Move With Maggie

Our market in Chicagoland has picked up considerably, with a record number of closings in August, September, and October.  With rising prices, we are beginning to see buyers negotiating more aggressively regarding repair and closing credits.

Since Covid, we are seeing a more pronounced shift in wants and needs of buyers and sellers. Working from home, having time to dream, and possibly social unrest are resulting in clients moving up, moving out, and following their dreams. And with employers extending their work-at home request through year-end or even through Spring 2021. Some homeowners are moving to their vacation homes, and others are looking for more expansive living with larger outdoor space, or private roof decks for socially distant entertainment.

Some of our downtown city dwellers are moving northward. Popular neighborhoods where we are seeing increased demand, are Lakeview, Andersonville, Edgewater, and Lincoln Square. And homes near Winnemac, Wells and Chase Parks are popular.

Others are purchasing land or a second home in Indiana or Wisconsin, within an hour or two of Chicago, for weekend getaways. They are seeking properties near water or wide-open spaces, to give their children a place to run, and some plan to build their dream home.

FUN FACT! I recently connected some of our Chicago clients with magnificent KW Realtors in Indiana and Wyoming, helping them fulfill their dreams. So, if you, a family member, or friend are considering relocating anywhere in the US, I will partner with a trusted Keller Williams agent to take care of your needs and provide local knowledge. 

Thank you for your support and referrals, making 2020 a great year for us.  We sincerely appreciate your reviews and surveys, as we are awarded the Five Star Realtor designation again this year by Chicago Magazine, for the 10^th year running.   

Sincerely,

Maggie Finegan

As a testament to my commitment to professional excellence, I have received the 2021 Five Star Professional Real Estate award, which honors local real estate agents. Five Star Professional undertakes a thorough research process in identifying its award winners, including getting feedback from people like you, and I am proud to be among those named a winner. 

Thank you again for your business and trust!

-Maggie Finegan

It’s been about two months since the coronavirus pandemic put North America on pause. By now, you’ve probably noticed just how rapidly things can change in this situation. With so much information out there, it can be difficult to make sense of it all — especially when it comes to the economy.

To help you gain a bit of clarity, I wanted to share some highlights from an interview with real estate leader Brian Buffini and Dr. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist and Senior Vice President of Research at the National Association of REALTORS®. They went over where the housing market stands right now, and you’ll find the takeaways from their conversation in the enclosed Item of Value.

I hope this leaves you with some peace-of-mind during these uncertain times. Just remember, this too shall pass. If I can be of service to you and your family in any way, please do not hesitate to call.

The events of the past few months have been unprecedented. Now more than ever, it is important to stay on your A-game and keep your spirits lifted. Be sure to spend some time taking care of yourself!

As you continue to navigate your new normal, I want to share some tips for focusing on your own well-being. The information I’m sending this month includes ways to reset your goals and to reboot your routine so that you feel recharged and ready to support your family, friends and community. You’ll also learn a few helpful ways to practice self-care, so that your emotional wellness remains in great shape.

While we can’t control what happens to us, we can control how we view those situations. I hope this information helps you and your family stay strong, hopeful and encouraged as you move through your daily lives. If I can help in anyway, please do not hesitate to call.

They called about purchasing their first home in Ravenswood. As a local realtor and long- time resident , I understand why they love it. The ease of transit via Metra, CTA brown and red line trains, express busses and access to Lake Shore Drive; shopping, and the beauty of the tree lined streets and historic properties that line them.

We met to talk about their wish list. They wanted to live withing walking distance of Metra, in a place with a sense of community, 3 bedrooms and a workout space, plus yard and garage.

I shared the recent market stats for Andersonville, Ravenswood and Lincoln Square properties, where single family homes sell from $800,000 to $1,500,000; and townhomes selling in the $500K’s to mid $600K’s range. I was happy to learn they were willing to consider townhouses, an option within budget.

We toured townhouses in three developments. All are within two blocks of Metra train stop, Marianos, the Fitness Center, bank, and pharmacy; as well as several local brewpubs. And they are just a few blocks from Andersonville dining, shops and entertainment, including a few of my favorites, shows at Magic Lounge, cookery and lessons at Chopping Block, to name a few.

An added benefit for running, and walking the dog, is the Winnslie Parkway and Gardens, a community greenspace on the east side of Ravenswood tracks, from Ainslie to Winnemac. A green space where neighbors can visit, toss a ball, and enjoy the lovely perennial gardens, planted and cared for by neighbors. A community event is held there every spring, of neighbors to work on gardens, plant and chip the pathway. See details at Winnslie.org. I am happy to share that they found their dream townhome, and look forward to moving in soon

The New Year is less than a month away; however, the best time to set goals for 2019 is now. If you’re like many people, you may wish to create goals pertaining to your finances, whether you wish to keep more of what you earn or achieve financial freedom once and for all.

The excitement of the New Year prompts us to set ambitious goals; however, a month or two into the year, our goals have often long been forgotten. This month’s information is intended to encourage you to set realistic financial goals that you’re invested in achieving.  From identifying what you truly want to setting SMART goals and creating a reasonable action plan, these tips will help you end 2019 even more financially fit than you are now.

A financial professional can provide you with the advice you need to create sound financial goals and establish your legacy. If you’d like a referral to a reputable financial professional in our area, give me a call! Have a happy and healthy holiday season!

(Click on image to enlarge)