Make Moves with Maya - Maya Puentes Real Estate Broker

Happy New Year!
I can’t believe how quickly 2023 came and went! It was Fast and Furious!

Life was busier then ever this year and sometimes it made it hard to stop and smell the roses, so it was great getting to spend time reflecting on all the amazing times that were had and what I was able to accomplish.

Grateful to all those who fill my life with joy and trust me to help them achieve their housing goals! 🩷

Looking forward to a new year filled with love, light, laughter, good times and happy clients! 🥳😍🤩🤗🏠

Working is always easier with a view like this! 🌊☀️😎

Ready to put your real estate knowledge to the test?

In honor of school being back in full swing, I'm handing out a pop quiz!

Swipe to take the test and let me know how you did!

Be sure to save this for later, these terms definitely come in handy during a real estate deal.

House hunting this Fall?

If so, an Open House or two (or 10…) is probably in your future. And that’s a good thing!

I love the excitement of going to open houses with my buyers. It’s a mostly pressure-free way to scout out homes and to continually refining your “must haves” and “nice to haves” in a home. And you might just find your dream home!

Here are a few best practices I give my clients, as well as a few faux pas I encourage them to avoid.

DO ⤵️

✔️ Go during the advertised hours. If you really have your heart set on a home and you can’t make the open house time, I can reach out to the agent for you and arrange a private showing. But don’t show up early or late to an open house — the seller and their agent might not be able to accommodate you.

✔️ Remember that the sellers probably have cameras in the home…and anything you say about the property is leverage in a negotiation. Whether you’re horrified by the outdated decor or you want to make an offer on the spot, hold your comments until you’re safely out of sight and earshot.

✔️ Be a good houseguest! If the seller requests that visitors remove their shoes, take yours off before you enter (or if protective booties are provided, put those on). After all, it’s still someone else’s home and you want to leave a good impression — especially if you wind up in multiple bids.

DON’T ⤵️

❌ Use the bathroom at an open house. Remember, you’re not a houseguest, you’re a potential buyer. Find a public restroom before you go to an open house, or wait until afterwards. In many cases, the seller has probably cleaned the bathroom specifically for showings, and in other cases (vacant listings) there may not even be water service.

❌ DON’T crowd other prospective buyers. Inventory is low and open houses get busy these days, so be courteous and give other buyers space. If another group is in a bedroom or bathroom, wait until they vacate to go in and look around. This doesn’t always apply in rooms like kitchens or living rooms, but use your best judgment.

❌ Show your hand. Not only are the sellers likely listening in via home security cameras, but the other prospective buyers and their agents are too. Even a comment about your budget can work against you. Remember that everyone else in the room is potential competition.

Have questions about attending open houses? My inbox is always open!

Just got the great news! 🤩
Hustling hard and remaining grateful for all the goodness that comes my way! 🙏🏽

Thanks for letting me know and always hyping me up! 🥰😘

I have received such great feedback since last month's launch of my new newsletter Maya's Monthly Home Edit - your source for all things Local, Lifestyle, and Fun! So glad that so many of you are enjoying it! 🥰

I'm excited to continue empowering you with more real estate/market info, share some fun events and ways to enjoy life in this beautiful city of ours, as well as bring you behind the scenes for a more personal look inside my !

Here is a sneak peek of what's inside this month's issue!

🍁 Why You Still May Want To Sell Your Home After All
🍁 Patio Season…But Make It Fall
🍁 Home Maintenance Tips
🍁 September Events
🍁 Curated Local Bucket List

Want to get the full edition in your inbox? DM me to subscribe!

Ended my birthday month on a high! So excited to finally be able to share that I have been recognized, in the Who’ s Who Edition of ,
for the second year in a row! 🤩

I truly love what I do and it feels amazing to be acknowledged for all the hard work that I put into my job, especially when so much of it goes unseen. I am a caretaker at heart, so being able to help people achieve their goals and turn their dreams into a reality as I try to lovingly guide them through the process, fills my cup! It is not always be easy, but we get through it together! ❤️ 🏡

Beyond grateful for my amazing clients and the trust they put in me, and for all those who have supported me in the journey! Especially my handsome hubby who cheers me on and deals with my crazy while he gets the behind-the-scenes look into all the late nights, perpetual emotional roller coaster and all the other realities (not reality show) of what it is to be a realtor! 🤣

Definitely feeling grateful, thankful and blessed! 🥰

You can check out the full article here: https://chicagoagentmagazine.com/whos-who-2023/maya-puentes-2/

🐾 Happy International Dog Day! 🐶

This dog-obsessed, animal loving realtor knows that a house is not a home without a furry friend to greet you at the door. On this special day, let’s celebrate the unconditional love, joy, and endless smiles that our canine companions bring into our lives. ❤️

Shout out to my fur baby and the love of my life, Vida! 🐕‍🦺 She is not longer with us, but I miss my showing sidekick every day! She made the best mascot and co-worker ever! ❤️ Once a dog mom, always a dog mom I guess! 🤷🏽‍♀️🥰🤣

If you're a dog lover on the hunt for a new place to call home—one that's not only perfect for you but also for your four-legged friend—look no further! I know the importance of finding a home that caters to both your needs and the needs of your precious pup. Fenced yards, nearby parks, and pet-friendly communities are just some of the features we consider to ensure a tail-wagging good time for everyone.

Let's work together to find a space where you and your furry friend can make unforgettable memories. Reach out to me today and take a step closer to finding a place where wagging tails and happy hearts reside.

Wishing you all a woof-tastic International Dog Day! 🐾🐩

Baird & Warner - Oak Park/River Forest

Wishing you nothing but good vibes in the week ahead! 🥰

It's time for an OAK PARK AREA MARKET UPDATE! 📣

We continue to be in a strong sellers' market as inventory remains low. If you have been considering selling, right now is the time to do it! Take advantage of the high buyer demand, limited supply and the few warm months we have left.

​As for buyers, in our current fast-paced, low-inventory market, it's important to be flexible with your search criteria, act quickly, and be prepared to make a competitive offer.

No matter what your real estate goals are, working with the right agent (such as myself 👋😉), makes all the difference!

Thinking of making a move or know someone who is? I'd love to help! The referral of your friends and family is the greatest compliment I could receive! 🥰

Maya Puentes
📲 - 708.574.1383
📧 - [email protected]

Baird & Warner - Oak Park/River Forest

As some of you may know, I am extra (in true Leo fashion 🤣), and I enjoy bringing that little something extra to my clients and the service I provide. With that in mind, I am excited to share a sneak peek of - Maya's Monthly Home Edit - my new newsletter, and your source for all things Local, Lifestyle, and Fun! From Oak Park market updates and a curated Chicagoland bucket list, to home maintenance tips, and more!

I'm eager to empower you with more real estate/market info, share some fun events and ways to enjoy life in this beautiful city of ours, as well as bring you behind the scenes for a more personal look inside my !

Hope you enjoy it and comment below if you'd like to see the full issue in your inbox!
😉

Last week my Barbie girls and I finally went to see the movie everyone is talking about and I loved it!

Naturally, it made me want to talk about the latest color trend taking over on the red carpets, on your Instagram feed, and in your favorite clothing stores. From the big screen to the runway…and now to your living room. PINK!

The rise of vibrant pink is officially being called “Barbiecore” aligning with the blockbuster film!

Harper’s Bazaar calls Barbiecore “a much-welcomed mood booster” after the past few years. It’s all about embracing vibrant hues and nostalgic nods to the ’80s and ’90s in retro designs.

I am loving this trend and have various pops of pink in my own home's interior decor, including pink dining room chairs that I am obsessed with! And it's not just for women, my hubby loves them too, so fellas don't be afraid to try it out! After all, "pink is happy, pink is fun"!

In case you are not ready to go out and purchase pink furniture here are a few simple ways to bring “Barbiecore” into your home:

🎀 Add some pink accents to your home, such as a framed mirror or an acrylic vase.
🎀 Style your bar cart with some pink-hued wine glasses, champagne coups, or even coasters.
🎀 Swap out throw pillows with bright or subtle pink ones.
🎀 Bring some neutral pink shades into any room with an area rug that has rose hues.
🎀 Hang a pink shower curtain in your bathroom.

If nothing else, let this trend remind you to be confident in your home design. Even if something isn’t “on trend” you’re the one who lives there, so decorate with the colors, patterns, and pieces that YOU love!

What do you think? Are you on board with Barbiecore or is it a no for you?
, Baird & Warner - Oak Park/River Forest

Welcome August! It may be the last month of the summer but it's my birthday month, and therefore this Leo's favorite month of the year! 😍

I can't wait to cross off items on my summer bucket list, soak up as much sunshine as possible, and celebrate all month long! 😎🥳🤩💃🏾

Make sure to stay tuned! There are some fun new things coming your way! Excited to share, and tell you about what's going on in the area, the local real estate market, and more!

With that, it's time to go out and savor the last bits of vacation season, dust off your fall candles, and prepare the kiddos for the new school year!

As always, if there's anything I can assist with, send me a message, I'm always happy to help! 😊

®

The Chicago Food Truck Festival is back this summer! 🚚

Indulge in a foodie paradise as local food trucks gather to serve up their most delicious menu items. Plus, there will be exciting games and live music to keep you entertained all day long!

🗓️ July 29th - July 30th
📍 South Loop, 2300 S. Indiana Ave.

Mark your calendars!

Looking to sell your home? Here are some tips to reduce your home's time on the market and increase your chances of a quick sale. 💡

Have questions about home selling or the current real estate market? Reach out!

Happy Monday!

The secret to success lies in wholeheartedly loving what you do. 🙌

So, take a moment today to discover your passion and allow it to propel you toward incredible accomplishments. Embrace your inner drive and let it fuel your path! 🔥

Halfway?!

Can you believe we're already halfway through the year?

Time flies when you're making moves and embracing new opportunities!

I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the past six months and celebrate the progress made, both personally and professionally. Here's a recap of some exciting updates:

Personal Updates:
- Cherished quality time with loved ones (especially my precious niece and nephew) and created unforgettable memories.🥰
- Checked an item off my bucket list! Went to Coachella where I danced like there was no tomorrow! 💃🏽
- Fed my soul and said yes to all the adventures! I sun bathed in Palm Springs, Tommy and I hiked in the majestic Joshua Tree National Park, and we ate our way through Mexico City! Each were a 10/10, highly recommend!✈️

Professional Updates:
- I received the President’s Club Level Award for my sales in 2022🥳
- I was a top producer in my office QT1 and QT2🤩 Baird & Warner - Oak Park/River Forest
- Joined the Oak Park Association of Realtors DEI Committee ✊🏽
- I attended 12 trainings, masterminds and conferences to help me grow as an agent and stay on top of this ever evolving market.👩🏽‍🏫
- Celebrated with my clients when they closed of course!🍾

I'm excited to shift my focus to the second half of the year. Together, let’s continue pursuing our goals, making new connections, and helping each other succeed.

If you have wins from the first half of the year, or goals you're working towards for the next half, share them below, I’d love to celebrate and cheer you on!

Here's to the rest of the year being filled with growth, success, and meaningful moments. ❤️🎉

Looking for a refreshing cocktail to start your weekend? Citrus Mezcal Margarita is our ! 🍹

Made with the perfect balance of smoky Mezcal, tangy citrus juices, and a hint of sweetness, this cocktail is a true fiesta in a glass. Trust me, it's worth the shot! 🙌

Try it out and let me know what you think!

Selling your home is an incredible journey and every stage of the process is important. With an expert in your corner, you can achieve your goals.

I can help you sell your home quickly and for top dollar. Let’s talk! 📲

Calling all beach lovers! 🏖️ 🌊

Discover the best sandy escapes right in the heart of Chicago! Here are three must-visit beaches for the summer.

Which of these amazing beaches will you be visiting this summer? Let me know in the comments!

Looking for the perfect spot to enjoy the summer breeze? Check out these incredible rooftops and patios near Oak Park! 🍹☀️

1️⃣ Avenue Ale House
2️⃣ Citrine Café
3️⃣ Cucina Paradiso
4️⃣ Il Vicolo Trattoria
5️⃣ Kettlestrings Tavern

Grab your friends and make the most of this beautiful weather! Have tried any of these places? Share your experience in the comments!

It’s summertime Chi! 🏙☀️

Discover the beauty and charm of the Chicago Riverwalk! This 1.25-mile long path is a marvel of urban planning, constructed in phases over time, and divided into four distinct districts: The Confluence, The Arcade, The Civic, and the Esplanade. The Chicago River winds its way through the heart of the city's world-famous architecture. With a continuous path stretching from Lake Street to the lakefront, the Riverwalk also offers a vertical connection from Upper Wacker Drive down to the water's edge.

Explore the Riverwalk this season and follow me for more Chicago expert tips! 🔔

The perfect drink to kick off the summer! ☀️

Try this and share your thoughts in the comments! 🍹

With various types of housing available in the market, it's essential to consider your preferences before making a decision. What type of home do you prefer? Share in the comments below! 🏡⬇

Check out this hidden oasis in the heart of Oak Park, Illinois! 🌱

The Oak Park Conservatory, ranked as one of the top three historical sites in the area, welcomes over 50,000 visitors each year to explore its stunning indoor showrooms and lush outdoor gardens. From the vibrant Mediterranean room to the serene Desert room, the Conservatory boasts a diverse array of flora and fauna.

Admission is free to the public! Don't miss out on the chance to escape the city and immerse yourself in the beauty of Illinois' native ecosystems. 🌿

Make a change to see a change! What’s one thing you can change this week to live a happy, healthy lifestyle? ☀️