Chitownproperty

Townhouses are an attractive option for home buyers looking for a step up from condos, but perhaps not ready for the additional maintenance and cost of a detached, single-family home. The decision to buy a townhouse is a matter of preference for living style and one of cost, but the Tribune summarizes a few of the important things to consider when shopping for one:

• Put location first – Because townhouses typically cost less than detached homes, you may be able to find one in a better neighborhood
• Shop for a bright, airy townhouse – Because townhouses are grouped so closely together, make sure you find one that doesn’t feel dark or cramped
• Focus on parking – Townhouse living means living in close quarters with neighbors. Is there enough parking for you and occasional guests?
• Look for a place where residents seem to get along – Again, living closely with neighbors means you don’t want to buy into a dysfunctional community

Getting your home in top shape to sell doesn’t necessarily have to involve expensive renovation projects. As this article in the Tribune shows you, inexpensive fix-ups and staging can make a major difference in your home’s appearance. For example, a fresh coat of paint throughout (done by yourself, to save money, of course) can dramatically affect the home’s feel, as can simple decluttering and top-to-bottom cleaning.

Design blogs and websites are springing up like Starbucks in a gentrifying neighborhood, but finding the good ones to help with ideas for sprucing up your home can test your patience. The Tribune points out the good ones, some of which have been featured here, including:

• Apartment Therapy
• Design Sponge
• Dwell
• HGTV

Two bedroom condo in Lincoln Park

Price: $425,000
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This beautiful two bedroom two bathroom condo is on a quiet tree-lined street and steps from everything Lincoln Park has to offer. This home has everything a buyer wants including hardwood floors throughout, laundry in unit, central air and parking including in the price. The sun filled living room includes a wood-burning fireplace and is adjacent to the dining space and kitchen. The kitchen is beautiful with 42 inch cabinets, granite countertops and large breakfast bar. The master bedroom is spacious with an upgraded marble bath and walk-in closet. The inviting deck is accessible from the master bedroom and the hallway making it perfect for entertaining. A short stroll takes you to wonderful neighborhood restaurants, parks, shopping, theatres and the nearby el stop. This is truly a perfect home in an amazing location.

The slowing market means many sellers are getting nervous, but an article in the Tribune points out that you can’t let that anxiety impact yours and your agent’s ability to sell the home. Try to keep perspective about the process; don’t pressure the sales agent, don’t count on open houses or blanket marketing to solve your problems, and remain realistic about the asking price. It is a tougher market, so you have to do everything you can to maximize the home’s selling potential.

Spacious 1 bedroom loft in Roscoe Village

Price: $249,900
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Beautiful penthouse in the Riverwalk Loft building with floor to ceiling windows and amazing natural light. Very spacious 1 bedroom /1 bath condo shows like a model with recently stained hardwood floors throughout, custom paint, neutral kitchen (with large island) and bath (with deep soaking tub), large balcony, 10 ft ceilings, spacious living area (with room for a dining table or office set-up) and in unit washer dryer. This unit features wonderful north views of the city as well as the beautifully landscaped riverfront. Extra storage and bike room complete the package. This professionally managed building is just steps to the heart of Roscoe Village.