The Insider's Guide to Buying a Home on Chicago's North Shore

Glencoe:

Location & Neighborhoods Schools

Recreation & Fine Arts

Glencoe: Dining Glencoe: Market Stats Glencoe New Construction

Glencoe: Recently Closed Sales

Glenview 42

Location & Neighborhoods Schools

Recreation & Fine Arts

Glenview: Dining

Glenview: New Construction

Glenview: Market Stats

Glenview: Recently Closed Sales

Glenview: Recently Closed Sales

Kenilworth 62

Location & Neighborhoods Schools

Recreation & Fine Arts

Kenilworth: Dining

Kenilworth: New Construction

Kenilworth: Market Stats

Kenilworth: Recently Closed Sales

Northfield 73

Location & Neighborhoods

Northfield: Schools

Northfield: Recreation & Fine Arts

Northfield: Dining

Northfield: Market Stats

Northfield: Recently Closed Sales

Northfield: Recently Closed Sales

Wilmette 85

Location & Neighborhoods

Wilmette: Schools

Wilmette: Dining

Wilmette: Recreation & Fine Arts

Wilmette: New Construction

Wilmette: Market Stats

Wilmette: Recently Closed Sales

Wilmette: Recently Closed Sales

Wilmette: Recently Closed Sales

Winnetka 108

Location & Neighborhoods

Winnetka: Schools

Winnetka: Recreation & Fine Arts

Winnetka: Dining

Winnetka: New Construction

Winnetka: Market Stats

Winnetka: Recently Closed Sales

Winnetka: Recently Closed Off-Market Sales

Table of Contents

Moving to the North Shore?

You likely have questions!

From settling in on the right neighborhood to choosing the perfect school for your kids.

Add in commuting. . . workout places. . . coffee houses. . . finding friends (for you and for them) . . . and even where to get amazing sushi! There's so much information to gather - and you need a local expert at your side

The Buying Process

SELECT A LOCAL REALTOR

The benefits of using a local Realtor:

 We drive the streets of your new hometown on a daily basis;

 We know the people in the neighborhood (and often the back story on a home); and understand the local terrain (e.g., may know if a street is likely to flood);

 We are aware of the local inventory (and have seen many of the homes);

 We have developed a network (and often learn of off-market homes before they officially hit the market); and

 We have experience with local schools, clubs, churches and recreational activities and can direct you and your family to the amenities which will make your transition as smooth as possible.

IDENTIFY YOUR NEEDS & WANTS

We will discuss the home features most important to you. Needs: Â Budget, square footage, number of rooms, garages, basements, lot size, mechanicals and location all matter. Wants: Â Preferences in style, decor, layout and amenities.

Consider Your Economic Objectives: Â How long do you plan to live in the home? Â How important is resale value? Â Will you spend money to update an older home?

MORTGAGE PRE-APPROVAL

 Making contact with a lender, answering a few questions over the phone, and sending a few documents over gets the job done and often within 24 hours.

 A pre-approval not only provides guidance on how much home you can afford, it also helps sellers vet you as a serious buyer.

 While we may know you are qualified, a seller does not – their decision to accept your offer can come down to the quality of your pre-approval – which is the seller’s only way to ensure you are a qualified buyer. Be sure to use a reputable lender as your choice in lender matters to sellers and their agents. We can recommend several excellent lenders for you.

HOME SEARCHING

The internet makes it easier than ever to search for homes, however, sometimes the online search sites are not as accurate as the actual MLS. As your Realtor, we’ll set up an auto-search in the MLS of all homes matching your criteria so that you receive options in real time delivered via a collaborative Compass Collection. Homes are often presented beautifully in the marketing materials but this is where working with local agents pays dividends, We will share the good, the bad and the ugly with you, i.e., proximity to major streets, flood plain issues, power lines, railroad tracks or other relevant facts that could affect resale value and/or enjoyment.

Not finding what you need in the MLS? This is where local agents really pay off as we tap into our local networks to identify off-market properties for you. There seem to be more homes than ever off-market right now and only a Realtor with access to the MLS and various private off-market networks can find them for you.

TOURING

Vetting potential homes on-line has never been easier. We can request disclosures, floorplans and additional information to determine whether the home warrants a visit. If coming from the city or out of town, we are happy to preview homes for you or do virtual showings via FaceTime. The average buyer tours about 8-10 homes before deciding to place an offer. We recommend a second showing of your top 2-3 homes to really dig into the details and walk-through the functionality of each home, as well as the feeling it evokes for you and your family.

MAKE AN OFFER AND NEGOTIATE

What number should you start with? What do the comps show? What are the market trends? Should you write a letter to the seller? We will create a comprehensive negotiation strategy to arm you for success. While price is often viewed as the main event, closing dates, earnest money amounts, contingencies and other terms factor into the equation as well. We will prepare your physical offer (which can be executed electronically) and will include either your pre-approval letter or proof of funds if you are paying in cash. We will communicate the offer to the listing agent negotiate, and finesse the fine details with them to get you the best result possible. As experienced negotiators with a toolbox of creative strategies, we achieve the most successful outcome possible for our clients.

OFFER ACCEPTED

Once your Offer is accepted, both sides will sign the contract and the buyer will deposit initial earnest money into an escrow account, usually handled by the Seller’s brokerage. At this time, the buyers and sellers have a period of time during which their attorney can review the contract to ensure their interests are protected. This is referred to as the attorney review period. In the event the contract is not to the attorneys’ liking and proposed revisions are denied, either party may cancel the contract for a full return of earnest money.

Also, after Offer acceptance, an inspection period kicks in, which runs concurrently with the attorney review period, during which buyers can bring any type of inspector through the home to ensure there are no major defects or surprises lurking within the walls. We have an excellent roster of inspectors and are able to send you our list.. After the inspection, any issues arising should be discussed with your Realtor. For major defects, it is customary for your Realtor to go back to the seller and ask them to correct the problem and/or issue a credit for you to fix. If, during the attorney review period, you deem the inspection issues or their resolution to be unsatisfactory (even with an “as is” deal), you can cancel the contract and receive a full refund of your initial earnest money.

POST- INSPECTION/ATTORNEY APPROVAL

Once the Inspection/attorney approval period ends and both parties are in agreement, it is time for you, as a buyer, to pay the remainder of the earnest money and the deal becomes hard except for any outstanding contingencies. The amount of earnest money varies and is negotiable but total earnest money is often 5% of purchase price.

If financing is involved, your lender will begin working the file and order an appraisal. Be sure to respond to any and all requests for paperwork and information from your lender on an ASAP basis to keep things on schedule.

Be certain you don’t make any major changes in your financial situation between pre-approval and closing. Do not open or close credit cards, do not pay bills late, do not make any major purchases (such as furnishings or cars), do not transfer or move large sums of money. Do not quit your job. If you are thinking about any of these activities, run them by your lender first!

MORTGAGE COMMITMENT AND/OR CONTINGENCIES SATISFIED

Once your lender has completed the paperwork, they will issue a mortgage commitment and you can rest assured that the bank has committed to loan you the money for the purchase. The bank will still check all of your financial information one last time about two days before closing (so no major purchases until after closing) but it would be highly unlikely for your loan to fail at this point in time. Any outstanding contingencies such as a home sale or home close contingency must still be satisfied. The attorneys will schedule the closing and make preparations for getting the necessary wire transfers from you and the brokerage firms holding your earnest money to prepare for closing.

FINAL WALKTHROUGH

The day before (or morning of) closing, we will schedule a final walk-through to ensure the home is in similar condition to when you made your offer and to also ensure the sellers have moved everything out of the home and left it in broom clean condition.

CLOSING!!

Congratulations! You are moments away from stepping into your new home. At the closing, the money will transfer, the deed will be signed over to you and your mortgage documents will be executed. Our relationship with you has just begun! We are here to ensure your new home and lifestyle is everything you want it to be. Should you need any vendor/area recommendations or have any questions, reach out!

Why Lisa, Lourdes & Carolyn

As an attorney, Lisa’s in-depth knowledge of real estate law, contracts, and sharp negotiating skills benefit clients on the financial side of each transaction. Trained as a litigator and experienced as general counsel for a mid-size management company, Lisa’s business sense and advocacy experience pave the way for successful outcomes.

Lisa’s emphasis on data and the compilation of unique statistics further sets her apart from other brokers. She believes that research, analysis and the cold, hard facts should help justify a client’s decision whenever possible.

Harnessing the power of digital marketing, social media and advanced retargeting strategies, she has emerged as one of the most innovative and tech-savvy agents on the North Shore. A 5-star agent, Lisa ranks in the top 5% of agents on the North Shore.

Lisa and her husband have three very active children and live in Wilmette.

Lourdes brings a wealth of experience to every transaction. As a former mortgage broker for twelve years and having spent 14 years buying, selling and managing a family portfolio of real estate, Lourdes has a depth of experience not found with your average agent. Her extensive negotiation experience provides Lourdes’s clients with successful outcomes. Lourdes is 100% client centered. Lourdes also loves design and turns that passion into helping her clients prepare and stage their homes for sale when necessary. She understands how a wellstaged home can achieve maximum sale price in minimum market time.

A Wilmette resident for 33 years, Lourdes and her husband are raising their two children in Wilmette. She has been very active in her children’s school and sports activities. Lourdes has also been active as a business person and civic leader in the Logan Square neighborhood in Chicago.

A Winnetka resident for over twenty years, Carolyn Duris knows the North Shore inside and out, and can ably guide you to the home of your dreams. Specializing in the properties that grace Chicago’s desirable North Shore—Glencoe, Kenilworth, Northfield, Wilmette, and Winnetka—Carolyn offers winning strategies and solutions for both buyers and sellers.

Carolyn’s professionalism reflects the excellence of the area. With a background in marketing and sales in New York, San Francisco, and Chicago, she brings technologically savvy research, marketing skill, and negotiating expertise to every deal. Her trusted insights are key to every sale. With a topnotch team of graphic artists and a strategic social media program at her command, properties are shown at their best to reach a targeted, interested audience.

The mother of two children, Carolyn is deeply committed to the North Shore. She has developed solid ties to the community through her fundraising and volunteer work, and has also been an active volunteer in the Winnetka Schools, including Greeley, Skokie-Washburne, and New Trier High School. She serves on several boards, including Rush Hospital and the American Cancer Society.

LISA FINKS

CAROLYN DURIS

LOURDES ARENCIBIA

The Compass Advantage

Compass takes a high-tech, high-touch approach, arming the nation’s top 10% of real estate agents with transformational tools and unparalleled marketing and support services to produce exceptional results.

The Most Sophisticated Technology | Our proprietary tools help us complete every facet of your next real estate transaction more successfully: your home search, the pricing and marketing of your home, communications, and tracking Chicago’s North Shore real estate market.

A Top-Tier Marketing Team | Our in-house marketing studio features designers and strategists from acclaimed brands and agencies such as L’Oreal, Conde Nast, and J. Walter Thompson. We partner with luxury outlets like Elle Decor, The Wall Street Journal, and Architectural Digest to create memorable, impactful brand impressions.

An Unparalleled Support Network | Compass is backed by some of the most successful investors and entrepreneurs in the world, including SoftBank Vision Fund, Fidelity and Goldman Sachs. This support enables Compass to offer exclusive and ground--breaking services to our clients such as Compass Concierge and Compass Bridge loans.

Throughout the North Shore and Chicago Metro area, Compass now has 1700+ agents across 18 offices who contributed to over $8.6B in sales production in 2021. Having expanded into major markets across the nation, including the North Shore in July 2018, we are motivated by a single mission: to ensure exceptional results for all of your real estate needs.

The North Shore Real Estate Market

While there isn’t a crystal ball, it’s believed the coronavirus will have lasting effects on the local housing market that bode well for the North Shore. Over the past several years, we have witnessed a buyer preference to remain in densely populated urban neighborhoods, like Lincoln Park and Bucktown in Chicago, where smaller homes with little to no outdoor space provide a low maintenance lifestyle in exchange for an exciting, convenient location.

Shelter in place orders initially caused city dwellers to reconsider these priorities and many are now opting to leave the densely populated city for the suburbs where larger homes with big backyards, abundant privacy and plentiful recreation opportunities abound.

The trend toward working from home is also expected to remain in place long after the coronavirus situation stabilizes in our area. This trend is also conducive to larger home purchases where dedicated in-home office space is more likely to be had, and privacy and quiet are the norm.

We are at the very beginning of these changing trends so buyers early to the North Shore market stand to capitalize on the excellent values in current prices, at least by historical measures. You will find more detailed market information under each community section.

LISA FINKS - LOURDES ARENCIBIA - CAROLYN DURIS

North Shore New Construction Homes

Land values vary widely with new construction and represent a significant element of the total cost. We have published specific data relating to the builder’s land acquisition costs of new construction homes under each community section. Land in certain communities (as well as certain areas within each community) commands a premium. This information will help you determine average land costs to expect by area.

We have contacts with many North Shore builders and are happy to serve as a guide for either a custom home or a spec home (the term spec home is short of speculative home which is a home built for sale with no particular buyer in mind) should new construction be your goal.

Signature Homes

Heritage Luxury Homes

Leigh Gignilliat

Average Sales Prices in New Trier for New Construction Homes

Average Sales Prices in Glenview for New Construction Homes

North Shore Preschools

A Joyful Noise Preschool

211 Kenilworth Ave Kenilworth IL 60043 847-425-5800 https//www.ajoyfulnoisepreschool.com

Amy Castino - Director director@joyfulnoisepreschool.com

All Things Bright & Beautiful

Church of the Holy Comforter 222 Kenilworth Ave Kenilworth IL 60043 847-251-6120 https://www.holycomforter.org

Mary Johnson – Director mrjohnson@holycomforterschool.org

Baker Demonstration School

201 Sheridan Rd Wilmette IL 60091 847-425-5800 https://www.bakerdemschool.org

Carly Andrews– Head of School candrews@bakerdemschool.org admissions@bakerdemschool.org

Banner Preschool

4 N Happ Rd

Northfield IL 60093 847-251-3955

http://www.bannerpreschool.org Alexandra Lipscomb and Christine Perkins - Directors bannerdirectors@gmail.com

Beth Hillel ECC/BJE Early Childhood Center

3220 Big Tree Lane Wilmette IL 60091 847-256-1213

https://www.bhcbe.org/bje-early-childhood-ctr Susan Rosenberg – Director rosenberb.bje@gmail.com

French School

562 Green Bay Rd

Winnetka IL 60093 847-501-5800 https://frenchinstitutens.com/school/about/staff/ Ashlee Cummings – Director

Harkness House

630 Lincoln Ave

Winnetka, IL 60093 847-501-2549 http://www.harknesshouse.org Patricia Ruffin – Director

North Shore Country Day School

310 Green Bay Rd Winnetka, IL 60093 847-446-0674 https://www.nscds.org/page/programs/early-childhood Kathy Irvin kirvin@nscds.org

One Hope United – Sprouted Child Care & Early Education

3201 Old Glenview Rd Wilmette, IL 60091 847-256-6600 https://onehopeunited.org/sprouted/ Kristin Pettice – Director kpettice@onehopeunited.org

Ronald Knox Montessori School

2031 Elmwood Ave Wilmette, IL 60091 847-256-2922 http://www.ronaldknox.org Blythe Silva – Head of School Anita McGing – Admissions Director Anita.mcging@ronaldknox.org

Rose Hall Montessori School

1140 Wilmette Ave Wilmette, IL 60091 847-256-2002 http://rosehallmontessori.org Stephanie Howard Larson – Director admin@rosehallmontessori.org

Sacred Heart School 1095 Gage St Winnetka, IL 60093 847-446-0005 http://www.shwschool.org Kristen Fink - Principal

The School of Faith, Hope and Charity

180 Ridge Ave Winnetka, IL 60093 847-446-0031 http://www.faithhopeschool.org

Tom Meagher – Principal office@faithhopeschool.org

St Francis Xavier School 808 Linden St 847-256-0644 http://www.sfx-school.org

Colleen Barrett – Principal colleenbarrett@sfx-school.org

St Joseph School 1740 Lake Ave 847-256-7870 http://www.stjosephwilmette.com

Colleen Barrett– Principal ColleenBarrett@stjosephwilmette.com

Trinity Nursery School 1024 Lake St 847-251-0479 http://trinitychurchnurseryschool.com

Sue Gaertner – Director sue@trinitywilmette.org

Willow Wood Preschool 684 Oak St 847-441-6393 http://www.willowwood-preschool.org Sue Cornello – Director Willowwood684@sbcglobal.net

Winnetka Community Nursery School 800 Pine St 847-446-4432 http://www.winnetkacommunitynurseryschool.org Kathryn Martin & Holly Bressler – Co-Directors WCNSoffice@gmail.com

Winnetka Public School Nursery 1155 Oak St 847-446-5153 http://wpsn.org Mary Bell – Interim Director wpsndirector@wpsn.org

FINKS - LOURDES ARENCIBIA - CAROLYN DURIS

North Shore Lakefront Condo Living

Glencoe: Location & Neighborhoods

Built on the bluffs of Lake Michigan, the town of Glencoe, Illinois covers 3.8 square miles and packs a plethora of recreation options, cultural activities and historically significant architecture into its boundaries. Located just 21 miles from the Chicago Loop, Glencoe features award-winning schools, a modern day “Mayberry”-style downtown, a gorgeous beach with boathouse and more than 100 architecturally significant homes, including several Frank Lloyd Wright homes. In short, it’s a storybook living with easy access to Chicago and the corporations headquartered in the northern suburbs.

The Commute

Conveniently located off of Green Bay Road, the Glencoe Metra train station features a large parking lot for commuters. Many residents live within walking distance of the train station as well. The journey has you in the heart of the city in just 41 minutes, stopping in each northside town along the way. Weekend and monthly passes are available. Visit www.metrarail.com for train schedules and details.

Pace Bus service is available to the city as well as to neighboring communities. Many of the area high school students prefer to use Pace for their school transportation needs.

Many residents choose to drive the approximate 21 miles in and out of the city for work. In warmer weather, cyclist enthusiasts can follow the Green Bay Trail along the lakefront and bike to work!

Schools

Glencoe schools fall under District 35, consisting of South School (grades K-2), West School (grades 3-4) and Central School (grades 5-8). Central School, a highly rated public school, has approximately 550 students from grades 5 through 8 with a student to teacher ratio of 9-1. Alongside nurturing academic instruction, the schools offer resources for students such as interscholastic and intramural sports and clubs. Here is the Illinois State Report Card for Glencoe Schools

Central School feeds into the nationally-recognized New Trier High School, located in neighboring Winnetka, Illinois. Town and Country Magazine once defined New Trier as “quite possibly the best public school in America”. New Trier has also been featured in Life, the New York Times. the Washington Post and Parade Magazine for its excellence. It also has been featured in many films. Here’s the Profile of New Trier High School’s Class of 2021 and some additional statistics about the 2020 class

For early education, there are many excellent private options such as JCC Chicago Early Childhood at Am Shalom located in Glencoe, Glencoe Park District and Glencoe Junior Kindergarten. ½ day programs are available at each location, full day programs are offered at Glencoe Junior Kindergarten.

From Debate Team to Basketball, each grade school offers a diverse collection of extracurricular and after school activities. The school’s PTA/PTO website should provide further details about these programs. Additionally, the Glencoe Park District, and other private operators such as Soul 2 Sole Dance Studio, the Glencoe Academy of Music, and theater classes at the Writers Theater. Youth sports offerings include: football (Northshore Trevians), baseball (Glencoe Baseball Association), and soccer (AYSO, District 425). Looking to the academic side of your student’s life, Glencoe is also home to The House, an inviting student-centric club offering walk-in tutoring assistance for kids in grades 6-12.

Several excellent private schools in the area service K-8 students. These include Baker Demonstration School, North Shore Country Day, and Faith, Hope and Charity For high school, Loyola Academy, North Shore Country Day and Regina Dominican offer additional top-notch educational opportunities.

Recreation & Fine Arts

Glencoe Recreation

Glencoe is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise! Its proximity to Lake Michigan’s beautiful sandy shores provides sun and swim activities galore! Glencoe Beach, the public beach for residents, and the Glencoe Boating Beach offer sailing, boat storage, and plenty of fun in the sun.

The Glencoe Golf Club has 18 holes over its beautiful 60 acres of land. The club offers instruction, youth classes, memberships, and an indoor practice facility for the colder days. Or, become a member of one of the private clubs: Lake Shore Country Club, or the Skokie Country Club, both of which provide delicious dining, golf, tennis, swimming, and other activities.

Explore the Chicago Botanic Gardens with it’s 27 gardens and 385 acres of natural beauty. All year round, the Botanic Gardens offer programs, classes, and casual garden strolls for people of all ages. There are 9 laboratories in which scientists and graduate students conduct plant research and its Lenhardt Library has over 150,000 volumes of books. Enjoy the stunning architecture, wildlife, and exhibits, followed by a quick bite at the Garden View Cafe.

If your family is looking for an adventurous day of kayaking or hiking, visit the Skokie Lagoons, a Cook County Forest Preserve located in Glencoe and Winnetka. One can find canoe and kayak rentals, fishing spots, hiking trails, and plenty of points to stop and enjoy the lagoon.

During the winter, Glencoe transforms into a winter wonderland! Outdoor skating (both figure and hockey) are available at the Watts Ice Center. The sledding hill at Watts Park is also a longtime favorite. Once the snow thaws, enjoy tennis courts and a disc golf course and soccer fields at Watts.

With more than 24 parks and recreational facilities within its 3.8 square miles, you will find many options for bird watching (the Clara Dietz Bird Sanctuary), picnics (Kalk Park) and childrens’ playparks (West Park and Shelton Park).

Glencoe: Fine Arts

Glencoe’s Takiff Center offers extensive programming options in theater, dance, music and art - offering lessons and public performances. Downtown Glencoe also hosts the Writers Theater, (with a full schedule of musicals, plays, contemporary theatre and intimate theater-in-the-round productions, as well as specialty programming). The Writers Theater also offer kids’ theater classes and camps.

Nearby: Music Institute of Chicago (located in Winnetka and Evanston) is one of the oldest and most respected music schools in the nation. If your child wants to play in the #1 youth orchestra in Illinois, they can audition for the Midwest Youth Artist Conservatory or MYAC (located in Highwood). The MYAC was named the 2019 Youth Orchestra of the Year by the Illinois Orchestra Association. North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, in nearby Skokie, is a world class center hosting many of the hottest live performing acts in the country. For outdoor music, Ravinia Park is legendary. Only a brief train ride (and a packed picnic lunch complete with wine) separates Glencoe residents from a night of al fresco dining under twinkling stars while enjoying live musical performances to the likes of Sting, Carrie Underwood and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Of course, a trip to the city or to downtown Evanston opens a whole host of other recreation and entertainment options.

Glencoe: Dining

Glencoe Restaurants

Glencoe has an abundance of options for those who love to dine. A stroll through downtown Glencoe may end with an elegant meal at Guild Hall; an upscale contemporary-American style restaurant with an extensive drink menu, or Valor; a trendy, French inspired spot. If you need a quick bite, while conveniently stocking up on groceries, try Foodstuffs; a gourmet food and grocery store with ready made appetizers and build your own salad/sandwich stations. Kids love stopping by Little Red Hen to grab fried chicken and fries or Bake Homemade Pizza for a slice. Not to mention the ethnic specialties at Shanghai Garden Chinese or Guanajuato There is nothing better than a delicious brunch with the family, which can be had at Meg’s Cafe, a cozy spot with brunch options such as breakfast tacos and Challah french toast. Or, meet a friend for coffee and avocado toast at Hometown Coffee and Juice, a trendy new spot in the heart of downtown Glencoe.

Glencoe: Market Stats

All Data from December 2021

Since the peak of the 2008 housing bubble, Glencoe single family home prices have realized a roller coaster of high’s and low’s. From the peak of 2008, average prices for single family homes have recovered, but remain 4.8% below 2008 high’s as of December 2021. Prices had rebounded nicely from 2014-2015, only to decline in the latter half of 2015. Glencoe single family home prices had stayed pretty consistently high (with dips in the winter seasons) but escalated rapidly in 2021 as a result of the post-Covid demand. Glencoe’s strong activity relative to other suburbs illustrates its enduring popularity and a likelihood that increased demand will maintain, or perhaps, raise prices going forward. In 2021, 185 single family homes closed with an average pricepoint of $1,385,511. New construction averaged $2,535,625 with 3 of the 8 homes closing over $2.5M and one closing at $4,215,000.

A balanced market carries about 6 months of inventory. Less than 6 months of available housing favors sellers. As of December 2021, the Glencoe housing market is a sellers’ market, weighing in at 1.8 months of single family housing inventory.

As is often the case, attached home prices, ie., condos and townhomes, have maintained a more level appreciation trajectory and it is still rising, despite a brief dip in the fall of 2021. While prices are still off 4.8% from 2008 levels, It should be noted there are few attached housing options, with most lining up along Green Bay Road.

Glencoe New Construction

Glencoe: Recently Closed Sales

Glencoe: Recently Closed Sales

Glenview Location & Neighborhoods

A mecca for those seeking urban lifestyle sprinkled into their suburbia. Enjoy all the fun and convenience of a multitude of restaurants, shops and entertainment options while out, yet find space, safety and quietude at home. Located just 16 miles from downtown Chicago and 11 miles from O’Hare International Airport, Glenview features several distinct retail areas (Downtown proper/Swainwood, the Glen and Willow Festival) that can provide an in-town living experience for residents. A sprawling oasis in metro Chicago, residents stay connected with excellent commuting options and every resource imaginable within the city boundaries. Add in abundant recreation, top notch schools and a hometown feel, and Glenview emerges as a top choice for suburban living!

The Commute

There are 3 Glenview train stations that service the Glenview area: Glen/N.Glenview, Glenview, and Golf - all three stops are part of the Milwaukee North to Fox Lake (MD-N) line. The ride to downtown is approximately 32 minutes. Many residents live within walking distance of the train station as well. Weekend and monthly passes are available. Visit www.metrarail.com for train schedules and details.

Pace Bus service is available to the city as well as to neighboring communities. Many of the area high school students prefer to use Pace for their school transportation needs. Many residents choose to drive in and out of the city for work. In warmer weather, cyclist enthusiasts can follow the Green Bay Trail along the lakefront and bike to work!

Schools

Glenview, a larger town than one might realize, has 14 square miles within its borders and almost 49,000 residents. What might be even more surprising is the fact that 6 elementary school districts service Glenview elementary students and 3 high school districts educate its teen population. The vast majority of homes fall within D34 but we will cover them all!

District 34 consists of three K-2 schools: Henking, Lyon and Westbrook. Henking services students in the southcentral part of the town, generally south of Lake and Glenview Roads, including Countryside. Lyon accommodates the central portion of Glenview, including Swainwood, Glen Oak Acres. Glenayre Estates, Golf Acres and Canterbury Park. Westbrook covers the area to the north, covering all of The Glen. For grades 3-5, Henking students attend Hoffman, Lyon kids head to Pleasant Ridge and Westbrook students head to Glen Grove. From there, D34 students head to one of two junior high’s for 6-8 grades: Attea or Springman. D34 will begin offering a full-day kindergarten in 2022-23 until then families often seek enrichment opportunities such as Wesley (held at Pleasant Ridge School), KinderQuest, North Shore Montessori, Glenview Methodist, or seek full day kindergarten programs at one of the many excellent private schools such as Glenview New Church, Our Lady of Perpetual Help, St Catherine Laboure, Creme de la Creme, or Christian Heritage Academy. Alongside nurturing academic instruction, the schools offer resources for students such as interscholastic and intramural sports and clubs. Here is the Illinois State Report Card for Glenview Schools

Although the majority of the village of Glenview is in the Glenbrook South High School attendance area, some homes south of Central Road are in the Maine High School District. The village of Golf attends Glenbrook South High School. There is a small section of Glenview that feeds into the nationally-recognized New Trier High School, located in neighboring Winnetka, Illinois. It is section east of Harms road and North of Central.

For early education, there are many excellent private options such as Glenview Park District, Glenview district 34 program and a complete list of preschools that serve Glenview is here

From Debate Team to Basketball, each grade school offers a diverse collection of extracurricular and after school activities. The school’s PTA/PTO website should provide further details about these programs. Additional activities can be found at the Glenview Park District. Some private operators for sports teams include: Football (Glenview Jr TItans), Baseball (Glenview Baseball Association), Soccer (AYSO, District 362). Links to all the youth sports leagues -softball, hockey, to name a few - can be found here.

Several excellent private schools in the area service K-8 students. These include Baker Demonstration School, North Shore Country Day, and Faith, Hope and Charity. For high school, Loyola Academy, North Shore Country Day and Regina Dominican offer additional top-notch educational opportunities.

Recreation & Fine Arts

Glenview Recreation

Glenview has three options for swimming pools to keep you cool in the summer months: Flick Outdoor Pool, Splash Landing Aquatic Center, and Roosevelt Outdoor Aquatic Center.

Glenview has three public options for the golf enthusiast: The Glenview Park Golf, Glenview Prairie Club, and The Glen. Or become a member at one of the 3 private golf clubs located in Glenview: North Shore Country Club, The Glenview Country Club, or Valley Lo Club All of which provide delicious dining, golf, tennis, swimming, and other activities.

Discover 853 acres of developed and undeveloped parkland and open space, including over 600 acres owned by the park district and 223 acres leased, made available for public use through an intergovernmental cooperative agreement with the Village of Glenview and local school districts. Each park has its own link and can be found here:

During the winter, Glenview transforms into a winter wonderland! Outdoor skating (both figure and hockey) are available at the several parks listed here. Indoor skating rink options include the Glenview Ice Center and North Shore Ice Arena.

Glenview Fine Arts

Glenview School of Arts offers art classes for children and young adults. Classes provide a fun and positive atmosphere for children to learn the basic principles of art and to build a strong foundation in art. The young adult and high school programs focus on preparing the student’s art portfolio for college and beyond.

The Glenview Art League provides art classes for children and young adults. Classes provide a fun and positive atmosphere for children to learn the basic principles of art and to build a strong foundation in art.

Driveń2Dance and Dance and Music Academy are just two options for dancing in Glenview

Nearby: Music Institute of Chicago (located in Winnetka and Evanston) is one of the oldest and most respected music schools in the nation. If your child wants to play in the #1 youth orchestra in Illinois, they can audition for the Midwest Youth Artist Conservatory or MYAC (located in Highwood). The MYAC was named the 2019 Youth Orchestra of the Year by the Illinois Orchestra Association. North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, in nearby Skokie, is a world class center hosting many of the hottest live performing acts in the country. For outdoor music, Ravinia Park is legendary. Only a brief train ride (and a packed picnic lunch complete with wine) separates Glenview

residents from a night of al fresco dining under twinkling stars while enjoying live musical performances to the likes of Sting, Train and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Of course, a trip to the city or to downtown Evanston opens a whole host of other recreation and entertainment options.

Glenview: Dining

Glenview Restaurants

Glenview has an abundance of options for those who love to dine. There are two main districts for dining: downtown Glenview and the Glen but there are endless options everywhere to be found in Glenview. Here is a selection from the amazing options in Glenview: Forza Meats, The Glenview House, Gusto Italia, Kim’s Chop Suey, Glenview Grind, Dairy Bar and Ten Ninety Brewing Co, Misericordia Sweet Shoppe and Oberweis Ice Cream all are in downtown Glenview.

In the Glen you’ll find the following: The Yard House, Wildfire, and Riobamba Latin, John’s Garage Sports Bar, Montira Thai and Sushi and Egg Harbor Cafe

If you are a Mexican food lover, Glenview doesn’t disappoint - check out Cafe El Tapatio, El Tradicional Mexican Restaurant and Cantina, La Taquiza y Mas, Lalos, and Mercado Cocina Cantina.

Pizza - Who doesn’t love pizza?! Here are some of your options: Pizano’s, D’Agostino’s, Giordano’s Lou Malnati’s, Middy Mags, Pappi’s, Rosati’s Viccino’s, and Vinny’s

Have you hopped on the ramen bandwagon or just craving sushi or Asian food? There are countless options: Korean Fly Chikin, Jurang Korean, Manooben Japanese, Maru Sushi, Mozu Sushi & Izakaya, Nobori Sushi, North Point Chopsticks, Paik’s Noodles, SGD Dong Korean, Chinatown Kitchen, Szechwan North, Thai Inbox, and Blufish

Decisions, decisions, just to make it more difficult for you to decide, here are more equally amazing choices: Hackney’s on Lake and Hackney’s on Harms, Masushla Brewing Co, Valley Lodge, and Cafe Lucci, Course Italian, Ewa’s Pierogi, Jasper’s Cafe, Johnny’s Kitchen & Tap, Sweet Ali’s Gluten Free Bakery, and Wild Pita Mediterranean Grill

Believe it not, this is not a complete list of all the restaurants in Glenview but a very good representation of your choices. Bon appétit!!

Glenview: New Construction

Glenview: Market Stats

All data from December 2021

From the housing bubble of 2008, Glenview single family home prices have slowly climbed upward in a fairly consistent manner. While average prices are still 5.9% below their 2008 peak, the relatively steady appreciation should provide peace to buyers that they are buying into a very stable market with fairly consistent levels of supply and demand. As of December 2021, the average single family home price was $753,747, with new construction homes averaging $1,204,821. 1,142 homes closed in 2021.

A balanced market carries about 6 months of inventory. Less than 6 months favors sellers. As of December 2021, the Glenview housing market is still quite balanced weighing in at 5.4 months of single family housing inventory.

Attached home prices, ie., condos and townhomes, have been hit a bit harder as a result of Covid with December 2021 average prices 23% below 2008 peak levels. 393 condos and townhomes closed in 2021 with an average pricepoint of $552,601.

Glenview: Recently Closed Sales

Glenview: Recently Closed Sales

Glenview: Recently Closed Sales

Glenview: Recently Closed Sales

Glenview: Recently Closed Sales

Glenview: Recently Closed Sales

Glenview: Recently Closed Sales

Glenview: Recently Closed Sales

Glenview: Recently Closed Sales

Glenview: Recently Closed Sales

Glenview: Recently Closed Sales

Glenview: Recently Closed Sales

Kenilworth Location & Neighborhoods

Living in a “hamlet” most certainly sounds like a quaint existence - and it seems likely that the residents of the “hamlet” of Kenilworth experience that quaintness in their everyday lives. Located just 17 miles north of the city with a population of about 2,500 residents, Kenilworth’s $1M+ average home price offers luxury living with a healthy dose of Mayberry. A single K-8 school serves as the anchor in the community and award-winning New Trier High School takes educational pursuits to the next level. Accordingly, Kenilworth residents receive the best of both worlds: close bonds with each other and easy integration into the greater North Shore. With plenty of beachside property, stately homes on tree-lined streets and even a yearly graduation parade through the center of town, Kenilworth provides that small town feeling in the shadows of the city of Chicago. Kenilworth’s history undoubtedly contributes to its unique personality. As the newest of the “North Shore” communities, Kenilworth was developed as a planned community. Joseph Sears purchased the initial 223 acre plot of land in 1889 at a cost of $150,300 and then went to work designing the ultimate community in which to live. Streets were plotted to maximize the availability of sunlight in each home, utilities were placed underground, no alleys or fences were permitted, construction standards were high, and there were large lots and paved streets. Today’s sun-drenched homes dotting the shores of Lake Michigan stand as a living testament to Sears’s vision. And while the average home price remains north of $1M, Kenilworth offers many more affordable options as well.

The Commute

Conveniently located off of Green Bay Road and Kenilworth Ave. Metra parking lots require a Kenilworth Train Parking permit. A quick ride has you in the heart of the city in about 38 minutes. Monthly passes average about $123.25 Visit www.metrarail.com for train schedules and details.

Pace Bus service is available to the city as well as to neighboring communities. Many of the area high school students prefer to use Pace for their school transportation needs as well. Many residents choose to drive the approximate 17 miles in and out of the city for work. In warmer weather, cyclist enthusiasts can follow the Green Bay Trail along the lakefront and bike to work!

Schools Kenilworth Schools

Children in Kenilworth attend District 38 grade school serving grades K-8. District 38 consists of one school, The Joseph Sears School. Here is the Illinois State Report card for Joseph Sears.

Sears School feeds into the nationally-recognized New Trier High School, located in Winnetka, Illinois. Town and Country Magazine once defined New Trier as “quite possibly the best public school in America”. New Trier has also been featured in Life, the New York Times. the Washington Post and Parade Magazine for its excellence. It also has been featured in many films. Here’s the Profile of New Trier High School’s Class of 2019 and some additional statistics about the 2019 class.

For early education, there are many excellent private options in the area such as A Joyful Noise, Ronald Knox Montessori, Wilmette Park District, Trinity, Rose Hall Montessori, St. Francis Xavier and St. Joseph Both ½ day and full-day preschool programs exist. For ½ day options, institutions such as the Wilmette Park District and Winnetka Community House offer many excellent Kindergarten Enrichment programs, some with busing service, to supplement your pre-schoolers ½ day experience, if desired.

Several excellent private schools in the area service K-8 students. These include Baker Demonstration School, North Shore Country Day, St. Francis Xavier, and Faith, Hope and Charity. For high school, Loyola Academy, North Shore Country Day and Regina Dominican offer additional top-notch educational opportunities.

Sears offers many after school programs, ranging from student newspaper clubs to sports teams to student broadcasting clubs. The schools PTA/PTO website should provide further details about these programs. Additionally, Kenilworth has access to many neighboring private operators such as Illinois Baseball Academy, R & B Dance Center and The Actors Training Center, offer a plethora of private enrichment activities for kids after school and in the summer. Team sport offerings include: soccer (Wilmette Wings or Trevians Soccer), hockey (Winnetka Warriors), football (North Shore Trevians), baseball (Kenilworth-Winnetka Baseball Association), basketball (Wilmette Wolves) and swimming (Flying Fish or New Trier). Also check out the Kenilworth Sailing Club.

Recreation & Fine Arts

Kenilworth Recreation

Work hard, play hard! The plentiful recreation options are valued and contribute to Kenilworth’s reputation as one of the most desirable places to live in the country. It’s proximity to Lake Michigan’s beautiful sandy shores provides sun and swim activities galore!

Kenilworth Waterfront

The Kenilworth Beach and waterfront is worth checking out! Besides beautiful sand and water there is an opportunity to rent kayaks and paddle boards.

Kenilworth Park District

The Kenilworth Park District preserves and enhances our parks and facilities and provides recreational opportunities, and events that cultivate a stronger community.

Kenilworth Club & Assembly Hall

Since 1891, the mission of The Kenilworth Club is to foster civic and social activities in Kenilworth. It is a group of community leaders who work behind the scenes to build community in Kenilworth. They help plan the annual Memorial Day Race, the Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony, plan the summer beach parties, co-sponsor spirit tastings and poker, organize the annual Men’s Christmas Luncheon and the annual Christmas Tree Lighting. They host community discussions relevant to the governance of the village and are a Kenilworth Citizen’s Advisory Committee member organization. In 2016, The Kenilworth Club donated The Kenilworth Assembly Hall to the Kenilworth Park District. The Assembly Hall can be rented by residents for all kinds of activities, including weddings.

Kenilworth Arts

Nearby, the Music Institute of Chicago (located in Winnetka and Evanston) is one of the oldest and most respected music schools in the nation. If your child wants to play in the #1 youth orchestra in Illinois, they can audition for the Midwest Youth Artist Conservatory or MYAC (located in Highwood). The MYAC was named the 2019 Youth Orchestra of the Year by the Illinois Orchestra Association. North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, in nearby Skokie, is a world class center hosting many of the hottest live performing acts in the country. Wilmette is just a short drive from Chicago’s Botanic Garden in Glencoe, offering 385 acres of well manicured gardens and nature preserves. For outdoor music, Ravinia Park is legendary . Only a brief train ride (and a packed picnic lunch complete with wine) separates Kenilworth residents from a night of al fresco dining under twinkling stars while enjoying live musical performances to the likes of Sting, Train and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra . Of course, a trip to the city or to neighboring Evanston opens a whole host of other recreation and entertainment options.

Kenilworth: Dining

Kenilworth Restaurants

Although the Kenilworth address is only home to one restaurant, Great Coast Commons, there are many restaurants within walking distance including Homers, Aboyer, and Marco Roma to name a few.

Kenilworth: New Construction

Kenilworth: Market Stats

All data from December 2021

It’s always a dubious exercise looking at market statistics in Kenilworth. Averaging just 50-70 closed sales per year with some homes trading at eye-popping prices, the numbers are easily skewed. As of December 2021, the average single family home price was $1,828,737 representing a price down 6.7% from January 2008. As of this writing (December 2021), the Kenilworth market has been on fire with rising prices and very low inventory (January 2020 was nearly 15 months of inventory, while December 2021 had just 2.5 months of homes). This trend is expected to remain over the next couple years, at least.

With minimal attached homes available in Kenilworth (just one small condo building on Wayland and another small townhome project on Ridge), there are no reliable statistics for attached housing in Kenilworth.

Kenilworth: Recently Closed Sales

Northfield Location & Neighborhoods

Known for its oversized lots, most homeowners enjoy immense privacy and have the land to create the perfect playspace! Northfield is the westernmost community of the five main North Shore towns that feed into New Trier High School (NB-small parts of Glenview and Northbrook also feed to NTHS). If you’re looking for land, this is the town for you! These are the homes most likely to have tennis courts, pools, sport courts and even an ATV or two!

With 3.21 square miles and 2,381 homes, Northfield is just 14 miles from O’ Hare and 20 miles from the Chicago Loop. Residents find they get the best of both worlds - they enjoy a comfortable lifestyle yet remain connected to the energy of downtown Chicago.

In short, Northfield provides a comfortable, casual, laid-back idyllic suburban lifestyle just a short commute from Chicago.

The Commute

Residents have many options for their daily commute. While most residents work out of Chicago, many also work in the adjacent northwestern suburbs, home to several major corporate headquarters.

Northfield residents use both the Winnetka train station located on Elm and Green Bay in Winnetka and the Glenview train station located on Depot street in Glenview. Monthly passes average about $121. Visit www.metrarail.com for train schedules and details.

Pace Bus service is available to the city as well as to neighboring communities. Many of the area high school students prefer to use Pace for their school transportation needs.

Many residents choose to drive the approximate 19 miles in and out of the city for work. In warmer weather, cyclist enthusiasts can follow the Green Bay Trail along the lakefront and bike to work!

Northfield: Schools

Northfield: Schools

The vast majority of kids attend Sunset Ridge, District 29 schools. Middlefork School services grades K-3 while the newly constructed 70,000 square foot state-of-the-art Sunset Ridge School services grades 4-8. WIth its smaller sized classrooms (just 300 kids at Sunset Ridge), the staff prides itself on working tirelessly to know and understand each child in order to create an academic experience that meets the needs of every learner. The full gamut of extra-

LISA FINKS - LOURDES ARENCIBIA - CAROLYN DURIS

curricular activities is also offered. The tiniest portion of Northfield kids, living just south of Winnetka Avenue, attend Glenview Schools, District 34. These students attend Lyon for K-2, Pleasant Ridge for grades 3-5, Attea for grades 6-8 and Glenbrook South for High School. Another small portion of Northfield, the easternmost part of town, attends Avoca Schools in District 37. Avoca is another school district known for its small size, personal attention and award-winning education. Students from Winnetka, Wilmette, Glenview and Northfield all feed to Avoca District Schools and ultimately, New Trier High School. In addition to top notch academic instruction, Northfield schools offer tremendous resources for students including both interscholastic and intramural sports and clubs. Here is the Illinois State Report Card for Northfield Schools

Most Northfield schools feed into the nationally-recognized New Trier High School, located in neighboring Winnetka, Illinois. Town and Country Magazine once defined New Trier as “quite possibly the best public school in America”. New Trier has also been featured in Life, the New York Times. the Washington Post and Parade Magazine for its excellence. It also has been featured in many films. Here’s the Profile of New Trier High School’s Class of 2019 and some additional statistics about the 2019 class

For early education, there are many excellent private options such as Northfield Community Nursery School, Christian Heritage Academy, Glenview Montessori School and Winnetka Covenant Preschool Northfield offers before school care programs for children attending Northfield Community Nursery school. Northfield also offers before and after school recreation programs open to all Middlefork School students (K-3). Programs run every day that school is in session, including early dismissal days.

From Debate Team to Basketball, each grade school offers a diverse collection of extracurricular and after school activities. The school’s PTA/PTO website should provide further details about these programs. Additionally, the Northfield Park District offers enrichment activities, as well as other private operators such as Our Music Institute, Berry Scuba & Swim School and Power of the Golf Ball.

Several excellent private schools in the area service K-8 students. These include Baker Demonstration School, North Shore Country Day, and Faith, Hope and Charity For high school, Loyola Academy, North Shore Country Day and Regina Dominican offer additional top-notch educational opportunities.

Northfield: Recreation & Fine Arts

Northfield Recreation

Despite its small size, Northfield has a robust park district with many excellent facilities and vast amounts of green space and playing fields. Northfield has 3 primary parks to enjoy: Clarkson, Fox Meadow and Willow. The Northfield Community Center offers a community fitness center, open gym basketball and a conference center. Pickleball has become very popular with Northfield residents and they have an opportunity to play both indoors and outdoors. Not only does Northfield share a zip code with Winnetka, they also share many resources. Northfield residents can take advantage of the neighboring Winnetka park district facilities. The Winnetka Park District offers sports opportunities including the Winnetka Golf Club, a local 18-hole golf course and fun par 3 course. The A.C. Nielsen Tennis center is a year-round center that offers 12 outdoor and 8 indoor tennis courses and instruction. Winnetka Ice Arena is open year-round for hockey and figure skaters of all ages and abilities. Each has its own website listed above. There is also a paddle tennis facility and is one of the only public facilities of its kind in the Midwest featuring 6 outdoor heated and lighted courses and state of art paddle hut facility. Sunset Ridge Country Club is also a highly esteemed club offering the full gamut of recreational and social activities.

In nearby Glencoe, explore the Chicago Botanic Gardens for its 27 gardens and 385 acres of natural beauty. All year round, the Botanic Gardens offer programs, classes, and casual garden strolls for people of all ages. There are 9 laboratories in which scientists and graduate students conduct plant research and its Lenhardt Library has over 150,000 volumes of books. Enjoy the stunning architecture, wildlife, and exhibits, followed by a quick bite at the Garden View Cafe. If your family is looking for an adventurous day of kayaking or hiking, visit the Skokie Lagoons, a Cook County Forest Preserve located in Glencoe and Winnetka. One can find canoe and kayak rentals, fishing spots, hiking trails, and plenty of points to stop and enjoy the lagoon.

During the winter, Northfield offers outdoor skating (both figure and hockey) at Clarkson Park.

Northfield Arts & Culture

The Winnetka - Northfield Public library district is a community resource for the advancement of knowledge and a provider of innovative and informative cultural enrichment for all ages.

Nearby:

Music Institute of Chicago (located in Winnetka and Evanston) is one of the oldest and most respected music schools in the nation. If your child wants to play in the #1 youth orchestra in Illinois, they can audition for the Midwest Youth Artist Conservatory or MYAC (located in Highwood). The MYAC was named the 2019 Youth Orchestra of the Year by the Illinois Orchestra Association. North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, in nearby Skokie, is a world class center hosting many of the hottest live performing acts in the country. For outdoor music, Ravinia Park is legendary. Only a brief train ride (and a packed picnic lunch complete with wine) separates Wilmette residents from a night of al fresco dining under twinkling stars while enjoying live musical performances to the likes of Sting, Train and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Of course, a trip to the city or to downtown Evanston opens a whole host of other recreation and entertainment options.

Northfield: Dining

Northfield Restaurants

Northfield has become the dining destination on the North Shore. Happ Inn attracts a loyal following for it’s all American food and lively bar. Three Tarts Bakery is known for its awesome baked goods and delightful breakfast and lunch menu. Taco Nano attracts diners from all over for its authentic Mexican menu. Don’t miss Northshore Pizza Company new to Northfield. Stormy’s has been a Northfield staple for a great sports bar and casual food. A hidden gem is Northfield Restaurant for breakfast and lunch. Tapas Gitana is a popular neighborhood haunt offering Spanish small plates and paella plus an outdoor patio. U Dawg U has been attracting New Trier students with awesome hotdogs and an extensive menu. PNS Noodle Shop is a city chain that is popular with Northfield residents.

Northfield: Market Stats

All data from December 2021

Single family homes have had a steady appreciation in the post-Covid era. With 114 closed single family home sales averaging $1,027,684 that average price point is up 23.5% between December 2021 and December 2020. There were no new construction homes closed for the 12 month period ending in December 2021. From January 2008, Northfield prices are down just 12%. With Northfield representing the North Shore suburb where buyers can get very large pieces of land, tennis courts, swimming pools, putting greens, and enjoy immense privacy, its housing stock is unique and will always have a buyer pool. Its unique housing stock insulates homeowners to a certain extent from bargain basement prices in the face of high inventory. Northfield is also extraordinary because of the diversity of its single family housing stock. In 2021, single family homes closed between $195,000 and $4,325,000. This is a suburb that offers extremely affordable housing options with the perks of top tiers schools and recreational amenities. Due to the niche buyer that Northfield tends to attract, longer market times had been the norm but even that has dropped and is now just 35 days on average to a contract.

A balanced market carries about 6 months of inventory. Less than 6 months favors sellers. As of December 2021, the Northfield single family housing market favored sellers with 2.1 months of inventory available. Since 2008, the Northfield levels of inventory have rarely tipped in favor of sellers and this represents an historic low. Some of this phenomenon may be related to the fact that Northfield is a bit of a hidden town - often confused with Northbrook and falling outside the radar of many buyers unfamiliar with the area. The huge lot sizes, small town feeling and stellar school system, keep Northfield in the mix for buyers valuing those amenities.

Attached home prices in Northfield, ie., condos and townhomes, are up 38% between December 2021 and December 2020, averaging $393,052 with 46 homes sold. This is 10% above January 2008 levels when condos and townhomes averaged $357,300. Prices were stable from 2014 - 2018 when they crept upward then faltered in 2019-2020, until rising again in the post-Covid period from 2020-21.

Northfield: Recently Closed Sales

Northfield: Recently Closed Sales

Wilmette Location & Neighborhoods

A sparkling gem along the western shore of Lake Michigan; Wilmette, Illinois (located just 14 miles from the Chicago Loop) features award-winning schools, abundant recreation options, short commuting times to Chicago and the “go to” dining scene on the North Shore.

In short, it’s the quintessential place in which to live. Wilmette’s adorable downtown adjoins a diverse mix of homes: charming family homes, stately colonials and exquisite lakefront mansions. It’s no surprise that Wilmette remains one of Illinois’s most sought after communities!

Zip Code 60091 Nickname A Sparkling Gem Population 28,170 Median Age 45.5 Average Home Sales Price $ 950,281

The Commute

Conveniently located off of Green Bay Road, the Wilmette Metra train station features a large parking lot for commuters. Many central and east Wilmette residents live within walking distance of the train station as well. A quick 34 minute ride, has you in the heart of the city. Monthly passes average about $121. Visit www.metrarail.com for train schedules and details. Wilmette is also connected to the city of Chicago’s subway line. The Linden Street Station (the CTA purple line) offers subway service in and out of the city as well.

Pace Bus service is available to the city as well as to neighboring communities. Many of the area high school students prefer to use Pace for their school transportation needs.

Many residents choose to drive the approximate 14 miles in and out of the city for work. In warmer weather, cyclist enthusiasts can follow the Green Bay Trail along the lakefront and bike to work!

Wilmette: Schools

Wilmette Schools

Most homes in Wilmette fall within the boundaries of District 39 schools while a small portion of northwestern Wilmette attends District 37 Avoca schools. District 39 consists of 4 elementary schools for children in Kindergarten through grade 4: Romona, Central, Harper and McKenzie. There is one middle school, Highcrest, for grades 5 and 6 and one junior high, Wilmette Junior High, servicing grades 7 and 8. District 37 consists of one elementary school: Avoca (for grades K-5) and one middle school, Marie Murphy, for grades 6-8. Here is the Illinois State report Card for Wilmette schools.

Both Marie Murphy and Wilmette Junior High feed into the nationally-recognized New Trier High School, located in neighboring Winnetka, Illinois. Town and Country Magazine once defined New Trier as “quite possibly the best public school in America”. New Trier has also been featured in Life, the New York Times. the Washington Post and Parade Magazine for its excellence. It also has been featured in many films. Here’s the Profile of New Trier High School’s Class of 2019 and some additional statistics about the 2019 class

For early education, Romona School houses the District 39 Connecting Kids fee-based pre-school. Additionally, there are many excellent private options such as Ronald Knox Montessori, Wilmette Park District, Trinity, Rose Hall Montessori, St. Francis Xavier and St. Joseph. Both ½ day and full-day preschool programs exist.

Kindergarten is still 1/2 day in Wilmette but there is fee-based full day kindergarten as well. For additional Kindergarten enrichment options, Institutions such as the Wilmette Park District and Winnetka Community House offer many excellent enrichment programs as well, some with bussing service, to supplement your kindergartener’s ½ day experience, if desired.

Several excellent private schools in the area service K-8 students. These include Baker Demonstration School, North Shore Country Day, St. Francis Xavier, and Faith, Hope and Charity. For high school, Loyola Academy, North Shore Country Day and Regina Dominican offer additional top-notch educational opportunities.

Central, Regina, Romona, Saint Joseph, Saint Francis, Wilmette Junior High and New Trier schools have all earned the prestigious National Blue Ribbon School award granted by the US Department of Education for excellence in education.

Nearly all of the grade schools offer an extensive assortment of after school programs, ranging from student newspaper clubs to sports teams to student broadcasting clubs. Each school’s PTA/PTO website should provide further details about these programs. Additionally, the Wilmette Park District, as well as many private operators such as Illinois Baseball Academy, R & B Dance Center and The Actors Training Center, offer a plethora of private enrichment activities for kids after school and in the summer. Team sport offerings include: soccer (Wilmette Wings or Trevians Soccer), hockey (Wilmette Braves), football (North Shore Trevians), baseball (Kenilworth-Winnetka Baseball Association), basketball (Wilmette Wolves) and swimming (Flying Fish or New Trier).

Wilmette: Dining

Wilmette Restaurants

Wilmette has become the dining destination on the North Shore. A casual stroll through downtown Wilmette yields a host of excellent dining options, all within walking distance of many homes in east and central Wilmette. From classic urban eateries such as Pit and Tap and Valley Lodge to ethnic delights like Depot Nuevo, Trendy Taco, Koya Sushi House, Torino Ramen, Dowize Bistro and Napolita Pizzeria & Wine Bar, many options exist including upscale options such as Pescadero Seafood & Oyster Bar. Casual pasta and pizza can be had at The Big Tomato or Lefty’s Pizza Kitchen and the kids love stopping into Chuck Wagon for a hot dog and fries or Wilmette Subs for a toasty sandwich after school. If you have a craving for authentic French sweets and a desire to practice your French, check out Saint Roger Abbey Bakery. Want to experience the taste of a Brooklyn bistro in your backyard? Meet friends for a pre-dinner bottle of wine at The Bottle Shop. Craving a big juicy steak? Newcomer to the Wilmette dining scene is Sophia Steak

Heading north to Plaza del Lago along the lakefront, the incomparable elegance of Convito Italiano adds charm to anyone’s meal out (or “in” as their extensive carryout market is fabulous). Of course if you are looking for your obligatory latte or green tea, head to Starbucks.

The shops and restaurants on Linden near 4th Street offer additional options for a quick tasty meal, JP’s Pizza & Grill. For freshly roasted coffee and scone lovers, there is Alchemy Coffee & Bake House.

On a hot day, you can cool off with a frozen yogurt from Cocomero Frozen Yogurt or swing by Dairy Queen - a North Shore staple for well over 50 years.

Breakfast is always a treat at Walker Bros. The Original Pancake House (on Green Bay Road), Hotcakes, Panera and the Ridgeview Grill also serve up an excellent satisfying meal for breakfast and beyond. For those morning rushes, don’t forget Alchemy (near the 4th and Linden line).

West Wilmette offers great sushi, Akira Sushi, Ao Sushi and Akai Hana. For real Chicago pizza, get carry out at Lou Malnati’s pizza. Mei Lin offers authentic Chinese fare. Just over the border in Glenview, you will find a true watering hole serving burgers and beers since 1933 - Meier’s Tavern.

Wilmette: Recreation & Fine Arts

Wilmette Recreation

Wilmette is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise! Its proximity to Lake Michigan’s beautiful sandy shores provides sun and swim activities galore! Wilmette offers three public beaches for its residents: Gillson, Langdon and our little hidden gem - Elmwood Dunes Preserves Additionally, there is a sailing beach (with watercraft rentals and resident sailing permits available) as well as a dog beach for four-legged friends.

Gillson Park, the crown jewel of Wilmette’s beaches, spans 60 acres along the lakefront. Gillson offers lifeguarded swimming areas, a beach house and concessions stand, a children’s beach park and a large grassy picnic area. Additionally, Gillson Park is home to the amazing outdoor lakefront amphitheater, the Wallace Bowl, which hosts free live musical theater events and musical groups throughout the summer months.

On any given summer day, you will find residents cooling off along the lakefront. The beach is popular with families and is also a meeting place for local teens. During summer, the park district runs its “Great Gillson” beach camp and also “Aquatics Camp” and “Sailing Camp” for kids interested in experiencing water sports on the lake. The Sheridan Shores Yacht Club offers additional boat slips, charters and sailing lessons. Additionally, Wilmette tends to more than 20 neighborhood parks and playgrounds scattered throughout its boundaries.

For those wanting to cool off without hitting the beach, Wilmette’s Centennial Family Aquatic Center is just the ticket! Boasting a 50 meter pool, a zero-depth leisure pool with water sprays, water slides, a diving well and a children’s pool, the fun never stops. In the summer, the pool complex is a beehive of activity. Swim lessons and camps are available all summer long.

After a dip in the pool, head indoors to the Centennial complex for some tennis and skating. The Centennial Tennis Complex has 8 indoor courts, a locker room and pro shop. It has a robust tennis league, lessons and its infamous Pirate Tennis Camp! The ice skating complex offers year-round open skating sessions, Broomball, rink rentals and both figure skating and hockey lessons on its regulation NHL-sized rink and Studio Rink.

The Wilmette Golf Club is located on the west side of town. In 2014, it finished up renovations on its par 70 course. The Golf Club offers lessons, leagues, and camps throughout the season. Stop by for some practice at the driving range or play a quick round. Grab a bite to eat afterward in the dining area that is catered by A la Carte Wilmette’s Platform Tennis Club, is also on the western side of town. The year-round six-court complex and state-of-the-art paddle hut hosts leagues, lessons and rentals.

Roemer Field is Wilmette’s classic ballfield dating back to 1953. It provides a step back in time to another era. Thousands of little leaguers have graced its walls as well as some very famous ones over the years (it is reported that Bill Murray, Rahm Emmanuel, Scott Turow and Charlie Trotter, all having grown up in Wilmette, have run its bases). Extensive biking trails and proximity to neighboring forest preserves lets Wilmette residents stay in touch with nature. Bike trails can wind you around the shore of the lake up to the Botanic Gardens in Glencoe or all the way down to Chicago. In the winter, a cross-country ski may be in order on the trails.

Also during the winter, the village sets up outdoor rinks at Thornwood , Gillson and Mallinckrodt Parks. These provide all-ages fun for skaters and pick-up hockey players. You will also find an overabundance of backyard rinks, built lovingly by their owners with supplies often ordered from the Wilmette Sport and Bike Shop

Wilmette is just a short drive from Chicago’s Botanic Garden in Glencoe, offering 385 acres of well manicured gardens and nature preserves.

offers extensive programming options in theater, dance, music and art - offering lessons and public performances. Downtown Wilmette also hosts the Wilmette Theater, (with an eclectic selection of big screen runs as well as specialty programming) and the Actors Training Center (offering top industry acting lessons and live performances from its company members). .

Nearby:

Music Institute of Chicago (located in Winnetka and Evanston) is one of the oldest and most respected music schools in the nation. If your child wants to play in the #1 youth orchestra in Illinois, they can audition for the Midwest Youth Artist Conservatory or MYAC (located in Highwood). The MYAC was named the 2019 Youth Orchestra of the Year by the Illinois Orchestra Association. North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, in nearby Skokie, is a world class center hosting many of the hottest live performing acts in the country. For outdoor music, Ravinia Park is legendary. Only a brief train ride (and a packed picnic lunch complete with wine) separates Wilmette residents from a night of al fresco dining under twinkling stars while enjoying live musical performances to the likes of Sting, Train and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Of course, a trip to the city or to neighboring Evanston opens a whole host of other recreation and entertainment options.

Wilmette: New Construction

Wilmette: Market Stats

All data from December 2021

The average price point for single family homes has stayed strong and is one of the few North Shore communities that have reached 2008 prices. Wilmette’s ascent and popularity began rising in 2014 and stayed mostly positive. Single family homes have had a steady appreciation since 2019. With 616 closings in 2021, and just four of which were new construction homes, it is a suburb with some of the most diverse housing stock available. In December 2021, average single family home closed prices were $950,281. New construction homes averaged $1,707,800.

More than most communities, Wilmette homes are often defined by the grade school boundary in which they reside. Central School, which covers East Wilmette - east of Green Bay - has always garnered the highest average prices on account of its proximity to town, train and beach ($1,307,550 in December 2021). Harper School homes, located in the northwest quadrant of town, features the next highest average price points due to Indian Hill Estates, with its rolling, oversized lawns and the popular Kenilworth Gardens neighborhood, averaged $1,038,243 in December 2021. McKenzie district is known for its proximity to town and train - smaller homes on more modest parcels of land but dense and neighborly with an average sold price of $947,524. Finally, Romona School, which is located in the westernmost portion of the village, is characterized by mostly split level homes built in the 60’s and 70’s, with some more reasonably priced new construction homes sprinkled in due to the affordability of land in that area. Its average price point is $650,688

A balanced market carries about 6 months of inventory. Less than 6 months favors sellers. Since 2012, the Wilmette single family housing market has tipped in favor of sellers reaching historic lows with just 1.4 months of inventory in December 2021. This history of lower inventory has helped Wilmette maintain price and enjoy some of the best long-term appreciation on the North Shore.

There is quite a lot of stability among Wilmette’s condo and townhome market. With 132 sales in 2021 and an average pricepoint of $414,996, Wilmette many attached housing options are very attractive to would-be buyers. Price has remained mostly stable through the years with steady appreciation in the post-Covid era.

Wilmette: Recently Closed Sales

Wilmette: Recently Closed Sales

Wilmette: Recently Closed Sales

Wilmette: Recently Closed Sales

Wilmette: Recently Closed Sales

Wilmette: Recently Closed Sales

Wilmette: Recently Closed Sales

Winnetka Location & Neighborhoods

Set on the picturesque shores of Lake Michigan, Winnetka is situated just 17 miles north of Chicago. Tranquil treeshaded streets and friendly neighborhoods give rise to three quaint in-town business districts that are home to a multitude of restaurants and shops.

Described as a village in a natural setting committed to its tradition of residential neighborhoods, citizen involvement, local shops and educational excellence, Winnetka often has been ranked the best suburb in which to live in Illinois.

Zip Code 60093

Nickname Picturesque Shores Population 12,744

Median Age 40.9 Average Home Sales Price $ 1,543,646 Units Sold - 2021 385 Median Household Income $ 250,001

The Commute

Conveniently located off of Green Bay Road near Elm Street, the Winnetka Metra train station features a large parking lot for commuters. There are additional stops at Hubbard Woods and Indian Hill. Many central and east Winnetka residents live within walking distance of the train station as well. A quick ride, has you in the heart of the city in about 37 minutes. Monthly passes average about $121. Visit www.metrarail.com for train schedules and details.

Pace Bus service is available to the city as well as to neighboring communities. Many of the area high school students prefer to use Pace for their school transportation needs as well.

Many residents choose to drive the approximate 17 miles in and out of the city for work. In warmer weather, cyclist enthusiasts can follow the Green Bay Trail along the lakefront and bike to work!

Winnetka: Schools

Winnetka Schools

Most homes in Winnetka fall within the boundaries of District 36 schools while a small portion of southwestern Winnetka attends District 37 Avoca schools.

District 36 maintains a long-standing commitment to the neighborhood schools’ concept. With a tradition of leadership in progressive public education, the Winnetka Public Schools consider each child to be a whole person who should be developed intellectually, socially, emotionally, and physically. The School Board’s goals have been to provide safe and age-appropriate school buildings that continue the high-quality educational program long associated with The Winnetka Public Schools. With roughly 1,500 K-8 students, Winnetka public school students are served in five school buildings. There are three grade schools (K-4): Greeley, Crow Island, Hubbard Woods; one middle school (5-6) Skokie and one Junior High school Washburne. District 37 consists of one elementary school: Avoca West (for grades K-5) and one middle school, Marie Murphy, for grades 6-8. Here is the Illinois State report Card for Winnetka schools.

After three years of evaluating redistricting scenarios, The Winnetka Public Schools Board approved new attendance boundaries to form a long-term solution to address the enrollment imbalance in the District. The Redistricting 2020 campaign includes an interactive boundaries map

Both Marie Murphy and Washburne Junior High feed into the nationally-recognized New Trier High School, located right in Winnetka, Illinois. Town and Country Magazine once defined New Trier as “quite possibly the best public school in America”. New Trier has also been featured in Life, the New York Times. the Washington Post and Parade Magazine for its excellence. It also has been featured in many films. Here’s the Profile of New Trier High School’s Class of 2019 and some additional statistics about the 2019 class

For early education, there are many excellent private options in the area such as Ronald Knox Montessori, Wilmette Park District, Trinity, Rose Hall Montessori, St. Francis Xavier and St. Joseph. Both ½ day and full-day preschool programs exist. For ½ day options, institutions such as the Wilmette Park District and Winnetka Community House offer many excellent Kindergarten Enrichment programs, some with busing service, to supplement your pre-schoolers ½ day experience, if desired.

Several excellent private schools in the area service K-8 students. These include Baker Demonstration School, North Shore Country Day St. Francis Xavier, Sacred Heart and Faith, Hope and Charity For high school, Loyola Academy, North Shore Country Day and Regina Dominican offer additional top-notch educational opportunities.

Greeley, Hubbard Woods, Crow Island, Skokie, Washburne, Regina, Joseph, Saint Francis and New Trier schools have all earned the prestigious National Blue Ribbon School award granted by the US Department of Education for excellence in education.

Nearly all of the grade schools offer an extensive assortment of after school programs, ranging from student newspaper clubs to sports teams to student broadcasting clubs. Each school’s PTA/PTO website should provide further details about these programs. Additionally, the Winnetka Park District, as well as many private operators such as Illinois Baseball Academy, R & B Dance Center and The Actors Training Center, offer a plethora of private enrichment activities for kids after school and in the summer. Team sport offerings include: soccer (Wilmette Wings or Trevians Soccer), hockey (Winnetka Warriors), football (North Shore Trevians), baseball (Kenilworth-Winnetka Baseball Association), basketball (Wilmette Wolves) and swimming (Flying Fish or New Trier).

Winnetka: Recreation & Fine Arts

Winnetka Recreation

Work hard, play hard! The plentiful recreation options are valued and contribute to Winnetka’s reputation as one of the most desirable places to live in the country. It’s proximity to Lake Michigan’s beautiful sandy shores provides sun and swim activities galore!

Winnetka waterfront

There are 3 swimming beaches: Elder Lane, Maple Street and Tower Beach. In addition, there is Lloyd Boat launch Right now, Winnetka is undergoing a 200 million beach renovation to improve the already outstanding beach facilities. Read about the Winnetka Lakefront Master Plan here.

Land Lovers:

The Winnetka Park District offers sports opportunities including the Winnetka Golf Club, a local 18-hole golf course, driving range and fun par 3 course. The A.C. Nielsen Tennis center is a year-round center that offers 12 outdoor and 8 indoor tennis courses and instruction. Winnetka Ice Arena is open year-round for hockey and figure skaters of all ages and abilities, featuring a fabulous outdoor hockey rink in winter. There is also a paddle tennis facility representing one of the only public facilities of its kind in the Midwest featuring 6 outdoor heated and lighted courses and state of art paddle hut facility.

Winnetka Community House

The Community House represents the heart of the community, Adjacent to the main downtown area, the Community House serves as a gathering place for the community and delivers cultural, educational, social, recreational, and theatrical programming. From annual children’s theater to kindergarten enrichment and even a scenic outdoor garden perfect for prom and wedding photos, the Community House brings the community together. It also features a state of the art fitness facility and offers meeting rooms for various organizations.

Winnetka Library

The Winnetka Northfield Public library is a cozy place to curl up with a good book or for school kids to meet up with tutors or get some studying done. Also offered is a robust set of innovative and informative programming for all ages.

Winnetka Fine Arts

Also based out of the Winnetka Community Center, the North Shore Art League sponsors exhibits and educational opportunities for the community. Nearby, the Music Institute of Chicago (located in Winnetka and Evanston) is one of the oldest and most respected music schools in the nation. If your child wants to play in the #1 youth orchestra in Illinois, they can audition for the Midwest Youth Artist Conservatory or MYAC (located in Highwood). The MYAC was named the 2019 Youth Orchestra of the Year by the Illinois Orchestra Association. North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in nearby Skokie, is a world class center hosting many of the hottest live performing acts in the country. Wilmette is just a short drive from Chicago’s Botanic Garden in Glencoe, offering 385 acres of well manicured gardens and nature preserves. For outdoor music, Ravinia Park is legendary . Only a brief train ride (and a packed picnic lunch complete with wine) separates Wilmette residents from a night of al fresco dining under twinkling stars while enjoying live musical performances to the likes of Sting, Train and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra . Of course, a trip to the city or to neighboring Evanston opens a whole host of other recreation and entertainment options.

Winnetka: Dining

Winnetka Restaurants

Winnetka is home to a variety of outstanding restaurants including some town favorites in the Chestnut Street area such as Soupicurean, for breakfast and lunch, True Juice for your healthy smoothies, soups and salads, for reimagined classics, Avli for great Greek food, and newcomers, Tocco, for casual Italian fare and Spirit Elephant, for a vegan choice.

In the district near Lincoln and Elm streets, there is fan favorite Stacked and Folded for customers young and old. Hometown for great coffee, breakfast and lunch. Neighborhood staple 501 Local offers patio dining, as well as awesome food. And don’t forget about Hubbard Woods restaurants including Grateful Bites for pizza, Once Upon a Bagel for the freshest bagels in town, Kyoto for sushi and Mino’s Italian restaurant or a

Winnetka: New Construction

Winnetka: Market Stats

All data from December 2021

After rising significantly in 2018, Winnetka home prices started a downward trend era in 2019 which ended with significant appreciation in the post-Covid era. By December 2021, the average price of a single family home was $1,543,646. This represented a 13% increase from one year ago and just a 7% decline from the prehousing crash price of January 2008. Interestingly, Winnetka had strong contract activity during the Shelter in Place orders relative to other north suburban suburbs. Despite the clip of activity, prices began taking a noticeable dive as of February 2020 before rebounding that summer. With 385 closings in 2021, 5 of which were new construction homes, it remains a popular suburb. December 2021, average single family home closed prices were $1,543,646. New construction homes averaged $2,357,167.

A balanced market carries about 6 months of inventory. Less than 6 months favors sellers. Since 2018, Winnetka inventory had been hovering around the 7 month mark, exhibiting a relatively balanced market with a slight advantage to buyers. Since March 2020, inventory levels have plummeted and are now at 1.9 months in December 2021.

Winnetka: Recently Closed Sales

Winnetka: Recently Closed Sales

Winnetka: Recently Closed Sales

Winnetka: Recently Closed Off-Market Sales