Month: April 2021

Senior Broker Spotlight – Riely Joosten

Posted on by LLCR Staff

Riely Joosten is a Senior Broker with almost 10 years of real estate experience. Riely began his career in real estate in 2012 and continues to grow YoY since then, helping several clients along the way.

At Luxury Living Chicago Realty, Riely helps buyers and sellers understand their specific needs and assists to ensure a smooth transaction. Born and raised in the Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago, Riely’s extensive knowledge of the Chicago market allows him to provide clients with everything they need for their home buying journey.

Riely moved out of Lincoln Park for a few years to attend business school in Colorado, but shortly moved back to enjoy all that Chicago has to offer. When not engulfed in real estate, you can find Riely out golfing, relaxing on the lake, and trying out all the incredible restaurants that the city has to offer. 

Share some of your experiences as a Chicago broker

I was first licensed as a Leasing Agent way back in 2012 and I joined Luxury Living as Broker Associate in early 2018. I was promoted to Senior Broker in April of 2019, awarded #2 top producer for all of 2020 at Luxury Living Chicago (Brokerage), and started a team at the end of 2020. I also recently gained Real Estate Negotiation Expert (RENE) designation in March of 2021.

Why do you do what you do?

I love Chicago, real estate, and helping people. Sharing my knowledge of the city that I have spent close to 30 years living in plus using the experience that I’ve gained being in the industry for almost a decade to help people navigate the process and achieve their real estate goals.

What is your favorite part of your job?

No two days are the same.

Looking at spectacular homes in all of Chicago’s unique neighborhoods is a nice perk. I’m a sucker for views.

The people. I’ve met so many interesting, smart, and kind people over the years; they help make the job fun.

What is your best experience as a broker?

It’s too hard to pick just one but all of the wonderful relationships I’ve developed are the best part of my job. So many “clients” have become great friends over the years. Getting invited to weddings and watching families and people grow over time is fun to watch and I’m grateful to be a part of it.

In the home buying or selling process? Get in touch with Riely today

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How Our Flexibility Helps You Find the Right Home

Posted on by LLCR Staff

If you are a first-time homebuyer or unsure of your needs, there is no better partner to guide you than Luxury Living Chicago Realty (LLCR). Our vast expertise in the city and our knowledge of various types of properties across Chicago means we’re flexible and can easily adapt if your needs change.

Learn how LLCR can help you find the right home in Chicago:

  • Prompt response – When it comes to finding the perfect home, there is no time to waste. LLCR understands how time-sensitive this process is, and that is why we guarantee an immediate response to help establish your expectations and criteria.
  • Agent match – You can always expect Luxury Living to partner you with a professional and licensed real estate broker. Each agent on our team has the expertise and experience needed to streamline the search process.
  • Process expertise – From mortgages to inspections, we can provide advice and professional recommendations. While your home purchase is ultimately your choice, we want to help inform your decision so you can feel confident making such an important decision.
  • Streamlined search – As you look for the perfect home, we can offer guidance to help you navigate the current sales market. With a fluctuating market and a structured real estate process, our team will help simplify each step for you.
  • Skillful negotiation – Throughout your home-buying experience, LLCR will advocate and work to ensure that you get the best deal possible. Over the years, we have successfully made this happen with our clients using our different negotiation strategies.
  • Total guidance – Rest assured that our team will be by your side through every complicated step of buying a home. We are there for your questions, hesitations, and all of the exciting moments.
  • Complete resource – Our commitment to you does not end when you find the perfect home. We will become your trusted real estate resource for anything you may need in the future, even after the deal is done.

Buying a home is no small move, and Luxury Living Chicago Realty recognizes this. We understand the weight of this decision, and that is why we go above and beyond to provide you the best experience possible.

If you are prepared to find the right home in the Windy City, our team members are eager and ready to help you begin the search. Let us walk alongside you in this exciting endeavor!

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The Best West Loop Tacos to Order In

Posted on by LLCR Staff

Tacos aren’t just for Tuesdays. This dish makes an excellent food option any day of the week. Having a taco night at home is a great activity for the whole family

If you live in the West Loop neighborhood or plan to in the future, make sure to note the restaurants with the best West Loop tacos to order. Each location offers curbside pickup and delivery.

Best West Loop Tacos

  • La Josie – 740 W Randolph St – Located in the heart of West Loop right on restaurant row, this intimate Mexican eatery offers delicious, classic dishes. With 13 different tacos to choose from plus other dishes, there is bound to be something on the menu that appeals to everyone. You can find a handful of various meat, seafood, and vegetarian options.
  • Federales – 180 N Morgan St – While this funky warehouse setting makes a popular place to dine-in, their tacos to go are also a great call. Choose from the six classic taco options or if you’re feeling more adventurous, find one of the seven signature tacos that calls your name. You can expect homemade tortillas or substitute lettuce shells if you’re watching your waistline.
  • Cruz Blanca Brewery – 904 W Randolph St – While this Mexican brewery is known for its original beer, they also cook up some tasty tacos. You can choose from single tacos or taco plates, depending on you and your parties’ appetite. The lamb cheeseburger taco is a fan favorite and a must-try!
  • Bar Takito – 201 N Morgan St – This Latin-inspired menu offers incredible small and large plates, including tacos. While all seven taco options will have your taste buds watering, the chicken tinga is still one of the most popular items on the menu. 
  • La Lagartija – 132 S Ashland Ave – This authentic taqueria serves an array of classic and hearty tacos. Everything is made from scratch with the highest quality ingredients, so you can’t go wrong with whatever you order.
  • Blue Agave Tequila Bar  – 579 W Kinzie St – Along with terrific tequila, This family-owned restaurant features authentic Mexican recipes made from scratch with the finest ingredients. If you’re thinking about ordering tacos, consider the mini tacos. This is a great way to try a variety!

 

 

If you don’t call West Loop home but you’re interested in making a move to this trendy neighborhood, Luxury Living Chicago Realty can help.

We have an experienced team of licensed brokers who would love to find you the home of your dreams. Connect with us today so we can begin the home buying process and find you a new condo near the best West Loop tacos.

 

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Trusted Real Estate Brokers in Chicago

Posted on by LLCR Staff

Finding a home in the Windy City may feel overwhelming with an extensive amount of choices, from the abundant properties available to all the real estate brokers in Chicago.

Buying, selling, or renting a home is no small decision. That’s why it’s crucial to team up with a trusted real estate broker who knows the Chicago market and has the experience to streamline your search.

At Luxury Living Chicago Realty, we deliver top-notch service with a team of licensed and knowledgeable real estate professionals. We are a boutique, luxury brokerage focused on residential rentals and sales.

Discover what sets our luxury brokerage apart from other companies in Chicago.

Our Process

Our process provides a complementary and tailored approach that has helped thousands of luxury renters and buyers find a new place to call home. Every step is well thought out with your best interest in mind. 

Here is what you can expect if you choose to work with us:

  1. Prompt response – We will provide an immediate response to help establish your expectations and criteria.
  2. Agent match – We will always partner you with a professional and licensed real estate broker.
  3. Process expertise – From mortgages to inspections, we can provide advice and professional recommendations.
  4. Streamlined search – We will offer guidance to help you navigate the current sales market.
  5. Skillful negotiation – We’ll be your advocate and work to ensure that you get the best deal possible.
  6. Total guidance – We’ll be by your side through every complicated step of buying a home.
  7. Complete resource – We will become your trusted real estate resource for anything you need in the future.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, we have also adapted all of our policies to follow safety precautions and guidelines.

Our Team

The people behind Luxury Living Chicago Realty are what makes our work so exceptional. We stand apart from the competition through our unparalleled dedication and service to clients. 

Agents work one-on-one with clients to find an home that fits all of their specific criteria. They share insights gained from years of experience in Chicago’s real estate market and not only truly listen to clients’ feedback, but also take that feedback into consideration to guarantee the process is as efficient as possible. 

We recognize the intrinsic relationship between diversity and excellence and are committed to creating an open and equitable culture in all our endeavors.

Broker Spotlight

Get to know a few of our phenomenal senior brokers, all eager to help you find your dream home:

  • Sean Holland – Sean Holland is originally from Rochester, NY where he went to school for marketing and finance. While attending business school, he traveled to multiple large cities around the United States and knew he would call Chicago home after his very first visit. Sean’s goal has been to build lifelong relationships with his clients by providing them with a great service experience and a wonderful home. Sean uses his deep knowledge of the local market to find his clients the absolute best option. To date, he has helped over 300 clients find their home in Chicago. Sean’s ability to quickly understand his client’s diverse perspectives is one of his many strengths.
  • Riely Joosten – Riely Joosten is a Senior Broker at Luxury Living Chicago Realty. He has been helping real estate clients find new homes in Chicago since 2012. In addition to being an expert in Chicago’s luxury rental market, Riely became a licensed real estate broker in 2013 to assist with buying and selling homes and investment properties, as well as leasing. Riely was born and raised in the Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago. His passion for the outdoors drew him to Colorado for college, where he attended the Leeds School of Business at the University of Colorado at Boulder. After graduating, Riely returned to Chicago to pursue a career in real estate. His extensive knowledge of the city and a focus on clear, timely communication has enabled him to provide his clients both excellent information and customer service.
  • Lynn Kummerer – Lynn Kummerer serves as a Senior Broker, utilizing her broad scope of 20+ years in real estate. She is well versed in all areas of real estate and has sold over $40 Million to date, was awarded as Top Producer in 2016 and 2017, relocated thousands of employees to and from Chicago through her referral base of the city’s largest employers, and managed over 80 agents. She works with buyers, sellers, investors, renters, relocation companies and talent acquisition professionals throughout Chicago. Lynn manages a team of agents, at the ready, to work with all of your needs within the Chicago real estate market. Lynn is timely, efficient, and thoughtful in her approach to clients. When negotiating on her client’s behalf, she understands that this is their most important current financial decision. 
  • Mollie Posch – A Chicagoland native, Mollie Posch is a natural choice to turn to when deciding who to represent you for all your real estate needs. With 6+ years of experience in the luxury leasing and sales market as well as staffing and training agents, her seasoned experience and passion for the business help her provide knowledgeable insight for her clients.  Her dedication and fun approach have created a long-term referral base. Whether you are buying, selling, or looking to rent, Mollie will help you find your perfect new home. When Mollie isn’t busy scheduling and managing her portfolio, you can find her with her family. Whether it’s her kids sporting events or family barbecues, she’s most happy when surrounded by her family.
  • Vanessa Kanavos – Vanessa Kanavos serves as a Senior Broker for Luxury Living Chicago Realty. She graduated from DePaul University with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. An Illinois native, Vanessa has proudly called Chicago home for over 10 years and loves exploring all of the unique neighborhoods this city has to offer. Vanessa helps her clients find the perfect home by listening to what matters most and creating a highly personalized experience. With a background in hospitality, she provides exceptional customer service and strives to make choosing a home as fun and stress-free as possible.

Along with our fantastic senior brokers, you can learn more about the other team members who make up Luxury Living Chicago Realty here.

Neighborhoods We Serve

The Luxury Living team serves all of the best Chicago neighborhoods to accommodate an array of living preferences. Within each area, we boast listings with different price points, amenities, and benefits.

If you’re looking for a home right in the heart of all of the action, consider living downtown in the Loop or River North.

For those looking for a bit more peace and quiet, check out the gorgeous condos and apartments available in neighborhoods like Lincoln Park or Logan Square.

Whether you’re a Chicago native or brand new to the city, Luxury Living Chicago Realty is here to help you find the right home in the right location. Let our team of trusted real estate brokers in Chicago help you with your home hunt!

 

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Senior Broker Spotlight – Mollie Posch

Posted on by LLCR Staff

Mollie Posch is a Senior Broker and Chicago native. Mollie has over 7 years of experience in the luxury real estate market, as well as experience training and staffing agents.

At Luxury Living Chicago, Mollie helps clients find their perfect home through her dedication and fun approach to buying and selling homes. 

When Mollie isn’t deep in real estate deals, you can find her with her family at kids sporting events or family barbeques.

Share some of your experiences as a Chicago broker

I have had the pleasure of working with some incredible clients over the past 7 years. I am very passionate about helping my clients from the beginning all the way to the end. 

Why do you do what you do?

Combining the two things I love is an absolute dream for me. Working with people to help find their dream homes is such a joy and the real estate market has always intrigued me. 

What is your favorite part of your job?

My favorite part of my job is guiding people through the process. It is not an easy one and requires a lot of patience and knowledge. 

What is your best experience as a broker?

Many obstacles and emotions are surrounded by a transaction. It is my job to keep those emotions in check and educate along the way. I feel very grateful to have a job I can say I love.

If you’re in the home buying or selling process, get in touch with Mollie today!

 

Connect with Mollie

Senior Broker Spotlight – Sean Holland

Posted on by LLCR Staff

Sean Holland is a Senior Broker with almost 10 years of real estate experience. Sean has helped over 500 clients, many of which are repeat clients and referrals, find their perfect home in Chicago.

At Luxury Living Chicago Realty, Sean helps clients at every step of the way from preparing first-time homebuyers with everything they need for their first home purchase to navigating stressful situations throughout the home buying process with experienced home owners.

Originally from New York, Sean found his home in Chicago after traveling to many cities across the country while attending business school. Sean is an avid griller and is known to fire up the grill even in Chicago’s freezing temperatures. Aside from his grilling passion, he also enjoys cycling, partaking in summer street festivals, and relaxing on Chicago’s beaches.

Share some of your experiences as a Chicago broker

There have been many! From year-long deals that turn sales to rentals and back to sales, to long negotiations that go nowhere, to finding clients the perfect home. 

Why do you do what you do?

The flexibility is nice outside of busy seasons like being able to get in a workout or go for a bike ride when it’s slow. The knowledge that my success is largely in my own hands is also a big one. Not having a “boss” besides myself is nice. Ultimately it’s very satisfying creating long-term relationships with people. The homefinding/buying experience is a unique one and it’s one, if done properly, you and your clients will never forget. My clients put a lot of trust in me and I take that responsibility seriously.

What is your favorite part about being a broker?

My favorite part of the job is always having a pulse on the market and having valuable information for my clients. I get to be a part of their lives too – they send me pictures and videos of renovations, how they’ve laid out the place, the paint job. It’s a lot of fun seeing their vision become reality.

What has been your best experience as a broker?

I’ve had clients come from various countries across the world including India, England, Egypt, Venezuela, China, you name it. When moving here, I’m the “portal” that introduces them to Chicago, IL – USA. They usually have no idea how to find a home and those are the most gratifying experiences. I’ve truly touched those people and they are always thankful and relieved when they’ve finally found their new home.

Looking for a new home or gearing up to sell your current one? Connect with Sean today!

 

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Our Leadership Team — Real Estate Leaders You Can Trust

Posted on by LLCR Staff

Buying and selling property is no light decision. Here at Luxury Living Chicago Realty, we recognize the weight of this decision and the importance of every detail throughout the process.

This is why we ensure that our leadership team consists of industry experts who are qualified to competitively do their job, lead their teams, and provide the best experience possible for our clients.

Our Leadership Team — Real Estate Leaders You Can Trust

Our organization is proud to be lead by an outstanding leadership team. Get to know the qualified individuals behind the organization’s success:

  • Aaron Galvin, CEO & Co-Founder: Consistently recognized as the top producing rental broker in downtown Chicago since 2014 by the Chicago Association of Realtors, Aaron has helped curate and manage a team of Realtors and leasing agents responsible for over $150 Million in rental volume and $40M in sales volume. Over the last few years, Aaron has overseen the Development and Marketing teams and created an innovative approach to ensuring success for luxury apartment developments by partnering with forward-thinking developers and property management companies. 
  • Amy Galvin, Managing Partner & Co-Founder: Amy works to foster a strong team dynamic throughout the company, oversees the brokerage business, and drives the strategy for marketing campaigns. Amy is also dedicated to ensuring client satisfaction and customer loyalty through contact innovation of our processes. Before starting Luxury Living Chicago Realty, she worked at the top public relations agencies in Chicago.
  • Kaitlin Brewer, Director of Marketing: Since joining Luxury Living Chicago Realty in 2016, Kaitlin has delivered thoughtful, strategy-driven designs and processes. Kaitlin manages the company’s overall marketing strategy and leads a team of marketers and creatives to execute best-in-class luxury brands. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from Massachusetts College of Art & Design, Kaitlin is an award-winning artist.
  • Chis Faye, Director of Operations: Chris creates the process and software vision for Luxury Living Chicago Realty that drives optimization, efficiency, and scalability. Chris manages a team of systems and process professionals to ensure the company finds balance between personal experience and automation. Before joining the real estate industry, Chris traveled the world performing and managing production casts on-board various luxury cruise lines. Prior to working at Luxury Living, Chris directed another brand’s suburban offices.
  • Rachel Ghigo, Director of Finance: Rachel oversees Luxury Living Chicago Realty’s budgetary decisions, financial reporting, and analysis. Rachel attended Michigan State University and received a Bachelor’s degree in Finance.  After moving to Chicago in 2009, Rachel’s accounting experiences ranged from stock exchange to IT service industries.
  • Mark Ziemke, Director of Leasing Strategy: Mark oversees all on-site leasing strategy execution, pre-development consulting, and manages high-level relationships with developer clients, construction companies, and property management partners. Before his 10+ years in the real estate industry, Mark moved to Chicago from California to pursue advertising and marketing as a copywriter and interactive project manager

When it comes to leadership, the LLCR holds tightly to a few core values, which include kindness, team player, investment in vision, solution-focused commitment, and dynamic experience. These core values were established in 2015 but continue to guide and sustain the exceptional work that we continue to deliver:

At Luxury Living, you can expect a team of trusted experts that are always focused on what’s best for clients. Our experienced team of real estate brokers includes top producers, negotiation experts, and savvy marketers. With a variety of backgrounds and educations, our Chicago agents have helped thousands of clients buy, sell, and rent homes in Chicago since 2007. 

Since the beginning, our leadership team has ensured that every member of LLCR provides personalized, professional, and prompt service. Our agents share insights and recommendations of proven partners, including lenders, inspectors, and attorneys. Our boutique sales team ensures exceptional service for all your real estate needs.

If you’re looking for the best team to lead your home buying or selling experience, connect with one of our phenomenal team members today!

 

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Senior Broker Spotlight — Lynn Kummerer

Posted on by LLCR Staff

Lynn Kummerer serves as a Senior Broker and has 20+ years of experience in real estate. She has sold over $40 Million to date and has assisted in relocating thousands of employees to Chicago throughout her career.

At Luxury Living Chicago Realty, Lynn manages a team of agents and is well versed to help with all of your Chicago real estate needs. She works with buyers, sellers, investors, renters, relocation companies and talent acquisition professionals throughout the city.

Lynn graduated from Marquette University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and a specialization in Marketing. Lynn is an avid traveler and snow skii enthusiast. With her free time, she enjoys trying out the latest restaurants and attending sports and social events throughout the city.

Share some of your experiences as a Chicago broker

“My biggest client is United Airlines. Over the last 13 years, I have helped over 1,400 United buyers, renters and sellers.”

“I have assisted Chicago’s employers move their employees to Chicago. It is a huge undertaking with a lot of responsibility and I take a lot of pride in this accomplishment.”

“My very first sale turned into 4 sales. The sellers sold their home with me and bought another one. I sold their old home to buyers and then sold their home in order to purchase that one! 4 closings in one day!”

Why do you do what you do?

“What better product is there to sell than real estate? It is fun, exciting and fast paced. The thrill and challenge of the negotiation is what I look forward to. I take on the hunt for the right new home for my clients as if it was my own search.”

What is your favorite part about being a broker?

“I love seeing the joy in client’s faces when we have found their new home. Showing clients our great city and giving them a taste of what all there is to do here in every season is a joy. I like pushing myself each year to do more and more business. I love growing and developing a team of agents. The stress of getting all the work done by the end of the day is real. And then the next day comes before I know it!”

What has been your best experience as a broker?

“Whew! Hard to pick just one. It has to be either all of the close friends I have made along the way or an internal pride in my accomplishments.”

On the hunt for a new home or looking to sell your current home? Be sure to get in touch with Lynn today!

 

Connect with Lynn

Our Approach to Making Your Chicago Real Estate Search a Success

Posted on by LLCR Staff

If you are in the market for a new home, your Chicago real estate search depends on finding the right broker and the right property. Luxury Living Chicago ensures that you find both. 

Our premier brokerage makes your Chicago real estate search easier by matching you with communicative and reliable brokers that provide support and advocate for your best interests during the home buying/selling process and beyond.

So what sets us apart from other brokerages? A lot. We strive to create the best experience possible for clients, and we do so through various ways:

  1. Prompt response: You can always expect an immediate response to help establish your expectations and criteria. We understand that home buying and selling is a time-sensitive matter, and we are here to expedite the process and avoid wasting any time.
  2. Agent match: Your broker is a pivotal piece in finding and securing your dream home. We will always partner you with a professional and licensed real estate broker who not only knows the Chicago market but knows the best practices in real estate.
  3. Process expertise: From mortgages to inspections, our team will be there to provide advice and professional recommendations. We recognize each decision’s weight in this process and want to ensure that you make the right one every step of the way.
  4. Streamlined search: We will offer guidance to help you navigate the current sales market and find a property that aligns with your wants, needs, and budget.
  5. Skillful negotiation: We’ll be your advocate and work to ensure that you get the best deal possible. With an arsenal of negotiation tactics, our team will help differentiate you and your property as well as maximize value. 
  6. Total guidance: Through every complicated and at-times intimidating step of buying or selling a home, we will be by your side for this big decision.
  7. Complete resource: We will become your trusted real estate resource for anything you may need in the future. Even once your deal closes, rest assured that our doors always remain open.

Let a Luxury Living partner work alongside you to sell or find the perfect home. This is not a process you nor we take lightly. We have the professionals and testimonials to prove that we have your Chicago real estate search covered. To get started, connect with one of our trusted team members today!

 

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Chicago Loop Restaurants for Your Lunch Break at Home

Posted on by Katie Dickemann

If you are now working from home, there’s a chance you may miss going out to lunch. If this is the case for you, don’t let your remote work situation stop you from enjoying the amazing food that the Windy City has to offer.

Take advantage of the Chicago, Look restaurant’s lunch by finding local restaurants that deliver lunch and offer to-go options in the Loop. 

Here are just a few tasty options to consider:

  • Emerald Loop Bar and Grill- 216 North Wabash Ave- This Irish bar and Grill in the heart of downtown offers both to-go and delivery services. The menu boasts everything from Irish classics to classic American fare. Be sure to try their infamous shepherd’s pie.
  • Taco Maya– 823 S State Street- For mouth-watering Mexican, indulge in the delicious dishes at Taco Mayo. You can find traditional Latin meals, as well as fusion-inspired dishes inspired by other cultures. Everything is made from scratch with the freshest ingredients.
  • Amarit– 600 Soth Dearborn St- For some delicious Thai and sushi, be sure to order from Amarit. This innovative restaurant offers a blend of fusion, incorporating more traditional dishes that are less spicy. They are one of the fewer sushi spots to provide smaller-sized rolls if you want to order more variety or just need a small snack.
  • Tika n Curry– 400 South Financial Pl- This modern restaurant creates traditional Indian dishes with the freshest ingredients and always made from scratch. You can even create your own custom bowls for the ideal personalized meal.
  • Lou Malnati’s– 805 S State Street- If you’re in the mood for some traditional Chicago-styled pizza, order one of the infamous butter crust deep-dish pizzas from Lou’s. Keep in mind, deep-dish can take over an hour to prepare and deliver, but the meal is certainly worth the wait.
  • Jimmy John’s– For a quick and simple yet completely satisfying meal, call or order a JJ’s sandwich online. You’ll be blown away by how fast their delivery service truly is. You can find three locations throughout the downtown Loop neighborhood.

If you’re looking to move to the Loop and enjoy everything that downtown Chicago offers, including the Chicago Loop restaurants, connect with one of our agents today. The LLCR team members can help you find a home that is perfect for you and your lifestyle.

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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.