Chicago Real Estate Search Chicago Real Estate Chicago Real Estate Chicago Neighborhoods Downtown Chicago Condos Weekly Email Subscription
Welcome to Chicago Homes for Sale by Dean's Team Sign in | Help

BlogChicagoHomes.com

Most Complete Chicago Real Estate Blog! Daily Updates on Chicago Homes for Sale and Real Estate . . . Great Chicago Neighborhoods . . . Living in Chicagoland . . . Your Comments Welcome!

Tags

News

  • Real Estate Blog
BUENA PARK - HIGH FLOOR EXTRA-LARGE 1BR CONDO - VIEWS OF LAKE - FHA APPROVED!

[

• 1,175 sq. ft., 1 full bath, 1 extra-large bedroom, high floor condo - MLS® $97,400

 -  Buena Park - High Floor! Unobstructed Lake, Park, and Montrose Harbor Views, at a Value Price - and FHA Approved! Extra-Large One Bedroom - Spacious & Sunny Living Room, PLUS Big Bedroom - Tons of Closet Space. Floor To Ceiling Windows! Pet-Friendly Building, just off Lake Shore Drive, in the quiet Buena Park Neighborhood of Chicago! Updated Kitchen with Breakfast Bar - Gleaming Laminate Flooring in Kitchen and Foyer. Additional building storage available! All-Amenity Building - 24-Hour Door and Maintenance Staffs, Pool, Tennis Court, Dry Cleaners and Receiving Room, Party Room! In-Building Parking often available for lease or several off-site lots nearby. Assessments include Heat, AC, Basic Cable. Steps to Lake, Beaches, Park, and Shopping. CTA Express Bus to Loop and Michigan Avenue at Door! Incredible Views at an Unbelievable Price!

Property information

THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO - THINGS WILL BE HEATING UP FOR THE MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND!

Not only will Chicago's weather be heating up over this extended holiday weekend, but it's also the "official unofficial" start of our summertime activities and things will definitely be heating up!

This Memorial Day Weekend, the Belmont-Sheffield Music Festival will again be kicking off Chicago's outdoor street fest season this Saturday and Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on north Sheffield from Belmont to School in the Lakeview neighborhood.  This popular 28th annual street fest will showcase the region's favorite tribute bands as well as featuring plenty of food and libations along with artisans rolling out their Summer 2012 lines of creative handiwork!

The Old Town School of Folk Music will be hosting the Festival of Aloha at 4544 N. Lincoln Avenue in the Ravenswood neighborhood this Saturday and Sunday.  Your festival host is Jason Arimoto with his blues-style ukulele and accompanied by Daniel Ho.  By the way, those who attend any of the Auana workshops will be invited up on stage to perform the Hula!  You've been warned!!

The Randolph Street Market Festival returns this Saturday (10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.) to Plumber's Hall (1350 W. Randolph Street) in the West Loop neighborhood.  As one of Chicago's most happening monthly festivals, the Randolph Street Market has become the summer destination with its European-style, indoor-outdoor urban antique market featuring 200 select purveyors of high quality, amazing price finds, and unlimited creative inspiration for hours of fun!

What better way to start your summer off than with MB Financial Bank's Bike The Drive this Sunday from 5:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at Butler Field in Grant Park (Columbus Drive and Jackson Boulevard) in The Loop.  Soak up the sun and bike on a car-free Lake Shore Drive.  They've even added 30 more minutes this year!  Don't forget to stick around for the post-ride festival featuring fresh-made food, live music and a great collection of booths!!

And, of course, the whole reason for this extended weekend is Memorial Day, whereby Chicago, along with its suburban neighbors, honors all the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in defending our country for our freedom!  Here's a partial list of some Memorial Day Weekend parades -

Chicago's Memorial Day Parade - Saturday (12:00 p.m.) - State Street

Since 1870, Memorial Day parades have graced the streets of Chicago and this year is no exception.  Included in the day's events will be a special recognition of the Illinois Gold Star Families at the Wreath Laying Ceremony at 11:00 a.m. at Daley Plaza with the parade stepping off at noon at State and Lake Streets.  Also, the City of Chicago is proud to have post-911 veterans represented in our parade this year!

Arlington Heights Memorial Day Parade - Monday (9:30 a.m.)

Elmhurst Memorial Day Parade - Monday (9:30 a.m.)

Itasca Memorial Day Parade - Monday (9:30 a.m.)

Lisle Memorial Day Parade - Monday (11:00 a.m.)

Mount Prospect Memorial Day Parade - Monday (9:30 a.m.)

Naperville Memorial Day Parade - Monday (10:30 a.m.)

Palatine Memorial Day Parade - Monday (10:15 a.m.)

Rolling Meadows Memorial Day Parade - Saturday (11:00 a.m.)

Wheaton Memorial Day Parade - Monday (10:00 a.m.)

Wood Dale Memorial Day Parade - Monday (11:00 a.m.)

Enjoy the Start to Your Heated-Up Summer By Honoring ALL Our Veterans and Their Families!!

SUE MOSS & DEAN'S TEAM CHICAGO

CHICAGO NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS – PORTAGE PARK, LAKEVIEW, LOOP, LINCOLN SQUARE, NAPERVILLE/EVANSTON/OAK PARK

PORTAGE PARK

Join the Friends of Portage Park and The Patio Theater for Sing-Along Grease. This is an event not to be missed, featuring a 50's and 60's car show as well as prizes for the best costumed Pink Lady and T-Bird and some other fun surprises. All proceeds benefit park improvements and events. Tickets can be purchased early at Brown Paper Tickets or at the door.

LAKEVIEW

A neighborhood bistro that celebrates the finest culinary producers and their products from around the block and around the world with table service in the evenings and weekends plus counter service on weekdays until late afternoon, BAR PASTORAL is an extension of Pastoral's retail shops and will focus on what Pastoral does best: offering customers perfectly paired artisan cheeses, charcuterie, beverages, accompaniments and more in a warm and approachable atmosphere. Scheduled to open this fall 2012, BAR PASTORAL is located at 2947 North Broadway which is adjacent and connected to Pastoral's original shop at 2945 North Broadway in Chicago's burgeoning East Lakeview neighborhood.

LOOP

Bike the Drive is this weekend on Sunday, May 27, starting at 5:30am and ending at 10:15am. You must have a shirt number and helmet number in order to join in the fun.  The starting point is Columbus Drive and Jackson Drive. This year, a 30-minute time extension means riders will have even more time to enjoy great views of the Chicago skyline and lakefront on the one day of the year when only bikes are allowed on Lake Shore Drive. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Active Transportation Alliance – Chicagoland’s voice for better biking, walking and transit.

LINCOLN SQUARE

As part of the Festival of Aloha, a free ukulele lesson will attempt to assemble the largest number of ukulele players in one place and break the Guinness World Record; the current record is 1,378. You would also be helping to establish the record for the only group assembled to play a traditional Hawaiian song.  The event is all ages, perfect for both beginners and advanced players.  Bring your instrument to Welles Park, 2333 W. Sunnyside Ave., May 26, and gather around the gazebo.  The organizers will be there starting at 1:30pm and start at 2:30pm.  Please be sure to be there for the entire lesson to be counted.

NAPERVILLE/EVANSTON/OAK PARK

Butterflies adorn some of the trees along Harrison Street to mark the beginning of "What's Blooming on Harrison."  "I thought if we had something so unique, so pretty, then maybe we could attract more people to our event," Olya Dailey – owner of Eastgate Café - said about the 3-foot wing-spanned, handmade, colorful creations that sit about 10 feet above the street in trees. The festival kicks off this weekend on Friday, May 25, from 6-10 p.m., and runs 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Saturday.

CATHY MALLERS & DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO

KATHY’S HOME & GARDEN TIPS – ENJOY YOUR MEMORIAL WEEKEND!

Memorial weekend is near and here’s my favorite recipe for potato salad. Have a wonderful and safe weekend.                     

 

Egg Potato Salad

4 lbs Idaho Potatoes

8 Hard boiled Eggs

                                    1 cup chopped celery

                                    ½ cup chopped onion (sweet preferably)

                                    ½ to 1 cup Miracle Whip (substitute mayo if you prefer)

                                    1 ½ teaspoons salt

                                    ½ teaspoons freshly ground pepper

                                    1 teaspoon celery seed

                                    2 tablespoons yellow mustard

 

Cook potatoes whole in their skins in plenty of water. Cook until just tender. Actually take them off the heat before you think they are done. Rinse in cold running water until they are cool. Chop into ½ inch pieces. Spread out on a paper towel covered cookie sheet. Put in the fridge. This will chill and take out the excess water from the potatoes.

Hard Boiled Eggs

The easiest way I’ve found is to put eggs in one layer in a heavy pot. Cover with water one inch over the eggs. Bring to a boil. Cover and shut off the heat. I usually use extra large eggs and let them sit for 15 minutes. Immediately plunge into cold running water. Peeling success is dependent on this! Also use eggs that are at least a week old.

Halve the eggs and place on a sheet like you did with the potatoes. Slice eggs and combine all ingredients except mayo. Start with the half cup. Stir well. Add more as needed, but leave it a little drier than you would like. Chill for at least four hours. Check for proper consistency, add more mayo if necessary.

KATHLEEN WEAVER-ZECH & DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO

 

TECHNOLOGY TIPS - ANNUAL CHICAGO INNOVATION AWARDS

Each year the Chicago Innovation Awards continues to shine a bright light on the creative spirit of Chicago. While the industry can be any level of technical expertise whether high, low or no, the purpose is to focus attention on the most significant new products and services introduced in the Chicagoland area.  As part of its mission the Chicago Innovation Awards has grown to be much more than just an award ceremony. Through many events over the course of the year, the Chicago Innovation Awards not only recognize nominees and winners, but also provide valuable connections through business networking and development opportunities, as well as teaching on best innovation practices through mentoring, scholarship, panel discussions, and education courses.

Each year members of the community of asked to nominate organizations they feel embody the spirit of innovation.  There is no cost to enter nominations and you can enter as many as you like without cost.  The deadline for nominations is July 15th.  While Chicago was the nation’s “silicon valley” following World War II – designing and manufacturing the hottest new consumer products – its core strength has always been taking technologies invented elsewhere and innovatively applying them to make big money.  With past winners like Groupon, World Bicycle Relief and HeroPipe, this year is sure to embrace many new and unique services and products.

CATHY MALLERS & DEAN'S TEAM CHICAGO

THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO - CHICAGOANS LEAVING NATO IN THE DUST!

Despite the fact that NATO's Summit weekend has arrived and is pretty much taking over the City with protesters and closures of all sorts, Chicagoans are gearing up to leave NATO in the dust by heading out towards the City's further neighborhoods and metro area!

NATO is partnering with the City of Chicago to present the 14th annual Chicago Kids & Kites Festival on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Cricket Hill in Lincoln Park (near the intersection of Lake Shore Drive and Montrose Avenue) by providing 5,000 kite kits along with pictures of flags and fun facts about representative countries to assist the children as they decorate their kites.  This festival also features many activities such as balloon artists, face-painters, painting a kite-shaped refrigerator magnet, recorded music provided by WLIT and the Big Kite Candy Drop taking place during the afternoon!

Next we have the 18th annual season opener of the Chicago Mayfest which aims to cure cabin fever all weekend long at 3100 N. Ashland Avenue (Ashland and Barry Avenues) in the Lakeview neighborhood.  This festival features food, beer and live music under a giant tent along with an outdoor beer garden, kids programming on Saturday, a pet parade and pet expo on Sunday and arts and crafts vendors!  BTW, a Gate donation will benefit the Lake View YMCA, Northside Parents Network and the Festival Foundation.

Then there's the seasonal Spring Pug Party on Saturday from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Zella (1983 N. Clybourn Avenue) in the Lincoln Park neighborhood.  Hundreds of pugs are expected to attend this party which features pug merchandise and a pug-pen for unencumbered playing so you can have plenty of time to chat with other owners.  Food and drink also available for purchase as is valet parking for $10.  Please note you don't need a pug to attend, but pugs are the only dogs welcome.  Sorry Buddy and Gracie, you're not pugs!!

Not to be outdone, Beaglefest Chicago 2012 takes place Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Hinkley Park (283 Busse Highway) in Park Ridge.  Join in this 10th year anniversary celebration, which supports "Mid West Beagle Rescue," and will feature hamburgers, hot dogs, soft drinks and several BREW items such as T-shirts, bandanas, bumper stickers, etc. for purchase with games, raffles and other surprises!  So grab your folding chairs or blankets and enjoy an afternoon with all the beagles far away from the NATO Summit.  Sorry Buddy and Gracie, you're not beagles either!!

Saturday also offers the Spring Fling Carnival at Westfield Old Orchard located at 4999 Old Orchard Center in Skokie from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.  This year's Spring Fling Carnival is back in a big way at Old Orchard's West parking lot with plenty of rides, games, food and fun!  Tickets required for rides and games are $1.25 each or $22 for "Unlimited Ride" daily passes.

Opening this Saturday is Brookfield Zoo's XTREME BUGS exhibit located at 8400 31st Street in Brookfield.  This summer long temporary exhibit of epic proportions will feature live bugs, extra-large animatronic bugs, including a 16' x 33' long Japanese hornet displayed at the Roosevelt Fountain and creepy crawly hands-on activities for visitors of all ages!  While you're there, make a day of it at the zoo!!

Finally, the Cross Town Classic between the Chicago Cubs and the Chicago White Sox is back this weekend at Wrigley Field (1060 W. Addison Street) in the Wrigleyville neighborhood.  Hopefully the fans will be more behaved than the NATO protesters!

Have A Great and Safe Weekend Leaving the NATO Summit in the Dust!!!

SUE MOSS & DEAN'S TEAM CHICAGO

MILL CREEK - BUFFALO GROVE - ULTRA-ROOMY 4BR SPLIT TRI-LEVEL - ROOM + VALUE!!

 

• 1,679 sq. ft., 2 1/2 bath, 4 bedroom 3-level split - MLS® $297,400

 -  Mill Creek Subdivision - Incredible Area, Top District 21/214 Schools! Ultra-Roomy True Four Bedroom, 2 1/2 Bath Tri-Level on Quiet Street. Beautiful Home Features Sunny Living Room with Vaulted Ceiling. Formal Dining Room. Hardwood Floors Throughout. Extra-Large, Updated Eat-In Kitchen - Premium Stainless Appliances! Romantic Bay Window, Overlooking Enormous, Fenced Back Yard. First Floor Laundry Room, Plus Partly-Finished Basement - Awaits Your Finishing Touches. Powder Room on First Floor. Huge Master Suite Upstairs with Master Bath, plus Three Additional Large Bedrooms - Lots of Closet Space! Big 2 1/2 Car Garage. If You’re Looking for a Lot of Space, Lovely Grounds, a Big Yard, and a Top, Convenient Location - Look No Further!

Property information

TECHNOLOGY TIPS - NAVIGATING THE NATO SUMMIT IN CHICAGO THIS WEEKEND

The NATO Summit is coming to Chicago this weekend and there is a lot of information residents should know.  Chicago is the first city in the United States outside of Washington, DC, to host a NATO summit and it's also the largest in over a decade.  We will be host to thousands of visitors including dignitaries and press corps alike, which brings with it much change to our local travel.

There are several events open to the public during this historic event.  This Saturday bring the family out to Chicago's Annual Kids and Kites Festival.  The Festival is being held again at Montrose Harbor.  You can also see former US Secretary of State, the Honorable Madeleine Albright as she discusses Global Women's Issues.

If you'd like to bypass all the international "hubub" you can always try to get tickets to this weekend's Crosstown Classic when the Chicago Cubs play host to the Chicago White Sox at Wrigley Field.  With all the  changes to the CTA travel patterns, it's best to plan ahead.  The CTA has a list of all re-routes and tips for making any of your trips easier as you get around town.

This weekend let technology be your guide.

CATHY MALLERS & DEAN'S TEAM CHICAGO

KATHY’S HOME & GARDEN TIPS – NEW PLANTING MEDIUM

Hope all the Moms out there had a great Mother's Day. I sure did. The weather could not have been better. In the afternoon my husband and I put in fifteen tomato plants. It was sure good to get my hand in the dirt.

We are trying a new product this year. Expand and Grow garden soil from Miracle Grow. It's guaranteed to double the growth and yield of your vegetables. It has fertilizer, and the planting medium expands to hold more water. The fertilizer feeds for six months. We shall see if there is any difference in yield. We have 6 plants with the new mix and throughout the year we will compare.

It is a little pricy. Around 16 dollars for a medium size bag at Home Depot. That's more than twice as much as regular mix. You can get a three dollar off coupon at www.scotts.com. You can print out the coupon after giving basic info, name, zip and email. You can opt out of receiving email notices. Well we thought it was worth a try and will report our results throughout the season.

Remember, all new plantings need to be watered every other day for at least the first week. I'm talking veggies here. If you plant larger plants and shrubs, two good waterings a week should do it for the first month.

KATHLEEN WEAVER-ZECH & DEAN'S TEAM CHICAGO

THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO - WHAT’S ON YOUR MOTHER’S DAY MENU?

In case you're not aware of it yet, this Sunday, May 13th, is Mother's Day!  So I will dedicate this weekend's entertainment blog to assisting those who need to plan their menu for mom!!

There are, of course, the traditional Mother's Day brunches throughout Chicago and the surrounding suburbs; however, you might consider spoiling mom with one of the following Mother's Day cruises:

Spirit of Chicago is offering three cruises:  an early brunch from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at $59.90 per adult, $39.95 per child; an afternoon brunch from 2:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at $59.90 per adult, $39.95 per child; and a dinner brunch from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.  Each cruise will provide mom with a beautiful spring flower and a complimentary glass of champagne or a mimosa along with DJ entertainment!

Odyssey is offering three cruises as well:  an early brunch from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at $64.90 per adult, $38.90 per child; an afternoon brunch from 1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at $69.90 per adult, $41.95 per child; and a dinner brunch from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at $79.90 per adult, $47.95 per child.  Each cruise will provide mom with a beautiful rose and a complimentary glass of champagne or a mimosa along with live entertainment!

Mom doesn't have sea legs?  Well, she might enjoy one of these special events:

Mother's Day Weekend Chocolate & Flowers Tour --Chicago Chocolate Tours is holding a special Mother's Day weekend event.  This annual event is a special walking tour that offers two routes.  The "Magnificent Mile" route meets at 900 N. Michigan Avenue at the concierge's desk with visits to Hendrickx Belgian Bread Crafters, Teuscher Chocolate, More Cupcakes, Sarah's Pastries and Candyality.  The "Lakeview" route meets at 3135 N. Broadway Street with visits to Spare Parts featuring a pop-up shop with Visiting Chocolatier La Parisianne, Bobtail Ice Cream, Loose Leaf Lounge, Argo and KC Chocolatier.  Advanced registration is required for these tours so be sure to checkout their website at the link above.  Treat mom's taste-buds, and yours, to some special tastings!

Motherhood the Musical Celebrates Mother's Day! -- This musical is appearing at the Royal George Theatre (1641 N. Halsted Street) in the Lincoln Park neighborhood and is a four-woman show from author and songwriter Sue Fabisch, a mother herself who understands that sometimes the best way to cope with the joys and trials of motherhood is to share the experience with other moms.  So sit back and experience the journey of a soon-to-be first-time mom, an over-worked, underpaid, stressed-out mother of five, a lawyer who works too much and barely sees her kids, and a single mom struggling to balance work, family and a divorce.  Can you relate to any of these?

PALF's Mother's Day Event -- This event takes place at Trader Todd's (3216 N. Sheffield Avenue) in the Lakeview neighborhood on Sunday at 3:00 p.m.  By the way, PALF stands for "Pets Are Like Family" which is hosting a dog-friendly Mother's Day party with champagne cocktails and an appetizer buffet for mom and canine treats and refreshments for mom's four-legged kid.  Also features souvenir photos, a raffle, a performance by go-go troupe the Revelettes and mutt manicures!  FYI - dogs must be registered in advance.

Whatever you choose for your menu item or items, be sure to spoil your mom on Mother's Day.  After all, where would you be without her!!

HAVE A HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY ONE AND ALL!!!

SUE MOSS & DEAN'S TEAM CHICAGO

CHICAGO NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS – PORTAGE PARK, LAKEVIEW, WEST LOOP, GOLD COAST, NAPERVILLE

PORTAGE PARK

Congratulations to St. Cornelius School in Portage Park as they won the Dream Machine Recycle Rally.  The Rally is an exciting recycling program that gives schools a chance to earn rewards and compete for contest prizes while helping to make the planet a clear, greener place, and supporting post-9/11 disabled U.S veterans.

LAKEVIEW

The Sheridan Red Line El station is slated to receive approximately $17 million for major renovations. The Sheridan Station renovation is a part of a $1 billion overhaul that includes federal, state and local funding sources for the Red Line from its northern end to the 95th Street station. The complete reconstruction of the Wilson station and upgrades to the Lawrence stop are a part of this investment, which includes several individual projects to improve stations, tracks, viaducts, and power and runs from this year to 2015 that includes federal, state and local funding sources.

WEST LOOP

Welcome to the BYOV Brunch at BadHappy Poutine Shop, now shaking up your Sunday afternoons, Russian-Canuck-style. Word tends to get around when a shop opens with a mission involving things like PBR gravy, cheese curds and french fries. In terms of food, your brunch is honed down to the essentials: Poutine Benny, with a poached egg over fries, foie gras hollandaise, housemade bacon and truffle mayo; chicken and waffles served with a maple-Tabasco glaze; and Southern-style biscuits and gravy with a fried egg. Well, there's also a granola parfait with fresh fruit.

GOLD COAST

Prepare for Argent, a White City-inspired, bi-level restaurant/oyster bar/late-night lounge recently opened at the Dana Hotel. This replaces Aja with a vibe that's just a hint edgier. Tuck into turn-of-last-century recipes from Rodelio Aglibot (Sunda) and Jackie Shen (Red Light) like Carpet Bag Steak with Rocks (skirt steak with oysters Rockefeller), filet mignon with foie gras mousse and their version of 1917's confectionary craze: the moon pie. So much better than 1919's confectionary craze: the Shoeless Joe oatmeal raisin cookie.

NAPERVILLE/EVANSTON/OAK PARK

Kathy Burns, a second-grade teacher from Highlands Elementary School, and Pam Kelly, a first-grade teacher from Naper Elementary School, were among 10 Chicago area educators honored for their outstanding work in education. These wonderful educators won the 2012 Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching. Each year since 1986, the Golden Apple Foundation has selected 10 outstanding teachers from the Chicago area to receive the award for excellence in teaching. This year's recipients, all pre-kindergarten through third-grade teachers, were chosen from more than 600 nominees.

CATHY MALLERS & DEAN'S TEAM CHICAGO

ECONOMY PUTS "I WANT IT NOW!" ON HOLD FOR MANY

15 TO 34 YEAR OLD DEMOGRAPHIC APPEARS TO BE PUTTING OFF MARRIAGE, FAMILY . . . AND HOME OWNERSHIP!

 Chicago Bungalows - Portage Park Neighborhod Chicago IL

Retail Industry Specialists, including Maxine Lauer of Sphere Trending in MI, refer to the teen-aged-to-mid-thirties-set as "Generation Now."  Perhaps you are intimately acquainted with the prevailing attitude of many younger consumers:  "They want what they want . . . and they want it NOW!"

Lauer's thoughts, as reported by Chicago Tribune Real Estate Reporter Mary Umberger, in the May 4, 2012 edition of The Trib,  confirms what Dean's Team Chicago, and many of our Real Estate Colleagues and Students, have seen first-hand - many young people are delaying some of life's most important decisions. 

Up until recently, it was those in their 20's who began contemplating lifetime thoughts like marriage, family, planned career, and a home ownership strategy.  Homebuyers in Chicago often started with small condos or fixer-up homes, followed by increasingly-larger condos, then single-family homes, within a few years, as their relationship and household size typically grew.

But, in today's shifting economy, attitudes, and behavior, seems to have changed.  Entry-level jobs are often harder to come by, as older Baby Boomers are retiring later.  Marriage and family - sometimes delayed until recent graduates find good-paying jobs, with enough money to cover ever-higher Student Loan Balances.  And, without short-term stability, more young people are renting longer, rather than taking what they see as a somewhat-risky plunge into home ownership in a Turbulent Real Estate Market in Chicago, and elsewhere.

Others elect to stay at home with their parents longer, rather than move away.   Many did all they could to avoid staying at home, not even a generation ago.  Today, any stigma associated with living with Mother and Dad has lessened with its new-found popularity - and parents are often welcoming back their recent grads, hoping that a rebounding economy will give them a more solid foundation down the road.  Most explain their recent return to the nest as a sure way to bank more money for that Housing Down Payment, at the right time.

According to Lauer, many younger homebuyers are opting to begin with a single-family home right away, rather than moving up from condos or small homes, as was the case several years back.  A sizable chunk of recent grads - 35% - move back to an Urban Environment comfortable to them.  Many attempt cosmetic renovations on older homes - such as 1920's to 1950's Brick Bungalows and Classic English Tudors.  Here in Chicago, this might bode well for the Chicago Neighborhoods of Old Irving, Portage Park, Ravenswood, and Norwood Park, and older suburbs such as Evanston, Oak Park, and parts of Park Ridge, Mount Prospect, and Arlington Heights IL.  Each area comes chock full of solid, vintage housing stock.

Many young homebuyers like the "authenticity" of these older homes, suggests Lauer.  They see them as uniquely styled, warm and homey, and of superior craftsmanship than some of the newer suburban tract homes many grew up in.

Unlike the "Tim the Tool Man" set of the 1980's and 1990's, however, many younger homebuyers have little idea on how to renovate an older home - but they do have a willingness to learn, and to work hard for their "sweat equity."  It's also no surprise that they want the classic look outside, and brand new kitchen and bath updates inside.  They like Open Floor Plans, alongside the unpainted vintage woodwork and trim..

Lauer sees a continuing surge of interest in city homes, in close-in, but not-yet-too-expensive neighborhoods.  Or, for those concerned about top schools, close-ring suburbs, not too far from the bustle of the city.  She sees more distant suburbs, and less distinctive homes, losing some popularity longer term.

In addition, Lauer mentions a different outlook of younger home buyers.  With the recent collapse of home prices in many neighborhoods they like, they look at a home purchase not as merely a build-your-nest egg investment, but as a long-term commitment.  They have shed much of the optimism of their parents, who lived with what seemed like decades of unabated growth, in income, and home equity.   Many are opting for a more studied approach, more risk averse.

Indeed, times have changed.  Likely, a different breed of consumer, and homeowner, will emerge from today's economy.  And, in the opinion of many in the older generation . . . that might be a good thing!

DEAN MOSS & DEAN'S TEAM CHICAGO

KATHLEEN’S HOME & GARDEN TIPS – SPRING IN CHICAGO
Or its 50 degrees or 80 degrees, deal with it!!

Oh wonderful, it's spring in the city. This March we had two weeks of unprecedented weather. Highs near and above 80 degrees threw everything into hyper drive. Bushes and trees that normally bloom in later April or even May suddenly burst forth causing allergy sufferers (me included) to go into full allergy alert. Then of course after that we go into typical Chicago spring, what I like to call 50 or 80.

You leave the house in the morning it's usually in the upper 40's low 50s, later in the day it might be in the high 70s, or not, you never know. It's impossible to know how to dress in the morning. For those of us with joint problems this weather is challenging, pain from so much warm moisture and also from damp cold.

In the lawn and garden we are in typical spring mode. Clean up what we can when it's warm and don't worry about it. I've already picked up 8 tomato plants from Jewel (believe it or not) excellent plants for $1.50!!! I have them in the garden window and they are doing great, one even has a blossom! We'll probably put them in next weekend on Mother's day. The freeze date in this area is May 15th which always comes around Mothers day which works out for Garden Centers everywhere. If we get a frost warning cover the plants with a paper grocery bag and you'll be fine. That's why we only put 8 plants in early, easier to cover than our usual 24.

The lawn is in May mode so mow every fourth day, weed and feed and don't worry about watering. After a dry start to the season we are near normal for rainfall so we are looking good on that front.

Good time to start cool weather crops. Lettuces, peppers, peas, cucumbers do well in cool weather and tolerate mild frosts.

KATHLEEN WEAVER-ZECH & DEAN'S TEAM CHICAGO

THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO - SUMMER FESTIVALS BEGIN TO BLOSSOM!

Summer is not quite yet right around the corner but here in Chicago our summer festivals begin to blossom in May, and as you know, it's May, so let's check out our first blooming summer festival!

It just so happens that the 5th of May falls on Saturday this year, and for those of you who think it's just another Saturday, well it's not.  It's actually Cinco de Mayo which traces its origins to a battle commemorating the Mexican army's victory over heavily manned French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862, but nowadays, it's all about a fiesta, well actually, several fiestas here in Chicago!

The Cinco de Mayo Festival is held in the Little Village neighborhood (26th Street and Kostner Avenue), which is the heart of Chicago's Mexican community, this Saturday and Sunday from 2:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.  This 3rd annual gala features plenty of authentic foods, live music, arts & crafts, activities for kids and families and much more!

Hop on the Party Trolley for a Cinco de Drinko Pub Crawl this Saturday (8:00 p.m.-11:00 p.m.) at six of Chicago's neighborhood bars.  Tickets are required for this Mexican fare celebration at a cost of $20 per person, which includes margaritas and domestic drafts, a taco bar at each location serving up hard and soft shell tacos and taquitos with all the traditional trimmings as well as unlimited trolley services to each location.  Ticket holders can start and end the night at any of the six locations - Duffy's (420 ½ W. Diversey), Durkin's Tavern (810 W. Diversey Parkway), Maeve (1325 W. Wrightwood Avenue); McGee's Tavern & Grille (950 W. Webster), Redmond's (3358 N. Sheffield) and The Wrightwood Tap (1059 W. Wrightwood Avenue).

Or, make your way over to one of these establishments celebrating Cinco de Mayo in true Mexican fashion:

Salud's 6th Annual Cinco de Mayo Outdoor Festival located at 1471 N. Milwaukee Avenue (Salud Tequila Lounge) in the Wicker Park neighborhood on Saturday at Noon.  Here you will enjoy free live entertainment, cinco cocktails and delicious Mexican dishes.  This place really has it all and then some!

Cinco de Mayo at Barrio Urban Taqueria located at 714 W. Diversey Parkway in the Lakeview neighborhood on Saturday.  This ALL day fiesta will be serving up yummy Mexican delights, drink specials, Tanteo tequila shots for just $5 and live entertainment!

Cinco de Moe's 2012 located at 155 W. Kinzie Street (Moe's Cantina) in the River North neighborhood on Saturday where the first 100 customers will receive a free "Cinco de Moe's" t-shirt.  Then it's time to fuel up with some great food specials and two free live performances by "Sones De Mexico Ensemble Chicago" at 6:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.!

And finally, Sunday brings us these Cinco de Mayo events -

Don your red, white and green for the Cinco De Mayo Parade which marches through the Pilsen neighborhood from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. beginning at Cermak Road and Wood and proceeding west on Cermak to Kedzie.  Expect to see colorful floats, dancers, great music and authentic Mexican food vendors!

Run off all those tacos and margaritas at this year's Cinco de Miler which takes place at Montrose Harbor (Montrose Dr. & Wilson Ave.) in the Uptown neighborhood.  It's a five mile course winding up and down the lakefront which includes a long-sleeve tech tee for the runners.  The top 3 men and women will be awarded a Cinco de Miler sombrero!  After crossing the finish-line it's time to head on over to the post-race fiesta for your free bottle of Modelo Especial and a breakfast burrito - first one is on the sponsor!  The celebration continues with live music from EL GUAPO and a $2 cash donation will get you 30 seconds to take your frustrations out on a piñata!

Are You Ready For The Blossoms?

SUE MOSS & DEAN'S TEAM CHICAGO

TECHNOLOGY TIPS – A COUPLE GREAT FOOD APPS
I like to go out to dinner.  It's one of those things that adds some great variety to my weeks.  Then I started looking for ways in which I could save some money and still enjoy a meal I've not tasted before.

Enter a couple apps I found.  The first many people may have heard before - Groupon.  This app is free for any user.  If you buy deals in the app, you can track them by expiration date or location.  You are able to redeem your deals directly from your smartphone.  Groupon is supported by both iPhone and Android platforms.

Another app I like is How to Cook Everything.  There are up to 2000 recipes ranging from omelets and grilled cheese to smoked pork shoulder and almond-stuffed squid.  Another nice part of this app is the built-in grocery list and recipe timers to help with your cooking.  Currently this app is only available for the iPhone.

My other app is a guilty pleasure, Jamie Oliver's 20 Minute Meals.  This app is great once you've had practice but the ingredient lists and equipment suggestions which help out beginning cook (and the impatient cook too).  There are instructional videos which are really helpful as well as the essentials section.

Bon A Petit!!

CATHY MALLERS & DEAN'S TEAM CHICAGO

More Posts Next page »