Posts with tag 'home trends'

Winter isn't always the most organized season in our homes. With clutter left over from the holidays and limited opportunities to get outside, homes start to become disorganized and chaotic. Our real estate agents are here to help.

Organization Tips for Your Chicagoland Home

Whether getting organized is part of your New Year's resolution, or you simply want to get a head start on spring cleaning, these simple and affordable organization tips will help your Chicagoland home look its best this winter. 

Declutter and Donate (or Sell)

The first and arguably most important step toward a tidier home is eliminating clutter. That means identifying what you don't need, excess tchotchkes, outdated decor, unworn clothes, old books and magazines, and finding them a new home.

What to do with all your old stuff? Start...

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Our real estate agents are no strangers to wind and snow here in Chicagoland. In fact, we've learned more than a thing or two about how to keep your home safe, secure, and, above all, warm this winter. 

Heating and insulation tips for Chicago winters

Winter will be here before you know it, and your home will have to withstand all the challenges the season brings. Here's how to stay warm and avoid heat loss in your home in Chicagoland during the coldest months of the year. 

Update windows

Old windows are often extremely inefficient, and replacing them with modern windows can drastically improve your home's efficiency. Look for insulated double- or triple-pane windows that are Energy Star rated.

Find and seal air leaks

There are innumerable tiny and not-so-tiny places where cold...

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In addition to popular rooftop bars, restaurants, and event spaces, many homes in the metro area come with a rooftop space for outdoor relaxation — it's one of the best ways to maximize your greenspace in an urban setting. If your rooftop space could use a refresh, or has felt like more of an afterthought, our real estate agents are here to help with inspiration that's both stylish and budget-friendly.

• Install a hanging chair, swing, or hammock. 
  Capture that breezy, relaxing vibe by installing a modern hanging chair or swing. Look for models with self-supporting stands if your rooftop doesn't allow for ceiling mounts. It's an easy way to add a playful, lounge-ready touch to your rooftop setup.
  
  
• Add planters with tall greenery.
  Even if you don't have soil to dig into, you can still enjoy greenery above the city streets. After all, certain plants will enjoy the direct sunlight, can thrive in this rooftop envir...

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Nothing says "summer" quite like hosting a backyard barbecue. The smell of food cooking over hot coals captures the mood of summer in Chicago like nothing else, and if you're anything like our real estate agents, you're more than ready to get the grill going. 

That being said, you may also be ready to make a few improvements to your outdoor living space before inviting all your friends and family over. Here's how to level up your grill game and get your backyard ready for BBQ season in Chicagoland. 

• Upgrade your grill. 
  If you've been using the same small, cramped barbecue grill for multiple seasons, it may be time for an upgrade. Especially if you're planning on hosting a get-together with lots of hungry guests. Charcoal grills are ideal for smoking meats and slow-cooking ribs and brisket, but gas gril...

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Are you ready for summer in Chicagoland? It's the season of street fairs and farmers markets, and days spent beachside along the beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline. For Chicago homeowners, the months leading up to summer also offer an opportunity to prepare for the season ahead. Our real estate agents are here to share five helpful tips for getting your home summer-ready!

• Wash your walkway and driveway. 
  Chances are, there's a lot of dirt, plant matter, and other assorted grime and debris all over your driveway and walkway from the colder months. As summer approaches, it's time for a cleanup. If there's a lot of loose material, start by sweeping it up with a push broom and dustpan (resist the urge to use your leaf-blower to avoid raising a major dust cloud). Then use a power washer to spray down hard surfaces...

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