Chicago Real Estate Blog, Page 6

Taxes may be the last thing on your mind as you advance through the homebuying process. Yet, there are important tax considerations that need to be worked out before you get to the closing table. One of those considerations is …

“Lately, the economy hasn’t been all that fun to watch. Wild stock market fluctuations in the final weeks of 2018, uncertainty over the impact of economic tariffs and a predicted drop in the gross domestic product are all a bit …

Ah, the age-old seller question: do I really need to put effort into staging my home? The answer: YES. Expecting to sell your home at your asking price without staging is similar to your Freshman year of college when you …

When it comes time to pick up and move your whole entire life to a new place, there are often a lot of different emotions involved. On one hand it’s exciting that you’re starting fresh in a new home; perhaps …

Announcing the selection of Debra Dobbs among America’s Top 100 Real Estate Agents® for 2018. Selection to America’s Top 100 Real Estate Agents® is reserved to identify the nation’s most esteemed and skilled Real Estate Agents and Brokers with a …

10 Things a Transplant to the Windy City Should Know History The town of Chicago was organized in 1833 on August 12 (my birthday!) with 200 people. The city of Chicago was founded in 1837 , and has grown to …

Well, what a summer it has been… My daughter flew off to New Zealand late June for what was to be a month long adventure. Almost 3 months later she is in love… with NZ, not a boy 🙂 and …

Congratulations to Debra Dobbs on making the esteemed 2018 America’s Best Real Estate Professionals. You are recognized as one of the top sales associates in your state. It is an honor to acknowledge your excellent achievement and recognize your professionalism, hard work and …

With its strong lemony zing, a small amount of this marmalade goes a long way. Spread it over your favorite bread and butter, toast or a croissant, use it on pastry or mix a spoonful into your hot tea. My Marmellata …

Besides working in real estate, the Debra Dobbs Team supports several charitable organizations in the Chicago area. In an interview with Debra she says “There are few things we are more passionate about than matching people with homes in one …

Especially now that the weather is turning, Chicago is a beautiful place to be! From theatres to museums to restaurants, there’s always something fun going on in the Windy City. Now that spring is here, take some time to check …

I can remember in vivid detail sitting in the living room of my grandparent’s house in South Deering on a Sunday afternoon in the middle of August, thighs stuck to the plastic covering of the ‘fancy’ sofa.   My beloved …

Each day I walk the few blocks from my Lincoln Park home to the office at @Properties, stopping first – of course – at my favorite coffee shop, City Grounds, for an espresso! Some days are more pleasant than others …

Ah, Spring. The lilac bushes are in full bloom, the Sox and Cubbies are in full swing, and your home gets a fresh makeover! (Hallelujah!) There are few things more satisfying than the results of a deep clean. Can’t you …

To provide the best service to my clients, I regularly consult and collaborate with top high-end builders. What’s in, what’s out, what lasts forever? One of my favorite high-end builders is Andrew Bowyer of Middlefork Development, who creates dazzling homes …

Pollo con marmellata di limoni (Chicken with Lemon Marmellata) 1 whole chicken 3 lemons (cut into 8 wedges each) 6 spring onions – chopped 4 toes garlic – chopped 1/2 stick butter (cut into 2 equal pieces and softened) 1/2 …

My sister-in-law, Eva, makes a wonderful Bone Broth and Veggie Soup from the beef bones that are always included in our Starry Nights Beef Box. Starry Nights Farms produce 100% grass fed beef in a sustainable, humane way. Support a …

Luxe Magazine is hosting their first Annual Luxe RED Residential Excellence in Design Awards. The judging panel consists of nationally and internationally recognized leaders in the Design/Build Industry, including Holly Hunt and Paul Wiseman. Luxe is giving the Readers – …

Nothing better than Crazy Uncle Mike whipping up something fabulous with whatever few ingredients we have on hand. Jar of Giardiniera, last of the wedge of parmesan, and a spaghetti squash that arrived from new favorite food resource, Imperfect Produce. …

Chicago has 77 interesting and diverse neighborhoods to explore; how can you possibly narrow down which neighborhood is the best fit for you? So many choices and so little time to explore!

In 1984 I ran around town with thick folder of papers under my arm, pens and pencils in my briefcase, a brick of a ‘cell phone’ in my black, vinyl ‘phone bag’, sending faxes and paper letters… it was the …