Peak's Real Estate Blog

Lexi Lu in Edison Park

2010-02-02T12:20:00.000-08:00

I was a bit distracted over the holidays ... Santa was very kind (even though I ate his cookies) he still filled my stocking with a new electric blue dog collar and a big white bone... I'm back with a new review after overhearing another Edison Park hot spot. This time for breakfast...

Lexi Lu is a recently opened Breakfast/Brunch Café that shares its kitchen with the Curragh Irish Pub in Happening Edison Park. The building, new but built to look old, is attractive and warm with both indoor and outdoor seating (when the weather eventually behaves). The menu has standard breakfast fare along with some amazing specialties. The Crepes with Nutella are excellent but even better are the huge, stuffed French toast with your choice of stuffing. Pesto eggs are another surprise. Coffee was pretty good and they have a wide assortment of teas. If you are looking for a breakfast place with atmosphere and a European influence, Lexi Lu is a definitely place to try.

Lexi Lu
6707 N Northwest Hwy
(between Oliphant Ave & Oshkosh Ave)
Chicago, IL 60631
(773) 774-6170

Cafe Touche

2009-10-20T19:45:00.000-07:00

With much anticipation, there was finally an opportunity for the Tinders to visit the new French Bistro in Edison Park, Cafe Touche, by the award-winning Chef, Joseph Calabrese. Zia's (Calabrese's other restaurant just down the block), was made famous in the 100th episode of Check Please!, the local tv show, when it was one of the restaurant reviewed by none other than President Barak Obama (when he was a State senator). He gave it a ringing endorsement and, rumor has it, that he has come back on subsequent occassions.

Prior to opening, Cafe Touche was completed remodeled from the corner's prior incarnation as a quiet, white tablecloth, Vietnamese restaurant, Nam Viet. Those who haven't been to the location since they had Lemongrass Shrimp would not recognize the new look. A friendly frog sign reaches over the sidewalk inviting guests... the interior is welcoming with octagon flooring, copper ceiling, and warm wood throughout. The bar is stunning and the cozy dining area features plenty of booths. With all of the hard materials, it is not for those seeking to dine in a quiet, intimate setting. At some point, more they made need to see about adding additional fabric in order to facilitate more dinner table conversation. On the other hand, the loud atmosphere focuses you on the food and the meals do not disappoint. The filet is particularly excellent, cooked perfectly to order, and complimented with the thinnest of fries.... a true delight. Desserts are rich in taste but not overwhelming in size.

For those looking for excellent food, an attractive atmosphere, and a fun time, you won't be disappointed at Cafe Touche. Reservations are recommended. Open for Dinner Only

Cafe Touche
www.cafetouche.com
6731 N Northwest Hwy (Edison Park)
Chicago, IL 60631
(773) 775-0909
Open Tue-Thu 4:30pm-10pm; Fri-Sat 5pm-11pm; Sun 4pm-9pm

Houlihan's is Hot in Uptown Park Ridge

2009-10-09T09:38:00.000-07:00

The latest restaurant to take advantage of the new Uptown Park Ridge development is Houlihan's. The Uptown Houlihan's is an American Style Bar & Grill with a swanky, Lincoln Park feel in atmosphere, lighting and decor (leather, wood, & glass). The bar area is generous with 4 flat-screen TVs. The dining area is comfortable with plenty of intimate booth seating. Wait staff is young, attractive, and out-going. Almost too friendly as you can expect to be interrupted a couple times during your meal to be asked "how is your meal." Food Presentation is excellent and many of the selections are quite good including the Angus Burgers, and crisp Fish Tacos.... Despite the sleek atmosphere, the restaurant is appropriate for children and has quite the impressive kids menu (under $5) which includes a drink and ice cream for dessert. Plenty of close underground parking is available for Chicago weather and you will be sure to warm up once you are inside. Outside dining is available when the weather is a little more cooperative.

Houlihan's Bar & Grill
550 W. Touhy Avenue
Park Ridge, IL 60068-4276
847-692-6205
Mon-Sat 11-11 dining room
Bar until 1am
Sun 11-11pm bar/dining rm
www.houlihans.com

Paradise in Downtown Des Plaines

2009-09-12T15:07:00.000-07:00

Downtown Des Plaines has been revitalized over the past few years with the influx of condos. Not surprisingly, a number of restaurants have popped up to capitalize on potential consumers.

Our favorite...... "Cheeseburger in Paradise"

This fun, island-themed restaurant features burgers, seafood, Island drinks, and often, live Caribbean music. Burgers, not surprisingly, are excellent with a lot of unique options and the fish tacos are tasty. Staff is helpful, fun, and festive ... although it has a full-bar, it is still family- friendly. Thursday night even features Hermit Crab races starting at 8 pm. Unique to the Des Plaines local is the "Seth Rogan" sound-a-like. The tall head bartender looks a little like the actor, but wait to he speaks, and especially when he laughs. Overall, the food and entertainment make for an enjoyable evening at a reasonable price.

Cheeseburger in Paradise
1472 Market Street
Des Plaines, IL 60016
Phone: 847-299-3657
Fax: 847-299-3782
Website: www.cheeseburgerinparadise.com

2009 Schedule for the Maine South Varsity Hawks

2009-09-01T10:25:00.000-07:00

Aug 28th SCHAUMBURG H.S. 7 pm MS 64 - 35
Sept 4 WHEATON WARRENVILLE SOUTH 7 pm
Sept 11 at Highland Park 7 pm
Sept 17 MAINE WEST 7 pm
Sept 25 at Niles West 7:30 pm
Oct 3 EVANSTON TOWNSHIP 1:30 pm
Oct 10 at Waukegan H.S. 1:30 pm
Oct 17 GLENBROOK SOUTH 1:30 pm
Oct 23 at New Trier 7:30 pm
Playoffs tba tba

Maine South Hawks

2009-09-01T10:16:00.000-07:00

It is the start of another school year which means that it is a start of another football season for the Maine South Hawks. Last year was perfection. The team, led by Vanderbuilt-bound All-State QB Charlie Goro, went undefeated (14-0) and won the state 8A championship game over Hinsdale Central.

Last Friday marked the beginning of another offensive explosion. The star Running Back, Matt Perez (committed to Indiana) ran for 122 yrds and 3 touchdowns and it was an awesome debut for the Hawks new quarterback, Tyler Benz. Benz threw for 2 touchdowns and ran for 3 more as the the Hawks defeated visiting Schaumburg 64-35.

The Hawks now face a huge challenge as they face the #1 ranked team in the Chicago-area... Wheaton-Warrenville South. Will the Hawks be victorious? Come and find out this Friday at 7 PM in Park Ridge under the new stadium lights.

Grazie Coffee House

2009-08-31T16:49:00.000-07:00

Situated diagonally across from the now famous Zia's (a favorite of President Obama's) in downtown Edison Park. Grazie is the best of both worlds: a coffee house and an ice cream shop. Its eclectic decor is very warm and comfortable. The loft-like space balances exposed brick with crystal chandeliers.... The morning staff is friendly and knowledgeable. The evening atmosphere is nice and low-key. While certainly gourmet, it is also kid-friendly with crayons and coloring books. There is plenty of temporary parking for those who just want to run in and get a cup to go.. Most importantly, for those of you who are allowed to have coffee and ice cream ... it is excellent. It easily holds it own against any national chain.

Grazie Coffee House
6700 N Northwest Hwy
(between Oliphant Ave & Oshkosh Ave)
Chicago, IL 60631
(773) 775-3312

www.graziecoffee.com/

The Capital Grill in Rosemont

2009-04-13T08:47:00.000-07:00

From what I've overheard, Park Ridge/Edison Park has one of the most convenient locations in all of Chicagoland. There are now quality restaurants in both Park Ridge and Edison Park and its proximity to downtown Chicago is appealing.....

However, what is easy to forget is the proximty to Rosemont and the entertainment opportunities that include the Rosemont theater, convention center, All-State arena, Muvico Movie Theater, and great restaurants (Gibson's, McCormick & Schmidt, Morton's, & Carlucci's). Since Rosemont caters so much to the business traveler, many of these restaurants as well as the movie theater, are not crowded on the weekends.

The latest restaurant to open is the Capital Grill (first established in D.C. and has over 30 locations nationwide). In Rosemont, free valet is a welcome site and being seated in quickly in a booth on a Saturday night with no reservations was also appealing. The dining room was full enough to create a buzz but not so much to impede conversation. The decor was traditional with giant, framed pictures of distinguished gentleman and ladies but with modern elements (such as an all-glass enclosure into the wine "cave"). Service was very good, without being stuffy, and the waiter certainly had an opinion of what he recommended on the menu. There salads and appetizers were tasty but one goes to the grill for the steak. Craig ordered the 22 oz dry-aged Delmonico ribeye , that was a bit fatty, but still very good. In summary, although pricey, the CG is an excellent place to have an intimate dinner without the traditional wait associated with fine dining. I'm personally pleased with the size of the doggy bag that was brought home.

The Capital Grill - Rosemont
5340 N River Rd
at the Intercontinental
Rosemont, IL
847-671-8125
www.thecapitalgrill.com

- P

Improving Your Credit Score

2009-03-11T06:51:00.000-07:00

Living my care-free Dog life-style, I don't have to worry about a credit score... but you do....

Credit 101: How to Improve Your Credit Score.

1 The Score is different from the report. A credit score is a number that reflects the historical credit information on a credit report. The number indicates a person’s likelihood of becoming delinquent on a loan or credit obligation in the future. The higher the score, the better the terms of the loan such as a lower interest rate.

2. Review your credit report before shopping for a mortgage. Tell your clients about www.annualcreditreport.com where every year you can get one free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus (Experian, Transunion, & Equifax).

3. Errors on a credit card report can be fixed. Clients can be encouraged to seek counseling to better understand their credit report, spot problems and work to fix them. To find a HUD-approved housing counselor in your area, call 1-800-569-4287 or www.hud.gov/counseling.

4. Ordering one credit report will NOT negatively affect your credit score. What does have a major impact on your credit score is payment history. Whether you pay your bills on time and pay them in full matters. Another factor is outstanding debt. If you’re maxed out on your credit cards, it can be a problem. The longer your credit history, the higher your credit rating so it’s not good to close an unused credit card.

5. A good way to raise a credit score is to reduced debt. Lenders look at total debt of no more than 36 percent of income including house payment. It’s a good idea to get installment debt (car loans, student loans, credit cards) down below 20 % of total income.

6. Only time removes accurate negative information in your credit report. According to the Federal Trade Commission, a consumer reporting company can report most accurate negative information for seven years and bankruptcy information for 10 years.

7. Some government programs allow for a lower credit score. Visit www.yourillinoishome.com or www.craigtinder.com (to find a broker to assist you)

Different Credit Reporting Bureaus use different credit scores.

The FICO Score (ranges from 300-850) The Vantage Score (ranges from 501-990)
1. Payment History (35%) 1. Payment History (32%)
2. Amount Owed (30%) 2. Utilization (23%)
3. Length of Credit History (15%) 3. Balances (15%)
4. New Credit (10%) 4. Depth of Credit (13%)
5. Types of Credit Used (10%) 5. Recent Credit (10%)
6. Available Credit (7%)

For More Information; Contact a Mortgage Broker/Banker.
Visit the website: www.Craigtinder.com to find two recommended mortgage broker/bankers or feel free to call Craig at 847/638-5522.

The Curragh Irish Pub

2009-03-10T17:48:00.000-07:00

Some might say the last thing Edison Park needed was another Irish Bar since the Irish are already well represented. This establishment, takes another approach, it is a restaurant first and a bar second. While it has traditional burgers, it also has an extensive menu of Irish cuisine. While many might have the fish & chips, I overheard the seafood boxty was excellent. A boxty is something like a giant potato pancake folded over an then stuffed with all sorts of goodies. There is a children's menu and the little Master Wally, would be quite happy with the mac and cheese. The building is new, but great efforts have been made to make the atmsophere "Irish". Beautiful wood paneling, flat screens showing Irish football (i.e., soccer), granite restrooms, and very friendly servers..... along with the nice selection of beers make it a very enjoyable experience.

The Curragh Pub
6705 N Northwest Hwy
Chicago, IL 60631
(773) 774-6170
Sunday-Friday 11 am - 1 am
Saturday 11 am - 3 am

Jason's Deli-- Its not just a Deli

2009-02-16T20:25:00.000-08:00

New Restaurants are popping up all over Park Ridge and Edison Park. One of the latest is Jason's Deli, a growing national chain that prides itself on serving healthy, quality food... Jason's is much more than a Deli, boasting a great salad bar, baked potatoes, paninis, and much more.... Located in the new Uptown development, the restaurant is clean, open, and staffed with friendly servers... It is also extremely "kid-friendly" with an expansive kid menu for under $3 (incl. drink and ice cream)... Happy Meals are more expensive. In fact, kids under 12 eat free on Mondays. Jason's will also boast outdoor eating on the terrace once it starts to warm up in Chicago. Perhaps then I'll be able to go on more walks.

Jason's Deli
www.jasonsdeli.com
608 W. Touhy Ave, Park Ridge -
(847) 823-0210
Open 7 AM - 10 PM

Sushi Anyone?

2009-02-14T12:01:00.000-08:00

Ahh winter, I've observed that when it is too cold outside to grill, it is a good time for humans to go out to eat.... Unfortunately, that leaves less for me to clean up but I've overheard some good things about local Park Ridge & Edison Park fare.....

Sushi Express is a new, uhh, Sushi Restaurant in Uptown Park Ridge. Its located along the charming & quaint old shops on Prospect across from the Library and just down the street from Starbucks and the Pickwick theater. As the hours (11-8 PM) and the name suggests, this is not a "formal" restaurant so the ambiance is somewhat lacking although atmosphere is not what this place is about. Maki Sushi (12 S. Northwest Hwy is more formal & more $) Instead, if you want a clean, efficient, reasonably priced place for very good tasting nigri sushi and maki rolls, then this is the place for you. Combinations start at $8. It is ideal for a lunch crowd or those who want a quick bite before they enjoy a Pickwick movie. For non-sushi lovers, there is soup as well as a limited selection of cooked meat. My one complaint is there is never "doggy" bags with sushi, but if you're human and looking for a healthy/light bite to eat, then Sushi Express is an excellent place to start....

Sushi Express
35 S. Prospect
Park Ridge, IL 60068
847/518-8580
10-8 PM

More Restaurant Reviews to follow (incl. Jason's Deli & Curragh Irish Pub in Edison Park)

"Shedding" for 2009

2009-01-14T07:50:00.000-08:00

As my owners like to complain, I tend to shed constantly. I try to encourage them as well but it is not always easy....perhaps as it is the beginning of a new year, they will follow my advice.

There are 3 basic questions to ask yourself in order to "shed"...

1) DO I USE IT? 2) DO I NEED IT? 3) DO I LOVE IT?

1) If you haven't used/worn something in the last 12 months.... you should get rid of it unless you need it or unless you love it.....

2) There are things you might not use regularly but still need (old tax records, birth certificate, car titles, etc.)

3) Then there are things you should keep that have significant memories and you treasure (your first dog dish for example). It is easy to "love" too many things, the key is if you love it... you must find a place to display it... if it is stuff away...out of sight.. its not love... its being neglected and abused.

For me, its quite easy to shed, for people... not so much. I've noticed the resident 3 year old won't play with a toy for months... but if my master makes a move to throw/give it away.... suddenly its the most important toy in his collection. My last advice is to "shed" with someone else who isn't so attached to your things, while it might not make the experience easier for you, you will have a lot more success.

--Peak

Keeping New Years Resolutions

2009-01-05T07:56:00.000-08:00

I've observed many humans making and then failing to keep resolutions. I prefer to set my goals low which basically means that I intend to get more naps, go on longer walks, and bark more often at passing dogs. You may have loftier plans and the following is helpful advice in keeping your resolutions:

Keeping New Years Resolutions
1. Set an Overall Goal – Is it Realistic?
2. Break it down to measurable tasks—GET SPECIFIC…
3. Write it down
i. Write initial goals down
ii. Keep a journal

4. Don’t Go it Alone
i. Tell Other People
ii. Do It With Someone Else
iii. Be Accountable to Someone Else
5. Celebrate Small & Big Successes
6. Substitute…. Don’t Subtract
i. Don’t do these things….Think about these things
ii. Don’t just Watch Less TV – Do Something Else
iii. Use Technology (books on tape, medication, etc.)
7. Utilizing Expertise
i. Read Recommendations
ii. Consult Professionals (Therapist, Trainer, Pastor, etc.)
8. Avoiding Trouble i. Recognizing Triggers (stress, others, etc.)
ii. When we’re weak (tired, etc.)
iii. Bad Influences 9. Anticipate Minor Stumbles to Avoid Major Pitfalls

If you have already have failed to keep your resolution, its still the new year, and you can start your plan up again with a greater chance of success if you use the above guidelines.

Now, I'm going to take a nap.

Introducing 213 Columbia - Park Ridge

2008-05-04T20:08:00.000-07:00

Online Videos by Veoh.com

Even Your Dog Has a Blog... (From CNN)

2008-03-21T10:28:00.001-07:00

Who knew Peak was ahead of his time? :)
Here's an article from CNN published today.

2008-03-16T21:03:00.000-07:00

Realty Reality

2008-02-26T16:10:00.000-08:00

Even though I frequently take naps, I keep for ears for real estate news. Nationally, the news is grim about the real estate market. However, national trends are not necessarily local trends. While the Chicago-area market has definitely slowed things could definitely be worse:
Overall, national house prices dropped by 8.9 % in the last quarter of 2007 but the greatest drops were in the following areas:
#1 Miami -17.5%
#2 Las Vegas - 15.3%
#2 Phoenix - 15.3%
#4-#9 Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, Detroit, and Washington D.C. all experienced double digit drops in price values.

There is a lot of talk about the increase of foreclosures. The following states have the highest level of foreclosures:
#1 Nevada
#2 California,
#3 Florida
#4 Arizona
#5 Colorado
#6 Massachusetts,
#7 Georgia
#8 Connecticut,
#9 Ohio
#10 Michigan.

So while things have slowed in the Chicago-area, it certainly could be worse.

Winter Continues....

2008-02-26T12:11:00.000-08:00

Everyone hates winter. Especially me as I'm less likely to be taken out for walks!
Here are some ideas to help minimize risk and keep your home safe this winter.
1. Inspect and replace (as necessary) water-supply hoses to washing machines, toilets, and sinks.
2. Install a low-temperature alarm if you are away often to prevent pipe freezing.
3. Shut off the water supply when you go on vacation.
4. Install heat sensors in your kitchen and near your furnace.
5. Insulate unfinished rooms to prevent pipe freezing.
6. Ventilate the attic to prevent roof icing and to clear snow from the roof.
Of course, if you do things, Murphy's law might bring about Spring and I can go back to taking regular walks.

7 Must-Ask Questions When Hiring a Contractor

2007-11-14T20:58:00.000-08:00

I just take a good sniff to determine whether I trust a contractor or not, however, if you're a small nosed human I suggest you follow the Federal Trade Commission's suggestions on what questions to ask a contractor (make sure you also get the right answers).

1. How long have you been in business?
Look for a well-established company and check it out with consumer protection officials. They can tell you if there are unresolved consumer complaints on file.

2. Are you licensed and registered with the state?
While most states license electrical and plumbing contractors, only 36 states have some type of licensing and registration statutes affecting contractors, remodelers, and/or speciality contractors. The licensing can range from simple registration to a detailed quailification process.

3. How many projects like mine have you completed in the last year?
Ask for a list. This will help you determine how familiar the contractor is with your type of project.

4. Will my project require a permit?
Most states and localities require permits for building projects, even for simple jobs like decks. A competent contractor will get all the necessary permits before starting work on your project. Be suspicious if the contractor asks you to get the permit(s). It could mean that the contractor is not licensed or registered as required by your state or locality.

5. May I have a list of references?
The contractor should be able to give you the names, addresses, and phone numbers of at least three clients who have had projects similar to yours. Ask each how long ago the project was completed and if you can see it. Also, tell the contractor that you'd like to visit jobs in progress.

6. Will you be using subcontractors on this project?
If yes, ask to meet them, and make sure they have current insurance coverage and licenses, if required. Also ask if they were paid on time by this contractor. A "mechanic's lien" could be placed on your home if your contractor fails to pay the subcontractors and suppliers on your project.

7. What types of insurance to you carry?
Contractors should have personal liability, worker's compensation, and property damage coverage. Ask for a copy of insurance certificates, and make sure they're current. Avoid doing business with contractors who don't carry the appropriate insurance. Otherwise, you'll be held liable for any injuries and damages that occur during the project.

Cold-Weather Prep

2007-10-05T14:25:00.000-07:00

Although the temperature may not indicate it, the signs of fall are coming soon: golden-hued leaves, crisp temperatures, shorter days, and my shedding my summer coat for a warmer winter one. : ) As you prepare for the months ahead--storing summer clothes, checking heating systems and making sure your home is well insulated--don't forget to landscape around your house.

If you've been mowing all spring and summer, it's not time to quit just yet. Continue until the grass stops growing. And speaking of mowing, don't forget to take care of your trusty lawnmower. Drain it in the late fall, because gas left in the machine all winter will get gummy and may make startup difficult when spring rolls around.

As the temperatures drop, so will leaves from the trees around your home. It's important to rake lawns regularly so the grass can "breathe." How long can you wait before breaking out the rake? Most gardening experts say you shouldn't go longer than three or four days. However, if the layer of leaves is particularly thick or has been weighed down by rain, the sooner you rake, the better.

When we get snow and ice, you might want to protect deciduous flowering shrubs under a lean-to or similar structure. Begin by building a wire cage that is secured into the ground with poles. Attach chicken wire or heavy-guage wire to the poles and then fasten burlap to the sides of the structure to protect the shrubs from damaging wind.

Last but not least, remember your garden hose. Drain it before storing it for the winter and then turn off your outside water supply to prevent pipes from freezing or bursting.

Calling All Pack Rats

2007-09-11T12:37:00.000-07:00

Are you ready to conquer clutter once and for all? As the official house dog of tinderhomes, I've made my share of messes. The National Association of Professional Organizers (www.napo.net) offers these handy tips.

CLOSETS
- Pull out everything you haven't worn in the past year
- Display what you want at your fingertips and store the rest on top shelves or in drawers.
- Make sure you can see what you have in your closet. Consider installing good lighting.
- Hanging like items together, shirts, pants, dresses, etc.

KITCHEN
- Consolidate things that work together, such as baking pans, electrical appliances, plastic containers (w/ lids), and pots and pans.
- Use drawer dividers to keep utensils in order
- Rotate food staples out of your pantry
- Feel the flow of activity. Places glasses near the sink or refridgerator. Put snacks in convenient drawer or cupboard (ideally at "dog-height") ;)

GARAGE
- Decide how to use the space. Is it a workshop? Is it a storage center?
- Toss things that don't work!
- Sort, purge, and properly store treasures
- Consider floor-to-ceiling shelving, racks, stackable drawers, hooks & pegs

KID'S ROOM
- Place bins and boxes on lower shelves so a child can put away the toys.
- Label storage so it's easy for children to put items where they belong (draw or/take a picture for the label so "pre-readers" can help with the clean up.
- Provide low hooks to hang-up sweaters, pajamas, jackets, book bags, etc.
- Take children with you when you go to donate unused items. This helps them learn to part with things.

Charming Split Level in Glenview!

2007-06-10T10:20:00.000-07:00

Click here for Virtual Tour & Video

Cicada Facts You May Not Have Known...

2007-06-04T12:15:00.000-07:00

How to Maintain Your Garbage Disposal

2007-06-04T12:00:00.000-07:00

I saw this and thought it was rather interesting, and hope you find it helpful.
http://www.wikihow.com/Maintain-a-Garbage-Disposal

Totally Rehabbed Condo in Edison Park

2007-06-04T11:58:00.000-07:00

Contemporary Condo Living in Edison Park

2007-06-04T11:53:00.000-07:00

Preparing for an Open House

2007-03-25T09:13:00.000-07:00

These are for you...

2007-03-19T08:09:00.000-07:00

5 Bedroom French Provincial in Elmhurst

2007-03-06T11:29:00.001-08:00

Gorgeous 2-Bedroom 2-Bath Condo in Morton Grove

2007-03-06T11:26:00.000-08:00

Contemporary 2-Bedroom Condo in Downtown Edison Park

2007-02-18T09:50:00.001-08:00

2 Bedroom Condo in Albany Park

2007-02-13T17:12:00.000-08:00

New Listing (with Video) - Penthouse Loft Uptown Park Ridge

2007-02-13T12:47:00.000-08:00

All-Brick Ranch in Park Ridge

2007-02-02T11:54:00.001-08:00

http://bonnietinder.googlepages.com/tyrell.html - for high quality version...

Park Ridge/Edison Park Community Information

2007-01-28T14:13:00.000-08:00

For years, we have been telling our clients and friends about the different sections of Park Ridge and Edison Park. Just like all of Chicago, the Northwest is made up of lots of great areas--each with their own identity. Finally, we have put the information in print, so that you can give folks a better vision for the highlights. And, when it's time to sell a home in one of these areas, we'll have the 'location' part well-defined.

We are going to be doing this for ALL of the areas we serve (not just PR and Edison Park), and we'll keep you posted on our progress.

To view, click on "Community Info" on tinderhomes.com

New Listing (with Video) - High Style 3-Bedroom Ranch in Park Ridge

2007-01-24T19:41:00.000-08:00

http://home.comcast.net/~craigtinder/crescent-new.swf.html - for high quality version...

Energy Cost-Saving Tips

2007-01-07T17:42:00.000-08:00

We've had a very mild winter season so far, but with cold weather sure to come, here are several ways to cut your heat / energy bills:

http://www.nicor.com/en_us/residential/energy_efficiency_tips/default.htm

Another interesting link is this 'energy calculator', where you can estimate the cost per year of different appliances around your house: http://www.energydepot.com/nicorres/appcalc/index.html

A Very Artistic 'House Blend'

2007-01-05T08:33:00.000-08:00

Okay - so this post isn't really about Real Estate, but is an interesting watch anyway...

New Listing (with Video) - Great 2 Bedroom Condo in Edison Park

2007-01-04T08:51:00.000-08:00

http://home.comcast.net/~prcw/northwest-new.swf.html - for high quality version...

Thinking of Selling Your Home This Spring?

2007-01-01T21:12:00.000-08:00

(From ChicagoTribune.com)
If you have plans to put your house on the market in the spring, it's not too early to begin planning. Sid Davis, author of "Home Makeovers That Sell" (AMACOM, $15), advises homeowners to give themselves 60 to 90 days to put their home in selling shape before they put it on the market.

http://www.chicagotribune.com/classified/realestate/yourplace/chi-0612290225dec29,0,1436095.story?coll=chi-classifiedyourplace-hed

Why A Real Estate Blog?

2006-12-28T07:55:00.000-08:00

As the canine companion of a busy realtor, I thought it would be good to keep you well-informed of local Real Estate News & Community information. I hear Craig on his cell phone talking with his clients about local happenings, and I thought I'd keep a web journal of important and/or interesting topics. Technology has allowed us to make our Real Estate business 'real time'--and I'm excited to chat with you throughout 2007.

Happy New Year!