The Pickens and Placko Team Blog
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25
Clear Cooperation FAQ: The Multiple Listing Service, Private Listing Network, and Office Exclusives Explained
If you're thinking about selling your home, searching for a new one, or working as a real estate agent, it's important to understand your options when it comes to listings. Most homes today are listed on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) — a central database used by real estate professionals to list properties for sale. The MLS is also the source that powers popular home search sites like Zillow, Redfin, Trulia, Realtor.com, and others. Here in the Chicagoland area, there is also a Private Listing Network (PLN), which is a subset of the MLS where listings can be shared among agents before becoming publicly available. You may have also heard about a third option — "pocket listings" or "office exclusives." These are real estate listings that are exclusive to a particular real estate brokerage's private website — that means they're not shared with the public nor any agents outside the listing brokerage.
24
Turn Your Rooftop Space into an Outdoor Oasis
In addition to popular rooftop bars, restaurants, and event spaces, many homes in the metro area come with a rooftop space for outdoor relaxation — it's one of the best ways to maximize your greenspace in an urban setting. If your rooftop space could use a refresh, or has felt like more of an afterthought, our real estate agents are here to help with inspiration that's both stylish and budget-friendly.
- Install a hanging chair, swing, or hammock.
Capture that breezy, relaxing vibe by installing a modern hanging chair or swing. Look for models with self-supporting stands if your rooftop doesn't allow for ceiling mounts. It's an easy way to add a playful, lounge-ready touch to your rooftop setup. - Add planters with tall greenery.
Even if you don't have soil to dig into, you can still enjoy greenery above the city streets. After all, certain plants will enjoy the direct sunlight, can thrive in this rooftop envir...
18
Chicagoland Northwest: Must-See Summer Events
Made up of a collection of distinct communities that are separated from the bustle of the city center, Chicago's Northwest Suburbs are laid-back and relaxing, with many events and festivals that rival the happenings in Chicago proper. Here's what our real estate agents are most looking forward to in the area this summer.
- Itasca Outdoor Concert Series - 111 Gigi Gruber Ln, Itasca, IL 60143
The town of Itasca hosts outdoor concerts at various locations around the city on select Wednesday evenings throughout the summer months. Always free to the general public, the
15
Celebrate National Ice Cream Day in Chicagoland
Who doesn't like ice cream? While you probably don't need an excuse to grab a cone, Sunday, July 20 is National Ice Cream Day, and what better way to celebrate than by stopping at one of these beloved local ice cream shops? Below, we've compiled a list of some of the best ice cream Chicagoland has to offer. Whether all your favorites made the cut or you're due to try something new, we hope you and the family find some time to cool off at one of these local favorites from our real estate agents.
Chicago City
1960 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
1813 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60613
10
Home Security Tips for Summer Vacationers in Chicagoland
If you have plans to go away for summer vacation this year, then it's essential to take some home security measures before you depart. You'll enjoy your days of fun and sun even more if you know your home back in Chicago is safe and secure. Our real estate agents are here to share some easy tips for summer home security.
- Stay away from social media.
Excited to share all your vacation photos with the world? Instead of doing it in real time, wait until you get back to share all those Insta-worthy snapshots. Announcing your vacation and sharing its progress on social media essentially lets the whole world know that you're away from home, which could be seen as an invitation for the wrong kind of house guest. - Hit 'pause' on deliveries.
Junk mail and Amazon boxes piling up on your...
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