Calling Off the Party: A Class Act

A real estate agent in downtown Chicago, I hang my hat (or license, if you will) at Rubloff Residential Properties. It' s a legendary independent institution with two owners who share one mission: whatever you do, do it with class. That's the culture at Rubloff. That's the only way to go. Everybody wins...broker clients, broker agents.

So how can the head guys cancel the company's awsome annual Christmas party, as they announced a couple days back, and still keep their class-act reputation intact?

Fair question. Easy answer.

Instead of footing the tab for the holiday hoopla, this one time around Rubloff's top honchos informed that they would be making a (no doubt significant) donation to the Chicagoland Food Depository. The gesture means a whole bunch of Chicago's neediest citizens can expect to receive food baskets a bit fuller than if the party had played on.

A very nice turn of events? Just ask the jolly guy in the vibrant red suit. At last sighting, he had a wide, wide Rubloff grin on his white-bearded face.

Happy holidays to all.

BAULER PARK: The Ugly Duckling that grew to be a Jewel

We've lived kitty corner for 28 years from Bauler at 1901 North Cleveland in Chicago's Lincoln Park area. Today, the park is teeming with toddlers expending endless enery as the bound from slides to swings to climbing bars. And other exciting play stations. It's a scene that goes from dawn to dusk. It was not always thus in this 60614 zip code. Early on, Bauler and its tacky environs, attracted ruffians and trouble seekers. Time and persisten homeowners have wrought a wondrous change. Sweat equity, creative fund raising and support from the park district have made Bauler a jewel. Just one of many in the city where I take great pride in helping peope sell and buy homes.

Chicago Market: Sturdy As You Go

Year to date in downtown Chicago, condo prices have remained strong. In fact, in seven of eight popular areas, units have increased in value. Increases ranging from 3.2% to 46.5%. The areas inlcude The Gold Coast, Lincoln Park, Lakeview, Roscoe Village, The Loop, West Town and The South Loop. Prices in the Near Westside show a scant .59% decline.

My transactions are up 15% for the same period this year versus last.

Sure we are in the midst of tough times. But Chicago is relative fortunate in that it has an economy of diversified busines and industry and an allure that makes people want to call the Windy City home.

Tough times: sure. A buyers market: absolutely. Hope for sellers: without a doubt, providing they have an attractive property that is reasonably priced.

I am right now staring at the "Top Producer" certifcate awarded me by the Chicago Association of Realtors. A hard-earned recognition. A CAR executive observed recently that the "...feint of heart can't lay claim to the prestigious award. Only the best of the best can."

My absolute best. That's what I strive to deliver to each of my clients. No matter whether they are a seller client or a buyer client.

Want to talk about your real estate situation? And how I quite possibly could be instrumental in getting you to the finish line, to that goal you have in mind.
Let the dialogue begin at 312 264-5854. Or e/tmcgavin@rubloff.com.

Challenging times demand grit, savy and professionalism. That's what I am all about.