It Ain't All Big Hair and Cadillacs

I have had a number of clients contact me recently asking when is a good time to list and sell their property? Traditionally around the holidays, the market tends to be slower - fewer buyers are looking, however, there are motivated buyers in the market at all times of the year.

Needless to say, consumers are being bombarded with media reports stating that the real estate market is in the tank - getting worse by the day. Bottomline, all real estate markets are local. They respond to the factors relevant to the local economy, strength of the job market etc.

Chicago real estate is doing okay - while inventories are up, property is selling. For properties that have been on the market longer, sellers are realigning expectations with market conditions. Market times are longer with the availability of inventory at a high. For motivated buyers, this is an opportunity to find more within your price range than has been the case in several years.

To answer my sellers' question - when is a good time to sell / list my property? I tell them list your property to sell when you are truly motivated to sell and move on. That may strike many as an obvious answer, however, the answer assumes that sellers understand the nuances of the current market.

First step prior to listing - determine the facts. What have similar properties SOLD and CLOSED for in the past 3 to 6 months? Recent past sales are generally the best indicators for what the value of your property will be. While that may be the best indicator, the ultimate sale price of your property will be determined by what ready and able buyers will put in writing when they submit a contract. In many cases some negotiating will allow both buyer and seller to arrive at a mutually acceptable price.

What is key to selling your property in a timely fashion is pricing your property at a reasonable and appropriate price. Regardless of the time of year, there are always motivated buyers. Truly motivated buyers will write offers on property that is appropriately and reasonably priced. While current market conditions currently indicate longer market times, it is not unreasonable to expect that appropriately priced property will sell more quickly.

Clearly there are some buyers currently in the market seeking deals and may be motivated to write a "low-ball" offer. Understand not all buyers have the same perceived value of a property. However, if multiple buyers write offers that are in the same of similar price range on a property that is significantly lower than your perceived value, the market is telling you something. Under current market conditions, you may not have the luxury of multiple buyers - you may likely only get one buyer. If you are not priced appropriately, you are likely to have NO buyers.

Again, past sales are the best indicator, however under these market conditions, buyers may be establishing new perceived values due to the available inventory. This is an important factor to consider when you are ready to sell. If you are not ready to listen to the market, you are not ready to sell.

Again - with some understanding of the current market conditions, list your property when you are truly motivated to sell - and be prepared to listen to the market.

3180 N Lake Shore, Unit 4A was recently showcased by Dennis Rodkin from Chicago Magazine as being one of Chicago's deal of the week. Dennis spoke about this property this morning at 8:40am on WGN.

Check it out!

http://www.chicagomag.com/Radar/Deal-Estate/November-2007/This-Week-on-SpikeaNovember-14-price-cuts/

11/9/2007 2:17:00 PM Email this article • Print this article
Waguespack rejects Orloff garage
Alderman says size, neighbor opposition influenced decision

By TIMOTHY INKLEBARGER
Editor


Web Extra!

A controversial parking garage proposal by a luxury car dealership in Bucktown was rejected today by 32nd Ward Alderman Scott Waguespack.

The four-story garage proposed for the corner of Cortland and Hermitage by Howard Orloff Imports was already turned down by the Bucktown Community Organization's zoning subcommittee and the East Bucktown Neighbors, a group that formed earlier this year in opposition to the proposal.

"The community as a whole was vehemently against it," Waguespack said. "They had concerns regarding the damage the project would have done to the predominantly single-family neighborhood, and that's something I can't ignore."

Orloff has argued the garage would help consolidate its fleet of Jaguars, Land Rovers and Volvos that are now stored at various parking lots throughout the neighborhood. Orloff representatives could not be reached by press time.

Orloff has said the company still can build a smaller garage under the existing zoning, but it will not include many of the enhanced design features community organizations have bargained for under the four-story garage proposal.

Philip Edison, chairman of the BCO zoning committee, said the full membership has still not weighed in on the company's request for increased zoning.

"It was rejected [by the BCO zoning committee] really for the overall reason of the building is just too big," Edison said. "We felt the benefit the Orloff guys were getting from a zoning perspective was greater than the benefit the public was getting from the improvements of the garage being there."

He said his committee would reconsider its vote if the car dealer agrees to bring the building down a level by excavating or taking one story off the top.

"We do believe that the idea of building a garage and bringing cars in, rather than having them spread over the neighborhood, would have been improvement," he said.

CONTACT: timinklebarger@chicagojournal.com

Real data regarding the real estate market in Chicago for October, 2007 is not doom and gloom. According to ChicagoCondosOnline.com, based on year to date figures compiled through October, 2007, the city unit sales are down 6% YTD, but the good news is median sales prices are UP 5% compared to 2006.

For detailed charts on Month Over Month and Year Over Year: Go now to:

http://www.chicagocondosonline.com/marketoverview.html

As I advise all of my clients, when hearing and reviewing the data regarding home sales and the overall real estate market, it is very important to maintain proper perspective. When comparing 2007 sales to 2006 sales, one must keep in mind that real estate transactions were historically high in 2006. A 6% decrease in real estate sales in 2007 compared to 2006, a historic year for transactions, that number is not all bad.

If you are looking to purchase a new home, now is a good opportunity to look and purchase. The inventory of available properties is high and selection is at its best. Not only is selection high, interest rates remain at historically low rates. While the sub-prime mortgage collapse has impacted the mortgage business, it has not impacted credit-worthy buyers with substantial downpayments.

If you are looking to sell your home, the key is be patient and realistic. Market times are high because the inventory of available competing properties is high. If you are motivated to sell quickly, you must be realistic with your asking price. Contrary to what you may hear on the news or read in the paper, home/condos are selling. As is the case under any market conditions - properly priced property generally sells in the shortest period.

TRAC PRESS CONFERENCE A SUCCESS

Reyna Luna and John Kane speak at the TRAC Press Conference with this message: "Take Property Tax Hikes off the table"

The Tax Reform Action Coalition (TRAC) PRESS CONFERENCE at City Hall succeeds in bringing our message:

TAKE PROPERTY TAX HIKES OFF THE BUDGET TABLE

Now you can carry the message even farther.

CALL YOUR ALDERMAN
Click here to find you Alderman

CALL YOUR COOK COUNTY COMMISSIONER
Click here to find your Commissioner

CALL MAYOR RICHARD DALEY
312-744-3300

CALL PRESIDENT TODD STROGER
312-603-6400


STOP TAXING US OUT OF OUR HOMES

As a result of politics in Springfield, homeowners in Cook County will receive minimal and short-lived relief. The property tax increases proposed by Mayor Daley and President Stroger could eliminate any miniscule tax break. TRAC demands that these proposed property tax increases be taken off the table.

For more on the Tax Reform Action Coalition visit www.trac-il.org

PASS THIS EMAIL AROUND
MAKE THOSE PHONE CALLS
TODAY

PROPERTY TAX BILLS
Expect your tax bills to go out in the mail during the first week of November.

Your second installment PROPERTY TAX BILLS will be due December 3, 2007.

THERE IS NO BETTER TIME THAN NOW TO DEMAND REAL PROPERTY TAX REFORM

TRAC calls for FAIR and PREDICTABLE PROPERTY ASSESSMENTS.
LEARN about a better plan for real property tax reform:

ACQUISITION BASED ASSESSING = FAIR and PREDICTABLE property assessments

Learn about TRAC's campaign to implement ABA at the Cook County level.

For information contact: trac.president@gmail.com


ABA = FAIR and PREDICTABLE

Call or e-mail your legislator today and urge them to vote against the proposed Real Estate Transfer Tax for the CTA/RTA. Even if you've taken action in the past month, please do so again. This issue is being considered again.

A VOTE ON THIS PROPOSAL COULD TAKE PLACE IN THE ILLINOIS LEGISLATURE ANY DAY NOW.

Senate Bill 572, as amended includes the authority for the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) and the City of Chicago to impose a real estate transfer tax of $3 per $1,000 within the city of Chicago WITHOUT VOTER APPROVAL.

The Illinois Association of REALTORS and the Chicago Association of REALTORS STRONGLY OPPOSE this proposal and urge you to contact your Representative and Senator and urge them to REJECT this proposed transfer tax increase.

There are other revenue proposals being considered at this time. Legislators do not have to make property owners pay more.

This is ANOTHER LAYER OF TAXING authority on property owners in Chicago where a very high home rule municipal real estate transfer tax is already in place ($7.50 per $1,000 paid by the buyer) in addition to the State and county real estate transfer tax (combined $1.50 per $1,000 on the seller).

Illinois law also is very clear in that VOTER INPUT is required to impose a new or to increase an existing home rule real estate transfer tax. This proposal contravenes that public policy.

As you are well aware, the real estate transfer tax is a "hidden" property tax because most property owners are not aware of it until they buy or sell property.

PLEASE CALL YOUR LEGISLATOR AND URGE A NO VOTE. ASK THEM WHY PROPERTY OWNERS ARE BEING REQUIRED TO BAIL OUT THE CTA.

To send an e-mail to your Senator and Rep., follow the prompts below.

To call your STATE legislator, go to www.ilga.gov to find your legislators' Springfield phone numbers (the one with a 217 area code). Click on "Legislator Look-up" Or, dial 217/782-2000(Capitol switchboard) and ask to be transferred to your legislator's office if you know the name.

Click the link below to log in and send your message:
http://votervoice.net/target.aspx?id=ilar:19234796

You have received this message because you have subscribed to a mailing list of Illinois Association of REALTORS. If you do not wish to receive periodic emails from this source, please click below to unsubscribe.

IMMEDIATE ACTION NEEDED - HELP SAVE THE CTA

Without immediate state funding, 53 percent of all CTA bus routes will disappear in less than three months - including every lakefront express currently serving Edgewater.

Without funding, some of the routes will be dropped in early November, others in January. If nothing is done, you can say goodbye to the #136 Sheridan/LaSalle and the #147 Outer Drive Express - and enjoy the sole remaining lakefront route, the #151 Sheridan, and the Red Line, both of which are sure to be slower and more crowded than ever.

Other important buses, including the #92 Foster and many other east-west routes on the north side, will also vanish, and fares will rise between 11 and 63 percent. All told, the CTA's current funding crisis will result in the most devastating transit cuts in history. This will be a double whammy for Edgewater because more of the additional traffic from the North and West will be traveling through, and increasing pollution to,our community.

There is still time to stop this nightmare scenario from happening - but the General Assembly and Governor Blagojevich must enact a permanent solution before the first round of cuts on November 4. Our local representatives have been working to prevent these cuts. However, the governor and the legislative leadership needs to hear from you. NOW is the crucial time to make your voice heard, as the legislature is reportedly scheduled to reconvene on November lst to address public transit and other funding issues.

Please email, fax or call the statement below to the individuals listed and tell them that these transit cuts and fare increases will devastate Edgewater, the City of Chicago, and indeed the entire region.

As a resident of the Edgewater Community in Chicago, I implore you to find a permanent solution to the mass transit financial crisis - not another bail-out or quick fix - before the November 4 CTA cuts and fare increases go into effect. I sincerely hope that you will join together to solve this issue that will severly impact hundreds of thousands of people across the city and region and damage the economy and the region's world-class status.

Governor Rod Blagojevich
www.illinois.gov
Phone: 217-782-6830
FAX: 217-558-0897

House Speaker Michael Madigan
mmadigan@hds.ilga.gov
Phone: 773-581-8000
FAX: 773-581-9414

Senate President Emil Jones, Jr.
jjones@senatedem.state.il.us
Phone: 217-782-2728
FAX: 773-995-9061

Senator Carol Ronen
ronen@senate.dem.state.il.us
Phone: 773-769-1717
FAX: 773-769-6901

Representative Harry Osterman
hjo17@aol.com
Phone: 773-784-2002
FAX: 773-784-2060

Representative Greg Harris
greg@gregharris.org
Phone: 773-348-3434
FAX: 773-348-3475

###



* * *


Edgewater Community Council

With the advent of companies currently looking to drive down the cost of the real estate commissions earned by real estate agents/brokers, the focus appears to be solely on costs.

From a consumer's perspective, where does the value lie in the process? What does the value chain look like?

posted 14 hours ago in Supply Chain Management, E-Commerce | Clarify my question

I am facinated with new tools and processes which improve the way I can do my job - but also, how my clients can better educate themselves with the process of buying and selling real estate.

Redfin and Zillow are two excellent examples of companies which are focused on reducing the transaction costs of buying and selling real estate by empowering the consumer with information and tools.

While I am a strong believer that an experienced real estate agent / broker adds tremendous value, what in your opinion are the future trends that may fundamentally change the way we transact the purchase and sale of real estate?

Where are the opportunities today?

Edgewater Community Council, Inc. ¨ 6044 N. Broadway ¨ Chicago, Illinois 60660 ¨ 773-334-5609


Edgewater Community Council (ECC) is a 501(c) (3) not-for-profit and voluntary membership organization formed in 1960 to improve the quality of life in the diverse Edgewater community. The Edgewater community is located between Foster Avenue (5200N) and Devon Avenue (6400N), and between Lake Michigan and Ravenswood Avenue (1800W)



Community Planning Meeting
on the Re-use of the
Ridge Fire Station

Thursday, October 18, 2007
Edgewater Baptist Church
1401 West Hollywood at Glenwood
7:00 p.m.


We are asking all who are interested to join neighbors and community groups to provide input on the future of the Ridge Avenue Fire Station. A new firehouse is being constructed and this historic building will be available for some other use. Alderman Mary Ann Smith has stated that she would like to see the station preserved and that a new use be found that would bring local people in and allow them to enjoy the building.

Under the sponsorship of ECC, Mike Rohrbeck has agreed to facilitate a community planning process to examine how this facility can continue to be an asset to the Edgewater Community.

The planning sponsor for this meeting is the Edgewater Community Council and the meeting host is the ETNA Block Club. Refreshments are provided courtesy of the Edgewater Baptist Church.

For more information, contact Sue Morales at 773-728-2573 or via email at mail@etnabc.org

PROPERTY RELIEF GETS HIT BY TAX HIKE

"Oh great. Mayor Daley was waiting for the state to pass a property tax relief bill before he dared to push the biggest property tax increase in Chicago history.

Lawmakers complied Friday -- but picked the version that gives the least relief to battered homeowners. The bad news just keeps coming..."

Click here to read more in the Sun Times

REACTION TO THE PROPERTY TAX RELIEF EXTENSION...

"We're held over a barrel because of the legislative Ping-Pong that has gone on and because of a conflict of interest," said state Sen. Kwame Raoul (D-Chicago).

Raoul was referring to Madigan's side business representing downtown building owners, who said Blagojevich's version of the tax-relief plan would shift even more tax burden from homeowners to them."

Read more... (click here for the Sun Times article)

PROPERTY TAX BILLS
Expect your tax bills around November 1, 2007. They will be due for payment within 30 days of the mailing date.

Stay tuned for a protest rally! Details will follow...

THERE IS NO BETTER TIME THAN NOW TO DEMAND REAL PROPERTY TAX REFORM

TRAC calls for FAIR and PREDICTABLE PROPERTY ASSESSMENTS.
LEARN about a better plan for real property tax reform:

ACQUISITION BASED ASSESSING
= FAIR and PREDICTABLE property assessments

Learn about TRAC's campaign to implement ABA at the Cook County level.

For information contact: trac.president@gmail.com

ABA = FAIR and PREDICTABLE

Midwest home sales up in August despite national slide

By Lorene Yue
Sept. 27, 2007

(Crain’s) — More new Midwest homes sold in August compared to July, a striking contrast to the national trend where sales fell last month to the lowest level in seven years.

Roughly 135,000 new homes sold in the 12-state Midwest region, a 20.5% increase from July, according to figures released Thursday by the U.S. Department of Commerce. On a year-to-year comparison, Midwest sales are lagging last year by 11.2%.

Across the nation, sales fell 8.3% in August from July or a seasonally adjusted rate of 795,000 homes. That was the lowest national level since June 2000, when sales clocked in at a pace of 793,000.

Analysts chalked up the Midwest's fortune as a combination of aggressive discounting by homebuilders, a credit crunch that has had a greater negative impact on either coast and data anomaly.

"In a monthly number, I wouldn't put too much weight in it," said Diane Swonk, chief economist for Mesirow Financial. "It can be a quirk in the data."

Kevin Thorpe, manager of housing statistics for the National Association of Realtors, said the Midwest gain could be a bounce back from low July numbers. The Midwest posted a decline in July home sales from June while the rest of the nation saw increases.

The home sales report came on the same day that the government reported a relatively brisk business growth rate in revised figures for the second quarter. But the 3.8 percent pace was less than previously estimated and it occurred before the credit crisis and its repercussions across the broad spectrum of the economy had taken hold.

The national median sales price in August fell by 7.5 percent from a year earlier to $225,700.

That was the biggest drop in percentage terms in nearly 37 years. The median price is the middle point at which half sell for more and half for less. The average sales price dropped by 8 percent in August from a year earlier to $292,000. That was the biggest decline in 17 years.

Sales fell in the South and the West in August compared with July. Sales in the Northeast rose 43.2% in August from July.

The new-homes sales report, combined with other recent economic reports showing a sharp drop in demand for big-ticket manufactured goods in August, suggested the U.S. economy lost momentum as it headed into the fall.

On Wall Street, investors looked to the weak home sales report as justification for another rate cut by the Federal Reserve. The Dow Jones industrial average was up slightly in afternoon trading.

(Associated Press contributed to this story.)

We need your help

Please read below and make the calls! Homeowners are caught in the middle...we need our State Rep's to know that we want this bill passed with the changes that the Governor made last week! It raises the exemption up to $40,000 and makes it PERMANENT

Please make the calls and pass it along. The legislature will be back in session next week. We only have 2 weeks to get this done...Please make these calls...we could end up with nothing which would mean HUGE increases for everyone

Thank you.

Barb Head


T R A C NEWS
ABA = Fair and Predictable
September 26, 2007

In This Issue
Make these CALLS
_____________________
Fair and Predictable Property Assessments

Click here to join our mailing list

REMEMBER to use the "Forward email" below.
Your personalized touch will help spread the word

TRAC CALL TO ACTION!
The Governor sent an Amendatory Veto to the House of Representatives calling for a permanent 7% property assessment cap with a maximum $40,000 alternative general homeowners exemption.

Read the press release
Read the story

But the changes must be approved by both the House and the Senate and there are TWO things you must do today:
1) Contact your State Representative
http://www.elections.il.gov/DistrictLocator/ (follow this link to find your State Rep)

Ask for QUICK ACTION on HB 664 - the 7% CAP, say that you want the legislature to PASS the Amendatory Veto
and provide a permanent $40,000 Homeowners Property Tax Exemption
2) CONTACT THE SPONSOR OF HOUSE BILL 664 - the 7% cap

State Representative Barbara Flynn Currie
DISTRICT OFFICE:
1303 East 53rd Street
Chicago IL 60615
773-667-0550
773-667-3010 (fax)
SPRINGFIELD OFFICE
217-782-8121
217-524-1794 (fax)

PASS the Governor's Amendatory Veto

TRAC calls for FAIR and PREDICTABLE PROPERTY ASSESSMENTS in Cook County
TRAC has a better plan for real property tax reform:

ACQUISITION BASED ASSESSING
= FAIR and PREDICTABLE property assessments

Learn about TRAC's campaign to implement ABA at the Cook County level.

For information contact: trac.president@gmail.com


ABA = FAIR and PREDICTABLE

TRAC | 867 W. Buckingham Place | Chicago | IL | 60657

In Need of Commercial Land

My client is actively seeking commercial plots of land that are NOT currently listed or not officially on the market with the following requirements:

a minimum of 15,000 square feet or greater
zoned ideally C1 or greater (automotive use) - will consider mixed use
high traffic area - ideally at major intersection or along high traffic thoroughfare
vacant or existing structure(s)
within 60 mile radius of Chicago Loop, excluding Northern Indiana
If you have a pocket listing for commercial land that meets the above requirements, please contact me at thall@rubloff.com or 773 572 4418.

Thanks!

Tom

Transit is key to Edgewater's and all of Chicago's current and future livelihood. We must continue to push for the appropriate support for transit, and here is another opportunity for us to keep transit and Edgewater moving forward together. See below for more details.

Rally to Save Mass Transit

Join Mayor Richard M. Daley, DuPage County Chairman Robert Schillerstrom, House Mass Transit Committee Chair Representative Julie Hamos, House Mass Transit Committee Minority Spokesperson Representative Sid Mathiasand fellow advocates in support of transit funding and reform.

Tuesday, August 28th, Rally begins at 11:30 a.m.James R. Thompson Center - outdoor plaza
100 W. Randolph - Chicago, IL

Dear Partner for Transit:

Join elected officials, representatives from the civic, business and labor communities and transit advocates from across the region in support of Senate Bill 572 on Tuesday, August 28th at 11:30 a.m. at the Thompson Center's outdoor plaza, Clark and Randolph streets in Chicago.

The General Assembly must act quickly to avoid fare hikes and service cuts that are scheduled for September. Show your support for transit investments and urge elected officials to act now!
Support Senate Bill 572 and Save Mass Transit!

For more information on how you can save mass transit please visit: http://movingbeyondcongestion.org/

Edgewater Development Corporation www.edgewaterdev.org info@edgewataerdev.org 773-506-4016

ECC WISH LIST

As a community based non-profit, ECC is always looking for ways to defray internal expenses so that ourdollars can be used to serve the community. If you can assist us in donations, please call the ECC office at 773-334-5609.

Some items that would be helpful to the organization and its' programs are:

· Office supplies-pens, copy paper, 9x12 mailing envelopes,other general office supplies, etc...
· Digital Camera
· Color Printer
· Donations of services such as plumbers, electricians, etc.
Our Youth Arts Program would benefit greatly from donations of the following:
· Paints and Markers
· Colored Pencils
· Mat paper
· Paper
· Shelving units is good shape
· Storage Units with locks in good working condition
· Tables and chairs for use during art projects
· PC computers and screens-no more than one year of age

Our Balkan Outreach Program is in need of the following for their Tuesday morning sewing classes:
· 5 portable sewing machines in good working order

All donations are fully tax deductible in accordance with the law. All donors will be sent letters for tax purposes and as a thank you for your donation

48TH WARD ZONING and PLANNING VOTES TO SUPPORT TIF

On June 27th, the 48th Ward Zoning and Planning Committee voted in support of the Edgewater TIF. The establishment of a new Tax Increment Finance District was recommended by Alderman Mary Ann Smith. The Committee first voted to establish an oversight committee on all 48th Ward TIFs.

The first TIF expense will be to renovate the 190 units of low income housing for seniors at Hollywood House. The proposed cost for this renovation will be over $6 million dollars.

The Edgewater TIF is generally bounded by Rosemong Avenue on the north to Ainslie on the south, running principally along the frontage of Broadway on the west to Sheridan and Marine Drive on the east.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE-VOLUNTEER

Have you been looking for something to do that will make a change for the better in your life and the life of your community? You have already made a commitment to Edgewater by living here-have you thought about how you, your family, and friends can contribute to making a difference for the better in our community? The Edgewater Community Council has numerous volunteer opportunities for everyone of all ages. Are you interested in neighborhood safety? in public transportation issues? in beautifying the neighborhood?, are you interested in donating a few hours a week to assisting in office work? - if so, the Edgewater Community Council may be your answer.

You decide how involved you want to be-you might choose to join one the task force committees of ECC-Transportation, Safety, Planning & Development, Edgewater Beautiful, Communications, Fundraising, Education-there are many opportunities. You might also think about a time limited project through many of our on-going activities such as Edgewater Beautiful-planting flowers, cleaning up near the "L" stops, a few hours of your time with family, friends and neighbors makes a world of difference in the community and for all its residents.
You can pick and choose what you would like to do - it's a great way to become involved and see the results of your efforts.

Since 1960, the Edgewater Community Council has linked residents, businesses, elected officials with shared interests and concerns to enhance the lives of the diverse group of residents who compose the neighborhood of Edgewater. When concerned people join together they become a community, the community then acts, and when they act, they make a positive change for all residents.

Some upcoming volunteer activities include the following:

Assisting in answering phones in the Edgewater Community Council, 6044 North Broadway
· Assist in the preparation of mailing
· Help with setup and clean up for National Night Out-August 7th
· Participate in one of the task force committees of the Board- Safety, Transportation, Edgewater Beautiful, Planning & Development, Communications, & Fundraising
· Assist in planning the Fall ECC Fundraiser
· Other opportunities coming up!

If you want to make a difference, and want to volunteer on a local level, please contact the Edgewater Community Council at 6044 North Broadway, 773-334-5609

You will be amazed at how your volunteer efforts enhance your life and the life of your community.

EDGEWATER BACK ALLEY JAZZ FESTIVAL
TO BE HELD ON
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2007

What started out as a tiny block club fest has blossomed into a much larger festival that has created a greater sense of community within Edgewater. The Back Alley Jazz Festival will be held on Glenwood Avenue between Devon and Rosemont Avenues on Saturday, September 8, 2007. The Festival hours will be 2:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m. Entertainment will include The Dale Prasco Band and Lubrifoni, along with other exciting artists including fire dancers, the Rickover Naval Academy jazz band and color guard. The festival will also include artisans showcasing and selling everything from homemade candles to hand-crafted jewelry to one-of-a-kind works of art.

This is a kid friendly event that will have many activities for children from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. including face-painting. Food and drinks will be sold by area restaurants including Edgewater's newest neighbors, Uncommon Ground.

Tickets for the event are $5.00 for ages 16 years and older. Any profits from the Back Alley Jazz Festival will be donated to the Care For Real Edgewater Food Pantry.

For additional information contact Tom Opper at topper@revgen440.com or Troy McMillan at t8mcmillan@gmail.com

Call and write to your legislator today and urge them to vote against the proposed Real Estate Transfer Tax for the RTA. Even if you've taken action in the past month, please do so again. This issue is being considered again!

Senate Bill 572, as amended includes the authority for the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) to impose a real estate transfer tax of $3 per $1,000 within the city of Chicago WITHOUT VOTER APPROVAL.

The Illinois Association of REALTORS and the Chicago Association of REALTORS STRONGLY OPPOSE this proposal and urge you to contact your Representative and Senator and urge them to REJECT this proposed transfer tax increase.

It is very troubling to give this statutory authority to levy a real estate transfer tax to a special taxing district governed by an APPOINTED Board.

This is ANOTHER LAYER OF TAXING authority on property owners in Chicago where a very high home rule municipal real estate transfer tax is already in place ($7.50 per $1,000 paid by the buyer) in addition to the State and county real estate transfer tax (combined $1.50 per $1,000 on the seller).

Illinois law also is very clear in that VOTER INPUT is required to impose a new or to increase an existing home rule real estate transfer tax. This proposal contravenes that public policy.
As you are well aware, the real estate transfer tax is a "hidden" property tax because most property owners are not aware of it until they buy or sell property.

SB 572 is sponsored by Representatives Julie Hamos, Paul Froehlich and Kathy Ryg and Senator John Cullerton and Ira Silverstein. To send an e-mail to your Senator and Rep., follow the prompts below. To call your STATE legislator, go to https://email.rubloff.com/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.ilga.gov to find your legislators' Springfield phone numbers (the one with a 217 area code). Click on "Legislator Look-up" Click the link below to log in and send your message:http://votervoice.net/target.aspx?id=ilar:17793562

You have received this message because you have subscribed to a mailing list of Illinois Association of REALTORS. If you do not wish to receive periodic emails from this source, please click below to unsubscribe.
powered by voterVOICE

To unsubscribe from this mailing list click here.
Illinois Association of REALTORS I 3180 Adloff Lane, Suite 400 I Springfield, IL 62703 Ph. 217/529-2600 I FAX 217/529-3904 I https://email.rubloff.com/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.illinoisrealtor.org I IARaccess@iar.org

NATIONAL NIGHT OUT EVENT

Sponsored by the Edgewater Community Council and State Representative Harry Osterman

*SEND A STRONG MESSAGE TO CRIMINALS TO STAY AWAY FROM EDGEWATER AND OFF OF OUR STREETS*

TUESDAY, AUGUST 7, 2007

7:30 PM - NEIGHBORHOOD WALK - Meet at Edgewater Library, 1210 W. Elmdale

8:l5 PM - ROLL CALL BY OFFICERS OF THE 20TH AND 24TH DISTRICTS led by District Commanders Kathleen Boehmer and Bruce Rottner. 1000 W. Thorndale at the Corner of Thorndale and Winthrop.

MEET AND GREET - Immediately following the ROLL CALL. Swift School Playlot, complimentary food, soft drinks, prizes for the best poster and more . . .


Opportunity to meet your neighbors, person living down the street and the Police Officers that serve our area and have some fun.

National Night Out is a nation-wide event started 23 years ago to heighten crime and drug awareness, generate support for anti-crime programs and strengthen community and police partnerships in fighting back crime.

BRING YOUR FLASHLIGHTS AND ENJOY THE NIGHT!

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www.edgewatercommunitycouncil.org
Edgewater Community Council, Inc. ¨ 6044 N. Broadway ¨ Chicago, Illinois 60660 ¨ 773-334-5609

Edgewater Community Council (ECC) is a 501(c) (3) not-for-profit and voluntary membership organization formed in 1960 to improve the quality of life in the diverse Edgewater community. The Edgewater community is located between Foster Avenue (5200N) and Devon Avenue (6400N), and between Lake Michigan and Ravenswood Avenue (1800W).

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Edgewater Community Council

YOU'RE INVITED TO A BEER TASTING


The Edgewater Community Council cordially invites you, your neighbors, and friends to a Beer Tasting Event to be held on Wednesday, July 18th at Hopleaf bar located at 5148 North Clark Street.

This fun evening will consist of the learning and tasting about some of the best beers around, great food, and a raffle. This is a great way to meet new people, enjoy the company of old friends, and have a wonderful evening in a great Edgewater location.

Tickets are strictly limited to 40 persons and the cost of each ticket is $50.00 - to reserve your tickets, or to find out more about the event, call the Edgewater Community Council at 773-334-5609 during regular business hours.

What: A Beer Tasting

Where: Hopleaf Bar
5l48 North Clark Street

When: Wednesday, July 18th, 2007
6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m.

Sponsor: The Edgewater Community Council
6044 North Broadway
Chicago, Illinois 60660

Tickets &
Information: Tickets are $50.00 per person and the event is
limited to 40 people. For ticket reservations and
additional information contact ECC at
773-334-5609

Don't miss out on this great evening! call 773-334-5609

May home sales in Illinois up from previous month.

Total home sales rose 10.9 percent in May 2007 to 14,349 homes sold compared to 12,932 homes sold in April 2007. Sales were 18.6 percent below the 17,622 homes sold in May 2006. The Illinois median home price was $205,000, equal to the median price a year earlier.

Illinois Housing Statistics
May Illinois Home Sales Up from Previous MonthStatewide Median Price Remains $205,000
May home sales in Illinois rose for the fourth consecutive month in 2007 yet are lower than sales from May 2006. According to the Illinois Association of REALTORS latest report, total home sales (which include single-family and condominiums) were up 10.9 percent in May 2007 to 14,349 homes sold compared to 12,932 homes sold in April 2007. Sales were 18.6 percent below the 17,622 homes sold in May 2006. The Illinois median home price in May was $205,000, equal to the median price a year earlier. Year-to-date, sales were down 14.7 percent to 56,775 homes sold in 2007 compared to 66,575 homes sold January through May 2006.

“Overall sales are improving each month and we are still seeing positive gains in the median home sale price in many market areas in the state despite the overall housing market adjustment we are experiencing. Illinois REALTORS are reporting homes that are priced correctly and in move-in condition are selling,” said Robert Zoretich, president of the Illinois Association of REALTORS. “We continue to be in a strong buyers’ market with interest rates inching up and inventory levels giving buyers a greater variety of homes. Sellers are gradually becoming more realistic and flexible in the pricing of their properties.” Read the full release.
Illinois Median Price Slightly Higher in the First Quarter of 2007; Sales Down 14.2 Percent from a Year Ago

Home prices in Illinois held steady as weather in the first quarter of 2007 dampened sales activity. Total home sales (which include single-family homes and condominiums) totaled 29,390, down 14.2 percent from 34,235 home sales in the first quarter of 2006. The first quarter median home sale price was $197,000, up 0.5 percent from $196,000 a year earlier. The average sale price was $251,375, up 1.9 percent from $246,610 for the same period a year ago.

“Like the rest of the nation, the Illinois housing market took a hit from extreme winter weather in the first few months of the year but we should see activity picking up as buyers take advantage of the dynamics in place with this market including solid inventory levels, low interest rates and a range of housing options available across the state,” said Robert Zoretich, president of the Illinois Association of REALTORS. “As home sales moderate, overall home prices will be essentially flat this year. It’s too early to measure a significant impact from tighter lending standards due to the subprime fallout, which could moderately dampen activity, but we’re still looking for existing-home sales to gradually improve during the last half of 2007.” Read the full release.
Link to the 1Q07 release and detailed first quarter reports.

ILLINOIS SUPREME COURT UPHOLDS EDGEWATER COMMUNITY LIQUOR REFERENDUM- DRY VOTE GOES INTO EFFECT ON MAY 5TH, 2007

The dry vote finally went into effect Friday, May 5th and prohibits retail sales of alcohol of any kind in the 32nd precinct of the 48th ward (Rosemont to Glenlake on Winthrop and Granville to Glenlake on Kenmore (west side), except for liquor served in a restaurant (incidental). The successful vote dry referendum election was held on February 25th, 2003, but its effect were delayed for 4 years by liquor stores who filed two lawsuits.

The Edgewater Community Council spearheaded the proposed referendum in 2003 and has continuously worked to secure its passage. ECC began a petition drive, sent letters to voters, and begin a tireless effort to ensure the passage of the referendum. With the pro bono assistance of Mayer, Brown, Rowe & Maw, LLP and attorney Patricia Sharkey, fours years of litigation including filings and appeals in the Illinois Circuit Court, the Illinois Appeals Court, cumulated in Patricia Sharkey arguing the case before the Illinois Supreme Court in November of 2006. The Illinois Supreme Court's decision was rendered in January of 2007. The Mandate of the Supreme Court ordering a reversal of the Illinois Circuit Court decision was issued on April 30, 2007.

On May 5th, 2007, the City of Chicago Department of Permits and Licenses issued an order revoking the liquor licenses of Granville and Sun Liquors (the only liquor stores in the precinct). That order was served by the 24th District Police on the owners at approximately 2:30 p.m. on the 5th. From that moment, the liquor sales were prohibited and the stores had a brief period of time to remove all liquor from the premises.

For over 20 years community residents have had problems with these liquor store owners and the public drinking, drug dealing, and prostitution that circled around their establishments. Edgewater Community Council began tackling this issue over four years ago-and with the persistence and dedication of Patricia Sharkey, Mayer, Brown, Rowe & Maw LLP, and the dedication of community residents who supported our efforts, we are grateful that this matter has been resolved in the courts.

Throughout this four year battle-Mayer, Brown, Rowe & Maw, LLP, allowed attorney Patricia Sharkey to represent the Edgewater Community Council and the individual citizen intervenors on a pro bono basis by funding hundreds of legal hours. The Edgewater Community Council is deeply indebted to Mayer, Brown, Rowe & Maw, LLP and very grateful for the commitment and dedication of Patricia Sharkey. Also, Ms. Sharkey serves as the President of the ENN, Block Club, Edgewater.

NATIONAL NIGHT OUT SCHEDULED FOR TUESDAY, AUGUST 7, 2007 IN EDGEWATER

The Edgewater Community Council invites you to attend the annual "National Night Out" on Tuesday, August 7th, 2007. ECC is organizing a "Neighborhood Meet and Greet" at the Swift School play lot and all are welcome.

Last year's "National Night Out" involved citizens, law enforcement agencies, civic groups, businesses, neighborhood organizations and local officials from over 10,000 communities from all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities and military bases worldwide. In all, 34 million people participated in "National Night Out" in 2006. ECC for its' part had a "Neighborhood March" along trouble spots on Kenmore, Winthrop, Granville and Thorndale. The event was concluded with a Roll Call of the 20th and 24th Police District.

"National Night Out" is designed to:Heighten crime and drug prevention awareness;
Generate support for, and participation in, local anticrime partnerships; and
Strengthen neighborhood spirit for, and participation in, local anticrime programs
·Send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back

For more information on the event, please contact Aida Kulasic at 773-381-1345 or by email aidakulasic@edgewatercommunitycouncil.org You can also find more information about the "National Night Out" at www.nationalnightout.org.

JUNE CALENDAR OF EVENTS

AA and Al Anon meetings:

North Shore Baptist Church, 5244 N. Lakewood, 773-728-4200: AA Sat. 10 am, 4 pm; Youth AA, Wed. 6:30 pm; AA/Alanon, Wed. 8 pm; Immanuel Lutheran Church, 1500 W. Elmdale, 773-743-1800: Al Anon Fri. 10:15 am; St. Gertrude Ministry Center, 6214 N. Glenwood: 773-561-5343: Al Anon Thurs. 7:30 pm, St. Ita's Church,5500 N. Broadway, 773-561-7343 : AA Tue. 7 pm; Ebenezer Lutheran Church, 1650 W. Foster, 773-334- 5609: AA Mediation, Tue. 7:45 pm, AA Thur.7:45 pm, AA Fri. 7:30 pm, AA Sat. 7 pm, Women's A A, Sun. 6 pm, Men's AA Sun. 6 pm.; Church of the Atonement 5749 N. Kenmore, 773-271-2727: AA Mon: 8 am, 7pm;CA, 8 pm; NA Tue., 7:30 pm; AA Wed. 6 pm, AA Thurs. 7 pm, AA, Fri., 7 pm.

Chicago Public Library's High Speed Wireless Internet System, Edgewater Library, 1210 W. Elmdale.

All you need is a wireless enabled laptop computer, tablet PC or PDA. Library's network is open to all visitors and free of charge without filters. 312-744-0718

Neighborhood Walks are conducted every Monday by the EPIC Block Club and North Edgewater Beach Association. Cellular phones are used for 311 and 911 calls. Walks begin at 8:00 pm northeast corner of Thorndale and Broadway. Dogs on leashes are welcome. Information 773-381-1345

Dog Walking/Safety Patrol, 6 pm, every Thursday, meet in front of Swift School, 5900 N. Winthrop,773-334-5609

Edgewater Historical Society Museum, Open every Saturday, 1-4 pm, 5358 N. Ashland, 773-506-4849

Sewing Classes Every Tuesday, 10 am -12 pm, 6044 N.Broadway, 773-381-1346
Teacher in the Library, Mon., Tue, Thur.,3:30-7:00 pm, Wed., 5:30 pm, Help with Homework, Edgewater Library, 1210 W. Elmdale, 312-744-0718

Cellphone/Printer Cartridge Recycling Program, Gerber/ Hart Library, 1127 W. Granville, accepts expired cellphone and computer printer cartridges, 773-381-8030

Llinnaeus Birthday Celebration: Floral Families, Folk Fashion, Fine Art, continuing through June 10, Swedish American Museum Center, 5211 N. Clark, 773-728-8111

Edgewater Neighborhood Garage Sale, 9 am-4 pm, Broadway to Clark, Ridge to Granville,sponsored by BARGE, EGA, EPIC, NET block clubs, 773-271-2909

Saturday Book Club, Call Library for Book Title, 11 am, Edgewater Library, 1210 W. Elmdale, Book available at Library, 312-744-0718

Edgewater Glen Association Monthly Open Meeting,7 pm, 6044 N. Broadway, 773-334-5609

Community Policing Beat 2433 Meeting, 7 pm, Edgewater Library, 1210 W. Elmdale, 773-334-5609

ECC Membership Committee Meeting, 7 pm, 6044 N. Broadway, 773-334-5609

ECC/EDC Planning/Development Committee Meeting, 7 pm, 6044 North. Broadway, 773-334-5609

Griffin Theatre Company Annual Benefit, 6 pm, Mary's Attic, 5400 N. Clark, $40 per person , $70 per couple, in advance,$50 per person at door, Reserve tickets by June 1, 773-769-2228

Women's Book Discussion Group, " The Color Purple" by Alice Walker, 7:30-9 :00 pm Gerber/Hart Library, 1127 W. Granville, 773-381- 1030

Andersonville Midsommerfest, 10 am - 4 pm, Art, Entertainment, Food, on Clark Street, in the Heart Andersonville, 773-778-2995, ext. 2

Thorndale L Painting/Repair/Cleanup, 8:30-11:am, hosted by EPIC,NEBA, TAHBS block clubs, Volunteers call 773-334-5609

Edgewater Library Summer Reading Program Kickoff, 11 am, Edgewater Library, 1210 W. Elmdale, 312-744-0718

Arts & Crafts for School Aged Children, 3:30-4:30, Edgewater Library, 1210 W. Elmdalle, Also June 18 & 25, 312-744-0718

Hayt School Local School Council Meeting, 7 pm, Hayt School , 1518 W. Granville, 773-534-2040

Community Policing Beat 2022 Meeting, 7 pm, Church of the Atonement, 5749 N. Kenmore, 773-334-5609

TAHBS Association Meeting,After Beat 2022 Meeting, 773-334-5609

"Get Wild About Reading", Program by Hull House11 am, Edgewater Library, 1210 W. Elmdale, 312-744-0718

Community Policing Beat 2012, 7 p.m. St. Gregory Gym, 1609 West Gregory, 773-334-5609

Edgewater Triangle Neighbors Association Meeting, 7 pm, Edgewater Baptist Church, 1401 W. Hollywood, 773-334-5609

ECC Edgewater Beautiful Committee Meeting, 10 am, 6044 N. Broadway, 773-334-5609

Dance Moves: Learn Dance Steps, 1-2 pm, St. Andrew's Church, 5649 N. Sheridan, also June 21, 28, $12 for 3 classes, Sponsored by Mather Edgewater, Reservations required, 1-888-600-2560

Writers at Heart, 1 pm, Edgewater Library, 1210 W. Elmdale, 312-744-0718

Greek Festival sponsored by Mather Edgewater, 11:30 am, $6, Lunch & Entertainment, St. Andrew's Church, 5649 N. Sheridan, Reserve by June 13, 1-888-600-2560

ECC Education Committee, 7 pm, Edgewater Library, 1210 W. Elmdale, 773-334-5609

ECC Board of Directors Meeting, 7 pm, 6044 N. Broadway, 773- 334-5609

Care for Real Committee Meeting, 7 pm, 6044 N. Broadway, 773- 334-5609

Community Policing Beat 2013 Meeting, 7 pm, Philadelphia Church, 5445 N. Clark, 773-334-5609

ECC Book Club, "Inheritance of Loss " by Kiran Desai, 7 pm, Pause Café, 1107 W. Berwyn, Book available at Edgewater Library, 1210 W. Elmdale, 773-334-5609

Northside Players present "The Audition", 8 pm, North Lakeside Cultural Center, 6519 N. Sheridan, $20, Audience space limited, reservations required 773-293-1358, Parking, $3, Must request with reservation. Continues through July 28

Home Expo II (Grant Mortgage Programs), 10 am-2 pm, Free, sponsored by Edgewater Neighbors Block Club and Edgewater Community Council, 773-386-4565

Tuesday Morning Book Club, " Nazi Officers Wife" by Edith Hahn-Beer, 10 am, Edgewater Library, 1210 W. Elmdale, book available at Edgewater Library, 312-744-0718

Edgewater Beach Neighbors Association Meeting, 7 pm, Edgewater Presbyterian Church, 1020 W. Bryn Mawr, 773-334-5609

Men's Book Discussion Group, "The Line of Beauty" by AlanHollinghurst, Booker Prize Winner,7:30-9 pm, Gerber/Hart Library, 1127 W. Granville, 773-381-8030

ECC Safety Committee Meeting, 7 pm, 6044 N.Broadway, 773-334-5609

EBNA 2007 HOME EXPO II

The Edgewater Beach Neighbors' Association invites you to be a part of a community event we will be hosting for buyers and sellers of real estate. The EBNA 2007 Home Expo II will beheld on June 23, 2007 from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at the Epworth Church, 5253 North Kenmore Avenue.

The EBNA 2007 Home Expo II will be a one-stop information source for people interested in learning about purchasing, selling or refinancing real estate. The EBNA 2007 Home Expo II is looking for businesses that provide supportive services to home owners and who are willing to spend some time answering questions and providing information. Topics will include financing, home inspections, appraisals, legal and insurance services, and sponsor's gallery where you can offer information to participants. EBNA Home Expo II is seeking mortgag brokers, bankers, inspectors, insurance brokers, tax specialists and attorneys. Local developers in the Edgewater area are also encouraged to attend.

The EBNA 2007 Home Expo II is free to the public.

Various sponsorship opportunities are available For information on purchasing a table at the event for $125.00 contact the Vice President of the EBNA Block Club, Killian Walsh at 773-386-4565.

April home sales in Illinois rose for the third consecutive month in 2007.

According to IAR's latest report, total home sales (single-family and condos) were up 9.6 percent in April 2007 to 12,932 homes sold compared to 11,797 homes sold in March 2007. Sales were 12.1 percent below the 14,718 homes sold in April 2006. The Illinois median home price in April was $201,000, off 0.5 percent from $202,000 a year earlier.

"The Illinois housing market continues to progressively up-tick month-to-month. Location and pricing are key factors for getting a home sold,” said IAR President Robert Zoretich. “Recent news regarding economic factors including rising energy costs and tighter lending standards due to the subprime situation has added to the tentativeness factor for buyers leading some to delay home-purchase decisions.

This remains, however, a good time for buyers to view a larger inventory and take advantage of attractive mortgage interest rates and flat prices in some areas.”

Source: IAR Weekly Connection

Summer festivals

Courtesy of Chicago Sun Times, June 1, 2007

JUNE

1-3: Chicago Gospel Music Festival, Millennium Park. (312) 744-3315;www.chicago gospelmusicfestival.us.
1-Sept. 30: Cool Globes: Hot Ideas For a Cooler Planet, Lakefront between the Field Museum and E. Balbo. Free. www.coolglobes.org.
2-3: Arlington Heights Promenade of Art, Downtown Arlington Heights. Free. (847) 926-4300; www.amdurproductions.com.
2-3: Belmont-Sheffield Music Festival, Sheffield from Belmont to School. $5 donation. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
2-3: Community Art Fair, Bixler Park, 57th and Kenwood. Free. (773) 363-8282.
2-3: East Troy Electric Railroad Centennial Celebration Weekend, 2002 Church, East Troy, Wis. (262) 642-3263; www.easttroyrr.org.
2-3: Richton Park's Blues and Bones Fest, Sauk Trail and Governors Highway, Richton Park. $15. (708) 481-8950; www.richtonpark.org.
3: United Run for the Zoo, Lincoln Park Zoo, Cannon and Fullerton. $14-$30. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
5-Sept. 3: Millennium Park Family Fun Festival, Millennium Park. Free. (312) 742-1168; www.millenniumpark.org.
6-Sept. 3: Cirque Shanghai: Bai Xi, Navy Pier. (773) 205-9600; www.navypier.com.
7-10: Chicago Blues Festival, Grant Park. (312) 744-3315; www.chicagobluesfestival.us.
8-10: Pride of the Fox Riverfest, Downtown St. Charles. (630) 557-2575; www.prideofthefox.com.
8-9: Summerfest, Madison between Besplaines and Harlem, Forest Park. Free. (708) 366-2543.
8-10: Skydiving for MS, Chicagoland Skydiving Center, 12637 US Route 30 West, Hinckley. (800) 404-5867; www.skydivingforms.com.
8-10: SportsFest Collectibles Show, Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel, Schaumburg. $10. www.sportsfestshow.com.
9: Country Western Night Festival, Our Lady of Knock Parish Hall, 497 163rd, Calumet City. $10. (708) 862-3011.
9-10: Ribfest Chicago, Lincoln between Irving Park and Warner. $5 donation. (773) 525-3609.
9-10: Wells Street Art Festival, N. Wells between North and Division. $7-$10 donation. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
9-24: American Spanish Dance Festival, Northeastern Illinois University, 3701 W. Bryn Mawr. $25-$45. (773) 442-5916; www.neiu.edu/~eespanol.
9-Oct. 7: American Players Theatre Summer Theater Festival, 5950 Golf Course, Spring Green, Wis. $35-$53. (608) 588-2361.
10: Palos Community Hospital's Band on the Run Run, Palos Health and Fitness Center, 153rd and West, Orland Park. $8-$22. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
14: Hackensaw Boys, James Park, Dodge at Mulford, Evanston. (847) 448-8058; www.cityofevanston.org/arts.
14-17: Festa Pasta Vino, Oakley just south of Cermak. Free. (847) 233-9966; www.festapastavino.com.
15-16: Highland Games and Scottish Festival, Oak Brook Polo Grounds, Oak Brook. (708) 447-5092; www.chicago-scots.org.
15-17: Bloomington Gold Corvette Show, Pheasant Run Golf Course, St. Charles. $15-$40. (309) 888-4477; www.bloomingtongold.com.
15-17: Darkmoon Faire, Renaissance Schaumburg, 1551 N. Thoreau, Schaumburg. Free. www.ude.com.
15-17: Great Galena Balloon Race, Eagle Ridge Resort and Spa, 444 Eagle Ridge, Galena. (815) 777-2444; www.greatgalenaballoonrace.com.
15-17: Lake Meadows Art Fair, Lake Meadows Shopping Center, 35th and King. Free. (312) 225-5692.
15-17: Prairiefest, 91 Plank, Oswego. (630) 554-1010; www.prairiefest.com.
15-17: Taste of Randolph Street, Randolph between Peoria and Racine. $10 donation. (312) 458-9401; www.jamfests.com.
16: Juneteenth, Sankofa Cultural Arts and Business Center, Chicago from Menard to Mayfield. Free. (773) 626-4497.
16: Puerto Rican Pride Parade, Columbus from Balbo to Monroe.
16: Unity Day, Village Green, Hoffman Estates. (847) 882-9100.
16-17: Cantigny Fine Art Festival, Cantigny Park, Wheaton. Free. (847) 926-4300; www.amdurproductions.com.
16-17: Custer's Last Stand, Main Street and Chicago, Evanston. $1 donation. (847) 328-2204; www.custerfair.com.
17: Garden Prairie Strawberry Festival, Susie's Garden Patch, Highway 20, Garden Prairie. Free. (815) 597-3011.
17: Ruralfest, Lisle Station Museum, 921 School, Lisle. $20. (630) 968-0499; www.ruralfest.com.
17-Aug. 26: Chicago Outdoor Film Festival, Grant Park, Butler Field, Monroe and Lake Shore. Free. (312) 744-3315.
19: Lucy Smith, Butler Bark, Canal and Dempster, Evanston. Free. (847) 448-8058; www.cityofevanston.org/arts.
19-24: Midsommar Festival Swedish Days, Downtown Geneva. (630) 232-6060; www.genevachamber.com.
20-24: Country Fair, Church of the Holy Spirit, 1451 Bode, Schaumburg. (847) 882-7580; www.churchoftheholyspirit.org.
21: Question Mark and the Mysterians, James Park, Dodge at Mulford, Evanston. Free. (847) 448-8058; www.cityofevanston.org/arts.
21-Aug. 18: Northwestern Summer Music Theatre Festival, Northwestern University, 20 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston. (847) 491-7282; www.northwestern.edu.
22: Chicagoland Ukulele Jam Festival, 1300 Maybrook, Maywood. $10. (708) 615-9000.
22-23: Berwyn's Cartopia, Cermak and Harlem, Berwyn. (708) 788-8100; www.berwyncartopia.com.
22-23: Cans Music Fest, 1640 N. Damen. $5 donation. (773) 276-7582.
22-24: Close Up 2 Smooth Jazz Summer Festival, Pritzker Park, State and Van Buren. Free. (312) 385-1111.
22-24: Downers Grove Heritage Festival, Main and Curtiss, Downers Grove. Free. (630) 434-5555.
22-24: Taste of Greece on LaSalle Street, Annunciation Cathedral of Chicago, 1017 N. LaSalle. (312) 664-5485.
23: Chicago Pride Fest, Waveland and Halsted. $5 donation. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
23: Villa Park Summerfest, Cortesi Veterans Memorial Park, 320 E. Kenilworth. Free. (630) 834-8500.
23-24: Belmont Arts and Music Festival, Belmont between Damen and Leavitt. $5 donation. (773) 327-5123; www.rvcc.biz.
23-24: Fountain Square Art Festival, Downtown Evanston. $5. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
23-24: St. Andrew the Apostle Parish SummerFest, 768 Lincoln, Calumet City. (708) 862-4165.
23-Sept. 30: Morton Arboretum Summer Concert Series, Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, Lisle. $6-$15. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
24: Garage Sale Sunday, Harlem-Foster Shopping Center, 7240 W. Foster. (773) 631-4000.
24: Gay and Lesbian Pride Parade, Halsted and Belmont. Free. (773) 348-8243; www.chicagopridecalendar.org.
28: Dub Dis, James Park, Dodge at Mulford, Evanston. Free. (847) 448-8058; www.cityofevanston.org/arts.
28-Aug. 2: Plaza del Lago Concert Series, 1515 N. Sheridan, Wilmette. (847) 884-0000; www.plazadelago.com.
29-July 1: Crystal Lake Gala Festival, 401 Country Club, Crystal Lake. $5. www.clgala.com.
29-July 1: Des Moines Arts Festival, Western Gateway Park, Des Moines. (515) 286-4950; www.desmoinesartsfestival.org.
29-July 1: Jeff Fest, Higgins and Milwaukee. $5 donation. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.org.
29-July 1: Pizza Fest, Racine and Fullerton. $5. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
29-July 4: Lisle Eyes to the Skies Balloon Festival, Lisle Community Park, Lisle. $10. (630) 575-9798; www.eyestotheskiesfestival.com.
29-July 8: Taste of Chicago, Grant Park. (312) 744-3315; www.tasteofchicago.us.
30: Chicago Antique Market, W. Randolph. $8. (312) 951-9939; www.chicagoantiquemarket.com.
30-July 1: Chicago Country Music Festival, Grant Park. (312) 744-3315; www.chicagocountrymusicfestival.us.
30-July 1: Joliet Fine Art Festival of the Masters, Chicago Ave. near Rialto Square Theatre. Free. (847) 926-4300; www.amdurproductions.com.
30-July 4: Naperville Ribfest, Knoch Park, Naperville. $10. (630) 548-5215; www.ribfest.net.

JULY

1: International Festival, The Lighthouse Church of All Nations, 4501 W. 127th, Alsip. Free. (708) 385-6020.
3: Independence Eve Fireworks Spectacular, Grant Park. (312) 744-3315.
3-4: Wheeling Freedom Fest, Park District Field, 333 W. Dundee, Wheeling. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
3-8: Lions Village Fair and Taste of Mt. prospect, Melas Park, Central and Busse, Mt. Prospect. Free. www.mtprospectlions.com.
4: Fireworks and Peter Frampton, Hamilton Lakes, Thorndale and Rt. 53, Itasca. Free. (630) 773-0835.
4: Hinsdale Independence Day Show, Third and Washington, Hinsdale. Free. (630) 325-8080.
4: Lake Forest Festival and Fireworks, Deerpath Community Park, Deerpath and Hastings, Lake Forest. Free. (847) 234-6700; www.chicagoevents.com.
5: Picante, James Park, Dodge at Mulford, Evanston. Free. (847) 448-8058; www.cityofevanston.org/arts.
5: Sidewalk Sale, Harlem-Foster Shopping Center, 7240 W. Foster. (773) 631-4000.
6-8: Peace Fest, 1660 N. Stockton. Free. (708) 212-2035.
7: Exotica 2007, FitzGerald's, 6615 Roosevelt, Berwyn. $35. (219) 923-4748.
7: Wrigleyville Summer Fest, Resurrection Lutheran Church, Seminary between Roscoe and School. $5. www.wrigleyvillesummerfest.com.
7: Bristol Renaissance Faire, Russell Road, Kenosha, Wis. (847) 395-7773; www.renfair.com.
7: Party in the Park, Unity Park, 2636 N. Kimball. Free. (773) 478-1410.
7-8: Lake View Music Fest, Barry and Ashland. $5 donation. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
7-8: Lincolnshire Fine Art Festival, Village Green, Lincolnshire. Free. (847) 926-4300; www.amdurproductions.com.
7-8: Skokie Art Guild Annual Art Fair, Skokie Village Green, 5211 W. Oakton, Skokie. Free. (847) 677-8163.
7: Summer Soiree, North Berwyn Park District, 1619 Wesley, Berwyn. Free. (708) 749-4900.
10: Hot 8 Brass Band, Twiggs Park, Simpson at Dodge, Evanston. Free. (847) 448-8058; www.cityofevanston.org/arts.
11: Sunset Cinema, Lincoln Park, Lake Shore and Waveland. $10. www.sunsetscreenings.com.
12: Gin Palace Jesters, James Park, Dodge at Mulford, Evanston. Free. (847) 448-8058; www.cityofevanston.org/arts.
12: Niketown Bastille Day 5K Run, Walk and Block Party, Jackson and Aberdeen. $25-$30. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
12-15: Lincolnwood Fest, Proesel Park, 6900 Lincoln, Lincolnwood. (847) 679-5760; www.lincolnwoodfest.com.
12-15: St. Symphorosa Parish Family Fest, St. Symphorosa, 6135 S. Austin. Free. (773) 767-1523.
12-15: West Chicago Railroad Days, Reed-Keppler Park, Arbor and Hawthorne, West Chicago. Free. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
13-15: Irish Fest, Irish American Heritage Center, 4626 Knox. $12. (773) 282-7035 Ext. 10.
13-15: Magnificent Mile Art Festival, Pioneer Court, N. Michigan. Free. (954) 472-3755; www.artfestival.com.
13-15: Michigan Peace Festival, Willow Ranch, Lacota, Michigan. $30. (269) 253-4306; www.michiganpeacefest.com.
14: Kicks for Kids, Hutchinson Field, Grant Park. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
14-15: Buffalo Grove Invitational Fine Art Festival, Buffalo Grove. Free. (847) 926-4300; www.amdurproductions.com.
14-15: Chicago Folk & Roots Festival, Welles Park, 4400 N. Lincoln between Montrose and Sunnyside. $7. (773) 728-6000; www.oldtownschool.org/festival.
14-15: DuSable Museum of African American History Arts and Crafts Festival, 740 E. 56th Place. Free. (773) 947-0600; www.dusablemuseum.org.
14-15: Mayor's Cup Youth Soccer, Lincoln Park, Montrose and Lake Shore. (312) 744-3315.
14-15: North Shore Art Festival, Westfield Old Orchard parking lot, Skokie. Free. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
14-Aug. 25: Puerto Rican Film Festival, Humboldt Park Boat House, 1440 N. Sacramento. (773) 486-8345; www.iprac.org.
17: Brute Force, Dawes Park, Sheridan at Church, Evanston. Free. (847) 448-8058; www.cityofevanston.org/arts.
19: The 1900s, James Park, Dodge and Mulford, Evanston. Free. (847) 448-8058; www.cityofevanston.org/arts.
20: The Ultimate Coffee Break, 2 N. Riverside Plaza. Free. (312) 920-9802.
21: The Silver Room's Sound System Block Party, Evergreen and Milwaukee. Free. (773) 278-7130.
21-22: St. Barbara Family Fest, 2859 S. Throop. Free. (312) 842-7979.
21-22: Southside Art and Music Festival, Halsted between 32nd and 35th. $5 donation. (773) 927-7373; www.chicagoevents.com.
21-22: South Side Art and Music Festival, 35th and Halsted. $5 donation. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
23-Aug. 5: Chicago Human Rhythm Project's Rhythm World Festival, Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington and Northwestern University, 1979 S. Campus, Evanston. (773) 281-1825; www.chicagotap.org.
24: Instant Karma Band, Dawes Park, Sheridan at Church, Evanston. Free. (847) 448-8058; www.cityofevanston.org/arts.
25-29: DuPage County Fair, DuPage County Fairgrounds, 2015 W. Manchester, Wheaton. $7. (630) 668-6636; www.dupagecountyfair.org.
28: Chicago Antique Market, W. Randolph. $8. (312) 951-9939; www.chicagoantiquemarket.com.
28-29: Geneva Arts Fair, Third Street, Geneva. (630) 232-6060; www.genevachamber.com.
28: Palmer "Mud Queens" block Party, Palmer between Leavitt and Bell. Free. (773) 852-8990.
28: Venetian Night, Lakefront.
28-29: Greek Festival, St. Peter and Paul Greek Orthodox Church, 1401 Wagner, Glenview. $3. (847) 729-2235; www.glenviewgreekfest.com.
28-29: Taste of Lincoln Avenue, N. Lincoln between Fullerton and Wrightwood. $7-$10 donation. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
28-Aug. 12: Woodstock Mozart Festival, Woodstock Opera House, Woodstock. (815) 338-5300; www.mozartfest.org.
31: Hobex, Dawes Park, Sheridan at Church, Evanston. Free. (847) 448-8058; www.cityofevanston.org/arts.

AUGUST

1-4: Jazz Dance World Festival, The Harris Teater for Music and Dance in Millenium Park, 205 E. Randolph. $45-$60. (312) 334-7777; www.harristheaterchicago.org.
3-5: Gold Coast Art Fair, River North. free. (847) 926-4300; www.amdurproductions.com.
3-5: Lollapalooza, Grant Park. www.lollapalooza.com.
3-5: Sugar Creek Symphony and Song, Cherry Street Art Fest, Watseka. (815) 432-1111; www.sugarcreekfestival.org.
4: 37th Ward, Back-to-School Gospel Fest, LaFollette Park, 1333 N. Laramie. Free. (773) 745-2894.
4: Glory to Glory Family Christian Center Inspiration of Love Community Festival, 122 S. Parnell. Free. (773) 568-0074.
7: Elana James, Dawes Park, Sheridan at Church, Evanston. Free. (847) 448-8058; www.cityofevanston.org/arts.
8-12: Crestwood Fest, 141st and Kenton, Crestwood. Free. (708) 371-4800; www.crestwoodrecreation.com.
9: Occidental Brothers Dance Band International, Twiggs Park, Simpson at Dodge, Evanston. Free. (847) 448-8058; www.cityofevanston.org/arts.
9: Race Judicata, Grant Park. $31-$38. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
9-12: Mendota Sweet Corn Festival, Downtown Mendota. Free. (815) 539-6507; www.sweetcornfestival.com.
10-12: Taylor Street Festa Italiana, Taylor between Ashland and Loomis. $10 donation. (312) 458-9401; www.jamfests.com.
11-12: Alexian Brothers Tour of Elk Grove, Elk Grove. Free. (773) 868-3010; www.tourofelkgrove.com
11-12: Art at the Glen Town Center, Glen Town Center, Glenview. Free. (847) 926-4300; www.amdurproductions.com.
11-12: Northalsted Market Days, N. Halsted between Belmont and Addison. $6 donation. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
12: Prairie Trail Storytelling Festival, Lake Ellyn Park, Lenox Road, Glen Ellyn. Free. (630) 469-0879; www.gepl.org.
14: Indigo, Dawes Park, Sheridan at Church, Evanston. Free. (847) 448-8058; www.cityofevanston.org/arts.
14: Reggae Cowboys, Dawes Park, Sheridan at Dawes, Evanston. (847) 448-8058; www.cityofevanston.org/arts.
18-19: Chicago Air and Water Show.
18-19: National Championship of Cycling, Main and Curtiss, Downers Grove. Free. (773) 868-3010; www.dgcycling.com.
24-25: AnnunciataFest, Annunciata Church, 11128 S. Avenue G. (773) 592-4186; www.annunciataonline.com.
24-26: Skokie's Backlot Bash, Oakton and Floral, Skokie. Free. (847) 674-1500.
25: Chicago Antique Market, W. Randolph. $8. (312) 951-9939; www.chicagoantiquemarket.com.
25-26: Glenwood Avenue Arts Festival, Glenwood between Farwell and Lunt. Free. (773) 262-3790; www.rogerspark.com.
25-26: Port Clinton Art Festival, Highland Park. Free. (847) 926-4300; www.amdurproductions.com.
25-26: Viva! Chicago Latin Music Festival, Grant Park. www.vivachicago.us.
26: Polka Fest 2007, Bicentennial Park. Free. (815) 724-3760.
30-Sept. 3: Buffalo Grove Days, Lake Cook and Raupp, Buffalo Grove. (847) 459-2500; www.vbg.org.
30-Sept. 2: Chicago Jazz Festival, Grant Park. www.chicagojazzfestival.org.

SEPTEMBER

1-2: Bash on Wabash, 1300-1500 S. Wabash. $5. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
7-8: Windy City Wine Festival, Daley Bicentennial Plaza, Grant Park. $25. (847) 382-1480; www.windycitywinefestival.com.
7-9: Mokena Downtown Merchants Association, Wolf and Front, Mokena. $2. (773) 379-7759.
8: For the Love of Art Street Fair, Downtown Whiting, Ind. (219) 659-0901.
8-9: Lake View East Fine Art Festival, Broadway from Belmont to Roscoe. Free. (847) 926-4300; www.amdurproductions.com.
9: Guinness Oyster Fest, Roscoe Village. $5 donation. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.

9: Misericordia Family Fest, 6300 N. Ridge. $7. (773) 273-2766.
13-16: Festival de la Villita, 26th and Kostner. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
14-16: Festival of the Vine, Downtown Genveva. Free. (630) 232-6060; www.genevachamber.com.
14-15: Naperville Wine Festival, Naper Settlement, Naperville. (847) 382-1480; www.napervillewinefestival.com.
15: AIDS Run and Walk Chicago, Grant Park. $20-$25. (312) 334-0946; www.aidschicago.org.
15: The Wine Crush in Old Town, North and Wells. $5 donation. (773) 868-3010; www.chicagoevents.com.
20-23: Italian Style 2007, Crystal Gardens at Navy Pier. Free. (312) 553-9137.
29: Chicago Antique Market, W. Randolph. $8. (312) 951-9939; www.chicagoantiquemarket.com.
29: Johnny Appleseed Festival, Downtown Crystal Lake. Free. (815) 479-0835; www.downtowncl.org.

OCTOBER

6-7: Midwest Literary Festival, Aurora. Free. (630) 844-4731; www.midwestliteraryfestival.com.
27: Chicago Antique Market, W. Randolph. $8. (312) 951-9939; www.chicagoantiquemarket.com.
Note: All events are subject to change without notice. Information was accurate as of press time.

Call and write to your legislator today and urge them to vote against the proposed Real Estate Transfer Tax for the RTA.

Senate Bill 572, as amended includes the authority for the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) to impose a real estate transfer tax of $3 per $1,000 within the city of Chicago WITHOUT VOTER APPROVAL.

The Illinois Association of REALTORS and the Chicago Association of REALTORS STRONGLY OPPOSE this proposal and urge you to contact your Representative and Senator and urge them to REJECT this proposed transfer tax increase.

It is very troubling to give this statutory authority to levy a real estate transfer tax to a special taxing district governed by an APPOINTED Board.

This is ANOTHER LAYER OF TAXING authority on property owners in Chicago where a very high home rule municipal real estate transfer tax is already in place ($7.50 per $1,000 paid by the buyer) in addition to the State and county real estate transfer tax (combined $1.50 per $1,000 on the seller).

Illinois law also is very clear in that VOTER INPUT is required to impose a new or to increase an existing home rule real estate transfer tax. This proposal contravenes that public policy.
As you are well aware, the real estate transfer tax is a "hidden" property tax because most property owners are not aware of it until they buy or sell property.

SB 572 is sponsored by Representatives Julie Hamos, Paul Froehlich and Kathy Ryg and Senator John Cullerton and Ira Silverstein. To send an e-mail to your Senator and Rep., follow the prompts below. To call your state legislators, go to www.ilga.gov and look in the "Members" section for your legislators' Springfield phone numbers (the one with a 217 area code)

Click the link below to log in and send your message:

HOUSE passes version of the 7% bill Late Wednesday night (Thursday morning) the Illinois House passed House Amendment #1 to SB13.

The votes:
101 Aye
9 No
6 Present
Click HERE to see the Votes

The bill now goes to the Senate, with expectations that it may be called for a vote today (Thursday).

The language of this bill became available to us Wednesday morning, and has MANY components. TRAC will need time to review and fully understand the bill.

In essence, House Amendment #1 increases the Alternative general homestead exemption (the 7% cap) to $30,000 in the first year (previously $20,000); $24,000 in the second year; and $18,000 in the third year.

The bill aslo includes:
- Disabled veterans exemption
- Returning Veteran's homestead exemption (one-time benefit)
- Disabled persons' homestead exemption
- Disabled veterans standard homestead exemption
- An increase to the senior citizens homestead exemption
- An increase in the senior citizens assessment freeze homestead exemption
- An increase in the general homestead exemption
- The long-time occupant homestead exemption
- An abatement for the residence of a surviving spouse of a fallen police officer or rescue worker

The bill also establishes a Property Tax Reform and Relief Task Force selected from the House and the Senate.

There is a lot to review in this bill - and we look to have more information as it passes the Senate and makes its way to the Governor for his signature.

P.S. the House also passed a budget bill last night.

May 2007 - 2nd Edition

Edgewater Developments

Greetings

Red Line Meetings are your chance to create better Red Line Stations and craft a vision for the retail districts around the stations.

Final Red Line Meeting this coming Monday
by Adam Burck

Focusing on Thorndale & Granville Stations

This coming Monday, 5/7, we are holding the final meeting for the community to refine its vision for the Thorndale & Granville Red Line Stations. At the last meeting in March, over 50 people provided input on what they want the Granville & Thorndale to be like when the Red Line is revamped. Come out and help finalize that vision as well as your vision for the retail districts adjacent to the stations.

EDC has partnered with the UIC's City Design Center and Voorhees Center to create these charrettes, which are a form of community planning meetings. The results of the charrettes will be compiled in a final report that will be provided to State Representative Harry Osterman and our other elected officials to help them secure the funding to renovate the Red Line. We thank Harry Osterman for his help in securing the funding for these charrettes.

We welcome and encourage all community members to participate in the second round of charrettes. There is no need to have participated in the first charrettes. Refreshments will be served at 6:30 and the charrettes will begin at 7 p.m. See below for the details:

Thorndale & Granville Stations:

Monday, May 7th, 7 to 9 pm, Loyola University's Simpson Living & Learning Center, 6333 N Winthrop

Contact Information
email: info@edgewaterdev.org
phone: 773-506-4016
web: http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t=fydmq4bab.0.4ipg7jbab.evywm8n6.2241&ts=S0238&p=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.edgewaterdev.org

Greetings!

Red Line Meetings are your chance to create better Red Line Stations and craft a vision for the retail districts around the stations. Read below for more information.
EDC has a brand new and improved web site, thanks to a generous grant from Harris Bank.

More details below.

Red Line Meetings next two Mondays!!
by Adam Burck

This coming Monday, 4/30, and the following Monday, 5/7, we are holding the final meetings for the community to refine its vision for the Red Line Stations in Edgewater. At the last two meetings in March, 100 people provided input on what they want the Red Line Stations to be like when the Red Line is revamped. Come out and help finalize that vision as well as your vision for the retail districts adjacent to the stations.

EDC has partnered with the UIC's City Design Center and Voorhees Center to create these charrettes, which are a form of community planning meetings. The results of the charrettes will be compiled in a final report that will be provided to State Representative Harry Osterman and our other elected officials to help them secure the funding to renovate the Red Line.
We welcome and encourage all community members to participate in the second round of charrettes. There is no need to have participated in the first charrettes. Refreshments will be served at 6:30 and the charrettes will begin at 7 p.m. See below for the details:

Berwyn & Bryn Mawr Stations:

Monday, April 30th, 7 to 9 pm, St. Andrews Church, 5649 N Sheridan Rd

Thorndale & Granville Stations:

Monday, May 7th, 7 to 9 pm, Loyola University's Simpson Living & Learning Center, 6333 N Winthrop

Contact: Mary SchaeferDirector of Communications
MSchaefer@iar.org
217/529-2600

Illinois Home Sales Rise Again in March; Statewide Median Price at $198,000

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — March home sales in Illinois rose for the second consecutive month in 2007 while a mix of factors including weather and consumer confidence add up to a drop in sales compared to the record for March set in 2006. According to the Illinois Association of REALTORS latest report, total home sales (which include single-family and condominiums) were up 36.2 percent in March 2007 to 11,979 homes sold compared to 8,792 homes sold in February 2007. Sales were 20.3 percent below the all-time high for March of 15,024 homes sold in March 2006.

The Illinois median home price in March was $198,000, up 0.1 percent from $197,900 a year earlier. The median is a typical market price where half the homes sold for more, half sold for less.

Year-to-date, home sales were down 14.2 percent to 29,390 compared to 34,235 homes sold January through March in 2006.

“In March we experienced the usual jump into the spring season with sales up well over February but we’re definitely in a market that is still finding its legs. The severe weather in February and March certainly took a toll on housing activity in Illinois,” said Robert Zoretich, president of the Illinois Association of REALTORS. “Tentative buyers and sellers are still trying to read the market and are taking their time in deciding whether to list or buy. This is a time when market conditions including favorable mortgage interest rates and inventory levels bode well for those who are ready to purchase.”

The monthly average commitment rate for a 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage for the North Central region was 6.19 percent in March 2007, down 0.06 points from the 6.25 average rate during the previous month, according to the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation. Last year in March it averaged 6.40 percent.

The statewide average home price in March was $256,185, up 4.0 percent from $246,434 a year earlier.

In the Chicagoland Primary Metropolitan Statistical Area (PMSA), home sales totaled 8,087 in March 2007, down 22.1 percent from 10,387 home sales in the same month last year.
The median home price for the Chicagoland PMSA was $245,000, up 0.4 percent from $244,000 in March 2006. The average home price for Chicagoland was $319,434, up 6.0 percent from $301,324 in March 2005.

“With home sales moderating, we expect to see smaller gains in price appreciation for now,” said Zoretich, broker-owner of Zoretich Realty Group in Chicago. “Spring is when many people begin to look at homes and with the season comes better weather and more activity in the housing market. REALTORS remain optimistic that this year will offer buyers a very good opportunity to begin their dream of homeownership. Buyers should look at housing as an excellent long-term investment.”

Sales and price information is generated from a survey of Multiple Listing Service sales reported by 35 participating Illinois REALTOR local boards and associations. The Chicagoland PMSA, as defined by the U.S. Census Bureau, includes the counties of Cook, DeKalb, DuPage, Grundy, Kane, Kendall, Lake, McHenry and Will.

The Illinois Association of REALTORS is a voluntary trade association whose over 60,000 members are engaged in all facets of the real estate industry. In addition to serving the professional needs of its members, the Illinois Association of REALTORS works to protect the rights of private property owners in the state by recommending and promoting legislation that safeguards and advances the interest of real property ownership.

The gender gap still around in buying a home

Differences show up in dramatic fashion
By Lew Sichelman
United Feature Syndicate
Published April 15, 2007

WASHINGTON -- Single men and women make up about one-third of the nation's 111 million households. Toss in unmarried moms and dads living with children younger than 18, and singles account for almost half.But when it comes to housing, about the only thing the 55 million single households have in common is that they are not married.Face it: Men and women are different. And when housing is concerned, the incongruities rise to the same level as how the two genders use TV remote controls, ask for directions, judge distances and hunt or gather.For example, they operate differently in the buying process.

Guess which sex wants to make a decision as quickly as possible and which one wants to take more time?According to a small survey taken early this year by Countrywide Home Loans, men run while women saunter. In fact, nearly half the women polled said they did not take enough time when they bought their current residence while almost a quarter of the men surveyed said the process took way too long.Countrywide's findings are based on a telephone poll of just 219 owners, so they are not statistically significant.

But plenty of other evidence shows how differently the genders approach housing and homeownership. And none of it surprises Wanda McPhaden, a partner in BCA Real Estate Investments, a female-centric company in New York City.BCA, which stands for believe, create and achieve, was created to show women how they, too, can create wealth by investing in real estate."Women usually don't think about the benefits of homeownership until they are older," says McPhaden, a 20-year real estate veteran whose new company is working with a female builder in Westport, Conn., and is backed by several women investors. "Men get it because they are taught very early on.

Women aren't."Perhaps that's why male buyers tend to be younger than their female counterparts. The median age of single men who purchased houses between 2000 and midyear 2003 was 37, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. In the same period, the median age of single female buyers was 42.An even deeper look at the numbers shows that men account for the largest share of single buyers younger than 25, while women make up the largest share of single purchasers in the 45-to-64 age group and the older-than-65 set."My theory is that women don't think they can be homeowners until they are older," says McPhaden, who is also starting a small investors club for women with less than $50,000 to put into real estate.A lot of that has to do with money, she believes.

Of course, there are no mortgage products aimed specifically at one sex or the other. Men and women are supposed to be treated equally when it comes to financing. But the investment adviser maintains that men instinctively know how and where to find financing while women have to be taught.Here's another big difference between the sexes: In the same 3 1/2-year period, the census found that 53 percent of the male buyers had never been married versus 35 percent of the female buyers.

Indeed, the largest group of single female buyers, 49 percent, were divorced or separated versus 41 percent of the men. The rest were widowed.Everyone knows by now that women are paid less than men, though they are sometimes doing the very same work as the guy in the next cubicle. But Harvard University's Joint Center for Housing Studies put an exclamation point on that fact in last year's report that found more than an $11,000 disparity on the median incomes of male and female home buyers -- $48,000 for the men, $36,800 for the women.Looking at income a little differently, the Joint Center found that 62 percent of the women purchasers earned less than 80 percent of the median for their areas compared to 49 percent of the men. On the other side of the spectrum, 28 percent of the males earned more than 120 percent of the median versus 17 percent of the women.

Despite it all, single female buyers outnumber the males. Always have, says the National Association of Realtors. But in 2006, NAR's annual survey of buyers and sellers found the gap has widened to its greatest spread ever -- 22 percent of all buyers were single and female, and just 9 percent were unmarried males.According to another piece of research, this one by the Brookings Institution, a Washington think tank, the suburbs now contain the largest portion of non-family households, which includes singles, roommates and elderly people living alone. And just like married folk, singles buy mostly single-family houses.In fact, according to Rachel Drew's analysis of unmarried female home buyers for Harvard's Joint Center, single women bought 3.1 million houses between 2000 and midyear 2003 and men purchased 2.7 million.

That single-family houses are more popular than condominiums among unmarried people runs contrary to popular perception. But singles also bought a lot of condos. Women purchased 554,000 condos in the 3 1/2-year study period, and men purchased almost 380,000.McPhaden, who has taught real estate at Norwalk (Conn.) Community College for 14 years and is active where she lives in Ridgefield in an organization aimed at improving the lives of young inner-city women, understands this phenomenon, too.Men often don't want the aggravation of taking care of a large house or apartment, she says. "They look at their pads as places to entertain women."Women, on the other hand, tend to see their houses as homes, as places to live."They may never get married, but they want a home to live in because they are much more social," McPhaden maintains.

The NAR's annual survey of buyers and sellers confirms what McPhaden senses. While half the unmarried buyers told researchers they bought a house because of the desire to own the roof over their heads, women placed more importance on living near family and friends. Men, on the other hand, placed more weight on living close to work or school.And finally, there's this other difference between the sexes. Women, according to NAR's research, are more likely to compromise on the size and cost of the houses they buy to obtain "other characteristics" that are more important to them.

----------You may write to Lew Sichelman c/o Chicago Tribune, Real Estate, 435 N. Michigan Ave., 4th floor, Chicago IL 60611. Or e-mail him at realestate@tribune.com. Sorry, he cannot make personal replies. Answers will be supplied only through the newspaper. E-mail this story
Copyright © 2007, Chicago Tribune