According to Curbed Chicago's readers, the Rogers Park neighborhood is in the running to be name Curbed Chicago's "Neighborhood of the Year."

A quick read of today's MLS inventory of single family homes in Edgewater reveals that there are just 11 active listings.Those homes, pictured below, range in price from $350,000 to $1,625,000. This dearth of availability is frustrating given the number of clients our firm is working with who have expressed an interest in the Edgewater and Andersonville neighborhood. If you or anyone you know may be in the market to sell, NOW IS THE TIME.

One of the many things I love about living in the Andersonville neighborhood of Chicago is that the local shops offer a unique shopping opportunity where you can always expect the unexpected. Yesterday, I had the chance to pop in to Brownstone Antiques and Collectibles at 5234 N Clark Street. What greeted me at the door was indeed a one-of-a-kind find: two 5 foot tall Indian chief lamps. They are simply awesome and I struggled all day to think of who among my friends would just have to have them.  Unfortunately, I came up empty handed. But I want someone to have them and give them a good home for the next 75 years of their life. They are just too cool not to be shared.

The shops of Andersonville frequently offer opportunities to find objects like no other. Here, there are few chains and instead we have a collective of merchants that are devoted to bringing the community and our visitors that special gift like no other.

Shop local.  Shop Andersonville.

The headlines are announcing once again that Chicago is Number 1 Buyer's market in the country.  Information is sourced from the web site Zillow. Of course, this means that Chicago is not favorable to sellers right now. In fact, Chicago home prices have recently declined whereas the rest of the country is experiencing price increases.

Our own experience here at iMove Chicago has been that the inventory placed for sale is meager due to many owners witholding properties from the market and choosing instead to offer them for rent. Many are just unwilling to accept the haircut on price. Our company's inventory of high end condos and single family homes has exploded recently.

Recently in Chicago, the real estate community was stunned to learn that an agent was attacked by an individal posing as a buyer for a property listed by the agent. Here is a link to the news article regarding the attack: http://chicago.cbslocal.com/2012/12/05/real-estate-agent-sexually-assaulted-on-job-in-northwest-indiana/ The attack should be a wake up call to all agents to take reasoable steps to protect themselves from such attacks. Here are a few ideas that may help:

1.    First, know your client. Sounds simple but you would be surprised how many agents go out on showings based solely on a request for a showing. Yes, we are all eager to close more deals and want to make the client happy, but you should always insist on screening clients before any showings. Our firm requires all clients to  contaact a mortgage broker prior to embarking on any showings. Screening will certainly limit the chances os a personal attack as the person knows his idenity is available to others.

2.    Request photo identification prior to showings. This is certainly a reasonable request and if questioned you can explain that it is simply your policy for your personal safety. Collect home, work and cel phone numbers and a physical address.

3.    Have the client meet you at your brokerages offices.  At your office, introduce you client to your bbroker, a fellow agent or your offices' administrative staff.  Again, you want your prospective client to know that his identity is known. Have someone note the person's license plate number , make and model of car.

4.    Always inform your office or a colleague of your schedule. This point is particularly important if you are working with a clint for the first time. If you can, share your calendar with a colleague and always note thae name of the person with who you have appointments and the properties that you are scheduled to see.

5.    Be smart! Sounds simple, but there are many things we as agents overlook. Don't schedule showings at odd hours. Know the property you intend to show. Do not show properties unaccompanied by another agent in any area you personally feel uncomfortable. Many new agents in your office would certaily be eager to tag along on a showing. 

6.    Know the property you are showing and show smart. Know where exits are located.  Always allow your client to lead into rooms as you follow and explain. Don't turn your back.  Don't enter rooms that are unlit or that are not easily accessible (i.e. basements, garages, shed, storage rooms etc.).

7.    Carry protection (no, not that kind).  Carry a key chain can of mace, or a whistle.  Carry a flashlight. Always have your cell phone close at hand.

8.    Trust your instincts. A legitimate customer should never take issue with the steps you take to protect yourself and your precautions may well show the client that you are a concientious person who will endeavor to take such care with your representation of their interest as well.

Be Safe Agents!.  Feel free to add comments with any tips that you consider wise.