Month: February 2019

How to Work With an Interior Designer for Condos

Posted on by LLCR Staff

Interior designers for condos help ease and enhance your home makeover.

If you are looking to decorate a new space or spice up your current home, consider teaming up with an interior designer to take the reins on your condo interior design plans.

Why do I Need an Interior Designer?

Teaming up with an interior designer is always a worthwhile investment if you have extra room in your budget.

Not only do interior designers bring expertise to the table, with education and experience, but they also have the creative eye to bring your decorative vision to life.

It’s like second nature for these designers to find condo interior decorating ideas to help create beautiful condo interiors.

In addition to their qualifications, interior designers also have the time to invest fully in your condo’s renovation. This will save you extra time and stress. While you still get to provide input in the design process, you get to leave it to the professionals to tackle the more difficult tasks.

 

Finding the Right Interior Designer

Like any hire, you want to find an interior designer who is a good fit.

When it comes to choosing the ideal designer for condos, you want to take time to research beforehand.

Look into designers in your area and check out their portfolios. You can tell a lot about a designers’ style and quirks through his or her past work. You may also want to see if they provide their pricing online to ensure that they fall within your budget.

If you think you may have narrowed down a potential hire or two, consider setting up an interview. An actual conversation may provide you better insight into the designer and help you determine if he or she is a good match.

 

What to Expect Working with a Designer

If you decide to partner with an interior designer, there are a couple of things to keep in mind during the process.

First, set realistic expectations. While reality television shows have led some of us to believe that home improvement projects are a breeze, the truth is that these projects don’t happen overnight. They require time and money. That is why it is crucial to establish a feasible timeline and budget with your designer beforehand.

Throughout the entire design process, it is also critical to maintain communication, especially regarding your needs and expectations. Open dialogue allows your and the designer to stay on the same page. This is critical for successfully executing the vision for your space.

Decorating a condo is an exciting, but often demanding project. Take advantage of an interior designer for condos to help successfully transform your house into a home today!

Modern Condo Interior Design Ideas

Posted on by LLCR Staff

If you live in a contemporary condo, it is critical that your unit’s decor reflects the modernity of the building.

To help you with this task, the Luxury Living team is sharing some modern condo interior design and decorating ideas to help optimize your urban space.

 

Modern Condo Interior Design

There are plenty of modern condo interior design ideas to magnify a contemporary space.

The colors you chose to incorporate in your condo can make a huge impact. Consider going with a white color palette throughout your unit. Not only does this neutral color palette create a sleek space, but it also helps make your condo feel larger. However, don’t be afraid to add some pops of color here and there with some fun accent pieces.

Urban spaces also call for a dramatic focal point, especially in your living area. Investing in a large, sleek centerpiece can enhance the overall look and feel of your space.

 

Modern Condo Decorating Ideas

Modern condo decor is a must if you want to maintain a contemporary look and feel.

Here are a few modern condo decorating ideas to add character and chic to your condo:

  • Dramatic light fixtures: Featuring unique light fixtures in your condo can immensely enhance the modern vibes. Try finding metallic sconces, either slightly elongated or round ones to go with your space.
  • Artwork: Contemporary art is a must for any modern condo. Imaginative pieces featuring metal, glass, or ceramic can provide a pop of color and add a fun touch to your place.
  • Natural elements: Consider bringing some life into your condo by adding some greenery or driftwood throughout your space.

 

Team up With a Professional

Hiring an interior designer to help modernize your condo unit not only eases the design process, but it also enhances it. These decorating professionals have the experience, time, and eye to transform your place.

Keep in mind that home improvement projects do not happen overnight, despite what HGTV may have led you to believe. Be sure to have a feasible budget and timeline when you meet with your interior designer.

Before selecting your interior designer, do some research. Look into your potential hire’s portfolio to check out some of the designer’s styles and quirks.

Throughout the entire design process, it is critical to discuss your needs and expectations with your designer openly. This allows you and the designer to stay on the same page.

Bring these modern condo interior design ideas to life and begin your home’s transformation today!

Decorating Ideas for Your Open Concept Condo

Posted on by LLCR Staff

Open concept condos provide plenty of space to work with when it is time for decorating.

The Luxury Living team is here to fill you in on essential open concept condo decorating ideas. Take notes and prepare to completely transform your home!

 

Furnishing an Open Concept Condo

Open concept floor plans allow you to create distinct areas within one multipurpose space. The way you arrange your furniture is critical to dividing these different sections and keeping a nice flow to your home.

Section off cozy corners and lay down large area rugs to separate areas, including a living room, office space, and dining area. Then arrange appropriate furniture on top of the rugs. Select rugs that flow with the color scheme and vibe of the rest of your condo.

Be sure to incorporate symmetry in your open space. With expansive areas, keeping the space symmetrical using large pieces of furniture helps create a balanced look and brings order to a large room.

 

Open Concept Decor

Once your furniture is set up, it is time to bring your space to life with the decor.

The decorations you chose can help bring your condo together and transform your house into a home with character.

As you begin decorating, try picking one color that you want to incorporate in your place and won’t get sick of. Then feature this color in a variety of shades and tones throughout the condo.

With an open concept floor plan, don’t be afraid of large decorative pieces. Try finding expansive artwork for the walls or sizable plants for the floor.

 

Team up with an Interior Designer

If the idea of decorating an open concept condo seems a bit overwhelming, consider hiring an experienced professional. Interior designers can help ease the process by providing their experience, time, and eye to transform your space.

Keep in mind that home improvement projects do not happen overnight, despite what HGTV may have led you to believe. Be sure to have a feasible budget and timeline when you meet with your interior designer.

Before selecting your designer, do some research. Look into your potential hire’s portfolio to check out some of the designer’s styles and quirks.

Throughout the entire design process, it is critical to discuss your needs and expectations with your designer openly. This allows you and the designer to stay on the same page.

Open concept decorating is an exciting process for new or veteran decorators. Take advantage of these open concept condo decorating ideas to create a multi-functional and inviting home.

Small Condo Decorating Ideas

Posted on by LLCR Staff

Many condo units, especially in a big city, are not so generous with space. While this may deter some house hunters, rest assured that with the right small condo decor you can make any space feel larger.

The Luxury Living team is here to share small condo decorating ideas so that you can maximize your space and create your dream home.

 

Small Condo Interior Design Ideas

Limited space doesn’t have to mean limited decorative possibilities.

Here are just a few small condo interior design ideas to make the most of your area:

  • More mirrors: Incorporating multiple mirrors into your living area can open up your space, making a small room feel larger and more inviting. Plus, mirrors help reflect light to brighten your place.
  • Keep the floor clear: With limited space, you don’t want to cram your floors with stuff. Go for floating pieces, such as wall shelves and hanging plants to help minimize clutter.
  • Wall lights: Add a stylish touch and brighten up your small space by installing scones or wall lamps.
  • Floor-to-ceiling draperies: Hanging up long curtains right where your wall meets the ceiling will instantly add height to your condo and make your living room feel more spacious.

 

Get Practical:

There’s a way to combine decorating with functionality. To make the most of your decorations and your space, creative storage options are essential.

Finding furniture that is dually functional will come in handy living in a small condo. Invest in a fun ottoman or bench that flows with the feel of your space and provides extra storage.

Wall shelves also offer excellent small condo decor and practicality. They add a fun decorative touch and provide an additional spot for more of your stuff.

 

Consider an Interior Designer:

Teaming up with an interior designer can help bring these small condo interior design ideas to life. These experienced professionals have the experience, time, and eye to work with your space to bring your vision to life.

Keep these tips in mind if you plan on hiring an interior designer:

  • Set realistic expectations: Keep in mind that home improvement projects do not happen overnight, despite what HGTV may have led you to believe. Set a feasible budget and timeline when you meet with your interior designer.
  • Take time to find the right fit: Before selecting your interior designer, do some research. Look into your potential hire’s portfolio to check out some of the designer’s styles and quirks.
  • Communication is key: Throughout the entire design process, it is critical to discuss your needs and expectations with your designer openly. This allows you and the designer to stay on the same page.

Take advantage of these small condo decorating ideas to optimize your space today!

Condo Decorating Ideas for Your Living Room

Posted on by LLCR Staff

Your living room can say a lot about you and the rest of your home. Generally, this is the first space guests see and gather.

To ensure a good impression and a space you love, check out these condo decorating ideas for your living room.

Furnishing a Condo Ideas

While there are many factors to consider when finishing a home, furnishing may be the most essential aspects to consider when decorating your living room. Choosing and arranging your furniture wisely improves the overall look and feel of your space.

So how do you make the right choice when it comes to picking out your living room furnishings?

Most importantly, chose furniture that speaks to you, falls within your budget, and fits in with the overall feel of your condo.

Let’s say you are going for a rustic look throughout your condo; In that case, you would want to find furnishings that define this look, such as a natural looking wooden table or a dark leather couch.

Along with choosing fitting furniture, the placement of your furnishing is also critical. Arrange your living room to create a focal point for and conservation areas that allow for socializing and easy traffic flow.

Complete your living room area with some fun artwork or wall decor. Be sure all of your additions stay cohesive with the rest of the room.

Condo Living Room Layout Ideas

The layout of your living room is also crucial for good flow and space. Regardless of your living room design or size, you want to arrange your furniture so that your place feels inviting.

If your condo unit features an open floor plan with no distinct living room, you will need to create this space. You can do this by adding a large area rug complete with furniture over it to help define the separate area. Also, consider keeping the space symmetrical using large pieces of furniture help create a balanced look.

Condos with limited space require a bit more problem solving to create a more open feel.

Small Condo Living Room Ideas

If you are working with a small living room, don’t worry. Limited space doesn’t have to mean limited decorating possibilities.

Here are some easy solutions to maximize the space in your living room:

  • More mirrors: Incorporating multiple mirrors into your living area can open up your space, making a small room feel larger and more inviting. Plus, mirrors help reflect light to brighten your place up.
  • Keep the floor clear: With limited space, you don’t want to cram your floors with stuff. Go for floating pieces, such as wall shelves and hanging plants to help minimize clutter.
  • Wall lights: Add a stylish touch and brighten up your space by installing scones or wall lamps.

With new inspiration and condo decorating ideas for your living room consider transforming your space today!

How to Start Decorating a Condo

Posted on by LLCR Staff

Whether you are in the middle of moving into a new condo or wanting to spice up your current space, it’s always beneficial to learn tips on how to decorate a condo unit.

The Luxury Living team is here to walk you through the exciting process of decorating a condo in hopes of helping you create your dream home.

 

Where to Begin

Before decorating a condo, you want first to find inspiration. Doing research beforehand can help create a vision and plan for your space.

A great place to hunt for some decorating ideas for a condo is online. Sites like Pinterest and Apartment Therapy provide great visuals and articles to help point you in the direction to take your condo decor. Be on the lookout for styles or ideas that catch your eye.

Once you have a good idea on the look or vibe you want for your condo, the next step is to plan out your vision. Make a list of all of the decorations and furnishings you will need and then map out how you want to arrange your room.

 

Executing the Vision

After the plan is complete, you are ready for execution- the final step in the decoration process. Execution is bringing your vision to life and transforming your house into a home.

The first stage of execution is shopping. Check online sites or nearby stores to find the perfect furnishings for your condo. Homegoods and Wayfair are great places to start.

Once you’ve purchased all of the essential decorations, it is time to assemble and arrange everything.

 

Consider an Interior Designer

Consider teaming up with an experienced professional to help ease and enhance your house transformation.

Interior designers have the experience, time, and eye to help bring your vision to life.

If you decide to take advantage of an interior designer to implement your condo interior decorating ideas here are a few tips:

  • Set realistic expectations: Unfortunately, many home improvement projects do not happen overnight. Be sure to have a feasible budget and timeline when you meet with your interior designer.
  • Take time to find the right fit: Before selecting your interior designer, do some research. Look into your potential hire’s portfolio to check out some of the designer’s styles and quirks. You may even want to interview him or her to ensure a good match.
  • Communication is key: Throughout the entire design process, it is critical to discuss your needs and expectations with your designer openly. This allows you and the designer to stay on the same page.

Now that you’ve gained valuable insight into decorating a condo, it is time to turn these ideas into a reality and transform your home today!

Condo Decorating Ideas to Create a Space You’ll Love

Posted on by LLCR Staff

There is great power in decorating. With the right decorative direction and execution, you can transform any house into a beautiful home.

While the task of decorating may seem daunting, the Luxury Living team is here to reassure you that with the right insight decorating a condo is a plausible and exciting adventure.

 

How to Start Decorating a Condo

Before decorating a condo, you want first to find inspiration. Doing research beforehand can help create a vision and plan for your space.

A great place to hunt for some decorating ideas for a condo is online. Sites like Pinterest and Apartment Therapy provide great visuals and articles to help point you in the direction to take your condo decoration. Be on the lookout for styles or ideas that catch your eye.

Once you have a good idea on the look or vibe you want for your condo, the next step is execution. This involves finding the right shops to purchase what you need and putting everything into place. Keep in mind that the more specific plan you have in place, the easier the execution.

Depending on your space and vision, there are many directions you can go with your condo decorating.

 

Condo Decorating Ideas for Your Living Room

The living room may be one of the most important spaces to decorate. This is the room where visitors gather and is often the first room people will see when they enter your condo.

To ensure an inviting living area that gives guests a great first impression, here are some condo decorating ideas for your living room:

  • Furniture placement: The arrangement of your furniture may be one of the most essential steps of furnishing your living room. Be sure to choose a focal point for your furniture and create conversation areas that allow for easy traffic flow.
  • Area rugs: To make your living room space pop, consider investing in a large area rug. A suitable rug can add character and dimension to a room. Make sure all of your furniture sits on the rug and try to leave 10-to-20 inches of bare space between the edge of the rug and the walls of the room.
  • Artwork: Find some neat artwork to spice your living room and fill empty walls. Be sure the art is cohesive with the rest of your space. Also, keep in mind that you don’t have to empty your bank account for fun art pieces. Check out local vintage shops to find some affordable and eclectic pieces.

 

Small Condo Decorating Ideas

Limited space doesn’t have to mean limited decorating possibilities. If you’re trying to maximize a small space, there are plenty of tips and tricks to help decorate a small condo.

Here are some small condo interior design ideas to make the most of your area:

  • More mirrors: Incorporating multiple mirrors into your living area can open up your space, making a small living room feel larger and more inviting. Plus, mirrors help reflect any and all light to brighten your room up.
  • Keep the floor clear: With limited space, you don’t want to cram your floors with stuff. Go for floating pieces, such as wall shelves and hanging plants to help minimize clutter.
  • Wall lights: Add a stylish touch and brighten up your small space by installing scones or wall lamps. This type of lighting is also a great way to avoid taking up valuable floor space.
  • Floor-to-ceiling draperies: Hanging up long curtains right where your wall meets the ceiling will instantly add height to your condo and make your living room feel more spacious.

 

Decorating Ideas for Your Open Concept Condo

One of the advantages of living in a condo with an open floor plan are the endless opportunities to arrange and decorate your space.

If your space features spacious floor plans, take advantage of these open concept condo decorating ideas:

  • Create distinct areas: With one large open room, it is important to divide this space into multi-functional areas. Consider creating a cozy corner or arranging your furniture to create separate spaces, such as an office space, dining room, and living area.
  • Use area rugs to help divide spaces: To help create distinct areas of your condo consider using large area rugs throughout your space. This also adds a fun touch to your condo.
  • Incorporate symmetry: With expansive areas, keeping the space symmetrical using large pieces of furniture helps create a balanced look. The symmetrical look also helps bring order to a large room.
  • Use a monochromatic color scheme: As you begin decorating, pick one color that you want to incorporate in your space and won’t get sick of. Then feature this color in a variation of shades and tones throughout the space.

 

Modern Condo Interior Design Ideas

If you live in an urban condo building and want to optimize your contemporary space, modern condo decor is a must.

Check out these modern condo interior design ideas before you begin transforming your space:

  • A white color palette: Not only does a white color palette create a sleek space, but it also helps make a small modern condo appear larger.
  • Intense focal point: By incorporating an obvious focal point in your room, you can help enhance the overall look and feel of your space. Consider investing in a sleek centerpiece.
  • Pop of color: Find a fun bright color to add a little excitement to your modern space. While you don’t want to detract from your focal point, you do want to brighten up your condo a bit.
  • Dramatic light fixtures: Featuring unique light fixtures in your condo can immensely enhance modern feel. Find something funky that goes with the feel of your space and adds a fun touch.

 

How to Work With an Interior Designer for Condos

Consider teaming up with an experienced professional to help beautify your condo. Hiring an interior designer may alleviate stress or fear associated with decorating your space. It helps take some pressure off and allows an expert’s eye to help create a beautiful condo interior design.

If you decide to take advantage of an interior designer to implement your condo interior decorating ideas here are a few tips to keep in mind:

  • Set realistic expectations: Thanks to the reality home design shows, many of us may have some unrealistic expectations when it comes to decorating a home. Unfortunately, many home improvement projects do not happen overnight. They can take months and also may require more money than anticipated. Therefore, be sure to have a feasible budget and timeline when you meet with your interior designer.
  • Take time to find the right fit: Before selecting your interior designer, do some research. Look into your potential hire’s portfolio to check out some of the designer’s styles and quirks. You may even want to interview him or her to ensure a good match.
  • Communication is key: Throughout the entire design process, it is critical to discuss your needs and expectations with your designer openly. This allows you and the designer to stay on the same page in order to successfully execute the vision for your space.

Now that you have insight into decorating a condo unit, it may be time to begin your home transformation. If you are still in need of finding that perfect condo to decorate, contact an experienced broker today!

Buying a Home in the Summer? Use These Tips

Posted on by LLCR Staff

Any Chicagoan will agree that there is nothing like a Chi-Town summer- from the sunny Saturdays spent lounging on the beach to the constant energy felt among the city streets.

Not only does the city come alive during this sunny season, but the real estate market heats up as well.

Take advantage of the hot Chicago market and consider buying a home in the summer.

Buying a Home in the Summer

Summer house hunters are bound to find plenty of listings on the market to choose from. While the number of listings dwindles a bit from the springtime, this means that many buyers will see price drops or sellers will be more likely to negotiate for a better deal.

If you have a family, summer makes for the ideal time to move, before the new school year starts up. It allows kids to adjust to a new home and relax before classes are back in session.

Additionally, many leases tend to end at the beginning of summer, providing the perfect window of opportunity for first time home buyers.

Selling a Home in the Summer

While spring is known as the peak season in the world of real estate, the summer is still a great time to sell. According to Realtor.com, the summer months account for 50 percent of homes sold.

Although the real estate rush slows down after May, rest assured that there are still plenty of house hunters on the market during the summer. Furthermore, many of those buyers are serious and extremely motivated to close before the end of summer, before the cold and school start up again.

Summertime weather also ensures high-quality photos and much better showings than the gloomy seasons. The constant sunshine and landscaping in full bloom always help with the presentation.

Summer Moving Tips

The Luxury Living team has compiled a few pointers to keep in mind if you plan on moving during a toasty Chicago summer:

  • Hire a professional agent– To fully take advantage of the summer market, utilize an experienced broker to help narrow down the best housing options and secure the best possible price.
  • Move in the middle of the summer– The beginning and end of summer consistently prove the busiest times to move. Avoiding the craziest times will alleviate the stress of finding available moving trucks and empty elevators.
  • Prepare for the heat– During the moving process, be prepared for high temperatures and intense sun. Dress appropriately, stay hydrated, and layer on that sunscreen.

If you are ready for a new place and think you can handle the heat, consider buying or selling a home in the summer. Don’t let this hot summer selling season pass you by.

Tips for Buying or Selling a Home in Spring

Posted on by LLCR Staff

Flowers are not the only thing in full bloom during the spring; the housing market also flourishes during this season of new beginnings.

Spring continually ranks as the busiest time of the year to buy or sell a property. With buying and selling a home in the spring proving to be a popular move, consider taking advantage of this busy real estate season.

Spring Selling Season

Why is the spring selling season so busy in the world of real estate? Well, there are various incentives that motivate sellers to list during this season

Here are a few advantages of selling your home in the spring:

  • Warmer weather: After a long, chilly Chicago winter, sellers are eager to put their homes on the market once the weather starts clearing up. Sunshine and higher temperatures attract more buyers, increasing the odds and profitability of a sale. Additionally, better weather naturally improves marketing efforts and showings.
  • Competitive pricing: Sellers tend to have the upper hand during the spring. With so many properties for sale, sellers can list their house for the highest and best dollar
  • Quicker Sales: According to a study conducted by Zillow, homes listed between mid-March and mid-April sell 15 percent quicker than homes listed any other time. Many buyers are eager and ready to purchase as fast as possible after the winter and before the summer hits.

Buying a Home in the Spring

Spring home buying season is just as busy as spring selling season.

Buyers love the abundant listing options available on the market during the springtime. This array of choices allows buyers to be more selective in narrowing down their dream home.

While buyers have the advantage of a wide selection, they also have to prepared to pay more competitive prices. Don’t expect to be the only one making an offer for your home of choice.

If you end up finding a home during the spring, make sure to work closely with a licensed broker to help find a suitable property in your budget and negotiate a worthwhile deal.

Spring Moving Tips

If you are seriously considering buying or selling a home in the Spring, here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:

  • Don’t delay– Since springtime is such a popular time to move, it is wise to get a head start and begin the house hunting and listing process as soon as possible.
  • Hire a professional- Team up with a licensed broker to help to help make your move as efficient and effective as possible.
  • Figure out your mortgage– Unless you plan on purchasing a house with cash, you will need to apply and qualify for a mortgage. A loan prequalification calculator is a great tool to figure out how to qualify for a loan.

During the busy spring selling and buying season, it is critical to understand how to take advantage of this time of year. Now that you have insight into buying a selling a home in the spring make the big move today!

Work With Us

Get in touch with Luxury Living's team of experienced licensed real estate brokers and take the first step in buying or selling a home in Chicago.