Relocation Guide to Naperville, Illinois

Neighborhood News, Uncategorized

Welcome to Naperville, Illinois – a vibrant and family-friendly city located in the western suburbs of Chicago. Whether you’re moving here for work, education, or to start a new chapter in your life, Naperville offers a diverse range of amenities and a high quality of life. This relocation guide will help you navigate your move to Naperville and settle in comfortably.

Introduction to Naperville

Location: Naperville is located approximately 28 miles west of downtown Chicago in DuPage and Will Counties, making it part of the Chicago metropolitan area.

Population: Naperville had a population of around 148,000 residents, making it the fifth-largest city in Illinois.

Climate: Naperville experiences all four seasons, with cold winters and warm summers. Be prepared for snow in the winter and potentially hot and humid weather in the summer.

Housing and Neighborhoods

Naperville offers a variety of housing options, from historic homes in the downtown area to modern subdivisions in different neighborhoods. Popular neighborhoods include:

  • Downtown Naperville: A vibrant area with shops, restaurants, and cultural events. Historic homes and newer condos are available.
  • North Naperville: Offers excellent schools and is known for its family-friendly atmosphere.
  • South Naperville: Offers a mix of housing types and easy access to shopping and dining.
  • East Naperville: Closer to downtown and offers a mix of historic and newer homes.
  • West Naperville: Features newer subdivisions and is home to many corporate offices.

Research and visit these neighborhoods to find the best fit for your lifestyle and budget.

Education

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Naperville is served by several excellent school districts, including Naperville Community Unit School District 203 and Indian Prairie Community Unit School District 204. The city also has private and parochial schools. If you’re considering higher education, North Central College is a respected institution located in the heart of Naperville.

Employment Opportunities

Naperville’s economy is diverse, with opportunities in healthcare, technology, education, and more. Major employers in the area include Edward-Elmhurst Health, Nokia, and Indian Prairie School District 204. Many residents also commute to jobs in Chicago.

Transportation

  • Public Transit: Naperville is served by Metra commuter rail, providing convenient access to downtown Chicago. Pace bus service connects various parts of the city.
  • Highways: Naperville is intersected by I-88 and I-355, making it easy to travel around the Chicago area by car.

Healthcare

Naperville has several hospitals and healthcare facilities, including Edward Hospital and Rush Copley Medical Center. You’ll have access to a wide range of healthcare services and specialists.

Recreation and Entertainment

  • Parks: Naperville boasts an extensive park system, offering opportunities for hiking, biking, and sports. The Riverwalk is a scenic downtown destination along with the iconic Centennial beach.
  • Cultural Activities: Enjoy art galleries, theaters, and annual events like the Naperville Ale Fest and Naperville Wine Festival.

Shopping and Dining

Downtown Naperville is a hub for shopping and dining. You’ll find a wide variety of restaurants, boutiques, and specialty stores. Popular shopping destinations include the Naperville Crossings and Fox Valley Mall.

Utilities and Services

  • Electricity and Gas: ComEd and Nicor Gas provide electricity and gas services to the area.
  • Water and Sewer: The city of Naperville provides water and sewer services to residents.
  • Garbage and Recycling: The city offers regular waste collection and recycling services.

Community Resources

  • Naperville Public Library: Offers a wealth of resources, programs, and events for all ages.
  • Naperville Park District: Manages parks, facilities, and recreational programs.
  • Naperville Chamber of Commerce: A valuable resource for businesses and networking.

Local Government

Naperville has a City Council form of government. Visit the city’s official website for information on local government services, voting, and more at https://www.naperville.il.us

Safety and Emergency Services

Naperville takes safety seriously and has a well-equipped police department and fire department. The city also has a strong sense of community, which contributes to its overall safety.

NAPERVILLE MOVING RESOURCES GUIDE: https://tinyurl.com/4casz8mv

For all Naperville real estate inquires contact Amy Pearson local realtor at Amy@atproperties.com or Text/Call 708-653-8366

MOVING TO Lisle, Illinois? HERE IS YOUR DAY TRIP ITINERARY

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If you are thinking about moving to Lisle, IL, here is my customized day trip Itinerary that I would encourage people to use to explore Lisle, for the first time. Of course feel free to contact myself Amy Pearson who is a local realtor that was raised in the Lisle area and is now raising my family in Naperville at Amy@LuxHomeChicago.com or 708-653-8366. I can also set up home showings as well during your visit to Lisle.

First stop: Downtown Lisle Located at : 4900 Lincoln Ave, Lisle, IL 60532

Downtown Garden Like Setting

There are parking spaces in downtown Lisle with on-street parking located on Main Street, Burlington Avenue and School Street in Downtown Lisle. Extended time parking is located in the Garfield Parking Lot. Free 2-hour on-street parking stalls are available on Main Street, Burlington Avenue and School Street. The downtown is a beautiful, pedestrian-friendly retail and restaurant district that features a prairie style streetscape inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright. Extensive planting beds filled with beautiful flowers and grasses make for an enjoyable shopping/dining experience.

Second stop: Garden Walk Entrance Located on west Side of Main Street

Summer Garden Walk Fountain

The focal point of the downtown is the striking nature-themed fountain located at the entrance to the Garden Walk on the west side of Main Street. The unique fountain was inspired by the Frank Lloyd Wright “Falling Waters” development. Water cascades over massive stone slabs and flows over the fountain’s eternity edges, while turtles, cranes, and frogs spout streams of water to create an interactive experience. It’s the perfect place to refresh after shopping/dining or touring PrairieWalk Pond. 

Third Stop: PrairieWalk Pond – Turn down the path from the fountain in downtown Lisle and will lead to the PrairieWalk Pond.

PrairieWalk Pond, a 4.5 acre recreational area adjacent to Main Street, serves as the western gateway into the downtown. The site features lighted walking trails surrounding a 2-acre pond, dramatic colored fountains, a preserved wetland, gazebo, scenic overlooks, and beautiful native landscaping. 

Dragonfly Landing – located next to PrarieWalk Pond

Just to the right of the PrairieWalk Pond is Dragonfly Landing, a creative children’s play area within PrairieWalk Pond, includes a nature themed playground, splash pad and shelter with a green roof.

Lunch time option:

NWB Next Whiskey Bar – 4732 Main St, Lisle, IL 60532

NWB Next Whiskey Bar, located in Lisle, IL, is a casual bar and eatery that serves up a variety of delicious fare. Fido is welcome to join you at one of their pet-friendly outdoor tables while you enjoy your meal.

Explore Transportation in the Town

Time to explore the community, there is one train station stop in Lisle to check out to see how long it would take to get to the train stations.

Lisle Metra Station –  1000 Front St, Lisle, IL 60532

Additional Points of Interest to Check out:

Morton Arboretum – 4100 IL-53, Lisle, IL 60532

the Arboretum features an award-winning Children’s Garden, Maze Garden, and 16 miles of hiking trails. Whether you seek a quiet stroll or an active family adventure, the Arboretum offers a variety of exhibitions, activities, events, and classes for all ages to enjoy. Advance tickets purchased online are required go to http://www.mortonarb.org.

Four Lakes Alpine Snowsports – 5750 Lakeside Dr, Lisle, IL 60532

People of all ages come to Four Lakes to learn, enjoy, and challenge the sport. Whether it
is to have an amazing afternoon with your family, get away with a few friends, or bring your entire boy scout group out, Four Lakes is the most convenient area to hit the slopes for everyone. This hill is great for beginner skiers.

Sea Lion Aquatic Park – 1825 Short St, Lisle, IL 60532

Children under 3 years of age are admitted free of charge. All children under 11 years of age must be accompanied by an adult 18 years of age or older to enter the facility. Senior rates are available for anyone age 50 years or older. All daily admission customers wishing to pay the resident rate must show proof of residency through a photo ID – No exceptions.

If you or anyone that you know is thinking about moving to Lisle, IL, please contact Amy Pearson at 708-653-8366 or at Amy@LuxHomeChicago if you have any real estate needs in the Chicagoland area. I hope to help you find your dream home in Lisle, IL!

Moving to Naperville? Here is Your Day Trip Itinerary

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If you are thinking about moving to Naperville, IL, here is my customized day trip Itinerary that I would encourage people to use to explore Naperville for the first time. Of course feel free to contact myself Amy Pearson who is a local realtor that was raised in Naperville and is now raising her family in Naperville at Amy@LuxHomeChicago.com or 708-653-8366. I can also set up home showings as well during your visit to Naperville.

First stop:

Downtown Naperville Located at 55 S Main St, Naperville, IL 60540

The parking garages in downtown Naperville are FREE and have a parking space counter sign displayed out front to show how many spaces are available. The downtown area is very walkable and I would recommend parking in a parking garage and walking around the downtown streets to check out the mix of over 150 best-in-class stores and spas alongside Naperville’s most exciting eateries.

Second stop:

Naperville River Walk – Located at: 188 W. Jackson Avenue Naperville, IL 60540

Naperville Riverwalk was built by residents in 1981 to commemorate the city’s 150th birthday. Since then, it has become a focal point of the community and is recognized as one of the most beautiful spots in the Midwest, and has won state and national awards. Its covered bridges, fountains, landscaping, and distinctive shepherd’s-crook light poles have become symbolic of Naperville’s ties to its historic past as the oldest settlement in DuPage County. Visitors travel from far and near to enjoy the splendor of the Riverwalk and the quaint restaurants and shops in downtown Naperville. Known as the “Crown Jewel of Naperville” the Riverwalk attracts lunchtime strollers, families and early morning joggers. Stroll along the brick-paved winding paths of the Riverwalk, view the art pieces of the Century Walk, have a picnic at the pavilion, or enjoy a summer outdoor concert. A memorial to the victims of the September 11 attack is located on the Riverwalk’s south bank, adjacent to City Hall.

Third Stop:

Centennial Beach Located at 500 W. Jackson Ave. Naperville, IL 60540

Historic quarry-turned-swimming facility in 1931. Includes sand, grassy area for picnicking, shallow-end slide, water play features, diving boards and more.

Lunch time options

Portillo’s – fast food restaurant and is home to America’s favorite Italian beef, burgers, salads, Chicago-style hot dogs, and chocolate cake.

There are two Naperville locations at: 950 E Ogden Ave, Naperville, IL 60540 and 1992 W Jefferson Ave, Naperville, IL 60540

Bev’s – Located at 245 S. Washington Street, Naperville, IL.

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Located in the heart of Downtown Naperville & paying homage to longtime building owner Beverly Patterson-Frier. Midcentury modern vibes with upscale, made from scratch fare, craft libations, & a unique experience. This restrauant has a large outdoor patio during the warmer months.

Hugo’s Frog Bar – Located at 55 S. Main Street

Hugo’s continues to be the destination for premier east and west coast oysters, crudos, frog legs, lobster and seasonal fish and shellfish, in addition to Gibsons Prime Angus and Gibsons Grassfed Australian steaks. An extensive wine list, classic cocktail list and selection of impressive signature desserts accompany the menu of fresh seafood, steaks and chops.

Explore Transportation in the Town

Time to explore the community, there are two train station stops in Naperville to check out to see how long it would take to get to the train stations.

Naperville Metra Station, is located at 105 E. 4th Ave., located close the downtown Naperville.

Route 59 Train Station, located at 1090 North Route 59, Aurora, IL 60504, this location is more convenient for south Naperville residents.

Additional Points of Interest to Check out:

Millennium Carillon Located: 443 Aurora Ave. Naperville, IL 60540

The grounds around the tower are open year-round during normal Park District hours, and you are welcome to visit the grounds and listen to the carillon at any of the scheduled performances.

During the open season, visitors can climb the 253 steps to the top of the tower on the guided tour and enjoy the spectacular view, where on a clear day the Chicago Skyline can be seen. Those who are unable to climb the stairs are encouraged to use the elevator and remain on the Gallery Level Observation Deck.

Naper Settlement located at  523 S. Webster St. Naperville, IL 60540

Just steps from downtown Naperville, Naper Settlement is Chicagoland’s outdoor history museum, offering interactive activities for all ages. Tour historic buildings, visit with interpreters in time-period clothing and enjoy programs on and off-site. The village tells the story of how life changed throughout the 19th century for the people of northern Illinois in towns such as Naperville. There is a fee for admission.

Knoch Knolls Nature Center 320 Knock Knolls Rd. Naperville, IL 60565

Visitors are invited to explore the fascinating DuPage River and its branches that teem with life of all kinds. The East Branch and West Branch of the DuPage River join together here at Knoch Knolls Park, creating a unique confluence of water and land. The Nature Center has FREE admission and provides a window into the underwater world found right in our community. 

DuPage Children’s Museum  301 N. Washington St. Naperville, IL 60540

Watch your children’s eyes light up with wonder and curiosity as they explore over 150 hands on activities within the brightly colored walls of a unique, three-story discovery center …where learning comes in to play! Innovative activities invite both you and your children to splash, construct, build, create, and play in lively learning neighborhoods within DuPage Children’s Museum: Build It, AirWorks, Make It Move, Creativity Connections, Math Connections, and Waterways. There is an admission fee for the museum.

If you or anyone that you know is thinking about moving to Naperville, IL, please have them contact Amy Pearson at 708-653-8366 or at Amy@LuxHomeChicago if you have any real estate needs in the Chicagoland area. I hope to help you find your dream home in Naperville!

Lisle, IL – Top 3 Things to Do in Lisle, IL with a Family – Things to do in Chicago Western Suburbs

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Are you looking for things to do on the weekend? Or have you thought about Lisle, IL for your next home? Check out my Top 3 Things to do in Lisle, IL with my family in Lisle which is a Chicago Western Suburb. You might discover some new places to check out to check out this weekend!

🚨 🚨 🚨 Buying a home? Get access to coming soon properties in the Private Listing Network and let’s search together! Use my link to get access and search together! https://zenlist.com/a/amy.pearson

🚨 🚨 Want to Book a Call with me to discuss real estate? ✅ Schedule a Zoom appointment on my calendar: Copy and paste my calendly link below: calendly.com/amy-lhc

I’m a Real Estate Agent with @properties in the Chicagoland area! I specialize in the western suburbs and downtown Chicago. I’ll be sharing weekly tips for the home buying/selling process, giving you insider tips on the suburbs and city, answering your real estate related questions, and more.

Do you live outside of the state of IL and are thinking about making a move? Contact me and I will set you up with an outstanding Realtor in your area!

Proudly serving Chicagoland area – the western suburbs specifically Naperville and the downtown Chicago.

Website: https://www.atproperties.com/agents/amypearson Business inquiries: Email –
Amy@LuxHomeChicago.com
Let’s Connect! https://www.instagram.com/apearson.chicago ~ Amy Pearson
Licensed Realtor in Illinois with @Properties

Chicago Real Estate Market 2021 – Where to buy in 2021? Looking for a Buyer’s Market in Chicago?

Real Estate News, Uncategorized

I have gotten a few calls from people asking where should I buy now? I know the market is really hot but where would be a good place for an investment? Well, here is one of my tips for buying right now if you are looking for an investment property maybe, even a rental property. I have even gotten calls from people looking to buy a condo for their child that is going to start college in the fall.  

One market that you might want to think about is the Gold Coast in downtown Chicago. Why? Why are you thinking? Well there is an 11 months inventory. That’s right 11 months! Doesn’t mean a condo will be on the market for 11 
months, it just means if nothing new is added to the market, it would take 11 months for everything to sell. Compare it to a suburb, say Naperville it’s around one month inventory. Stuff is moving fast in the suburbs. Gold Coast it has 11 months inventory, it is a buyers market. So great place for an investor right now to look at is the Gold Coast!

Number 2 area that you can think about as an investment would be the South Loop area. The current month inventory for July 2021 is at 6 months. Technically 4 – 6 months is considered a balanced market. But it is at 6.1 
so it is ticking up there so South Loop is one to keep an eye on if you are thinking of buying an investment property.

Alright those are my 2 areas, tips for 2021 where you should think about buying an investment property. I’m Amy Pearson with @Properties, please keep me in mind if you are thinking about buying or selling

December Real Estate Market Report for West Town & Chicago

Neighborhood News, Real Estate News, Uncategorized

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The temperatures may have been cold in Chicago lately but, the real estate market is heating up in West Town.  New Listings in the West Town neighborhood increased 9.2% for detached homes and increased 15.8% for attached properties. Listings Under Contract decreased 2.2% for detached homes and increased 3.8% for attached properties.

The Median Sales Price in West Town was increased 13.3% to $940,000 for detached homes and increased 5.9% to $450,000 for attached properties. Months Supply of Inventory for detached units is at months and 2.3  months supply for attached units.

Chicago Real Estate Report

New Listings in the City of Chicago were up 4.4% for detached homes and up 7% for attached properties. Listings Under Contract increased 3.9% for detached homes and increased .4% for attached properties.

The Median Sales Price was up 4.5% to $229,900 for detached homes and were up 3.2%  to $320,000 for attached properties. Months Supply of Inventory is 4 months for detached units and 3 months for attached units.

Amy Pearson

Real Estate Broker

Baird & Warner – Gold Coast

Amy.pearson@bairdwarner.com

Affordable Properties in West Town

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Everyone keeps talking about how there is a low inventory and prices are going to keep going up.  I thought I would feature three properties that are priced at more affordable prices in the West Town area.  The following properties are great for first time buyers or if you are interested in a rental income property.

1 Bedroom Condo in Humboldt Park

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2735 W Le Moyne St Unit B, Chicago, IL 60622 listed at $114,000

Humboldt Park Gem! 1 Bedroom Convertible / 1 Bath Condo Conversion. Hardwood Floors, Spacious Kitchen, Granite Counters, Large Bath with Separate Jacuzzi Tub and Shower. High Ceilings. Laundry In Unit. Steps away from beautiful Humboldt Park, shops, restaurants and transportation. Bring your buyers and investors, unit can be rented.

 

 2 Bedroom Condo in Humboldt Park

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1456 N Fairfield Ave Unit B, Chicago, IL 60651 listed at $144,900

Spacious 2 Bedroom, 1 Bath Condo, steps to the Park. All the upgrades typically found in Higher Price Unit.  Granite counter tops, Hardwood floors throughout, Stainless Steel Appliances, Laundry in Bldg.  This unit can be owner occupied or rented out for an investor. Cheaper than renting in the heart of Humboldt Park! This is an awesome opportunity for a first time buyer or your smart investor.

 

Great 3 Bedroom Condo in West Town

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2751 W Augusta Blvd Unit 2, Chicago, IL 60622 listed for $321,900

Location Location Location!! This West Town Condo is near it all – restaurants, shopping and public transportation! Beautifully updated 3 bedroom – 3 full bath condo in the heart of the city has upgrades galore. Gated entryway into a quaint courtyard area with paver brick patio. Recently refinished hardwood floors throughout most of the condo – Large family room with stunning gas fireplace – vaulted ceilings and a wall of windows makes the room light and bright. Eat-In kitchen has 42” cabinets with crown molding – granite counter tops with plenty of cabinet and counter space – stainless steel appliances and the finishing touch a gorgeous stone tile back-splash – 3 full bathrooms all updated and have granite counter tops as well. Huge deck perfect for grilling and entertaining. Condo was freshly painted and new carpet in the bedrooms.

As you can see, there are still a few deals that are out there in the West Town area of Chicago.  If you are a buyer and you are interested in viewing one of these properties, please contact me today for a showing at amy.pearson@bairdwarner.com.

 

Amy Pearson

Real Estate Broker

Baird & Warner – Gold Coast

Mortgage Interest Rates Are Going Up… Should I Wait to Buy

Real Estate News, Uncategorized

Mortgage Interest Rates Are Going Up… Should I Wait to Buy? | Keeping Current Matters

Mortgage interest rates, as reported by Freddie Mac, have increased over the last several weeksFreddie Mac, along with Fannie Mae, the Mortgage Bankers Association and the National Association of Realtors, is calling for mortgage rates to continue to rise over the next four quarters.

This has caused some purchasers to lament the fact that they may no longer be able to get a rate below 3.5%. However, we must realize that current rates are still at historic lows.

Here is a chart showing the average mortgage interest rate over the last several decades:

Mortgage Interest Rates Are Going Up… Should I Wait to Buy? | Keeping Current Matters

Bottom Line

Though you may have missed getting the lowest mortgage rate ever offered, you can still get a better interest rate than your older brother or sister did ten years ago, a lower rate than your parents did twenty years ago, and a better rate than your grandparents did forty years ago.

Amy Pearson

Real Estate Broker

Baird & Warner – Gold Coast

Amy.pearson@bairdwarner.com

Lack of Existing Home Inventory

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Some Highlights:

  • The National Association of Realtors (NAR) recently released their latest Existing Home Sales Report.
  • First-time homebuyers made up 31% of all sales in August.
  • Homes are selling quickly with 51% of homes on the market for less than a month.
  • A limited supply continues to drive up prices for the 66th consecutive month.

Amy Pearson

Real Estate Broker

Baird & Warner – Gold Coast

Amy.pearson@bairdwarner.com