Greg Cisek

LICENSE: 475.132216


(847) 217-4704
(847) 495-5000 (Office)

My Blog

A Home Search App that’s a Snap!

Posted On: July 20th, 2018 2:24AM

A Home Search App that’s a Snap!

Most likely you have heard of, and may even use, REALTOR.com, Zillow, or another home search mobile app when you are out and about. These commonly-known tools have their purpose when you are searching for info on a home. 

There’s a ‘new app in town’! It is similar, but different in many exciting ways to what you may be using. It’s called HomeSnap, and unlike Zillow and REALTOR.com, you can ‘snap’ a picture of a home you are in front of with your phone and receive real-time data about it. 

It’s great for buyers and sellers. 

As a buyer:

  • Get square footage, sales price if listed, and more
  • Find out what’s active, pending and sold in the neighborhood
  • Take a pic of a home NOT on the market and ask me for more info

As a seller:

  • Monitor the market BEFORE you sell
  • Get a feel for what neighboring homes are actively listed for 
  • See what’s selling and consider the overall marketability of your home in comparison

You and I can connect so easily via the app. It offers chat, messaging, and sharing of property info in (well), a ‘snap’! If you find a home that’s not on the market but you are curious about it, simply take a pic and send it to me via the app. 

Once we are connected, I provide weekly reports for certain areas that interest you. They include all active, pending and sold homes in an easy to digest format, all right on your phone!

It’s a breeze to get the app for you iPhone or android. Visit my HomeSnap Profile and simply download the app to get started. 

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Remodeling Your Home for the Best Returns

Posted On: June 28th, 2018 12:05AM

According to a recent article by Jenny Dutton, deputy editor for REALTOR.COM, not all home upgrades will boost your home’s market price. This is especially true for major remodeling projects, which are only expected to make back 56% of the money spent on them, compared to 64% in previous years. These statistics are based on the annual Cost vs. Value report, published by Remodeling magazine for 31 years now.


Due to rising costs caused by labor shortages and building material costs, renovation projects have become very costly. On the upside, some simpler projects offer a larger ROI. Money spent on areas that are noticeable is usually money well spent. The current trend is to upgrade areas rather than building pricey add-ons.

These 8 remodeling projects are currently delivering the highest ROI:

  • Painting of the interior can brighten up your home and make it look fresher.
  • Unused spaces like basements, attics or patios can be utilized to add on to the square footage of your home. 
  • Replacing the garage door is at present top on the list for ROI, according to Remodeling. 
  • Curb appeal never loses its importance; make your home more appealing from the outside by tackling the garden and the siding of your home.
  • Ensure a grand entrance by replacing an old door with a steel entry door and you will make a 91% return according to the experts.
  • Minor kitchen remodeling has a far better return than a complete remodel, so aim at updating a few things such as cabinet doors, handles or fittings rather than a complete renovation.
  • Bathroom improvements can include changing lights, a new vanity or shower doors. The cost for addition of a new bathroom can be prohibitive.
  • Upgrading of insulation, water heaters and furnaces offer tax incentives in some areas and living cost savings to both current owners and prospective buyers.

Have a project in mind but not sure which way to go? Let’s have a chat; my experience and expertise comes in handy!

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2018 Lighting Trends

Posted On: May 21st, 2018 1:28AM

 

Whether building a new home or just upgrading your existing one, always remember that lighting is an essential element to creating the correct ambience. When used correctly, lighting will enhance and add functionality to the various rooms. If you’re on a tight budget but still need to give your home a lift, then look no further than changing a few light fittings.

New technology and innovative designs within the lighting industry are reflected in light fittings that are functional, striking and yet use minimal electricity. These are the lighting trends of 2018:

Functional Kitchens and bathrooms

Essentially a kitchen needs good lighting, but up until recently these were mostly functional but hardly ever stylish. There are no limits as to what light fittings you can choose; small chandeliers and pennant lights are very popular right now.

Let your bathroom stand out by using retro or industrial style fittings. Sconces and small chandeliers work well in bathrooms.

Living Areas

 Starburst Chandeliers create a focal point in the living area and are extremely trendy right now. Soft gold is the new metal to opt for as it blends in better with the softer colors that are popular now. The nostalgic feel of Vintage Edison-style bulbs is perfect for living areas and the kitchen.

Outdoor Areas

Make sure that the outdoor areas of your home are safe and functional by providing good lighting. Recessed lights are popular for decks and solar lights are popular for landscaped areas.

Sustainability and economy

Homeowners are more aware of environmental factors than ever before. The lighting industry is helping to create environmentally friendly homes with LED and CFL bulbs. Energy consumption can be decreased by up to 80%, impacting both the environment and our electricity bill positively. Even though LED lamps are pricier - we will see a slight drop in the near future- you will pay less on your electricity and they come out in a variety of colors and shapes.

I enjoy talking home décor and other homes trends with my clients. Please think of me if you are looking for an expert in representing your real estate needs in Chicagoland.

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My REALTOR® Services

Posted On: March 3rd, 2018 4:14PM

Not every real estate agent is a REALTOR®. By joining the National Association of REALTORS®, I hold this distinction and proudly use this title. Here are some guidelines I adhere to because I am a REALTOR®.

When representing a buyer, seller, landlord, tenant, or other client as an agent, REALTORS® pledge themselves to protect and promote the interests of their client. This obligation to the client is primary, but it does not relieve REALTORS® of their obligation to treat all parties honestly.”

  • All REALTORS® are committed to providing an accurate portrayal of market value.
  • All REALTORS® abide by a code of ethics outlined in writing and have the opportunity to gain specialized training and certifications to further enhance their services.

Beyond serving as a REALTOR®, I offer the following to each of my clients.

Listen: Your needs are different than every other buyer or seller! I take time to ask insightful questions about your lifestyle needs, your home needs, and then listen to your answers. Any decisions we make together are then based on these needs.

Educate: You should be very clear on what it means to work with a REALTOR®, how the home buying or selling process flows, what costs you will incur, the timetable involved, and more. I have a developed system to efficiently inform you of the process.

Inform: I want to you to know about my qualifications and how I plan on representing you. I make sure you are clear about the process and our strategy. We get on the same page so there are no disappointments, only success!

Negotiate: Well-connected and well-versed, I provide an unparalleled ‘insiders’ expertise at the ready for you. When it’s time for the tough negotiations, I am tactful and results-oriented, with your very best interest in mind.

Nurture: It’s sound cliché, but you really are building a relationship with your REALTOR®. Long term I stay in touch, keep you in the know about your neighborhood, think about your needs, and will be here for you if have a question, anytime!

Follow-thru: With every promise, I follow-thru. I communicate well, have answers when I say I will, and catch the phone when you call.

Ready to have a meaningful talk about your buying or selling needs? I will respond promptly to your inquiry and make the best use of your time, simply reach out.

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