Guilt.com is an exclusive online retailer that is expanding from apparel and accessories to travel and dining. Gilt is similar to websites like Groupon and LivingSocial but with a taste for designer brands and five star cuisine. With their new Guilt City app, you can explore discounts on everything from your favorite spas, fine dining to weekend leisure and nightlife. Get their app for iphone here.

Metromix What’s Nearby

This free app allows you to find restaurants, bars and events nearest you by location. You can search by category of entertainment, popularity, or address to find what you are looking for. Each restaurant and bar is star rated so you can get a quick feel for the online reviews before you sit down. This app also includes a milage counter that tells you exactly how long or short the walk is (example 0.20 mi).
Download this app here.

Chicago Local Guide

This app is a true insider to the Chicago socialite calendar. With this app you can select and view local event calendars to get in on what’s going on around you. You can narrow in on what appeals to you by event category; Art and Culture, Parties and Fun, Social Media and Sport Events. The app even maps that today’s events with flags on the location of each gallery opening or wine tasting. Another unique feature of this app is a precision GPS monitor that allows you to view what businesses and services are directly in front of you as you move the screen around you.
Check it out here.

Tell us your favorite app for navigating the city!

Different lenders have their own minimum down payment requirements and can vary depending on the mortgage program, loan amount, borrower income and credit rating. A good rule of thumb is roughly 20%, but you can find different ways to help you meet down payment requirements, including buyer assistance programs -  also called down payment assistance programs.

Assistance programs and grants can help you avoid robbing your savings or 401K or borrowing the money elsewhere to come up with a cash down payment. Some of the most common buyer assistance programs are for first time home buyers, but other assistance programs are available as well. How do they work? Below are some key requirements of standard programs. 

• Home buyers must qualify for a loan that allows gift funds from a charitable organization
• Limits may apply to the price of the home
• Funds can be used for the down payment and for closing costs
• Gift funds can be used for new or existing homes

There are several different organizations that provide buyer assistance, including Grant America, Nehemiah and American Family Funds. Many other buyer assistance organizations are available, so do some homework and talk to your tax preparer and mortgage lender about options.

Always speak to your lender about available programs in your market, they can help you structure the down payment assistance to be compatible with their underwriting guidelines and offer advice on program advantages for your type of loan.

Contact me today for  more assistance or help in finding your Chicago dream home!

David Auffarth

My City Home
Chicago's South Loop Real Estate Expert

Chicago's South Loop Real Estate
Search Chicago South Loop Properties
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Dave Auffarth of Keller Williams Realty provides real estate services in Chicago, Illinois for the South Loop, West Loop, Greater Chicago and beyond.

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175 Days to Love Chicago celebrates Chicago's 175th birthday with an exciting 175-day-series of programs, promotions, and fun history. Launching on the 175th anniversary of the city's incorporation on March 4 and continuing through August 26, 2012 this cultural calendar offers visitors and residents exciting opportunities to explore Chicago everyday. From special events to special packages at local hotels, the campaign showcases the breadth and vibrancy of Chicago's cultural landscape.

Thanks explore Chicago for the info on this great Chicago Illinois event!

David Auffarth

My City Home
Chicago's South Loop Real Estate Expert

Chicago's South Loop Real Estate
Search Chicago South Loop Properties
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Dave Auffarth of Keller Williams Realty provides real estate services in Chicago, Illinois for the South Loop, West Loop, Greater Chicago and beyond.

**

If  you find yourself struggling to make your mortgage payments, and you fear foreclosure may be in your future, the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) has suggested a few possible alternatives. These options to fend off foreclosure include:

• Repayment Plan
• Reinstatement
• Forbearance
• Loan Modification

The Federal Trade Commission wants people to know that these alternatives may not work for everyone especially if you are already three or four mortgage payments behind.

Visit the NFCC's Homeowners Crisis Resource Center website for more information regarding the above alternatives. They can also assist you in locating a certified housing counselor to explore your options in an effort to fend off foreclosure.

David Auffarth

My City Home
Chicago's South Loop Real Estate Expert

Chicago's South Loop Real Estate
Search Chicago South Loop Properties
Selling Chicago's South Loop

Dave Auffarth of Keller Williams Realty provides real estate services in Chicago, Illinois for the South Loop, West Loop, Greater Chicago and beyond.

**

Sung in Italian with English supertitles. The performance will run approximately 3 hours with one intermission.

• Individual Tickets: $45-$125; Subscriptions:$66-$345; Students: Half-off Prices;
• Tickets may be purchased at Chicago Opera Theater (312.704.8414) or the Harris Theater.
• Click here to buy tickets now!

Thanks Explore Chicago for the info on this Chicago musical masterpiece!

​David Auffarth

My City Home
Chicago's South Loop Real Estate Expert

Chicago's South Loop Real Estate
Search Chicago South Loop Properties
Selling Chicago's South Loop

Dave Auffarth of Keller Williams Realty provides real estate services in Chicago, Illinois for the South Loop, West Loop, Greater Chicago and beyond.

**

Another top reason for paying off your mortgage is the satisfaction of actually owning your home. In addition, the mortgage payment is typically the highest of a household's monthly expense, so not having to worry about that each month can bring peace of mind, especially in the case of a loss of a job or retirement. 

Some financial advisors do however advise that paying off your mortgage is a bad financial move. Some arguments that the money should be invested as to gain a  higher return in the long run. While this advise might sound good in theory there is no guarantee that a higher return can be achieved. 

Paying off your mortgage has many benefits, but the question many homeowners ask is "How?", especially in a difficult economy. Below are some strategies you can use to help you get to your payoff goal!

• Keep an eye on interest rates and, if they fall, consider refinancing. If you can reduce your interest rate, shorten the term of your loan or both, refinancing can be an excellent strategy. 
• Overpay a fixed amount every month. Even if you can afford to pay an 5-20% of your total payment, it can add up to be 1-2 extra payments a year.
• Biweekly mortgage payment plans. By paying half of your monthly mortgage payment every two weeks, you end up making the equivalent of an extra payment every year.  Instead of making 12 monthly payments, you’ll make 52/2 = 26 biweekly payments — the equivalent of 13 monthly payments. This will shave years off your mortgage. Moreover, if you’re paid on a biweekly basis, this approach might match your budgeting process better than monthly payments.

In a difficult economy paying your regular monthly obligations can be difficult, and it can be very challenging to try to make any additional payments. They key is to make an attempt, every little bit counts and gets you closer to your goal!

Contact me today if you'd like help from a professional real estate agent to get you into the home of your dreams!

​David Auffarth

My City Home
Chicago's South Loop Real Estate Expert

Chicago's South Loop Real Estate
Search Chicago South Loop Properties
Selling Chicago's South Loop

Dave Auffarth of Keller Williams Realty provides real estate services in Chicago, Illinois for the South Loop, West Loop, Greater Chicago and beyond.

**

Thanks Explore Chicago for the information!

​David Auffarth

My City Home
Chicago's South Loop Real Estate Expert

Chicago's South Loop Real Estate
Search Chicago South Loop Properties
Selling Chicago's South Loop

Dave Auffarth of Keller Williams Realty provides real estate services in Chicago, Illinois for the South Loop, West Loop, Greater Chicago and beyond.

**

When the real estate market is already moving so slowly, the last thing you want to hear is that your deal has fallen through.  Here are some of today’s top deal-killers and what you can do to minimize fall-out when buying or selling your South-Loop home.

1. Buyer’s remorse – Everyone gets it; and while you can’t prevent buyer’s remorse, there are a few things you can do to lessen the chances that your buyers will change their mind. First of all, be totally up front with the flaws of the house. Don’t let an inspection reveal problems that you should address with potential buyers and offer to fix.
2. Financing– Everything from stricter credit requirements to increased down payments has thrown the mortgage market into a tizzy and many buyers are finding that they can’t qualify, even if they have been pre-approved for a mortgage. Consider owner financing if you can, or offer to pay for repairs that give the buyers more cash for down payment options.
3. Low appraisals – Make sure that you know the true market value of your home BEFORE you put it on the market and adjust accordingly. You may have to take a hit on the house, but it’s better than spending money on it through the sale process only to lose that money and the deal because you can’t get the appraisal up.
4. Failure to communicate – Negotiations are a key part of a home sale and you have to be flexible if you really want to sell your property. Don’t automatically reject low offers and contract contingencies – be willing to work with the seller and keep communications open. You may be able to agree at the end of the day.

Stay on top of your current market – don’t let national headlines guide your decisions. You should have a good feel for your local economy, neighborhood comps and your home’s current value. Become the expert on your market and you’ll be better equipped to deal with the challenges and deal busters that come your way!

We would love to know of any "deal breakers" that we did not list here, share your experiences and ideas!

​David Auffarth

My City Home
Chicago's South Loop Real Estate Expert

Chicago's South Loop Real Estate
Search Chicago South Loop Properties
Selling Chicago's South Loop

Dave Auffarth of Keller Williams Realty provides real estate services in Chicago, Illinois for the South Loop, West Loop, Greater Chicago and beyond.

**

This is a HOME GAME!!!

U.S. Cellular Field
333 W. 35th St.
Chicago, IL 60655

To get tickets before they sell out, click here!

Thanks Explore Chicago for this info. Hope to see everyone out supporting our Chicago team!

​David Auffarth

My City Home
Chicago's South Loop Real Estate Expert

Chicago's South Loop Real Estate
Search Chicago South Loop Properties
Selling Chicago's South Loop

Dave Auffarth of Keller Williams Realty provides real estate services in Chicago, Illinois for the South Loop, West Loop, Greater Chicago and beyond.

**

Here are some tips that will help you get organized and make moving day a lot easier!

1. Change your address and notify companies before you move. Start by filling out a change of address form in advance of your move. Doing this ahead of time can help you to avoid hassles like past-due bills, service lapses and even identity theft. It is also a good idea before you move to set dates to discontinue your utilities at your old address as well as arrange for these services to be turned on at your new address. .

2. Create a moving schedule.
It is a good idea to set up a moving schedule a few months before you move. Set it up as a week-by-week checklist to manage the process and help to stay on track. A moving schedule helps you to keep track of the little details or things that may be over looked, thus helping you to avoid last minute headaches. 

3. Establish a packing system.
Packing is a major time consumer so thing about coming up with a packing system so all of your boxes end up in the right rooms when they get to your new home. Many professional movers recommend that you use the color code system where you color code each box with a particular room to avoid any confusion with the movers. It is also helpful to give your movers a floor plan of your home with each room labeled.

4. Get rid of unnecessary items.
The less boxes you pack the less you have to move into your new home and finally unpack. So it makes sense to thoroughly go thru your items and get rid of the things you just don't need. Items such as unread books, half-empty cleaning products, clothes that you know you wont wear again should be given away or sold at a garage sale. You don't want to bring the clutter to your new home!

Do you have any tried and true tips for a successful move? Share them with us, we would love to hear how you made moving easier!

​David Auffarth

My City Home
Chicago's South Loop Real Estate Expert

Chicago's South Loop Real Estate
Search Chicago South Loop Properties
Selling Chicago's South Loop

Dave Auffarth of Keller Williams Realty provides real estate services in Chicago, Illinois for the South Loop, West Loop, Greater Chicago and beyond.

**

 Breakfast with the Bunny Buffet Menu includes:

• An array of seasonal sliced fresh fruit and assorted berries
• Bountiful display of freshly baked muffins
• Assorted breakfast pastries and bagels with cream cheese
• Fluffy scrambled eggs
• Natural applewood-smoked bacon strips
• Sage sausage links
• Thick cinnamon swirl French toast with maple syrup and butter
• Seasoned breakfast potatoes
• Assorted cereals and oatmeal
• Toasted English muffins
• Jelly and preserves
• White and chocolate milk
• Fresh, chilled orange juice
• Fresh brewed coffee (regular and decaffeinated) and an assortment of hot teas, served table-side   

 Prices including park admission: Member adult: $29.00  Member child: $21.50  Non-Member adult: $39.00 Non-Member child: $27.50

To make online reservations, please click here!

Special thanks to Choose Chicago for the info on this family fun Chicago Event!

​David Auffarth

My City Home
Chicago's South Loop Real Estate Expert

Chicago's South Loop Real Estate
Search Chicago South Loop Properties
Selling Chicago's South Loop

Dave Auffarth of Keller Williams Realty provides real estate services in Chicago, Illinois for the South Loop, West Loop, Greater Chicago and beyond.

**

In fact, if you notice evidence of termites, there’s a good chance the infestation is already quite advanced.

If you have any worries at all about termites in home, the best course of action is to locate a pest control or termite inspection so that you are aware of the full extent of the problem. Of course, pest inspections are an important part of the overall inspection process, so make sure you hire an expert in the field:

1. Check out online or yellow page listings under Pest Control for a licensed, bonded inspector. Your real estate agent can also be helpful in location a company for you.
2. Request estimates for the inspection cost and compare rates.
3. Make sure that you get a copy of the inspection report and course of action needed before signing any contract papers.

Buying or selling a home usually requires a clear pest control report. The inspector looks for termite infestation as well as other pest infestation, plumbing leaks, obvious roof leaks, dry rot and water damage. Make sure that all areas of the home are accessible for the inspector. Try to stick with companies that do inspection and treatment only – and leave any wood repair to carpenters or contractors.

Each year, Remodeling magazine and REALTOR magazine produce one of the real estate industry’s top tools: “The Cost vs. Value Report.”  The clear winners overall for resale value v. job cost: exterior replacements like windows, siding and decks. Inside, midrange kitchen and bath remodels and attic-to-bedroom conversions led the pack. Buyers love kitchen, bathroom and bedroom upgrades!

To make the most of your remodel, Carl Vogel of This Old House magazine recommends the following:

* Invest in the right projects. Kitchens and baths get the job done; swimming pools and home offices don’t. And minor projects may fare better than more expensive remodels.

* Choose the right styles. Think “classic” and “neutral” for interior finishes--and don’t over personalize. Adding on? Make sure the addition blends with the rest of the house.

* Match your renovations to the neighborhood and the region. Make sure your remodel matches the value of your home in the South Loop and the value of other houses in the area. And make sure you’re not investing in an improvement that buyers may not consider much of an improvement. Will they really appreciate that deck in Anchorage? Or that fireplace in Phoenix?

* Keep real estate demand in mind. Buyers will pay more for remodels in a pricey, active market than they will for those in a softer market. Don’t “over-renovate.”

The bottom line is that remodeling can add value--if you know what buyers want and you’re willing to play by industry rules.

Feel free to contact me with any questions you may have on remodeling values and trends in your community

​David Auffarth

My City Home
Chicago's South Loop Real Estate Expert

Chicago's South Loop Real Estate
Search Chicago South Loop Properties
Selling Chicago's South Loop

Dave Auffarth of Keller Williams Realty provides real estate services in Chicago, Illinois for the South Loop, West Loop, Greater Chicago and beyond.

**

The Oceanarium reopened in 2009 after a major renovation and features an elaborate recreation of a Pacific Northwest marine environment with dolphins, harbor seals, sea otters, penguins and beluga whales. New exhibits in the Oceanarium include the kid-friendly, interactive Polar Play Zone, and the Grainger Beluga Encounter Habitat which brings spectators up close to whales. The Oceanarium's new multi-species aquatic show '"Fantasea" opened in October 2009.

The world's largest indoor aquarium celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2005 and continues to awe crowds with colorful permanent exhibits such as "Seahorses and Seadragons," which leads the list of more than 650 featured species of marine life, and "Amazon Rising," which brings to life one of the world's most diverse environments, where anaconda, piranhas and arawanas make their home.

South Loop additional exhibits include the impressive "Wild Reef" display, one of the largest and most diverse shark exhibits in North America, featuring more than 25 sharks, 500 species of reef fish and the largest display of live coral in the Midwest; and "Grand Cayman Iguana," featuring two of the critically endangered giant lizards, on public display since 2005 after living behind the scenes at Shedd. Learn about threats to the Great Lakes ecosystem at the "Invasive Species" exhibit, which includes Asian carp, zebra mussels and more.

Thank you Metromix for this South Loop event information!

David Auffarth
My City Home
Chicago's South Loop Real Estate Expert

Chicago's South Loop Real Estate
Search Chicago South Loop Properties
Selling Chicago's South Loop

Dave Auffarth of Keller Williams Realty provides real estate services in Chicago, Illinois for the South Loop, West Loop, Greater Chicago and beyond.

**

If you have never heard of this before, basically the person selling the home lends the potential buyer the money to purchase the house. The seller becomes the mortgage holder and the buyer sends monthly mortgage payments directly to the seller. The transaction is usually completed using a promissory that states the interest rate, length and terms of the loan and default consequences.

In today’s market, sellers may need to get their homes sold quickly, and seller financing is a way to get the property sold faster – it opens up the market to more buyers and the paperwork process moves quickly.

Some advantages to doing this type of financing:

• Faster closing – Sellers and buyers can avoid long waits for loan committee review, underwriting and legal review.
• Lower Closing Costs – buyers don’t have to shell out additional money for bank fees and other closing costs associated with a traditional mortgage.
• Flexible down payment – most sellers are willing to take less money down than lending institutions.

Of course this is not for everyone and many home sellers may not be in a position to where they can offer financing. On the downside, there is risk involved on both sides – the seller is taking a risk on someone who may have some shaky payment history or poor credit, and the buyer is dependent on the seller to have been upfront on the terms of the sale (like making sure that the seller’s lender approves the arrangement). As with any large transaction, especially a property purchase, both parties should consult with a real estate attorney and financial expert to make sure that the transaction is legal and is financially sound. If you are ready to buy and can’t find a lender, seller financing may be worth checking out!

​Are you ready to buy a South Loop home? Contact me today

David Auffarth
My City Home
Chicago's South Loop Real Estate Expert

Chicago's South Loop Real Estate
Search Chicago South Loop Properties
Selling Chicago's South Loop

Dave Auffarth of Keller Williams Realty provides real estate services in Chicago, Illinois for the South Loop, West Loop, Greater Chicago and beyond.

**

You can find a complete list of the South Loop activities here, but this is just a sample of what this city has to offer March 17th:

St. Paddy's 5k and 8K Run/Walk

57th Annual Chicago St. Patrick's Day Parade

The Dying of the Chicago River

You definitely won't be without something fun to do this weekend in South Loop!

Thank you Metromix for this lengthy list of local events!

David Auffarth
My City Home
Chicago's South Loop Real Estate Expert

Chicago's South Loop Real Estate
Search Chicago South Loop Properties
Selling Chicago's South Loop

Dave Auffarth of Keller Williams Realty provides real estate services in Chicago, Illinois for the South Loop, West Loop, Greater Chicago and beyond.

**

The Community Association Institute estimates that nearly one out of every six Americans lives in a community association.  Before purchasing a South Loop home that is regulated by an HOA, it is very important to read their bylaws.  These are laws governed by the association. Always ask questions so that you can make an informed decision. Here are a few to help you get started:

• Ask the HOA about parking limitations/restrictions, pet limitations/restrictions with respect to quantity, size and type, restrictions related to outdoor decor/furniture/grilling restrictions (for balcony/patio), and if there are any current outstanding assessments the new owner will be responsible for assuming.
• Be certain to ask if there is any active litigation, as this may affect buyer financing, and also indicates possible red flags with property in general you will want your home inspector to do extra due diligence on.
• If you don't agree with something in the bylaws/restrictions, do you have any recourse?
• What do monthly HOA assessments/fees cover? HOA fees typically cover common ground concerns such as landscaping, pest control, pool and fitness center maintenance, guard gate/security services and common area taxes. They sometimes cover utilities such as trash, water or cable television.
• How often do HOA assessments/fees increase (and at what percentage), so you can be prepared for rising costs down the road?  Also ask, will the members be able to vote on the rising cost?

There are a lot of positives and negatives in becoming a part of a homeowners association.  It may or may not fit into your lifestyle and ideas.  Read the agreement well before you consider a home with a homeowners association.  Ask the homeowners in the community about the services they receive because of the agreement.  The better you understand how all the locals feel about their association, the easier it will be for you to know if it is right for you.  Also you want to know how the association deals with issues that arise. You want to know what you are getting yourself into before find your dream home in the Chicago South Loop!

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This family friendly event will be shown at the Film Row Cinema at Columbia College which is located at1104 S. Wabash Ave. Chicago, IL 60605

David Auffarth
My City Home
Chicago's South Loop Real Estate Expert

Chicago's South Loop Real Estate
Search Chicago South Loop Properties
Selling Chicago's South Loop

Dave Auffarth of Keller Williams Realty provides real estate services in Chicago, Illinois for the South Loop, West Loop, Greater Chicago and beyond.

**

Anyone who has been through a divorce will tell you that it’s a complicated and difficult process on so many levels. In addition to the emotional toll of separating from a spouse, the transition to life as a newly-single person and the impact of divorce on children and extended family members, there are real, long-term financial considerations. There is a reason that divorce ranks number two on the famed Holmes and Rahe Stress Scale.

Budget adjustment after divorce can be one of the most grueling tasks of all, whether the divorcing spouses have children to provide for or not. Budget adjustment can be especially challenging for partners who may have taken a backseat when it came to managing the finances during the marriage. The now single person will have to quickly acquire new financial skills to gain control of assets and monthly expenses, make investments and plan for retirement.

Fortunately, there are some basic strategies that can put even the most overwhelmed on the path toward financial health. Budget adjustment after divorce is painful but not impossible.

The first, and perhaps most critical step is to establish a monthly budget that allows for the payment of bills as well as a little future planning. It can be a huge shift to learn to live on only one income and it’s essential for you to understand where your money is going as soon as possible. Once done, you will have a clearer picture of where changes could and should be made – whether paying down debt or channeling more resources into savings.

How does your retirement future look? If you can’t answer that question, now is the time to act. Budget adjustment after divorce should always include the evaluation of IRAs, 401ks and investment funds. If you don’t have any of these, it’s time to get serious. A financial planner can help.

Divorce filings involve many small, often arduous details, but some of the tiniest particulars are the most important of all. Stressed spouses often neglect to check their  life insurance and retirement accounts and change listed beneficiaries after divorce. For the protection of children and your individual estate, these modifications should not be overlooked.

While taking ownership of your financial prospects may not dull the pain of ending your marriage, it can create a tremendous sense of empowerment. Budget adjustment after divorce is a challenge you will thank yourself for facing. After a painful event, you can still enjoy a healthy, thriving future in the Chicago South Loop!

David Auffarth
My City Home
Chicago's South Loop Real Estate Expert

Chicago's South Loop Real Estate
Search Chicago South Loop Properties
Selling Chicago's South Loop

Dave Auffarth of Keller Williams Realty provides real estate services in Chicago, Illinois for the South Loop, West Loop, Greater Chicago and beyond.

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