Joe Zekas

I'm a:	Just Looking
Location:	Wilmette 60091
Web sites:	YoChicago
	New Home Notebook
	Data Based Ads

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6 First Answers
19 Useful Answers

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About Me

I'm an ex-attorney and ex-homebuilder who's been involved in real estate advertising and marketing for about 20 years. The company I founded provides sophisticated Internet-based ad management solutions to major real estate brokers and newspapers around the country.

I currently spend most of my time building our YoChicago web site and its companion New Homes Magazine in the city.

We've also recently launched NewHomeNotebook.com, a site that lists new home developments in the Chicago metro area and enables consumers to rate and review those developments.

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Joe Zekas's Answers (27)

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Asked Sat Jan 19 2008, 07:10 by M&L - Chicago - General Area - 8 answers

Joe Zekas answered:

You might take a look at Evanston, the first suburb north of the city and home to Northwestern University. Great public transit by bus, El and Metra.

Lots of urban amenities and walkability. A SFH under $400k will be tough in the more desirable areas, but condos are plentiful. The Central Street area close to Green Bay Rd is a real walkable charmer. - Sun Jan 20 2008, 22:15

What is the best website to find out about new developments and rehabbed buildings?

Asked Thu Nov 15 2007, 08:33 by Frank - Chicago - Tech Tips - 6 answers

Joe Zekas answered:

Frank,

Our Web site is concentrated on new construction in Chicago.

We also publish New Homes Magazine, which you can find at many new residential projects. The magazine has a Quick Guide that lists every new project in the city, whether or not it's in the MLS. - Mon Dec 3 2007, 11:35

I am buying my first home

Asked Wed Aug 8 2007, 14:59 by Jodie - Chicago - Home Buying - 9 answers

Joe Zekas answered:

Developers in Chicago will tell you that the investor market for condos has all but disappeared.

Right now nothing is easy to resell, and it's not a market for neophyte investors to be dipping into.

If - and it's a huge if - you can find a property that breaks even on rents (being realistic about rents and expenses), and if you're prepared to be in the game for 5 or more years, then you have a shot at doing OK.

My recommendation would be to get some experience in real estate by buying a condo that you want to live in. If you don't even have experience with that process your risk goes up dramatically in buying a condo for investment.

You'll take on less risk by buying in proven neighborhoods rather than "hot" ones, especially if you're not planning to be in the investment for a substantial length of time.

And Maggie, thanks for pointing to our Web site. - Wed Aug 8 2007, 18:52

If I buy in Old Town, what kind of appreciation can I expect in the next 2-4 years?

Asked Mon Aug 6 2007, 04:33 by Maggie - 60610 - Home Buying - 6 answers

Joe Zekas answered:

Historical appreciation is no predictor of appreciation over the next few years, given the uncertainties in the market.

Old Town - depending on the location - is a truly great place to live. That, and finding a place you love, is what you should be focused on. - Tue Aug 7 2007, 20:39

Lakeview Collection Lofts/ Lakeview Neighboorhood info needed

Asked Mon Aug 6 2007, 12:34 by Tony Katz - 60657 - General Area - 6 answers

Joe Zekas answered:

It's a great neighborhood with good public transportaiton and tons of things to do within walking distance. And a builder that has a good track record in Chicago, which is important.

One question you definitely want to ask is whether this project will be delivering units at the time of your move. If they're not, you won't have much trouble finding an interim rental in the area, which will give you a good chance to learn about it.

You can find more on the area at our Web site. - Tue Aug 7 2007, 20:33

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