In today’s ultra fast pace, people’s minds get crowded with buzzing blackberries and ringing cell phones.  Thinking about returning emails and trying to update their various online profiles and sites, people tend to forget to slow down and do something as simple as introducing themselves to their new neighbors. 

Its easy to forget the importance of this simple task, but it makes a world of difference when you are moving into a new place.  Whether you are new to Chicago or you have lived here your entire life, never underestimate the value of a neighbor.  If you start the relationship off right, you can build friendships that last a lifetime.  You don’t even have to go door to door, bake cookies for everyone on the block, or throw a party.  Simply go outside the first weekend at your new home and do some yard work, paint the front porch, or do any activity that keeps you outside.

Although you shouldn’t be, you will probably be surprised at how receptive people are to a new neighbor moving in.  I was sitting on my porch just this past weekend watching my new neighbors paint their front steps and porch, and as the day progressed, more and more people stopped by to say hello and see what their new neighbors were all about. 

If you live in a condo, you can still use my tactic, you just have to circumvent the obstacle of the verticle neighborhood.  Go downstairs sometime during the weekend with a book or magazine, just hang out for a bit in your own lobby.  You will see who your neighbors are and maybe get to meet a few.  Who doesn’t want to make friends?  Especially where they are living…I mean you never know when you may need to borrow some milk, or an egg, or need a referral to a great Realtor!

This past weekend I attended the 51st Gold Coast Art Fair along LaSalle Street.  The River North/Gold Coast area is already known for its chic, artsy, and gallery filled streets, but this weekend this reputation was even more glorified.  It was an amazing cultural and enriching experience, and a celebration of creativity and art from around the world.  It is one of the most coveted art fairs in America, and as I strolled down the sidewalks passing the thousands of fair-goers, I saw people of all ages enjoying themselves.  Kids made their own art, people could paint a donated car, and adults and kids alike played bingo and searched the fair for images on their cards. Local restaurants took part in the festivites, and many types of food were offered and devoured by the crowd.  Live music added to the ambiance of the weekend, it was a nice breath of fresh, warm, summer air.  Embracing the culture and enjoying the part of Chicago that makes the rough winters worth while– the summer fairs are what brings the people of Chicago together, and this one certainly impressed me.

Roscoe Village is a welcoming neighborhood set back by the Chicago River on the North Side.   I had the pleasure of attending Retro on Roscoe this past weekend, and had a wonderful time.  This festival is held to raise money for the community, and it is run solely by volunteers.  Over 350 volunteer community members are who made this weekend (and many other events throughout the year) possible.  The excitement and dedication that the volunteers feel towards their community speaks volumes about the attitude of the area.  Everyone comes out (many dressed in “retro” style) for this family-oriented weekend  to enjoy live musical entertainment, games for kids, antique cars on display, delicious food from local restaurants, and lots of superb shopping from all the different local  shops and boutiques. 

It is amazing the way Roscoe Village has managed to keep its small town feel in the middle of a huge city.  On one hand it is not densely populated, and therefore is favored by families looking for a nice neighborhood to raise their children (while staying within the city’s limits). On the other hand, it is excellent for young professionals attracted to its buzzing nightlife, plethora of inviting restaurants, and short train ride to downtown. It has become more and more popular over the years, making it a desirable yet affordable option for people looking for a versatile place to live.  Roscoe Village…a village within a city.

           I saw an interesting article in the Chicago Association of Realtors online magazine the other day and wanted to suggest that their approach was of great interest. In the article, they showed that the Chicago residential inventory has risen steadily from 93,514 in 2006, to 115,818 in 2007, to 118,640 in 2008. Meaning, there are more houses on the market, and less people buying them.

           For the week of July 11-July 18^th the number of closings went down each year from 2006 to 2008 for Multi-Units, Attached, and Detached homes. Multi-Units: 103 closed in 2006, 52 closed in 2007, and 39 closed in 2008. Attached homes: 523 closed in 2006, 412 closed in 2007, and 254 closed in 2008. Detached homes: 183 closed in 2006, 153 closed in 2007, and 110 closed in 2008.

           It is easy to see how closing activity has decreased considerably across the board since 2006. What this might mean to you as a seller is that you are now in 2 contests: a beauty contest, and pricing contest. In other words: in order to sell, you must be the prettiest, and the most competitively priced house around. In general, there is more inventory of all property types now, so it may be an ideal time if you are a buyer.

What to read during your search for Chicago Real Estate

Welcome to YOUR resource for the latest news, trends and events in the fantastically unique and diverse neighborhoods of Chicago. The Team at We Sell Chicago will be writing about life and homes in Chicago  from Bucktown/Wicker Park to Lakeview, Gold Coast to Lincoln Park, New Eastside to River North, Old Town to South Loop and Streeterville to West Loop. To follow the market in these neighborhoods, check back frequently.  Learn everything you need to know to find the community within Chicago that you will want to call home.