on the Rogers Park Montessori School, visit www.rpmschool.org.

Filed Under: Andersonville, Chicago, Edgewater, For Buyers, Lincoln Square, Ravenswood

BUON APPETITO: SPACCA NAPOLI OFFERS DELICIOUS PIZZA, AND IT’S IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD!

February 12, 2015 by Victoria Marty Leave a Comment

Once in a while, you come across a pizza you’ll never forget, that keeps you talking, that makes you hunger for more. For me, it was the Salsiccia, a thin-crust, Neapolitan-style pizza covered with blended San Marzano tomatoes, fior di latte (mozzarella), sausage, basil, mushrooms, pecorino gran cru, and olive oil. It was prepared by Zagat-rated Spacca Napoli Pizzeria, 1769 W. Sunnyside Ave. This wonderful restaurant in Lincoln Square, on the corner of Ravenswood and Sunnyside avenues, is located just a few blocks from my condo.

The pizzeria is “inspired by the authentic aroma, taste, and craft of pizza found on the streets and in the pizzerias in Naples,” the restaurant’s website says. But while I’ve never been to Naples, Spacca Napoli owner Jonathan Goldsmith has — many times over.

It was in Naples that Goldsmith studied and became certified as a “Pizzaiuolo,” or pizza maker. There, he filmed a video that shows how pizza dough is formed into balls and then kneaded and spread thin to create delicious pizza using fresh toppings. (You can see the video by visiting spaccanapolipizzeria.com/about/.) Meanwhile, even though Goldsmith’s restaurant is in Chicago, he still works hard to give his customers an authentic Neapolitan pizza experience.

Third- and fourth-generation Naples artisans built Spacca Napoli’s wood-fired oven. The dough maker also comes from Italy, the website says. According to Bon Appetit magazine, which reviewed the restaurant in 2007, many of Goldsmith’s key ingredients are imported from Italy. These ingredients include mozzarella di bufala, San Marzano tomatoes, and Molino Caputo flour. And it only takes 60 to 90 seconds to bake the pizzas, which are heated at temperatures ranging from 950 to 1,200 degrees, according to Chicago Magazine.

Goldsmith loves to cook and has a passion for hospitality, and both were evident even during a quick, 5-minute wait for a pick-up order on a busy Friday evening. It was just around 5:30 p.m., but already the restaurant was brimming with activity. Families sat around tables while dates waited in line to place orders. The smiling wait staff was gracious and accommodating.

Nestled between Lillstreet Loft, Urban Pooch Canine Life Center, and other real estate, and across the street from the Metra tracks, Spacca Napoli is worth visiting, either for carry-out or dining in. What’s more, it’s the perfect neighborhood restaurant. Who wouldn’t want delicious pizza just blocks away?

Filed Under: Chicago, Lincoln Square, Ravenswood

THE FOUNTAINHEAD IS CRAFTSMANSHIP AT ITS BEST (EVEN IF AYN RAND NEVER WENT THERE)

February 4, 2015 by Victoria Marty Leave a Comment

One of the many reasons I left Evansville, IN to buy real estate in Chicago was so I could see my sister and brother-in-law more. Emilie and Sean are expecting a baby in early February, and soon I will be an aunt. It will be my parents’ first grandchild. We are all very excited.

Since my move here in mid-December, Emilie and Sean and I have been planning once-per-week meals, either at our respective homes (their condo in West Lakeview, my condo in Lincoln Square) or at a restaurant to catch up on our weeks and on each other.

Tonight, we headed to The Fountainhead at the corner of Damen and Montrose avenues in the heart of Ravenswood, Lincoln Square and North Center neighborhoods. Emilie arrived first and had plenty of time to peruse the detailed beer menu. When Sean and I arrived, it took some time to make our selections. He and I both, independently, decided to try the La Trappe Dubbel from Tilburg in the Netherlands. This beer had 7 percent alcohol and was $9. It had a rich, malty flavor with a touch of sweetness. It was smooth and had body yet was still very flavorful. I’d definitely get it again.

As an appetizer, we all three shared the mushroom quinoa risotto with Parmesan and roasted butternut squash with kale and cranberries dishes. Both were unique and very flavorful. These two dishes were from the special menu.

For our entrees, we each went our separate ways. Emilie tried the tasty veggie burger, while Sean had the short ribs. I decided to try the turkey meatloaf with Gruyere mashed potatoes and creamed kale. They were all tasty.

Even on a Thursday night in the dead of winter, The Fountainhead had an excellent ambiance. It was busy, yet the service was steady and responsive, and our booth near the door gave us a view of the expansive bar selections. I’m planning on telling some of my suburban friends who love to brew beer about this place, and Sean and Emilie were impressed by the menu and beer selections, too. We all three plan to return. For more information, visit http://fountainheadchicago.com.

Victoria Grabner

Victoria Marty has written for newspapers and magazines for more than 15 years and recently moved to the Lincoln Square, Chicago area. A frequent runner who loves learning and exploring new places, she has perfected the art of getting lost while simultaneously finding unique landmarks, boutiques and out-of-the-way nooks worth writing about. Her blogs are geared toward the newly transplanted who want to learn as much about Chicago as they can, as quickly as possible.

Filed Under: Chicago, For Buyers, Lincoln Square, North Center, Ravenswood, Real Estate News

TRY LINCOLN AVENUE IN LINCOLN SQUARE FOR UNIQUE GIFT OPTIONS

December 27, 2014 by Victoria Marty Leave a Comment

Maggie Finegan has been a great help to me here in just my first week as a full-time Chicago resident. She’s the leader of a team of Keller Williams realtors called Move With Maggie which facilitated the purchase of my condo in Lincoln Square. Not only has Maggie connected me with a great group of small business owners for possible networking opportunities, but she has also told me about a number of local small businesses that have proudly set up shop here in the Lincoln Square, Ravenswood, Bowmanville and Andersonville neighborhoods.

Recently, I stopped by Lincoln Avenue on Lincoln Square to do some holiday shopping. I was amazed by the sheer number of diverse boutiques, restaurants and cafes on either side of the small square. Savory Spice Shop, 4753 N. Lincoln Ave., sells both cookbooks and spices. Within minutes, I knew I had found the perfect gifts for my father, who loves to cook. Across the street at Fleet Feet Sports, 4762 N. Lincoln Ave., I found an outdoorsy gift for my brother-in-law. There, I learned that, once the holidays are over, I can take part in Fun Runs three times per week. As a new runner to the area, that’s something for me to keep in mind.

Victoria Grabner

On the same side of the street as Savory Spice Shop, next to the little square, is Café Selmarie, 4729 N. Lincoln Ave. It offers omelets, cinnamon roll griddlecakes, and more for breakfast. It’s also open for lunch, dinner, and Saturday and Sunday brunch.

Filed Under: Andersonville, For Buyers, For Sellers, General Information, Lincoln Square, Ravenswood, Tips

Urban Gardening in Andersonville, Chicago

May 8, 2014 by Maggie Finegan Leave a Comment

Ah… yes, spring comes early to the lakefront neighborhood of Andersonville in Chicago. The daffodils are already blooming in some areas, and the tulips are at least showing their green. Reminds me that I need to tend to my urban gardens to prepare them for a show in the summer. It’s time to cut down all the dead stuff from last year, rake it out, spread some mushroom mulch. Chicago Botanic Gardens has an April checklist of steps to prepare your gardens.

Time to get those clay pots out of the garage and plant them with spring annuals that can tolerate alternating cold and warmth. And then there are the perennials. I love how Kelly describes the charm of perennials. They come back every year, even if you don’t remember where you planted them.

And then there’s the lawn furniture and barbeques. Time to dust off the table and chairs, get out the cushions, and give that barbeque grill a wire brushing. And don’t forget to invite me to that garden party.

Filed Under: Andersonville, Budlong Woods, Chicago Real Estate, Edgewater, First Time Buyers, For Buyers, For Realty Professionals, For Sellers, Gardening, General Information, Lincoln Square, Ravenswood

LUXURY HOMES IN LAKEVIEW AND NORTH CENTER

October 17, 2012 by Maggie Finegan Leave a Comment

3315 N. Claremont

I recently visited three homes for sale in Chicago’s Lakeview and Lincoln Square neighborhoods, and the hands-down winner as a true luxury home, in both amenities and finishes, is 3315 N. Claremont in Lakeview. The home sits on a lot and a half, with sunlight streaming in along the home’s entire southern exposure. The living room, dining room, kitchen, and great room all benefit from this, and the home features a well-situated deck off the kitchen and beautiful perennial gardens. The current owners completed a gorgeous renovation of the first floor living, dining, and family rooms, as well as installing a wonderful Euro-style kitchen with chef’s stove, high-end appliances, and lovely tile and quartz countertops. Offered at $1,149,000.

3447 N. Claremont

Also in Lakeview, 3447 N. Claremont is a 5 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath home in the Chicago Public School’s Coonley district, a highly rated North side public elementary school. The location is excellent and the home features nice decks and backyard spaces, but due to the highly personalized multi-colored palette of paint and wallpaper, it may be more difficult for buyers to envision this property as their home. This property may sell more quickly if the color scheme was neutralized. Offered at $1,050,000.

The last home on the tour, in Chicago’s Lincoln Square neighborhood, is 2540 W. Winona. This home, although featuring many green upgrades including a tankless hot water system, also has a garage located below grade and under the house, which some buyers may not care for. The big plus is that the home is on an extended lot, and is a blank slate for a new owner to install landscape plantings and hardscape to their own taste. This will definitely appeal to buyers who can picture the yard as a wonderful place to escape, once plants and trees are in place. In addition, the home’s finishes and amenities approach luxury. Offered at $749,000.

Filed Under: Chicago, Chicago Real Estate, For Buyers, For Realty Professionals, Lakeview, Lakeview East, Lincoln Square, Properties, Real Estate News

INVESTORS BUYING FORECLOSURES AND SHORT SALES IN LINCOLN PARK, LAKEVIEW, ANDERSONVILLE, LINCOLN SQUARE & EDGEWATER

October 17, 2012 by Maggie Finegan Leave a Comment

With interest rates still at historic lows and prices not yet rising, investors are finding unprecedented deals on properties in neighborhoods like Lakeview, Lincoln Park, Andersonville, Edgewater and Lincoln Square. By purchasing foreclosures and short sales- typically buildings with highly motivated sellers- investors are able to build their real estate portfolios for less cash up front.

The key to any smart real estate investment decision is location, location, location, which drives rent, rent, rent. To quickly evaluate the desirability of a property’s location, check the walk score– properties within six blocks of an el or Metra rail station are usually most popular. Neighborhoods close to the lake, biking and running paths, or downtown are appealing to first time renters, which include north side areas like Lincoln Park, Lakeview, Andersonville, and Edgewater. In addition to a prime location, renters love features like outdoor balconies or patios, or in-unit washers and dryers.

Search here to find the best deals on foreclosures and short sales, or contact me for a free guide to investment properties!

Filed Under: Andersonville, Chicago, Chicago Real Estate, Downtown, Edgewater, Lakeview, Lakeview East, Lincoln Park, Lincoln Square, Real Estate News

CHICAGO’S LINCOLN SQUARE NEIGHBORHOOD GARDENERS INCREASE HOME VALUES

August 14, 2012 by Maggie Finegan Leave a Comment

I recently toured ten city gardens in Chicago’s Lincolns Square where home owners have transformed their yards into gorgeous outdoor spaces. During a time when home values and home owners can be a bit challenged these days, these faithful gardeners are adding thousands to their home values and at the same time increasing the appeal of the neighborhood through hands on gardening.

As I walked through the front yards, parkways, back yards, outdoor living rooms, maintenance free yards that don’t need watering or grass cutting, I noticed that they are becoming the norm in this neighborhood. Home owners are going outside and creating inviting spaces for neighbors to gather, kids to play, and birds and butterflies to make their homes, adding trees, flowering shrubs, perennials, even vegetables gardens.

Taking pride in their homes and living up to their goal of working together to make the community greener for current and future generations is really why they are so invested in their home gardens. This garden walk happens every year in August so don’t miss it.

Feel free to search other homes in the neighborhood or read more neighborhood details.

Maggie Finegan, Move with Maggie Chicago Real Estate Team

Filed Under: For Buyers, Gardening, Lincoln Square, Properties, Real Estate Market