Summery Start to September
Happy September! I am seeing a lot of pumpkin spice latte ads (I may or may not have already ordered one) and fall décor store displays, yet the weather still feels very summer-like here in Chicagoland! While I love all things pumpkin and apple, I’m going to revel in this hot weather as long as Mother Nature will let me. There will be plenty of sweater weather months ahead!
Speaking of pool weather, I hope you had a great Labor Day weekend and were able to enjoy the 90 degree weather we had. I spent my Saturday morning running 18 miles for my Chicago Marathon training, followed by some much needed pool time! Running 18 miles is no joke, I have never run that far or long in my entire life. It’s crazy to think I will be running 8 miles on top of that in a few short weeks. Next weekend I will be running the Fox Valley 20 Miler in St Charles with my “Mom’s Time Out” marathon team—sister, Christine, and friend, Annette.
As always, thank you to those who have referred me business this year. Enjoy the rest of your September!
~Jen
Market Update
Inventory continues to be a factor for the real estate market. For the Chicagoland market, new listings were down 31% in July 2023 from July 2022. Sales volume was down 40%. Median sales prices increased 11.5%. Average market time remains the same year over year, just under 30 days. In Wheaton, the median sales price for a single family home was $475K, which marked a 5.6% increase from last year.
The data in the chart below depict how much supply and demand play a fundamental role in shaping the dynamics of the real estate market. When demand for real estate properties exceeds the available supply, it often leads to higher property prices, creating a seller's market. In such situations, buyers may face increased competition and bidding wars. Conversely, when supply outpaces demand, property prices tend to stabilize or decline, creating a buyer's market. Real estate values are also influenced by factors like location, economic conditions, and interest rates, but the interplay between supply and demand is a key driver in determining property values and market conditions.
Until we see a rise in inventory levels, I do not see a change with home prices. Chicagoland has less than 2 months of supply, which is extremely low. We have a long way to go to see even balanced market conditions. Finally, last month, I reported that buyers seem to have a keen ability to detect an overpriced listing from a distance and are not hesitating to walk away from such properties. So even though prices have not come down and there is little competition for most home sellers, pricing to sell from the get-go still remains key.
Best Affordable Home Decor Websites
Elevating your home decor doesn't have to drain your wallet. You just need to know where to look…
Let me share a few of my favorite online destinations where you can discover chic, yet budget-friendly decor that will transform your space:
→ Wayfair: Think stylish meets affordable. With a vast range of options, Wayfair is a go-to for decor pieces that truly stand out, without the hefty price tag.
→ Target: I love Hearth & Hand with Magnolia and Threshold with Studio McGee for staging items. Both collections have such a luxury style without the luxury price.
→ Anthropologie: Who said boho chic has to be expensive? Anthropologie offers high-quality, bohemian-inspired pieces that add a unique touch to any room.
→ Houzz: More than just inspiration for looking at amazing house photos, Houzz serves up impressive deals on home furniture and decor from popular name brands. It's worth a browse!
Affordable doesn't mean compromising on style. With these sites, you're bound to find pieces that will make your space feel like a million bucks, without actually spending it.
Wheaton Wednesday is Back!
Check out my latest Wheaton Wednesday video at Kimmer’s Ice Cream shop. It’s always fun when I get to include my kids. Missed any of the 16 episodes? Catch up! I would love to hear your favorite video or a spot you would like to see featured.
Just Sold
5S578 Tuthill Rd. Naperville, IL
Did you know that I also do land sales?? With inventory being so low, sometimes building new is a better option. Especially for those who are sold on a specific neighborhood but aren’t finding the right fit for resale. Tearing down an existing house to build new is very common in certain areas. Congratulations to my buyers who bought this ¾+ acre lot in north Naperville. Off Market sale! The seller had recently torn down the existing house so it’s all ready for new construction!”
Under Contract
500 E Saint Charles Rd Unit 302, Lombard
More to come on this condo that went under contract in the first 2 days of being on market.
Favorite Purchase this Month
I used to love pouring a “Liquid IV” packet in a glass of water for extra hydration. The only thing I didn’t care for was how sugary they are (and I love sugar). I recently was recommended these “LMNT Electrolyte Drink Mix” packets and LOVE them. They have more of a salty-sweet flavor. Their “Watermelon Salt” is my favorite.
It’s back to the swing of things here with school, sports, and activities. It’s officially the season of life where I feel like an Uber driver and my car has definitely felt like a 2nd home and office lately. I’m trying to embrace it though because I know they will be driving themselves before I know it. I just wish they would try to keep the backseat of my car a little more clean though, ya know? I think I picked out a dozen French fries and goldfish out of their seats the other day. But I digress. Emmy is loving 3rd grade, golfs twice a week, and will be starting competitive swim with Wheaton Swim Club next week.
Jack is doing great in 1st grade, plays on the Wheaton Rams flag football team (Kurt is the team coach!), and travels to Addison for pre-season wrestling workouts with Kurt twice a week. Kurt is already very pumped for wrestling season to start…