Meet Jess: Ukrainian Village First-Time Buyer
Why did you decide to stop renting and buy your first place?
I was sick of "throwing away" money on renting a tiny convertible apt. Besides the down payment, I spend about the same amount as I would on rent and for 2x the space! Plus I was sick of moving every year, 5 moves in 5 years was too much!
Did your criteria for your home change as your search progressed?
The neighborhood I was looking to buy in became more flexible. I wasn't super familiar with Ukrainian Village because I had spent most my time living on the north side of the city. I started to realize what I wanted (2 bd, 2 bath, outdoor space, garage parking) within the price point I wanted was more attainable on the West Side. But when I realized how close it was to work and how much the neighborhood was growing, I turned my attention to UV and Wicker Park.
I also liked the cute neighborhood vibes of this area, and that it was close to major streets with bars/restaurants/shops (Chicago and Division).
What was a must-have in your home?
Open living space! I love to entertain and wanted a space where I could cook and hang out with friends and family at the same time.
How did you know this condo was "the one"?
I knew this was the one because of all the great potential I saw! The unit had an extra-wide, open living space, a second bedroom for an office, and a large maser suite—all of which were high on my priority list. The outdoor space, proximity to work and growing neighborhood made it a must-buy!
What do you love most about your new home?
I love the outdoor space off the maser suite and the juilet balcony off the living room. Opening both screened doors during cooler, summer days is so nice. But I also love the living area! I am happiest on the couch with a candle burning, wine or coffee in hand, fireplace lit, and my dog Sadie curled up next to me. The gelato place down the block is also an amazing perk in the summer.
Have you made any changes since you moved in?
I haven't had a chance to make any major updates but brightening my kitchen is #1 on my list. I did replace the light fixtures and hardware in the kitchen, upgraded some older appliances, and bought a bunch of furniture since I doubled the size of my space.
I also can’t wait to decorate the back deck and put a garden and trampoline in the backyard!
What are you most excited about in your new home?
The night I closed on my condo, my friends and I had a "picnic" dinner on my new living room floor. We grabbed pizza to go from a local spot, opened the Juliet balcony door for fresh summer air, and drank to a new adulthood milestone.
I can’t wait to make a place my home and design it the way I want. I've never fully leaned in to decorating past apartments because I moved every year and rented. Now that I own, I'm excited to for home projects. First up is new counters and a new backsplash in the kitchen.
Do you have a favorite neighborhood spot?
Blackdog Gelato or West Town Bakery!
Any advice for anyone buying + selling at the same time?
Understand your "must haves" vs "nice to have" and be open! There's a lot of different types of homes, different vibes of neighborhoods, and different layouts. Being open and patient will ensure you find the best fit for you, even if it's not what you might have originally thought you wanted.
“Meg was super helpful in guiding me through a HOT market. Places were consistently going for over the list price and in 24 hours after being put on the market. It was stressful trying to understand the difference between feeling pressure to put in an offer and putting in an offer because I loved a place. Meg was great at helping me make that determination. I ended up putting in an offer on a place an old peer of Meg’s had put on instagram. I was able to see it before it was put on the market and Meg convinced the seller to take my offer and cancel the scheduled open house! ”
Ready to find the perfect home?
We can help you move forward.