All Blog Entries by Helaine Cohen

The promise of blue skies and endless sunshine is certainly appealing, especially as we get closer to fall and winter weather in Chicago. If you’re hoping to make the move from the Windy City to Florida, there are at least 10 things you need to know.

Cost of living comparison

When comparing the cost of living, it’s pretty easy to see that incomes are slightly higher across-the-board in Chicago. Depending on which part of Florida you choose and what kind of property you have your eye on, your budget may stretch a bit. In Florida, you also don’t have to worry about a state income tax.

Lower Unemployment rate

The unemployment rate in Florida is much lower than it is in Chicago. Florida is big on tourism, and even with COVID still impacting

A new mixed-used development in the Loop now has the go-ahead from the city. The Chicago City Council has unanimously approved a zoning change that will help usher in a $350 million mixed-use development.

The plan calls for a pair of towers consisting of a 23-story building and a 36-story building. The two will be connected by a parking and commercial base on South Wabash Street. 

The two towers will house more than 700 rental units and more than 300 hotel rooms. The property will also bring in tens of thousands of square feet of commercial space on the first two floors of each building.

Some of the units will be affordable units in studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom layouts. They help meet the city’s requirements for new construction,

Chicago’s housing market may still be booming right now, but that doesn’t mean it will last. Recently released data shows the market might be showing signs of easing up.

The median home sale price in the Chicago metro area rose more than 16-percent when comparing the first half of this year to the first half of 2020. The data also shows fewer homes were listed for sale between March and June, and they weren’t on the market as long, either.

Some say the data points to things starting to slow down. They suggest buyers may be taking more time in their search than before. At the same time, the number of homes on the market remains tight.

Homes that show well and are well priced continue to get multiple offers. Comparing July of this year to July of

Tribune Tower Residences offers up the opportunity to live in a landmark building, surrounded by some of the best opportunities of Downtown Chicago. This iconic property not only enjoys its own unique history, but also a prime location. 

While technically part of the Streeterville neighborhood, the building sits right on the edge of River North and The Loop. As one of Chicago’s liveliest neighborhoods, River North puts several options in dining and nightlife easily within reach. You’ll also find several art galleries close to the residences.

The Loop, meanwhile, adds on the advantage of being close to the Theater District, local businesses, parks and lake views. The area is also known for its museums and landmarks. 

Of course, the famed

From its top location to admirable amenities and floor plans, it’s easy to find three great reasons to rent at One Bennett Park in Chicago's Streeterville neighborhood. The property offers both condos and rentals in a variety of exciting designs.

Renters can choose from a one-, two- or even three-bedroom floor plan. The units come with quartz countertops, high ceilings and wide-plank flooring. You’ll also find high-end appliances and a wine fridge. 

The luxury residential tower offers a number of top amenities, as well. Renters have access to indoor and outdoor swimming, a fitness club and a pet spa. In addition, you’ll find concierge service, private access to a two-acre park, and a landscaped terrace. 

The location is also an advantage. Many of

If you’re thinking about starting a major renovation project in the near future, you’ve probably already started researching how to pay for it. While a cash-out refinance or a home equity line of credit may be helpful, it may not be enough to cover the high cost of renovations.

Another option is a construction loan, but that choice could be complicated. That’s were a new type of home equity loan can help.

The loan is based off a home’s after-renovation value. Owners are able to borrow up to 90-percent. 

The financial technology company RenoFi is helping connect homeowners with credit unions willing to give such loans. Typical customers borrow around $150,000.

It’s another way for homeowners to tackle major renovation projects in a time when

If you’re thinking about refinancing the mortgage on your condo, it’s not exactly the same as a single-family home. With a condo, you have two sets of loan guidelines. 

The first applies to you specifically, while the other applies to the condo owners’ association. Your owner’s association becomes a third party in the loan refinancing process. 

This is where your neighbors come into play. You won’t want many non-owner occupied rental units or foreclosures in your complex. 

It’s also important that your association’s financials are in relatively good shape. The lender will likely require a condo questionnaire that takes these things into account.

Another thing to consider is the amount of equity you have, which is usually determined by an

Soon to be Chicago’s second tallest building, Tribune Tower East is making some big promises for the future. Here are just a few reasons why luxury condo buyers in Chicago will want to strongly consider buying at the extravagant new Tribune Tower East building.

The amenities

The mixed-use building will eventually house condos, apartments, added amenities and even a hotel. The addition of ground level retail space, a parking garage and some office space will only add to the property’s appeal and convenience. 

The views

The views will surely be spectacular. Nearly three times as tall as Tribune Tower, Tribune Tower East is scheduled to stand more than 1,400 feet high. At 102-stories, it’s sure to deliver some pretty amazing views overlooking

If you’re thinking about buying a condo in Chicago in 2021, we found three good reasons to buy at Webster Square.

The Location 

The first has to do with its location. The new property sits right in Lincoln Park, which puts residents within walking distance of the zoo, the Conservatory and the lakefront. The property is also close to shopping, dining and entertainment options.

The Amenities

 Another reason has to do with its amenities. Condo owners at Webster Square will enjoy a fitness center, catering kitchen and a rooftop sundeck with sweeping views. In addition, the pet-friendly building offers bicycle storage, a children’s room and a large private courtyard.  

The Floorplans

 Finally, you’re sure to enjoy the distinctive floor plans.

There’s plenty to love about the new Rockwell Square townhomes in Chicago’s Logan Square neighborhood. From the upscale features and finishes to the private extras and the location, this new development is certainly appealing.

To begin with, these new luxury townhomes are large and overflowing with upscale extras. The four-bedroom condos come in an open, multi-level design. The townhomes include a quartz breakfast bar on the main level and a spa-like master suite on the third level. 

Another thing to love about Rockwell Square is the long list of private amenities. The townhomes of this property come with a gated courtyard and some dedicated green space. You will also find garage parking and a private rooftop deck.

Of course, the location doesn’t