Homes in this area of Chicago are older. The average age of a home in Oak Park or River Forest is around 60 years. Our market is very strong and values have appreciated in some sections more than 70% over the past 5 years. The majority of homes are in excellent condition but in case you have the itch to tackle a rehab and bring back to life a vintage masterpiece or just want to properly maintain your already beautiful home let me be your source for contractor referrals. 

Why? I have successfully rehabbed three homes in this area (actually still working on the third and will be for the rest of my life) for my own family living. I am not a rehabber for profit. I have done all the research, gone through countless job bidding processes, and lived through everything from demolition to re-wiring to concrete to specialty metals to central air (3 times) to I could go on and on. 

See the picture on this page? That was our 2002 project of the year? A new roof on my home where 1/3rd of its exterior is roof surface in some places vaulting to more than 20 feet. Because of its visual dominance the roof needed to be outfitted with custom copper fixtures from Vermont, custom skylights, all new decking and architectural shingles. I am in a historic district so codes applied that required special planning. I researched roofing contractors for 6 months deciding to get bids from 5 companies and ultimately landing on the perfect roofing contractor. My studying paid off and it was the best contractor experience we have had over the past 11 years of rehabbing. 

You see? I have already personally researched and completed these common (and too many uncommon) home projects. Let my experience help you. There will always be surprises but many of my clients still reduce their anxieties by first using me to help them find a home and then continuing to call me for contractor referrals.