**Located between the Des Plaines River and the Chicago River this area
served as a local continental divide, with the Chicago River flowing
then into Lake Michigan, which connected to the Atlantic Ocean through
the Great Lakes, and the Des Plaines River feeding into the Illinois
River and the Mississippi River to reach the Gulf of Mexico.
**Great housing adj. to Edison Pk Metra, Harlem Blue Line & 10 mins from O'Hare.
**Very quiet tree-lined streets. Carpe diem-Suburban living with a Chicago address. Great place to raise a family! One block from Park Ridge. Short
walk to Immaculate Conception grammar school and Resurrection High School.Close to restaurants and shops in Edison Park and Park Ridge. Mariano's and Whole Foods grocery stores
**Edison Park Festival, an end-of-summer weekend sponsored by the Edison
Park Chamber of Commerce, combining merchant sidewalk sales,
entertainment, a parade, Taste of Chicago and arts and crafts
--
Ron Goldstein,MBA Certified Luxury Broker@Berkshire Hathaway Chicago & St. Petersburg
Principal, Silver Professionals chicagoluxuryrealty.comstpeteluxuryrealty.comsilverprofessionals.com (o)312-264-5846 (c)312-771-7190 (f)312-264-5746 Offices in Chicago
and St. Petersburg
Connecting people w/ jobs & homes! 2014 BHHS President's Circle
In a dog’s life, you eat on the floor. Except in kitchens like these, where pets are factored into the design
When I say there is nothing quite so unpleasant as stepping in a
dog’s water dish, I speak from experience (no thanks, Augie). Like a
good pet owner, I keep my pup’s water bowl filled with fresh water. It’s
located in the kitchen, where I inevitably get busy and distracted and
step in the drink. It has happened a lot, which goes to show you really
can’t teach an old dog new tricks.
When I next remodel, I’m going
to plan for this condition, using the clever ideas from these fellow
pet owners as inspiration.
In this project, by Buckenmeyer Architecture,
finding a space for the dog dishes was a key design consideration. “A
recess at one end of the island keeps the bowls out of the way,” says
Marty Buckenmeyer.
Judging from the gray around his or her
muzzle, I’m guessing this sweet dog is a little long in the tooth. I’m
sure the elevated bowls are appreciated.
The designers at Haddad Hakansson
employed a similar strategy in this kitchen, but they placed the bowls
at the end of a cabinet run as opposed to an island. It’s a smart move
in a kitchen that has the room. “One of the highlights of this space is
the custom dog dishes,” the designers write. They are “inset into a
small slab of white quartzite. The cabinet above has a tilt-out tray for
dog treats.”
Perhaps the feature helped the space win first place in the 2014 NKBA
northern New England kitchen design competition. And, as you can tell
by the blur running toward the eating area, it clearly has won the
popular canine vote too.
A closer look reveals the other
features. Not only does the space have bowls printed with a grass image,
but it has a faucet with an above-counter control. As the designer
says: “No bending!”
With built-in bowls and the same material treatment as the kitchen island, this dog eating area, by Studio Zerbey Architecture + Design, is almost undercover.
Some smart and space-endowed homeowners take the dog dishes farther from the kitchen triangle. In this project, by Kathleen Donohue, Neil Kelly, the eating area is under the command center.
In this project, by Anthony Wilder Design/Build,
an eating and storage area for the dog is tucked into the end of a
wall. Below are the bowls; above are dog accessories and treats.
This mudroom, by Dreamstructure DesignBuild,
is outfitted for everyone — four-legged and two. Due to the recessed
and elevated nature of the bowls, you’d be unlikely to step in them —
but if you did, you might be wearing your boots.
Ron Goldstein,MBA Certified Luxury Broker@Berkshire Hathaway Chicago & St. Petersburg
Principal, Silver Professionals chicagoluxuryrealty.comstpeteluxuryrealty.comsilverprofessionals.com (o)312-264-5846 (c)312-771-7190 (f)312-264-5746 Offices in Chicago and St. Petersburg
Connecting people w/ jobs & homes!
2014 BHHS President's Circle
Houzz Editorial Staff; writer, reader, serial remodeler.
A designer shares key areas where you can economize — and still get the kitchen of your dreams
When you’re investing in a home remodeling project, you want to make
sure that the results not only please you but add value to your home
and save you money. Never is that more true than in a kitchen remodel,
where costs can added up so quickly that your budget can all of a sudden
seem like pennies in a jar. To avoid that and keep costs in line, and
yet still get the kitchen of your dreams, here are a few of my favorite
ways of getting the most out of a tight budget.
1. Go with ready-to-assemble cabinets. The
biggest cost in a kitchen remodel is new cabinets. The most expensive
option is going custom, for which the cabinetry is designed, built and
installed to specifically fit your space. Exotic woods, ornate details
and period styles will add to the cost and delivery time but result in a
one-of-a-kind kitchen. Custom cabinets can cost $10,000 to $60,000, as
cabinets can range from $250 to $1,500 per linear foot.
If your
budget doesn’t allow for custom, but you need new cabinets,
ready-to-assemble (RTA) is a good option. Ready-to-assemble or
semicustom cabinets can sometimes be half the cost, from around $125 to
$900 per linear foot depending on the material, style and cost of
installation. If you are a do-it-yourselfer, you can assemble these
yourself; if not you will need to hire a contractor. Semicustom cabinets
are selected from existing designs and are prefabricated offsite in
standard sizes, with limited options in terms of sizing, styles,
materials and finishes.
In-stock cabinets are for customers who
want to grab their cabinets right off the shelf and get going. These
stock cabinets come in standard sizes, shapes and colors. Since the
cabinet dimensions are not based on your kitchen, space-wasting fillers
may be required to make the cabinets fit. These cabinets are very
affordable for remodelers on a budget. Cabinets can range from $75 to
$400 per linear foot.
Keep in mind, though, that costs will vary by location.
2. Keep existing cabinets if possible. If
your cabinets are good quality and you like the style, resurfacing is a
great option. It’s amazing how color can transform a kitchen and a few
coats of paint can give life to a once-drab space. Resurfacing and
painting make for the most cost-effective option, but ensure that you
take the steps needed to get a beautiful finish.
A simple
paint job might cost a few hundred dollars. But for a more extensive
refacing job, $5,000 to $15,000 is likely if new veneer is added to the
face of the cabinets.
3. Choose open shelving where possible. Open
shelving creates interest in the space as well as saves money. Using
salvaged wood or painted planks from your local hardware store for
shelving is a cost-effective and functional option to display everyday
dishes (items that don’t spend enough time on the shelf to accumulate
dust).
Open shelving can save a few thousand dollars, but while
it may be tempting to do away with fitted cabinets altogether, they’re
still valuable and efficient for storage, particularly if you have a
small kitchen and a lot to pack into it.
4. Consider alternative countertop materials. There
is a wide range of countertops to choose from — solid surfaces,
recyclable products, concrete, tile, stone and more. Granite is still a
popular choice for countertops, but at $50 to $100 or more per square
foot installed, it can push any budget over the top. Consider
using two different surfaces instead, such as making the outside
perimeter butcher block and the island granite. This can cut the cost
in half.
If
granite is not in the budget but you like the look of stone, consider
laminate, an inexpensive alternative. The costs ranges from $8 to $20
per square foot, including installation. Laminate has come a long way
with its high-definition selections and new cut-edge profiles. The new
laminates look so much like stone, you could be easily fooled.
5. Keep appliances where they are. If
your plan is to get new cabinets, think about keeping your appliances
where they are. Moving the mechanics and electrical for appliances can
be costly, not to mention the ceiling on the floor below and the walls
may need to be cut into to expose the mechanicals. These are costs that
many homeowners don’t think about when planning a kitchen remodel.
Keeping
the appliances where they are will save you thousands of dollars. More
often than not, moving an appliance 1 foot costs as much as moving it 6
feet, depending on where the mechanicals are located.
6. Look at different options for islands. A
6-foot island with new cabinets can run $800 and up. Instead of using
cabinets for your kitchen island, think of repurposing a piece of
furniture. An old table or a dresser is a great alternative to bring
unique character into the space. Keep an eye on Craigslist, the Houzz Shop,
salvage stores, estate sales and garage sales. Depending on how
resourceful you are, you can save yourself hundreds of dollars.
Tip: When looking for a piece, make sure it is countertop height (36 inches).
7. Opt for a cutout rather than removing a wall. Many homeowners want to open the space between the kitchen and their family room to create an open floor plan. When removing a wall,
there are many things to consider. Is it load bearing? Does it have
venting, water pipes or electrical running through it, which will need
to be rerouted? After removing a wall, the ceiling, other walls and
floor may need to be cut into and repaired.
A less expensive
option to consider is a cutout. Not only does it open a room, but it can
provide extra countertop space and an area for additional seating. You
will still need to check for mechanics and plumbing, but the floor and
ceiling will not need to be repaired, which will save you money.
8. Try track lighting instead of recessed lighting. Adding
recessed lighting can become a bigger project than planned. Holes need
to be cut into the ceiling, electrical wiring needs to be added, and
there may be hidden costs in repairing the ceiling. The overall cost for
a single recessed light is $100 to $150, including the costs for
materials and an electrician. This can add up quickly.
To keep
costs down, think about track lighting. There are many styles, shapes
and finishes. They give off plenty of light for tasks in the kitchen
and, when placed on a dimmer, give off a nice ambient light.
9. Think about doing your remodel in stages. If
you’re on a low budget, wait to do a few projects at a later date.
This will spread out the remodel costs, allowing you to save for that
next project.
Backsplashes can be put up anytime
after your countertops and cabinets have been installed. If you can’t
stand looking at Sheetrock, think about wallpaper, an easy project
that’s also easy on the wallet.
Adding glass to your cabinet doors is a project that can be done anytime that’s simple and low cost.
Changing
out hardware is one project that can cost hundreds. If the new
hardware works with the current hole placement on your cabinet doors and
drawers, you can hold off on replacing it at a later date.
Ron Goldstein,MBA Certified Luxury Broker@Berkshire Hathaway Chicago & St. Petersburg
Principal, Silver Professionals chicagoluxuryrealty.comstpeteluxuryrealty.comsilverprofessionals.com (o)312-264-5846 (c)312-771-7190 (f)312-264-5746 Offices in Chicago
and St. Petersburg
Connecting people w/ jobs & homes!
A very generous foundation has agreed to match up to $1m until the ride this Sat! Revvin up for my double shift. Surpassed my goal for #cycleforsurvival. If you can support this amazing cause, the link is below.
Cycle for Survival is a national indoor cycling event to raise money to
fund lifesaving rare cancer research at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer
Center. Our events provide a tangible way for you to fight back—100% of
all money raised directly funds rare cancer research.
Since 2007, Cycle for Survival has raised over 51 million dollars. The
2015 event will take place in 13 cities, with 4800 bikes and 20,000
participants! Every dollar raised will go to pioneering research within
six months. That is what makes Cycle for Survival so special. If you're
able to donate.FANTASTIC! http://m.cycleforsurvival.org/… #equinoxmademedoit!#boom#cancersucks!
Thanks
to all of my fantastic clients/friends/referrals that allowed me to
make the Presidents Circle with Berkshire Hathaway Home Services, Top 4%
in the nation! 1st QUARTER 2015-HOW'S THE MARKET?
We
hear this question all the time, and we’re sure you do too. We thought
you might like to know how we look at our current market conditions. The
real estate market continues to improve and we are pleased to report
pending sales up 25% which is a nice indicator! PRICES
Prices on closed properties for all Multiple Listing Service increased
5.13% from $226,562 year to date in 2014 to $238,138 year to date in
2015. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices KoenigRubloff Realty Group has the highest average year to date sales price of major firms at $466,997. OUTLOOK FOR SELLERSSellers
can have cautious optimism going into the spring market as prices
continue to steadily rise, and demand for inventory remains around a 5.2
month supply. With interest rates remaining low, potential buyers on
the fence about home ownership may decide to take advantage of current
rates if they see something they like. OUTLOOK FOR BUYERS
We expect to see continued strong sales activity in the market. With
low interest rates and continued demand for inventory, buyers are
encouraged to act quickly upon finding an ideal home. IN SUMMARY *Prices continue to steadily rise *Market times are down somewhat *General feeling of optimism among real estate professionals *Downtown condominium prices nearing 2008 peak *Favorable interest rates continue at near historically low levels *Inventory shortages resulting in multiple offers and rising prices *Foreclosures and short sales decreasing *Relatively balanced market, meaning it is a good time for both buyers and sellers
I
have used Ron's services on multiple real estate transactions and
always have great results. My most recent sale of a multi-family was
managed exceptionally well, and Ron was able to get full list price for
the property! I highly recommend Ron Goldstein for purchase or sale of
your next home or investment property. Thanks again Ron!
We
have used Ron to purchase two of our homes and sell one. He is
knowledgeable about the process, and makes home buying and selling easy
for the novice. Would highly recommend his services!
Ron
helped me sell my existing condo and purchase the one I currently live
in. I got the highest price in the building and he made the process
seamless!
He listened carefully and found my next condo in accordance with all the
things I
wanted. I have referred him many times over to friends!!
Ron
has been of service to me in two capacities: as a buyers agent and as
leasing agent. As a buyers agent Ron was very helpful throughout the
entire process and very generous with his time and expertise; and at
times he was also a calming influence on the entire process.
As a leasing agent he found me the best tenants I've ever had.
Ron Goldstein is a consummate professional with a great command of
social and interpersonal communication.
There are lots of real estate brokers, there is only one Ron Goldstein.
We
have used Ron to purchase and sell (gulp) three homes! Ron always made
me feel like we were the most important clients and I am sure he makes
everyone feel that way! It was never a problem meeting in the suburbs to
look at homes. He kept the searching process light and enjoyable when
it got stressful and I always looked forward to my time with him because
he is easy to talk to and fun to be with. It is important to note that
while he is fun and approachable, he is also very professional and
handled every situation in a responsible and effective way. Can't say
enough good things about our experiences with Ron.
Sold a Single Family home in 2014 for approximately $1.275M in Gold Coast, Chicago, IL.
*****
*****
*****
*****
Probably
the best I have seen in marketing a property and keeping it in front of
the public. Uses every avenue especially digital media right down to
holding open houses. A pro in presenting the facts, even when you don't
agree. However he is usually accurate in his market knowledge. He is
one of the few realtors that I feel is on my side.
Ron
Goldstein is a lucky charm. He sold our home in a matter of hours,
because he is an expert salesman -- beautiful listing writeup, fantastic
photos, and gives a heck of a tour! He's charming and knowledgeable and
makes clients on both ends of the process feel at ease. We love Ron and
will use him in a heartbeat if (when) we need to move again.
