Amy Hickory-Gerbie Jameson Sotheby's International Realty

✨ Thinking of Selling in the Spring - Start Your Decluttering Now! ✨

Moving is the perfect opportunity to hit the reset button and simplify your space. 🏡✨ Whether you're upsizing or downsizing or just need a fresh start, decluttering ahead of time makes the process smoother and less stressful.

Have questions or need advice on how to prepare for your next move? I’m here to help! Drop me a message!

Selling a home can sometimes feel like watching paint dry, waiting for the perfect buyer. 🎨 But guess what? With the right moves, you won't be waiting forever!

Here's a step-by-step plan I share with my clients around Chicago's North Shore:

1️⃣ **Price it Right**: The first step is researching what similar homes in your area are selling for. We will review similar homes in your area that have sold recently or are currently on the market.

2️⃣ **Make it Shine**: Invest some time in cleaning, decluttering, and maybe a splash of fresh paint to make your home irresistible at first sight. It's like giving your home a mini-makeover!

3️⃣ **Awesome Photos**: Our pro photographers can capture your home's best angles. It's all about that first online impression!

4️⃣ **Smart Marketing**: Use social media and online listings to get your home's awesome features out there. The more eyes on it, the better!

5️⃣ **Host Open Houses**: Yup, they still work! Give potential buyers a chance to walk through and feel at home.

Selling doesn't have to be a waiting game. Ready to get started? Comment below with any questions or tips you want to share. Let's find that perfect buyer together! 🏡✨

Taking Your First Step to Homeownership! 🏡

Buying your first home is exciting but can also feel a little overwhelming. I remember the thrill of my first big step and I’ve helped many through theirs too. Here are some simple tips for first-time home buyers in Chicago's North Shore:

1. Set Your Budget: Know how much you can afford. Use mortgage calculators to get a ballpark figure of monthly payments and make sure this fits into your budget.

2. Get Pre-Approved: Visit your bank or a mortgage lender to get pre-approved. This helps you understand how much you can borrow and shows sellers you’re serious.

3. Find the Right Real Estate Agent: Partner with an agent who knows the area. Their local knowledge can help you find the best deals and navigate the market smoothly.

4. List Your Must-Haves: Write down everything you want in a home (like a big backyard or close to good schools). This helps you stay focused during your search.

5. Tour Homes and Make a List: Visit as many homes as you can. Take notes and photos (always ask first) so you can remember what you liked and didn’t like about each place.

6. Make an Offer: When you find the perfect home, your agent will help you make a competitive offer. Be ready for negotiations!

7. Get a Home Inspection: Always get the home inspected before finalizing the deal. It’s worth the peace of mind and may save you from costly repairs later.

8. Close the Deal: Once everything checks out, you’ll sign the final paperwork, pay your down payment, and get your keys!

Are you ready to start your home-buying journey? Comment below or message me for personalized advice! 🗝️

Chicago winters can be rough, but being prepared can make your home warm and cozy! Here are the top 5 must-do winter prep hacks for your Chicago home, straight from local pros 🌨️

1. Seal Doors and Windows: Use weather stripping and caulking. Stops drafts and saves on heating!

2. Service Your Furnace: Schedule a check-up to make sure it's running efficiently. A clean filter can work wonders!

3. Insulate Pipes: Wrap pipes with foam insulation sleeves to prevent freezing. It’s simple and prevents costly repairs.

4. Clear Gutters: Clean out leaves and debris. Allows for proper drainage and avoids icy build-up.

5. Check Your Roof and Attic: Ensure your roof is in good condition and your attic is insulated. Keeps heat in and the cold out!

These steps can help keep your home in tip-top shape, providing a cozy sanctuary when the chilly winds blow. ❄️

Got more winter prep tips to share? Drop them in the comments!

Ever wondered when is the best time to buy a house on Chicago's North Shore? Let’s break it down! 🏡

Timing is everything in real estate, and here's a quick guide to help you get the most bang for your buck.

1️⃣ Winter Advantage: From November to January, the market usually slows down. Fewer buyers mean less competition, and sellers might be more motivated to negotiate. Be ready to brave the cold for potential savings!

2️⃣ Spring Surge: March to June is a prime time. Inventory is higher, giving you more options, but so is the competition. Make sure you’re pre-approved for a mortgage to make fast offers.

3️⃣ Matchmaker Tools: Utilize online tools like Zenlist to monitor listings. Set up alerts so you never miss a new listing that fits your criteria.

4️⃣ Expert Advice: Chat with local real estate agents (like me!) who know the ins and outs of the market. We can guide you in making the best decision tailored for your needs.

When did you buy your home? Share your experience below! 👇

Want a kitchen that looks expensive without breaking the bank? Transform your space with these budget-friendly ideas! 🛠️✨

I’ve been helping people on Chicago's North Shore find dream homes for years, and a stunning kitchen always makes a difference. Ready to elevate yours? Here’s how:

1️⃣ Paint Power: Fresh paint can work wonders! Choose light, neutral colors for a clean, spacious look. Grab a roller and some painter's tape, and you're good to go.

2️⃣ Hardware Update: Replace old cabinet k***s and handles with chic, modern ones. You’ll be amazed at the difference this small change can make.

3️⃣ Light It Up: Swapping out outdated light fixtures for stylish, budget-friendly options brings instant elegance. Head over to stores like IKEA or Home Depot for some great finds.

4️⃣ Open Shelving: Remove some cabinet doors to create open shelves. Display your best dishes and add a few decorative pieces for a designer touch.

5️⃣ Backsplash Brilliance: Consider peel-and-stick tiles for an easy, stylish backsplash upgrade without the mess of traditional tiling.

Your dream kitchen is just a few tweaks away!

Which tip will you try first? Comment below! 👇

Feeling puzzled about the ups and downs of home prices in Chicago's North Shore? Let's break it down!

1. Supply and Demand
- Lots of buyers but not enough homes = prices go up.
- Many homes but few buyers = prices go down.

2. Interest Rates
- Low rates = people can borrow more, home prices rise.
- High rates = less borrowing, home prices drop.

3. Local Economy
- More jobs = people move in, home prices increase.
- Job losses = people move out, home prices drop.

4. Seasonal Trends
- Spring/Summer: More buying, prices go up.
- Fall/Winter: Less activity, prices can dip.

Keep an eye on these factors to understand the market better.

Curious to know how your home fits into this? Drop a comment or message me! 📬

Is your bedroom feeling a bit blah? Let's give it a fresh look for under $100! 🛌💰

Start with a splash of color! A can of paint can transform your walls for less than $40. Choose a color that lifts your mood.

Next, change up your bedsheets or add some cozy throw pillows. A trip to your favorite home goods store or online marketplace can land you stylish finds for $20-$30.

Try shifting some furniture around. It’s free and can make a huge difference! Maybe move the bed to a new angle or swap in a chair from another room.

Add some fun with photos or artwork. Use print-outs, bargain frames, or even DIY options to bring a personal touch without breaking the bank.

Finally, don’t forget lighting! A new lampshade or a strand of fairy lights can set the perfect vibe, often for $10 or less.

Small changes make a big impact! Have you done a budget-friendly renovation before? Share your tips in the comments! 🌟

Happy Rosh Hashanah!

Just Sold!

Saying goodbye isn't easy, but I'm grateful to have helped my sellers navigate this transition. 🌟 Congratulations to the sellers on this milestone, and here's to embracing new beginnings in their fabulous new home. And congratulations to the buyers of this very special home and to all the memories they will be creating along the way.

A pleasure to work with you !

Congratulations to my clients on the successful purchase of this beautiful home in Kenilworth! It was a pleasure helping them successfully navigate the purchase process and I am so excited for them to get settled into their new home in this wonderful location!

If you are considering making a move and are interested in learning about the buying and selling process, contact me and I'd be happy to discuss your options.

Amy Hickory
312-593-7656
[email protected]
https://linktr.ee/ahickoryjsir

The May Issue of Insight is Now Available!

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The May Issue of INSIGHT is Now Available!

If you missed seeing this beauty on Saturday come on by my Mother's Day Open House 1:00 pm - 3:00pm!
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Come see this amazing home and beautiful yard at my Saturday Open House!🌷🌳🌲