celebration weekend - neighborhood tour

Celebration Weekendchicago neighborhood tour

Hosted by Jesse Masin, Housing and Relocation Coordinator

Future McKinsey consultants:

Welcome to Chicago!

@properties is honored to be a part of this year’s Celebration Weekend and the McKinsey neighborhood tour. We are incredibly excited to show you and your future colleagues the diverse and dynamic neighborhoods our city has to offer!

The neighborhoods chosen for our tour have been selected to represent the most desirable and popular areas in downtown Chicago. Whether you are looking for a chic loft in the West Loop, a unique vintage walk-up in Lincoln Park, or an exclusive condo on the Gold Coast, @properties has unparalleled access to the best Chicago has to offer.

As a Chicago resident for the past decade, and having lived in many of the neighborhoods on the tour, I can offer a unique prospective about each area’s selling points and drawbacks. Furthermore, as a longtime McKinsey “S.O.” I fully understand and appreciate the specific needs of a professional consultant’s lifestyle and expectations. Whether you are looking to rent or buy I am looking forward to finding you the perfect home that will fit your individual needs and personality.

I truly look forward to the opportunity to work with you!

Sincerely,

welcome

atproperties.com

JESSE MASIN

REAL ESTATE BROKER548 W. Webster Chicago, IL 60614MOBILE 312.965.1231 [email protected]

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@properties was established in 2000, and in less than a decade grew from a four-person boutique office to more than 1,300 licensed agents producing MORE THAN $2 billion in annual sales volume. Since our inception, we have brokered approximately 40,000 transactions valued at more than $22 billion. @properties is also Chicago’s new construction sales leader having sold more than 5,500 new homes and condominiums in 160 developments valued in excess of $2.2 billion.

In addition to Residential Brokerage and Development Marketing, @properties has full-service divisions for Commercial Brokerage, Residential and Commercial Property Management, Relocation, Rental Services, Foreclosures, Short Sales and Institutional Bank Advisory Services.

In the span of a decade, @properties’ co-founders Michael Golden and Thaddeus Wong have built one of the most recognized brands in Chicago real estate while helping to reshape and modernize the local brokerage industry.

Golden and Wong first teamed up in the mid 1990s. They set sales records and consistently ranked among the top 1 percent of the Chicago Association of REALTORS®’ 12,500 members. At @properties they paired traditional brokerage services with cutting edge technology and marketing, and became a driving force behind Chicago real estate.

To support high transaction volume with an equally high level of service, they built a deep organizational infrastructure that includes robust marketing, IT and administrative functions.

Highly creative and energetic entrepreneurs, Golden and Wong have created a corporate culture that attracts high-caliber agents and staff and fosters teamwork and performance. They have also built a large philanthropic network under the umbrella of the @properties Friends & Neighbors Community Fund.

our story

hands-on leadership

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THADDEUS WONG & MICHAEL GOLDEN CO-FOUNDERS OF @PROPERTIES

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Chicago was incorporated as a city in 1837; nineteen years after Illinois officially entered the Union. In fact, it had been a center of trade and commerce long before it was recognized as a city. Linking two great waterways, the Mississippi River and the Great Lakes, it wasn’t long before the first explorers and frontiersmen recognized the area’s great potential. Jean Louis Marquette, one of the first European explorers to set foot on the marshland that is now Chicago, once said, “Here some day will be found one of the world’s greatest cities.”

The people who built Chicago up out of the swamps and marshland in the early 19th century were strong and resourceful. Even after the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, they saw opportunity in the ashes. As one Chicagoan wrote on a sign he hung on the shack that housed his new real estate office, “All gone but wife, kids and energy!” Chicago rebuilt itself bigger and stronger out of concrete and steel. Architects like Frank Lloyd Wright, Louis Sullivan and Mies van der Rohe transformed Chicago into an architectural wonder.

The Chicagoland area today encompasses the city and its surrounding counties including Cook, Lake, McHenry, DuPage, and Will. The city itself is traditionally divided between the north, west and south sides. The downtown area is known as the “Loop” because of the “El” tracks that encircle it. Stretching more than 50 miles along the shore of Lake Michigan, Cook and Lake Counties have some of the most beautiful homes, condominiums, parks, marinas and beaches in the world.

Throughout its history, Chicago has remained a major center of business and commerce. U.S. and international businesses alike have found it to be an ideal location. Chicago boasts over 70 international and 130 domestic banks and four exchange markets.

Businesses and residents of multilingual and multicultural backgrounds call Chicago home. The ethnically diverse population has created an abundance of cultural activity. Street fairs, foreign film festivals and social clubs flourish throughout the neighborhoods.

Chicago is an energetic and beautiful city with a wealth of opportunities. The best way to understand why so many people love Chicago is to experience it for yourself!

about chicagoland

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As is true in most of the Midwest, the Chicagoland area experiences an interesting variety of weather conditions. With four distinct seasons, there is something for everyone to enjoy!

The average summer temperature is in the mid-80s, although cooler breezes coming off Lake Michigan make the area nearest the lake a bit milder. Plenty of sunny days provide opportunities to enjoy the lake, beaches, parks and a myriad of other outdoor activities.

With an average winter temperature in the mid-20s, you can look forward to a winter wonderland during the holiday season. A warm coat and boots will come in handy.

Spring and fall offer more moderate temperatures for you to enjoy. Temperatures range from the 40s to the 70s, and the parks are adorned with the color of spring flowers and the beautiful leaves of fall.

Chicago is laid out on a grid system making it one of the easiest major metropolises to navigate.

The numbering system begins at zero marked downtown at the intersection of State and Madison. Zero for all north-south streets starts at Madison, and for east-west streets, State Street represents zero. One city mile is equal to 800 units on the grid system throughout most of the city. Therefore, no matter what direction you head, any north-south street will have a constant east-west coordinate, and for every east-west street, there is a corresponding north-south coordinates.

Chicago’s public transportation is among the worlds finest. The Chicago Transit Authority operates both the city’s bus system, as well as, the electric “el” trains. You will find bus service in almost every Chicago neighborhood with 24 hour services. In areas with limited service, the buses usually run between 5 a.m. and 11 p.m.

The city’s electric trains, or the “El,” reach almost all areas of the city. There are 8 major train lines radiating in every direction from downtown Chicago. These trains run both above the city streets on the elevated tracks and underground in the subway. The Loop is Chicago’s central business district, and this is precisely how it got its name, the train literally made a “loop” around this district. Many El trains operate 24 hours of the day.

There is also “commuter train” service known as the Metra. These trains operate between downtown Chicago and most major suburbs surrounding Chicago. There are four terminals downtown serving the different routes to surrounding areas.

chicagoland climate

transportation

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Chicago’s major transit hubs are:

Union Station Union Station at 210 South Canal Street provides rail service for Amtrak and Metra. 800.USA.RAIL // amtrak.com

Chicago Transit Authority (CTA ) 888.YOUR.CTA // yourcta.com

Ogilvie Transportation Center Metra provides rail service to destinations throughout Chicagoland. Trains depart from Ogilvie Transportation Center at Madison and Canal Streets. 312.322.6777 // metrarail.com

PACE 847.364.PACE // pacebus.com

Metra 312.322.6777 // metrarail.com

RTA For information on all Chicago area transit call the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) 312.836.7000 // rtachicago.com

Chicago has two major airports which serve nearly 70 commercial, commuter and cargo airlines on a regular basis. Both airports are easily accessible via public transportation. Every day thousands of flights leave from Chicago’s airports services to cities both domestic and international. International carriers offer direct flights to over 60 cities around the world.

O’Hare International Airport Located 18 miles from downtown, handles international and domestic flights. 773.686.2200

Midway Airport Located 7 miles from downtown, handles only domestic flights. 773.767.0500

transportation

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Chicago offers it all. With great theater, blues and jazz, several major sports franchises and world famous museums, you have unending options for recreation and relaxation.

If it is shopping you are after, North Michigan Avenue and State Street remain the city’s most distinctive shopping districts. North Michigan Avenue, from the Chicago River to Oak Street, is known as the “Magnificent Mile” so named by Arthur Rubloff. The “Mag Mile” is a mix of high-end couture designers and world reknowned brands with impressive flagship stores, such as Niketown, The American Girl Store and Apple.

On the cultural front, Chicago has several distinctive museums to satisfy every curiosity. Here is a sampling of what Chicago has to offer.

Museums

Chicago Children’s Museum: www.chichildrensmuseum.org

Navy Pier: www.navypier.com

Chicago History Museum: www.chicagohs.org

Field Museum: www.fieldmuseum.org

Museum of Contemporary Art: www.mcachicago.org

Museum of Science and Industry: www.msichicago.org

Shedd Aquarium: www.sheddaquarium.org

entertainment and cultural events

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If you are an avid sports fan, you’ve come to the right place. With 7 different sports teams, every fan can have a favorite team in Chicago.

Football Chicago Bears // www.chicagobears.com

Baseball Chicago Cubs // www.cubs.com Chicago White Sox // www.whitesox.com

Basketball Chicago Bulls // www.nba.com/bulls

Hockey Chicago Blackhawks, NHL // www.blackhawks.nhl.com Chicago Wolves, AHL // www.chicagowolves.com

Soccer: Chicago Fire // www.chicago-fire.com

And, at any given time in Chicago, there are several special annual events. Visit Chicago’s Mayor’s office of Special Events: www.cityofchicago.org/specialevents

athletics

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What does local mean to you? To @properties local means friends you can count on, neighbors you can trust, and businesses you go out of your way to support. Local means the barista knows your drink, the dry cleaner knows your name and the clerk at the convenience store is happy to loan you a buck. And when it comes to selling real estate, local means every home, on every block, in every neighborhood is unique, and each deserves the attention, care and consideration only a local company can offer.

@properties is a local company – locally owned and independent. And that means every resource we develop, every dollar we invest, every decision we make is driven by the desire to create value for you.

Local doesn’t mean small. Local means agile, responsive, committed and strong. Local means highest selling price, shortest market time and finest service. @properties is, was and always will be about the best local agents, using the best local resources, to achieve the best outcome for your local real estate needs. That’s local.

@properties’ focus on the local market has made us a leader in the Chicagoland area and in the industry.In 14 short years, we’ve become the #1 real estate company in the city of Chicago, the fastest-growing broker on the North Shore and one of the 30 largest brokerage firms in America.

But for @properties, leading has far less to do with numbers and far more to do with innovation. Technology changes, markets change, expectations change. So we never stop changing. Innovation permeates everything we do, from building the most sophisticated website to introducing new services to sourcing new marketing channels. Innovation is the heartbeat of our business.

Being a leader also comes with responsibility. It means moving the industry forward by sharing best practices, serving in positions of leadership with the local REALTORS® Association, and giving back to the community through the @properties Friends and Neighbors Community Fund.

Local. Leader. For @properties, the two go hand in hand and assure our clients of the most rewarding experience in Chicagoland real estate.

Source: MRED, LLC, #1 ranking based on MARKET SHARE for overall closed volume 2013.

why work with @properties

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@properties has steadily increased our market share every year we have been in business. And more market share means more exposure for your home – exposure through online marketing, signage, broker-to-broker marketing, advertising, e-mail promotion, direct mail and buzz marketing.

More exposure means more page views, more phone calls and more showing requests, and that ultimately means shorter market times and higher overall selling prices. The proof is in the numbers. @properties not only works to build market share. We put market share to work for you.

Market share totalstotal $ volume (by Broker)

market share matters

SOURCE: MRED, LLC, 1/1/13-12/31/13. BASED ON CLOSED SALES VOLUME, CITY OF CHICAGO.

Mkt 11.12%


Expertise When Selling Your Home• Marketing Strategy for Reaching Buyers

and the Agent Community• Competitive Market Analysis and

Pricing Recommendations• Staging and Repair Recommendations• Referrals of Attorneys, Handymen,

Stagers and Inspectors• Shared Knowledge Necessary to

Make Informed Decisions• Timely Action on All Communication Expert

Negotiation on Price and Terms

Guidance When Buying Your Home• Daily Property Search for Properties

that Meet Your Needs• Lender Recommendations for Pre-

Approval on a Mortgage• Scheduling and Attending Property Viewings

Analysis of Current Property Values• Property Offer Preparation• Skillful and Timely Negotiation on Your

Behalf Facilitation of attorney approval• Referrals of Attorneys, Insurance

Brokers, and Inspectors

Responsiveness• Acting in Good Faith on Your Behalf

Obeying your instructions• Prompt Return of All Calls and eMails

Accounting• Receipt and Monitoring of All Earnest Money

Timely Receipt and Delivery of All Documents

Loyalty• Place your interests above all others

Confidentiality of All Personal Information

Disclosure• Assurance that All Parties are Fully Informed About

Any Material Facts that May Affect the Transaction

my responsibilities as your broker

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From the moment you select @properties until the day you move, our team of professionals will be working for you.

managing the sale

YOU DECIDE TO BUY Selection of your

@properties agent who will help you:

Understand the buying process

Direct buyers to financing options

Obtain your mortgage pre-aproval

Research properties that meet

buyers needs

Visit selected homes

Present an offer on a home

Facilitate negotiation process

Offer accepted/set closing dateCoordinate and attend

home inspection

Facilitate smooth attorney approval

Facilitate loan approval

Maintain communication

between all parties

Coordinate final walk-through

Facilitate closing

MOVING DAY

Resorces for your home needs

Realtor for Life!


Appraiser The person who decides the market value of a home based on its condition and the selling prices of comparable homes recently sold in the area. His or her job is to compute a fair estimate of market value to help the lender decide a reasonable loan amount.

Assessor A public official who appraises property for tax purposes, determining the assessed value, not the tax rate.

Closing The conclusion of a real estate transaction, which includes delivery of a deed, financial adjustments, signing of notes and disbursement of funds necessary to the sale or loan.

Contingency A condition that must be met before a contract is binding. For example, the sale of a home might be contingent upon the seller paying for certain repairs.

Conventional Loan A loan made with real estate as security and not involving govern- ment participation in the form of insuring (FHA) or guaranteeing (VA) the loan.

Fixed-Rate Loan A loan with the same rate of interest for the life of the loan.

Homeowner’s Policy A multiple peril insurance policy commonly called a package policy. Available to owners of private homes, it covers the dwelling and contents in case of theft or fire or wind damage, as well as liability for property damage and personal liability.

Impact Fees A municipal assessment against new residential, industrial or commercial development projects to compensate for the added costs of public services generated by new construction.

Interest Rate Cap The maximum interest rate charge allowed on an adjustable-rate loan for any one adjustment period during the life of the loan.

Open Mortgage A mortgage that may be repaid in full at any time over the life of the loan without a prepayment penalty.

Point A dollar amount paid to a lender for making a loan. A point is one percent of the loan amount. Also called discount points.

Title Documentary evidence of the right to or ownership of property, which in real estate is the deed. Title may be acquired through purchase, inheritance, gift or exchange, as well as through foreclosure of a mortgage.

a quick guide to real estate terms

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Agency Terms:

Seller’s Agent A Seller’s Agent is hired by and represents the best interests of the seller. The relationship usually is created by a listing agreement.

Buyer’s Agent This type of licensee is hired by prospective buyers to represent them in a real estate transaction. The buyer’s agent works in the buyer’s best interest throughout the transaction. The buyers can pay the licensee directly through a negotiated fee, or the buyer’s agent may be paid by the seller or by a commission split with the listing broker.

Designated Agent This is a brokerage practice that allows the managing broker to designate which licensees in the brokerage will act as representatives of the seller and which will act as representatives of the buyer.

The designated agents give their respective clients full representa- tion. The broker has the responsibility of supervising both groups of licensees.

Disclosed Dual Agent Dual agency is a relationship in which the agent represents both the buyer and the seller in the same real estate transaction. Dual agents typically owe limited duties to each of the parties.

Because of the potential for conflicts of interest in a dual agency relationship, it’s vital that all parties give their informed consent. In Illinois, this consent must be in writing. Disclosed dual agency, in which both the buyer and seller consent to the agent representing both of them is legal in most states.

a quick guide to real estate terms


contract to closing — closing costs

SALE PRICE TYPICAL COST WHO PAYS?

COMMISSION 6% OF PURCHASE PRICE SELLER

APPRAISAL $250 - $500 BUYER

CREDIT REPORT $30 - $75 PER BORROWER BUYER

INSPECTION FEE $350+/VISIT BUYER

LENDER-DIRECT UNDERWRITING FEE $750 - $1,000 BUYER

PROCESSING FEE $150 BUYER

FLOOD CERTIFICATE $50 - $100 BUYER

TAX SERVICE $85 - $200 BUYER

ATTORNEY FEE $600-$1,000+ BOTH

SETTLEMENT CLOSING $250-$1,000 BUYER

TITLE INSURANCE (BUYER) $250-$1,000 BUYER

TITLE INSURANCE (SELLER) $300-$2,000 SELLER

RECORDING FEE $75-$250 BOTH

STATE TRANSFER TAX $1.50 PER $1,000 SELLER

COUNTY/CITY TRANSFER TAX $3.00 PER $1,000 SELLER

CHICAGO CITY TRANSFER TAX* $7.50 PER $1,000 BUYER

SURVEY $500 - $1,000 SELLER

INTEREST PER DAY LOAN AMOUNT X RATE/365 BUYER

ESCROW TAXES 1-5 MOS. (IF APPLICABLE) BUYER

ESCROW INSURANCE 1-5 MOS. (IF APPLICABLE) BUYER

TAX PRORATION 105 - 110% OF LAST TAX BILL SELLER

WHO PAYS FOR WHAT?

ESTIMATED CLOSING COSTS COURTESY OF GUARANTEED RATE®. Prices subject to change. Actual costs vary per lender, loan amount, property type and other factors.

*Property transfer taxes vary per local jurisdiction or township. Please consult your real estate attorney to obtain the best possible estimate for taxes and other closing costs.

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chicago neighborhoods


People who live in neighborhoods in and around downtown Chicago have many different occupations and lifestyles. They may live in lakefront high-rises with spectacular views, or occupy spacious dramatic loft spaces. But when they go out to work or play, all of them can probably walk rather than ride or drive.

For recreation, the focus is on the lakefront. Oak Street Beach, Grant Park, Lincoln Park, and the harbors are popular spots for recreation and relaxation. The city’s great museums, as well as, indoor tennis courts, swimming pools and health clubs abound. And for those whose idea of recreation tends toward food, drink and entertainment, there’s plenty of that too.

The Gold Coast is one of Chicago’s most prestigious residential districts. Although very exclusive single-family homes occasionally are available on fabled Astor Street, housing here generally comes in the form of condominiums and co-ops, both vintage and modern. For many Gold Coast residents everything from Neiman Marcus to the best hot dog stand in the city are within walking distance.

downtown chicago

gold coast

Streeterville, a residential pocket located between Michigan Ave. and the lake, is urban living at its most sophisticated

Offices, the most desirable shops, four-star restaurants and world class theaters are mere steps away. New and vintage high-rise and mid-rise condominiums or co-ops are the prevalent forms of housing. The Museum of Contemporary Art and Northwestern University’s downtown campus and medical center are famous residents here.

streeterville

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Immediately north of the Loop and Merchandise Mart, River North is prime real estate and therefore is bursting with residential development, as well as, art galleries, boutiques and design studios.

Former warehouses have been converted to loft residences, and new townhome developments and mid-rise condominium buildings line the banks of the Chicago River. City dwellers in this area are allured by the neighborhood’s proximity to the financial district, North Michigan Avenue shopping and many of the city’s finest dining and night spots.

Chicagoans who live near the Loop have many different occupations and lifestyles, but they have one thing in common: Proximity to the heart of the city.

East of Michigan Avenue and just south of the river, the New East side, as it is called, is a neighborhood built on air rights above land once occupied by railroad yards. High-rise condominiums, hotels and office towers with magnificent panoramic views in all price ranges are the norm here. With a golf course, two marinas and Grant Park at their doorstep and the city’s great theaters and museums within easy walking distance, residents here make recreation and culture a way of life.

Immediately south of the Loop, another area is being reclaimed from the great railroad yards, with hundreds of acres of open land sprouting new subdivisions. One such development is Central Station, east of Michigan Avenue at the south end of Grant Park. It features single-family homes, townhomes and condominiums surrounded by parks and playgrounds a short walk from the marinas and Museum Campus. The pioneers in the area are the planned communities of Dearborn Park I and II. Here you’ll find mid-rise condominiums, apartments, townhomes, and single-family homes. The development even has its own elementary school.

The South Loop is more than new construction. For example, in areas like Printer’s Row, condominiums and lofts occupy former warehouses, printing plants, and other historic buildings. It’s an easy walk to work in Michigan Avenue office buildings or the LaSalle Street financial centers. After hours, the district is alive with restaurants, boutiques, book and antique stores.

river north

loop / south loop / printer’s row


Near the Chicago River and the River North gallery district, this area offers dozens of new office and residential loft conversions, a smattering of renovated two- and three-flats and some newly constructed townhomes.

Here, traditional family-owned restaurants, bakeries and flower and produce stands are being rediscovered by a new generation of city-dwellers.

Lakeview is one of Chicago’s oldest neighborhoods, blending a wide variety of urban lifestyles. Belmont Harbor and Diversey Harbor are densely populated areas similar to the Gold Coast and Streeterville. High-rises line Lake Shore Drive and vintage condominiums and walk-up apartments radiate west. Many units offer large square footage while still being near the lake and local shops and restaurants.

The central and western areas of Lakeview contain vintage apartments, storefront conversions, lofts and single-family homes. Residents have a 10-to-15-minute commute to downtown via Lake Shore Drive.

The Southport Corridor is a relatively new name coined for the area surrounding this bustling street bisecting East and West Lakeview. In recent years, Southport Avenue has become home to some of the city’s most eclectic boutiques, most popular night spots and to a world famous coffee house.

The area around Wrigley Field, home to one of the nation’s most famous baseball clubs, The Chicago Cubs, is better known as Wrigleyville. This area consists of rehabbed Victorian greystones, two- and three-flat buildings and condominiums.

river west

mid-north / lakefront / lakeview southport corridor / wrigleyville

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Northwest of Lakeview, a group of vest-pocket neighborhoods offering not only blocks of tree-lined streets and parks, but its own rapid-transit system connecting to the Loop can be found. Ravenswood Gardens, just east of the North Branch of the Chicago River, is characterized by brick bungalows and two- and three-flats. Ravenswood Manor, west of the river, is an enclave of single-family homes, often on larger lots. Many abut the river and have private boat docks.

Nearby Lincoln Square is the transportation and shopping hub of the area. Lincoln Avenue serves up both trendy and traditional restaurants, being home to several of the city’s German restaurants. The Old Town School of Folk Music is also in this area and has become a popular local entertainment venue. Lincoln Square’s residential blocks are full of brick two- and three-flats, and single-family homes, many recently gentrified.

Immediately north of the city are quiet tree-lined residential streets. Some of Chicago’s finest and most expensive housing can be found within this neighborhood, along with fine restaurants and night spots, boutiques and theaters.

The focus of outdoor activity is the park, Lincoln Park, after which the neighborhood is named. It welcomes joggers, tennis players, golfers, cyclists and ballplayers, as well as, visitors to the zoo, conservatory, beaches and marinas.

A favorite of young professionals and families, the sophisticated Lincoln Park neighborhood presents a mix of mansions and two-flats, apartment dwellers and home owners. It parallels the park and lakefront.

Just west is the DePaul neighborhood, which takes its name from century-old University, whose large campus is a focal point of the area. DePaul offers the same stately single-family and multiple-unit housing found in Lincoln Park and Old Town, as well as, the original Chicago rowhomes with their richly ornamented Victorian facades. You will also find handsome restored greystones and newer homes designed by Chicago’s top architects.

This area is also home to the Old Town Triangle, a neighborhood inundated with cottages, rowhomes and townhomes of both brick and frame construction. Streets are narrow, and homes are often small, but charmingly desirable.

As urban dwellers have reclaimed old schools, churches, warehouses and factories—and converted them into desirable living spaces—the boundaries of this neighborhood have pushed farther west. Nearby are Wrightwood and Sheffield, two areas that share many of the same characteristics and housing stock. Southwest is Ranch Triangle, an area that hugs Clybourn Avenue.

lincoln square / ravenswood

lincoln park / depaul / oldtown


These comfortable and convenient neighborhoods offer proximity to the lakefront and downtown, as well as, their own shopping districts. St. Benedict’s parish is a popular, well-established community characterized by brick two-flats and frame single-family homes on tree-lined streets. Its highly rated elementary school, stability and affordable prices make this immaculately maintained neighborhood an attractive alternative to the higher prices and higher density of the lakefront.

Roscoe Village is just south of St. Ben’s and in recent years has seen an influx of developers and young families. The neighborhood is characterized by Roscoe Street running through the middle of the area and lined with trendy shops, eateries and watering holes. Older homes and two- or three-flats–many of them renovated–are joined by newer townhome developments and loft conversions. Residents enjoy the low-density living and short walk to the local butcher shop or bakery.

The South Side of Chicago is undergoing the biggest housing boom in 100 years. Thousands of urbanites are finding homes in both new neighborhoods just south of the Loop and traditional neighborhoods along South Lake Shore Drive.

The most famous resident of this lively neighborhood at the crossroads of two expressways is U.S. Cellular Field, home of the Chicago White Sox.

The area around Cermak Road and Wentworth Avenue, known as Chinatown, is abundant with Chinese, Vietnamese and Indonesian restaurants, gift shops and grocery stores. Housing mainly consists of two-flats and single-family homes, with a large percentage of new construction.

north center / roscoe village

south side

armor square / chinatown

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This historically significant area is distinguished by beautiful boulevards, lovely older homes, parks and playgrounds.

Diverse housing choices include multi-family units plus newer condominiums and duplexes. The Bronzeville and Kenwood communities include landmark districts featuring residences and commercial buildings from the late 1800s to early 1900s.

Situated on the lakefront and home to The University of Chicago, Hyde Park is a bastion of culture and college life.

The area is littered with coffee houses, superb bookstores, restaurants, and shopping. It is the intellectual debate, the live theater and landmarks such as the Museum of Science and Industry that comprise the fabric of life here. Housing ranges from handsome brick Georgian mansions and distinguished mansion-sized vintage condominiums to full amenity high-rises and new construction townhomes. Commuter rail service directly connects Hyde Park to downtown.

Bridgeport, on the city’s south side, is the birthplace of several of Chicago’s political leaders, including Mayor Richard M. Daley.

This quiet neighborhood is an island of single-family homes, bungalows and two and three-flats surrounded by factories, railroad tracks and expressways. Local amenities include a new park by the Fuller Street Bridge, which lends its name to the area.

bronzeville / grand boulevard

hyde park

bridgeport


Like University Village and Tri-Taylor, Pilsen is a vibrant, active and colorful neighborhood. Home to the Mexican Fine Arts Center Museum and a true artists’ haven, this predominantly Spanish-speaking community offers mainly multi-unit housing dating from the late 1800s to post-World War II.

In recent years, areas west of the Loop have experienced a boom of activity fueled by a new generation of Chicagoans who want to live and play close to work.

Older neighborhoods have been revitalized and new neighborhoods created from former industrial parks and warehouse districts. Luxury townhomes and loft conversions now intermix with renovated vintage rowhomes and two-flats. Stretching from the Chicago River to Western Avenue, the Near West Side offers a patchwork of small, diverse neighborhoods, where trendy boutiques and eateries blend with second- and third-generation family-owned shops and ethnic restaurants.

The West Loop, in particular, has been the focus of hundreds of millions of dollars in new high-rise office buildings and residential towers that co-exist with colorful open-air produce markets and the lively Greek restaurants and nightclubs along Halsted Street. These high-rise complexes offer a full range of conveniences from shopping to private health clubs.

Nearby is West Loop Gate, an area once home to Chicago’s textile mill industry. Today, the area offers hundreds of warehouse-style buildings converted to office and residential lofts, often with upscale restaurants and boutiques at street level. Residents can walk to the Loop and are five minutes from all major expressways circling the city.

pilsen

near west side

west loop

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Due west of University Village is Tri-Taylor. Awarded landmark status by the city to preserve its essential old-world flavor, this charming European-style community is characterized by tree-lined streets of restored 19th-century rowhomes and two- and three-flats, as well as, new townhomes and single-family homes. Walking distance from the medical complex, this neighborhood also adjoins one of the city’s high-tech research parks.

Just west of the Kennedy Expressway and DePaul neighborhood, Bucktown has become one of the most vital neighborhoods in the city. Loft conversions, new construction townhomes and single-family residences have attracted a new generation of urban dwellers. This area has rapidly become well known for its chic restaurants and eccentric boutiques. The annual art, music and craft fairs are among the city’s best with some of the most talented and unique designers participating.

Wicker Park is enjoying an unprecedented spurt of new construction and renovation. The neighborhood boasts some of the most magnificent residences in Chicago, with many buildings having landmark status. With its dozens of restaurants, art galleries and its own rapid transit stop providing easy access to both the Loop and O’Hare, it’s no wonder Wicker Park is burgeoning. It has become a premier destination for Chicagoans seeking to shop in the city’s most fashionable area.

South of the Eisenhower Expressway is University Village. It draws its name from the Chicago campus of the University of Illinois, which in the late 1960s was carved out of an area west of the Loop and south of the Eisenhower Expressway.

The neighborhood occupies the area between the campus and the city’s West Side medical complexes. Flush with new townhome developments and renovated rowhomes, brownstones and turn-of-the-century mansions, the neighborhood is home to university professors and medical researchers, local shopkeepers and urban professionals--all of whom enjoy the low-density living, excellent schools and nearby rapid transit service.

tri-taylor

bucktown / wicker park

university village


Located along the river and east of the Eden’s Expressway, Albany Park dates from the post-world War I era to the post-World War II era. The area is at the northern end of the Ravenswood rapid transit line (Brown) and offers a wide variety of vintage homes and apartment buildings ranging from two-flats to large courtyard buildings.

The “new” neighborhood of East Village is actually a very old Eastern European community whose predominant architectural style is the small cottage, as well as, two- and three-flats. Attracted by lower real estate prices and accessibility to the Loop (10 minutes) and expressways, urban pioneers and entrepreneurs have rediscovered it.

Irving Park is located to the northwest of the city and has been experiencing significant redevelopment in recent years. The revitalization is due to the strength of the housing stock, convenience to downtown—near the Kennedy Expressway and rapid transit—and the fact that its neighborhoods are more affordable than those to the east.

The community, better known as Old Irving Park, retains many historic features. Quiet side streets and thriving gardens provide a background for Victorian homes on 50-foot wide lots that exist side-by-side with apartment buildings and bungalows. Architecturally significant homes abound, including many fine examples of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Prairie School. In September, the Irving Park Historical Society holds its annual housewalk featuring interior tours of area residences.

albany park

west town / east village

irving park

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The northernmost of the city’s lakefront neighborhoods is East Rogers Park. Lake Shore Drive and the rapid transit bisect the neighborhood, so access to downtown via car and public transportation is excellent.

A huge plus is the wide variety of lakefront recreational activities that are available. The housing in this neighborhood largely consists of condominiums and apartments, many of which offer expansive views of Lake Michigan.

This area, northwest of the city, has been experiencing redevelopment in recent years. The revitalization is due to the strength of the housing stock, convenience to downtown—near the Kennedy Expressway and rapid transit—and the fact that its neighborhoods are more affordable than those to the east.

Edgewater is a sprawling area that attracts city people with a taste for suburban amenities such as wider streets, spacious yards and friendly neighbors. Residents are likely to participate just as ardently in block parties and garden walks as they are in local politics.

Some of its most desirable sections have a neighborhood feel of their own. Andersonville is a clean-swept, long established community, with mostly two-flats. Lakewood-Balmoral is a traditional leafy neighborhood of single-family homes and two-flats. On the northern boundary lies Edgewater Glen, a family-oriented neighborhood of brick and frame single-family homes where pride of ownership and commitment to the community are the fabric of life. To the east is Edgewater Beach, whose streets are lined with condominiums overlooking Lake Michigan.

Logan Square and Palmer Square are known for wide, tree-studded boulevards and parkways lined by distinguished mansions and elegant two- and three-flat buildings constructed before World War I. This area is now booming with new construction.

east / west rogers park

edgewater / andersonville

logan square


Directly north of Lakeview and bounded by Lake Michigan and north Lincoln Park on the east, are three historic neighborhoods. Since the 1970s, vintage apartment buildings and single-family mansions have been renovated and restored by individuals and developers intent on salvaging the architectural heritage of these lakefront neighborhoods.

Buena Park, in the southeast corner, offers large renovated condominiums and apartments, plus a major landmark district of turn-of-the-century Georgian and Prairie School mansions. Sheridan Park, to the west, also enjoys historic landmark designation and includes hundreds of renovated condominiums and apartments, in addition to large single-family homes on oversized lots.

Farthest east is West Graceland, a pocket of lovely brick and frame single-family homes on large lots.

uptown / buena park

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Chicago MediaChicago Tribune // www.chicagotribune.com

Chicago Sun-Times // www.suntimes.com

Chicago Reader // www.chicagoreader.com

Chicago RedEye // www.redeye.chicagotribune.com

Chicago Business // www.chicagobusiness.com

Chicago Life // www.chicagolife.net

Chicago Sports // www.chicagosports.com

School InformationChicago Public Schools // www.cps.edu

Find a School // www.cps.edu/schools/find_a_school/Pages/findaschool.aspx

School Rankings // www.greatschools.net/city/Chicago/IL

Independent Schools // www.independentschools.net

Chicago Private Schools // www.metroprofiles.com/Chicago_CityPrivateSchools.html

TransportationThe Chicago Transit Authority // www.transitchicago.com

Chicago Metra // www.metrarail.com

The Chicago Airport System // www.ohare.com

Pace Bus // www.pacebus.com

City Transportation Guide // www.hopstop.com

Taxi Fare Finder // www.taxifarefinader.com/main.php?city=Chicago

Chicago Transportation // www.chicagotraveler.com/chicago_transportation.htm

EntertainmentChicago MetroMix // www.chicago.metromix.com

Chicago Neighborhood Tours // www.chgocitytours.com

Restaurant Guides // www.dine.com/chicago

Chicago Magazine // www.chicagomag.com

Chicago Traveler // www.chicagotraveler.com

Our Town // blogs.suntimes.com/ourtown

Chicago-Scene // www.chicago-scene.com/index.html

Centerstage Chicago // www.centerstagechicago.com

Other Relevant InformationChicago Police Department // www.chicagopolice.org

Find Your District, Beat, and Community portal.chicagopolice.org/portal/page/portal/ClearPath/ Communities/Districts

Utilities // www.chicagoneighborhoods.cc/chicago-utilities.html

Hospitals // www.chicagoneighborhoods.cc/chicago-hospitals.html

Cell Phone Services Providers // cellphones.about.com/od/plans_bycity/a/ci_chicago.htm

Demographics // quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/17/1714000.html Real Estate - For Sale and Rent www.rubloff.com

The North ShoreNorth Shore Directory // chicagosnorthshore.com

North Shore Visitors Bureau // www.cnscvb.com

Western Suburbs:Dupage County // www.dupagecvb.com/vis_eve.cfm

chicago online information

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notesnotes

Stop looking, start finding® atproperties.com

All specifications, features, designs, price, assessments, taxes and materials are subject to change without notice. Depicted floor plans and architectural renderings are only an artist’s impression.

JESSE MASIN

REAL ESTATE BROKER548 W. Webster Chicago, IL 60614MOBILE 312.965.1231 [email protected]

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