Month: February 2022

Save Money Online With These 4 Tips

Posted on by LLCR Staff

Now that everything is available online in just a few days’ shipping, it can be hard to keep yourself tied to a monthly budget. These tips for saving money online can help you keep your budget for future housing on track while online shopping.

4 Tips to Save Money Online

1. Make a List

Treat shopping online like you’re shopping at a grocery store!

Before you log on to shop online, spend some time taking stock of what you need and write out what you actually plan on purchasing. If you have a predetermined list of what you’re searching for, it will be much easier to log off once you’ve checked everything off of your list.

If you get online and begin clicking and scrolling through ads without an objective, odds are you may end up making an extra purchase or two that you really don’t need.

2. Let Items Sit in Your Cart

When you purchase items online, you’ll often have to add the items to a checkout basket and do a final assessment of your purchases before you checkout.

Once you have your checkout basket full, step away from your computer or phone for a little while. Take a walk, clean up around your apartment, or knock out a task on your to-do list and then come back.

When you’ve given your time to not impulsively finish the transaction all at once, you can assess if it’s really worth buying your item. In a lot of cases, the truth may be you don’t really need to buy everything in your shopping cart.

3. Online Coupons

There are numerous online coupons and discount services available to online shoppers today.

You can use browser apps like Rakuten, Honey, and many more that will effortlessly find deals for you. These plug-ins can save you tons of money when shopping online and provide cash back rewards as well.

Check out other coupon websites or simply search for coupons specific to your item in another browser tab to see if anything is out there before you buy.

4. Talk to Customer Service

When you’re shopping online, often there is a customer service chat window available for inquiries about the products.

Ask a few questions about the product and see if there are any discounts available. You’d be surprised how often customer service responses will have specialized discounts available immediately for your purchase!

These are just a few tips to help you save when shopping online. If you’re looking to stop overspending online so you can save up for things you actually want and need, try a few of these tips out and see how much you can save.

If you’ve saved up enough to start your condo search, contact Luxury Living Chicago Realty. We can help you find a Chicago condo that fits your style and budgetary needs. Connect with a Luxury Living broker to start your search!

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8 Easy Ways to Save Money Each Month

Posted on by LLCR Staff

When it comes to saving significant amounts of money for condo ownership, it’s the little things that count.

Check out these easy ways to save money every month.

8 Easy Ways to Save Money Each Month

  1. Find an app that works for you. There are a handful of free apps out there that are designed to help individuals save. Mint remains a popular choice. It connects with your bank and then automatically categorizes all of your expenses for you. Acorns is another fan favorite. The app keeps the change every time you swipe your linked credit card and then sends that change to an investment portfolio for you.
  2. Set simple limits. Intentional spending goes a long way. Consider implementing a cap on certain spending habits at the beginning of each month on regular expenses, like Uber rides or meals out.
  3. Collect those coupons. Be on the lookout for good deals anytime you shop. We highly suggest installing the honey web browser extension. It automatically applies the best eligible coupons to your online purchases.
  4. Resell items you don’t need. As you let go of things, consider getting cash back on those unwanted goods. OfferUp and Facebook Marketplace let you buy and sell almost anything locally. Other apps, such as Poshmark, allow users to list specific clothing items to people all around the country.
  5. Shop wisely. Whether you’re grocery shopping or retail shopping, the businesses you choose can significantly impact your total spending. As you’re trying to save money, make strategic choices as to where you shop. For example, if you’re grocery shopping, consider buying off-brand products or checking out spots known for affordable prices, like ALDI.
  6. Stick to a list. Continue your smart shopping by never entering a store without a list. This can help keep you focused and avoid spontaneous or unneeded purchases.
  7. Utilize online shopping. Shopping online also minimizes your chances of getting sidetracked by unnecessary items. This method may also save time and travel costs.
  8. Don’t underestimate small sacrifices. Forsaking purchases and avoiding splurging is a smart way to save. In those moments you’re craving a Starbucks, consider forgoing the pricey beverage for an at-home coffee.

As you strive to see your bank account grow, be sure to implement these easy ways to save every month. When you’ve saved up enough money to take the leap, contact Luxury Living Chicago Realty to help you find a great condo for your needs!

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Monthly Expense Tracking Will Put You on the Right Path to Condo Ownership

Posted on by LLCR Staff

If you’re looking to save up for a home in the next year, monthly expense tracking is a valuable tool that can help you along the way.

Check out our tips on monthly expense tracking and learn how it helps you save:

  1. Find a tracking method that works best for you. Whether you decide to make your own expense spreadsheet or use an app, there are plenty of different ways to document your spending. If you’re a fan of spreadsheets, consider downloading a free template online so you don’t have to build one from scratch. If an app sounds more up your alley, Mint is one of our favorite budget trackers – it’s free and simple to use.
  2. Identify your income. When analyzing your finances you want to look at what’s coming into your wallet vs. what’s coming out. Figure out how much is in your paycheck so you know what you have to work with.
  3. Categorize your expenses. As you track your costs, it’s beneficial to group them into different categories. This gives you a broader idea of how you’re spending your money. Typical groups include housing expenses, groceries, restaurants, and shopping; but choose whatever categories work for your lifestyle.
  4. Hold yourself accountable. Consistency is key when it comes to tracking your expenses. Get in the habit of actually documenting your costs each time you’re swiping your card. It may not be your natural reaction at first, but the more you do it, the more second nature it will become. And when it becomes a part of your routine, the more mindful you will become of your spending.
  5. Identify what needs to change. As you keep a record of your payments, you may also notice some good (and bad) spending habits. Maybe you’ll realize that your Uber payments were way higher than expected. Or maybe your overall utility bill will shock you. Once you can identify these areas of concern, you’ll be able to make appropriate adjustments to set your savings up for success. Maybe you’ll decide to start taking public transit more. Or maybe you’ll become better at not keeping the AC on when you don’t need it.

Purchasing a condo is a big financial move, and it requires intentionality and savings. With these monthly expense tracking tips, we hope you feel more confident moving forward with this process. When you’re ready to take the next step toward condo ownership, contact the Luxury Living Chicago Realty team or click the button below!

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5 Winter Home Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Condo Thriving

Posted on by LLCR Staff

Chicago winters can be brutal. Making sure you know how to protect your home from the winter weather is important so that you can have a safe and cost-effective winter. Use these winter home maintenance tips to keep your condo in top shape this winter.

5 Winter Home Maintenance Tips

1. Check Building Rules

First, start off by familiarizing yourself with winter rules for your condo building.

Keep an eye out for any emails or newsletters that might address winterization policies for the building or other things to be aware of as it’s getting cold.

The information provided by your building’s maintenance may answer most of your questions and provide a clear guideline of what to do for the winter.

2. Run a Quick Heat Inspection

Spend some time examining all of the corners, nooks, and crannies of your condo to see where heat might be escaping. This can be done simply with your eyes and hands in no time at all.

If you notice any cracks, holes, or window seals where heat seems to be escaping, plug it up! Take some time with spackle, sealant, or even use a temporary fix of folded towels in order to keep the heat in your condo.

3. Watch out for Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes are the worst case scenario for your condo. Make sure if you have any pipes that are not properly insulated or that are on the outside of your building, you are aware of them.

Keep your water running slightly on any faucets that might be at risk for freezing.

Wrap towels or newspaper around exposed pipes to add extra insulation and prevent freezing. Frozen pipes are extremely expensive to replace and can become a huge headache. Anything you can do to prevent frozen pipes is a must! 

4. Dress Warmly, Save Money

You can save a lot of money in the winter by keeping the temperature down a few degrees.

Keep blankets, sweatshirts, and slippers around in the winter season so you can live comfortably without your heat cranked all the way up.

It may be a little less comfortable, but it will make a big difference on your energy bill.

5. Stock Up Early

When winter is around the corner, so take some time to get the essentials before an inevitable snowstorm hits. Having extra bottled water, canned goods, and frozen food can save you from having to leave your condo in extreme cold.

As far as other essentials, having some salt and a shovel for your sidewalk and common areas is a good idea.

If you’re a car owner, make sure you keep a scraper, shovel, and some salt in your car as well.

Having these winter essentials at your condo will come in handy when it gets cold fast and you want to be ready to deal with the snow.

Chicago winters can be tough on all homes. Making sure you’re prepared to keep your condo in top shape when winter rolls around can make a big difference in saving money and staying safe. Spend some time preparing for winter weather so you’ll never be caught off guard!

Looking for a Chicago condo? LLCR can help you find a condo that fits your style and budget. Contact Luxury Living Chicago to start your search!

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Save Money on Groceries in Chicago With These 7 Tips

Posted on by LLCR Staff

One vital area of focus to save money on when you’re trying to save up for a larger purchase is food and groceries. It’s a necessity to eat, but it doesn’t mean you have to break the bank each time you need a meal. With our tips on saving money on food and groceries in Chicago, you’re sure to save up for bigger and better things in no time!

7 Tips to Save Money on Groceries

1. Coupons

There’s no better way to save money than looking for coupons before heading out to the grocery store.

Check the back of your last grocery receipt, the local newspaper, and the grocery store website before you head in. There are so many digital coupons and discounts services available now, so a quick check online can save you a ton on groceries.

Additionally, coupons for new items can be a great incentive to try new foods and new recipes!

2. Write a List

The time you take before you leave your home can make all the difference.

Spend some time going through your pantry, refrigerator, and freezer. Take stock of everything you have at home. Once you know what you have, it will be easier to look at what you actually need. You won’t find yourself in the store searching and questioning if you already have a certain food back at your place.

Taking a few minutes to write out a list will help you shop more purposefully with less wasteful purchases.

3. Generic Brands

Look down low! On the shelves under the specialty brands of foods, you’ll see the generic alternatives.

Don’t let marketing fool you, the generic brands are often identical. Hold them up side by side and compare the ingredients and nutritional value. When you take price into account, generic brands will be a no-brainer.

4. Shop Alone

Shopping with a significant other, a roommate, or a group of people completely changes your experience in the grocery store.

You’re much more likely to splurge and get fun, spontaneous purchases. Remove the social element from the task and shop alone.

With only you and your list, there won’t be any conversation or distraction to throw you off your plan. Sure, it may be less fun, but that money you save can be used for something else.

5. Prepare Your Own Produce

Avoid the pre-packaged produce.

Although that fruit tray and pre-sliced veggie platter may seem too convenient to pass on, they’re not a great deal!

Buy the produce you actually need and cut it up at home. You can also store produce more efficiently with your own tupperware instead of the cheap plastic container it comes in, so your food will last longer as well.

6. Buy Frozen

When it makes sense, buy frozen!

Instead of over-shopping and realizing you won’t have time to cook everything you purchased, plan ahead by buying frozen. You’ll save so much on food that you’d normally throw away, it will be well worth it.

Plus, in between grocery trips it’s always good to have frozen food on hand.

7. Shop at Aldi

One bottom line that’s going to make a big difference is where you shop. Aldi is most likely your cheapest option.

Chicago has many other great options like Mariano’s, Jewel-Osco, and Whole Foods, but if you really want to save money, start shopping at Aldi. Get your favorite specialty foods from wherever you like best, but stock up on your essentials at Aldi.

Grocery shopping in Chicago doesn’t have to be expensive. Try out some of these money saving tips the next time you need to get groceries and see how much you can save.

When you’ve saved up enough money to take the leap into Chicago home ownership, LLCR can help you find a condo that fits your style and budgetary needs. Connect with a Luxury Living broker to start your search!

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The Average Condo Cost in Chicago — Here’s What to Expect In Your Condo Search

Posted on by LLCR Staff

Looking to purchase a home in the next year? The average condo cost may be more affordable and convenient than a free-standing house in Chicago. If you’re finding yourself ready to move in the new year and start fresh, consider purchasing a condo in the Windy City with our guide below.

Average Condo Cost

The average condo in Chicago costs around $438,000 compared to the average free-standing home price of $466,000. This noticeable difference makes condos a great option for first time buyers. The money you can save in your initial purchase is great for first time buyers with less disposable income.

Additionally, there are other factors at play that may make condos a much better option depending on what neighborhood you want to live in.

Certain neighborhoods in Chicago have stark differences between condo availability vs. free-standing houses, which is another factor to consider and may make purchasing a condo the better option for you!

Condo Costs and Factors to Consider

There are other financial factors to consider, such as HOA fees which apply to condos.

HOA fees on top of your mortgage will cover maintenance and upkeep that free-standing homeowners have to take care of themselves.

Although this might sound inconvenient, the pay off can be immense for your quality of life! You may have access to nicer common amenities and cheaper insurance as well with a condo.

If you like beautiful views, rooftop pools, and fully equipped gyms as part of your living space, a condo is definitely your choice vs a free-standing home in Chicago.

The Housing Market

Although the cost of purchasing a condo might sound like a lot, interest rates are historically low right now for folks looking to purchase.

If you’re looking to buy in Chicago in the next few years, now is the time according to real estate experts. Talking to a Luxury Living broker can help make the process easier to understand.

Purchasing a condo in Chicago is a big decision. It can be a great investment, and in many instances, it’s a better option for first time buyers than purchasing a home in Chicago. With the right research and team to help you make a decision, purchasing a condo can be affordable and the right choice.

Looking for a Chicago condo that matches your budgetary needs? Contact your Luxury Living broker to start your search or follow the link below!

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