Contact me if you need any info on available properties or if you are ready to buy or sell
Thursday, August 24, 2017
Friday, March 27, 2015
Curb Appeal...Early Spring Lawn Care
Early Spring Lawn Care *
After such a long winter, it's wonderful to see that there is actually a lawn under all of that snow! Since your grass may have taken a beating, use these suggestions to give it a healthy start this year.
Aerate
If your lawn has trouble absorbing water or if grass is compacted, aerate the yard. This allows air and moisture to enter the top soil and produces healthier grass. Apply an inch of water to your yard the day before you plan to aerate.
If your lawn has trouble absorbing water or if grass is compacted, aerate the yard. This allows air and moisture to enter the top soil and produces healthier grass. Apply an inch of water to your yard the day before you plan to aerate.
Apply Compost
Compost, organic materials that have decomposed, is the perfect material to give your lawn and gardens a helpful boost to wake up from winter. You can buy this from the hardware store, but you can also create your own compost at home.
Compost, organic materials that have decomposed, is the perfect material to give your lawn and gardens a helpful boost to wake up from winter. You can buy this from the hardware store, but you can also create your own compost at home.
Mowing
Now that you've aerated and fertilized the yard, it's time to wait. Before you mow that lovely yard, give the grass time to grow three or four inches. Invest in a mulching mower and spread the clippings over your freshly cut yard. After the initial mow, you will need to trim the grass once every week or every other week so that you cut no more than a third of the grass.
Now that you've aerated and fertilized the yard, it's time to wait. Before you mow that lovely yard, give the grass time to grow three or four inches. Invest in a mulching mower and spread the clippings over your freshly cut yard. After the initial mow, you will need to trim the grass once every week or every other week so that you cut no more than a third of the grass.
*From my newsletter
Wednesday, March 11, 2015
Understand Your Local Real Estate Market
A Simple Tool to Help You
Understand Your Local Market
"Real estate is a constantly changing marketplace, and knowing how your neighborhood is performing will keep you on top of the action. Baird & Warner's Market Insight allows you to see all of the real estate activity in your specified area. Select the area that you are interested in learning more about, and you can choose to receive emails that provide you with all of the real estate transactions and details specific to that selection. This interactive report charts such data as sold homes, properties for sale, inventory levels and even days on market. Please contact me if you'd like to sign up
Tuesday, March 3, 2015
This is Why Home Prices are Rising
This is Why Home Prices are Rising
We're off to a busy spring season, and experts are already predicting that home prices will increase by year's end. But do you ever wonder where these predictions come from? How do they know what homebuyers and sellers will do for the entire year when it's only March?
Millennials --- those born between 1980 and 1995 --- were hit hard by the economic downturn, prompting many experts to declare this a generation of renters and the end of the American Dream of homeownership. Fortunately, 2014 proved that this is not the case. According to the National Association of REALTORS® Home Buyer and Seller Generational Trends report, Millennials comprise both the largest share of homebuyers at 31 percent and the largest share of first-time homebuyers at 76 percent.
There are a number of factors that industry leaders look at when it comes to housing forecasts. For example, The Conference Board, a not-for-profit research organization, puts out a monthly Consumer Confidence Index that provides an inside look at how consumers are feeling about the economy. Valuable information like this provides the foundation for economic predictions.
When it comes to rising home prices, here are a few major points that the experts consider:
Lower Unemployment Rate
The Illinois unemployment rate dropped to 6.2 percent in December, the lowest it has been in almost seven years. When consumers have job security and more spending money, just about every facet of the economy gets a boost --- including housing.
The Illinois unemployment rate dropped to 6.2 percent in December, the lowest it has been in almost seven years. When consumers have job security and more spending money, just about every facet of the economy gets a boost --- including housing.
Increased Confidence in Housing
Fannie Mae's January National Housing Survey showed that consumer optimism toward the housing market has gained momentum since December. The number of consumers surveyed who said that they would buy rather than rent rose five points to 66 percent, the first increase since September 2014.
Fannie Mae's January National Housing Survey showed that consumer optimism toward the housing market has gained momentum since December. The number of consumers surveyed who said that they would buy rather than rent rose five points to 66 percent, the first increase since September 2014.
Fewer Foreclosures
Last year, the number of homes that received foreclosure filings dropped by 26 percent from 2013, and total foreclosure activity in the Chicago area fell to a seven-year low in 2014. This means that homeowners looking to sell won't have to compete with cheaper bank-owned properties.
Last year, the number of homes that received foreclosure filings dropped by 26 percent from 2013, and total foreclosure activity in the Chicago area fell to a seven-year low in 2014. This means that homeowners looking to sell won't have to compete with cheaper bank-owned properties.
Now is the time to think about your real estate goals. Whether you're looking to buy, sell or simply want to hear more about the market, please contact me today.
Tuesday, March 4, 2014
Studio in East LP Chicago For Sale
Spacious and beautifully upgraded Studio on top floor in East Lincoln Park at 455 St James
Unit features Wood Laminate Floors, Granite, SS, Maple Cabinets. Dishwasher and Laundry
Hook-up. Great new roof top deck. Live close to Lake Michigan, Lincoln Park, Shops,
Restaurants, Nightlife and Transportation.
Tuesday, February 4, 2014
About 1840 N Dayton Chicago, IL 60614
This townhome has everything including a much cherished private outdoor space, indoor attached parking, 3 bedrooms on the same level and a lot more. The neighbors are the nicest and there is an automatic invite to The Dayton Street Block Party every August.
Monday, January 27, 2014
Jill O'Grady at Baird & Warner Gold Coast
I am very proud to be a Broker Associate at Baird and Warner's Gold Coast Office. I switched over to B&W in December 2013.
Baird and Warner is a great company with a rich history:
If you are interested in Real Estate as a Buyer or Seller or just have a question, please Contact Me:
Baird and Warner is a great company with a rich history:
If you are interested in Real Estate as a Buyer or Seller or just have a question, please Contact Me:
You will be able to search for a property if you go to my contact page
I am dedicated to helping you and providing the best possible experience for you.
Sunday, March 10, 2013
Contact Me
jill.ogrady@bairdwarner.com
jillogrady@facebook.com
twitter.com/jillogrady
linkedin.com/in/jillogrady
Monday, January 23, 2012
Studio-535 N Michigan. For Sale in Chicago
Here is a little video I made for my listing at 535 N. Michigan #714click here - 535 N. Michigan #714
It's a great building with a doorman, swimming pool, exercise room, cleaners, and the unit is comfy and ready for someone to move in whether it's just for the weekends or all the time. A wonderful opportunity to live on Michigan Avenue in Chicago
Friday, February 11, 2011
The Cost of Waiting for Prices to Fall
http://kcmblog.com/2011/02/11/the-cost-of-waiting-for-prices-to-fall/
A lot of people are interested in buying a property this year. They have been waiting for prices to fall even more and looking for a bottom. Now the news is that mortgage rates are on the rise. Even if prices do fall, the cost of waiting increases with each uptick in your rate.
Buying now is a win-win situation. Housing market down and mortgage rates still at their historic lows......call me, let's look for your new home.
A lot of people are interested in buying a property this year. They have been waiting for prices to fall even more and looking for a bottom. Now the news is that mortgage rates are on the rise. Even if prices do fall, the cost of waiting increases with each uptick in your rate.
Buying now is a win-win situation. Housing market down and mortgage rates still at their historic lows......call me, let's look for your new home.
Friday, November 5, 2010
Chicago Rental Market
Even though now is a great time to buy a property due to low prices and historically low interest rates, some people would rather rent. The best thing to do if you need to find a rental or rent your property is contact a Realtor. We can search for your new apartment and make appointments to see them and then negotiate your lease. All this for FREE!
We can list your property for rent on the MLS. Photos will be posted and you won't have to deal with phone calls, showings, or credit reports. We take care of that. Usually the cost to you is one month's rent.
Here is a one bedroom at 3550 Lake Shore Drive that you might like:
http://tours7.vht.com/Viewer/PhotoGallery.aspx?ListingID=50109904&Style=IDX
We can list your property for rent on the MLS. Photos will be posted and you won't have to deal with phone calls, showings, or credit reports. We take care of that. Usually the cost to you is one month's rent.
Here is a one bedroom at 3550 Lake Shore Drive that you might like:
http://tours7.vht.com/Viewer/PhotoGallery.aspx?ListingID=50109904&Style=IDX
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
National Open House Weekend
This weekend April 10th and 11th is National Open House Weekend. The goal of this nationwide campaign is to increase consumer awareness of the benefits of buying a home and spread the word about the expanded first time home buyer credit which expires April 30th.
The open house at 3050 N. Hoyne, a beautiful four bedroom single family home in Hamlin Park will be on Sunday from 11:30am to 2pm. Please stop by.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Single Family Home in Hamlin Park. 3050 N. Hoyne
Just west of Damen, between Diversey and Belmont is a lovely neighborhood called Hamlin Park. I've been familiar with the area for about 10 years because my kids had sports events at Hamlin Park. The park has an outdoor pool, tennis courts, baseball field, basketball court, workout areas and much more in the huge field house. There is even a little Doggy Park on the corner of Hoyne and Wellington. A great area to raise a family....or whatever.
My listing at 3050 N. Hoyne is directly across the street from the park. This single family home has 4 Bedrooms and 3 1/2 Baths. It was lovingly rehabbed in 2006 with high-end finishes and appliances. The well thought out kitchen includes a wine fridge, butler's pantry, and trash compacter. There is a window over the sink looking out at the landscaped back yard and two car garage. There are three bedrooms upstairs and all of the closets are finished. The bathroom decor includes glass tile, granite and stone as well as a rain forest shower. The deep tub downstairs off the fourth bedroom is a relaxing jacuzzi. There is also a family room down and a huge laundry room.
There is plenty of storage at 3050 Hoyne. There is a pull down stairway leading to the attic that can hold a room full of funiture and above the above the garage is an additional 400sq.ft. for storage. Costco is near by and Target is not too far away so stock up.
Contact me anytime for a showing. The price is $775K
My listing at 3050 N. Hoyne is directly across the street from the park. This single family home has 4 Bedrooms and 3 1/2 Baths. It was lovingly rehabbed in 2006 with high-end finishes and appliances. The well thought out kitchen includes a wine fridge, butler's pantry, and trash compacter. There is a window over the sink looking out at the landscaped back yard and two car garage. There are three bedrooms upstairs and all of the closets are finished. The bathroom decor includes glass tile, granite and stone as well as a rain forest shower. The deep tub downstairs off the fourth bedroom is a relaxing jacuzzi. There is also a family room down and a huge laundry room.
There is plenty of storage at 3050 Hoyne. There is a pull down stairway leading to the attic that can hold a room full of funiture and above the above the garage is an additional 400sq.ft. for storage. Costco is near by and Target is not too far away so stock up.
Contact me anytime for a showing. The price is $775K
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Ultra High-end Homes For Sale
According to the article in the CHICAGO TRIBUNE there are plenty of Luxury Properties for sale in the Chicago Area. Everyone is downsizing due to the weak economy. Hopefully, there is relief in the near future but if you are looking to buy a big house now is a great time.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Chicago Real Estate: Reasons to be Hopeful
These stats were sent to me from Rubloff....Thanks!
Existing home sales were up nationally 7.2% in July over June and up 4% in the Chicago Metropolitan area for the same period. Even more positive is the fact that home sales in the Chicago area inched up 0.3% in July 2009 versus July 2008, the first year on year increase since March of 2006. Existing home sales in Chicago have been up month over month for six consecutive months!
New home sales were up nationally 9.6% in July over June, and up for the fourth straight month in a row. It is important that we are seeing month over month increases because that indicates a trend upward.
Home prices are up nationally 2.9% in the second quarter of 2009 versus the first quarter and up 1.1% for the same period in the Chicago metropolitan area. This is the first quarterly price rise in three years, indicating a bottom may have been reached.
The inventory of for sale homes is decreasing. The Monthly Supply of Inventory is 9.1 months, down from the high of 22.3 months in December of 2008. The number of for sale homes is down 16% from July of 2008, from 32,151 units to 26,946 units in July of 2009.
The number of homes in the Chicago area that went under contract in July 2009 was 2,335 units, or 23% higher than the 1,900 units under contract in July of 2008.
The average days on market in Chicago have decreased 8% since January from 170 DOM to 157 DOM in July.
Consumer confidence rose in July to 54.1 from 47.4. While a score of 90+ indicates solid growth, an increase in this all important “soft” statistic is amazing given the poor job situation. Consumer spending represents about 70% of the overall Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the US. A sustainable upward trend in consumer spending will signal the recession is coming to a close.
The Conference Board reports their Index of Leading Economic Indicators is up in July 0.6% after a 0.8% increase in June. "The indicators suggest that the recession is bottoming out, and that economic activity will likely begin recovering soon," said Ken Goldstein, economist at The Conference Board.
Durable goods orders were up in July an unexpected 4.9%. This was the biggest gain in two years. Durable goods orders represent a leading indicator of the health of the manufacturing sector.
Existing home sales were up nationally 7.2% in July over June and up 4% in the Chicago Metropolitan area for the same period. Even more positive is the fact that home sales in the Chicago area inched up 0.3% in July 2009 versus July 2008, the first year on year increase since March of 2006. Existing home sales in Chicago have been up month over month for six consecutive months!
New home sales were up nationally 9.6% in July over June, and up for the fourth straight month in a row. It is important that we are seeing month over month increases because that indicates a trend upward.
Home prices are up nationally 2.9% in the second quarter of 2009 versus the first quarter and up 1.1% for the same period in the Chicago metropolitan area. This is the first quarterly price rise in three years, indicating a bottom may have been reached.
The inventory of for sale homes is decreasing. The Monthly Supply of Inventory is 9.1 months, down from the high of 22.3 months in December of 2008. The number of for sale homes is down 16% from July of 2008, from 32,151 units to 26,946 units in July of 2009.
The number of homes in the Chicago area that went under contract in July 2009 was 2,335 units, or 23% higher than the 1,900 units under contract in July of 2008.
The average days on market in Chicago have decreased 8% since January from 170 DOM to 157 DOM in July.
Consumer confidence rose in July to 54.1 from 47.4. While a score of 90+ indicates solid growth, an increase in this all important “soft” statistic is amazing given the poor job situation. Consumer spending represents about 70% of the overall Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the US. A sustainable upward trend in consumer spending will signal the recession is coming to a close.
The Conference Board reports their Index of Leading Economic Indicators is up in July 0.6% after a 0.8% increase in June. "The indicators suggest that the recession is bottoming out, and that economic activity will likely begin recovering soon," said Ken Goldstein, economist at The Conference Board.
Durable goods orders were up in July an unexpected 4.9%. This was the biggest gain in two years. Durable goods orders represent a leading indicator of the health of the manufacturing sector.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
First Time Home Buyer $8000 Credit
Find out more about this here. And contact me for information about Chicago Real Estate. Now is a great time to buy a first home (or second too). There are a lot of choices out there for you...low rates, low prices and now this First Time Home Buyer Credit
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Short Sales Quiz
A lot of home buyers might be interested in purchasing a Short Sale, Foreclosure or Bank Owned Property in pursuit of a good deal. More and more opportunities have become available but there are a few things to be aware of...things that I have noticed.
1. It is a good idea to come in with your highest price. There is a good chance that the bank will not counter your offer but move on to a better one.
2. Don't be suprised if the listing agent takes a very long time to get back to you about your offer. Either there is lots of work on the table or they are 'shopping' your offer with the hope of a higher one coming in soon.
3. Cash is king. The bank would much rather accept an offer that does not have a mortgage contingency. You can still get a loan to buy the property but don't make the contract contingent upon it.
4. These places are usually sold 'as is', with no disclosures, and the buyer may have to pay unpaid assessments and taxes.
Click on the title to see how much you know about Short Sales by taking a quiz
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
2016 Olympics in Chicago?
Just a few more months till October. That's when we find out if the 2016 Summer Olympics will be held in Chicago. Will the outcome have an impact on the Chicago real estate market? I say yes.
So many properties are available for purchase in this buyers' market and those places close to the lakefront are perfectly located for the event. Some of those areas are: The Loop, South Loop, Bronzeville, Washington Park and even Lakeview where the tennis events are proposed to take place.
Just east of The Loop and just west of Lake Michigan is beautiful Millenium Park which is central to any happening in Chicago.
A perfect place to buy a condo is in the 5 North Wabash Building. I just happen to know of a great one bedroom in that building that would make convenient 'in-town' , full time residence or even an investment.
Check it out and contact me if you have any interest in seeing it.
So many properties are available for purchase in this buyers' market and those places close to the lakefront are perfectly located for the event. Some of those areas are: The Loop, South Loop, Bronzeville, Washington Park and even Lakeview where the tennis events are proposed to take place.
Just east of The Loop and just west of Lake Michigan is beautiful Millenium Park which is central to any happening in Chicago.
A perfect place to buy a condo is in the 5 North Wabash Building. I just happen to know of a great one bedroom in that building that would make convenient 'in-town' , full time residence or even an investment.
Check it out and contact me if you have any interest in seeing it.
Saturday, May 9, 2009
2009 FIRST-TIME HOME BUYER TAX CREDIT QUIZ
Take This Quiz to see how much you know about the 2009 First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit.
I took the quiz and learned a few things and you can too. Even if you are not in the market for your first home you might know someone who is and pass along this information.
Actually, it doesn't have to be the first home you've ever purchased....there is a rule about that but you will have to take the quiz or watch this video to find out if you or your friends are eligible.
I took the quiz and learned a few things and you can too. Even if you are not in the market for your first home you might know someone who is and pass along this information.
Actually, it doesn't have to be the first home you've ever purchased....there is a rule about that but you will have to take the quiz or watch this video to find out if you or your friends are eligible.
Contact me if you would like to buy this 3 Bedroom home in Sauganash
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Sould Investors Buy Now in Anticipation of Chicago Hosting the 2016 Olympics?
I am wondering if there are at least 3 reasons why now is a good time to buy real estate in Chicago, especially as an investment in anticipation of Chicago hosting the 2016 Olympics. We won't know who will be the host until October 2009, but wouldn't there be more demand for property in that area if Chicago does win the bid? Yes. So:
1. Buy now because the price will go higher.
2. Interest rates are at a historical low
3. If you are a first time buyer and plan on residing there...you get a credit.
4. Even if Chicago does not get the Olympics, it is still a good investment in an appreciating area.
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