What does 1,000,000 get you on Chicago's North Shore

What Can $1M Get You?

I'm excited to dive into the intriguing world of real estate on the North Shore of Chicago. Let’s explore what one million dollars can fetch you in this charming, affluent area. As a lifelong resident with an intimate knowledge of the region, I'm here to guide you through some recent sales and showcase some unique listings in various North Shore suburbs. Let’s get into it!

Wilmette: 317 Park Avenue

This three-bedroom, three-bath home built in 1923 sold for $1,000,000, surpassing its $899,000 listing price. Charming yet needing some updates, it offers hardwood floors, a fireplace, and a recently renovated kitchen. Considerations include proximity to the lake, train noise, and potential size constraints.

Winnetka: 924 Forest Glen

Sold at $1,000,000, this four-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath home with 3,000 square feet in heavy competition, eventually sold over its $975,000 asking price. The house, though older, has gorgeous hardwood floors, a fireplace, and a spacious yard. However, it lacks an open kitchen-family room layout. Prospective buyers might need to invest in updates and consider the layout's limitations.

Glenview: 1230 West View Road

Moving east of Wilmette, Glenview presents a different dynamic. Priced at $1,000,000, this four-bedroom, three-bath home offers 3,000 square feet in the desirable Glen Air Park area.

With an older aesthetic, it features a larger yard and potential for expansion. Buyers may need to address dated elements, including the kitchen. Glenview homes may appeal to those seeking more land and a mix of older and newer properties.

Northfield: 2150 New Willow Road

Northfield's unique character is exemplified by this 7,000-square-foot, four-bedroom home on a substantial acre lot. Priced at $1,000,000, this property boasts multiple en-suite bedrooms, but potential buyers must be wary of floodplains. Northfield offers larger lots but comes with challenges like varied home styles and potential flood risks.

Deerfield: 1431 Woodhill

Listed at $999,000 and sold for $1,000,000, this four-bedroom, 3,400-square-foot home in Deerfield offers a balance of size and condition. A typical colonial style, it has potential for updates but requires a discerning eye for personalization. Deerfield provides larger homes with reasonable taxes compared to other North Shore areas.

Glencoe: 843 Bluff

This four-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath colonial in Glencoe sold for $1,000,000, well exceeding its $850,000 listing price. While needing updates, it features a cobblestone driveway, two-car garage, and proximity to Lake Michigan. Prospective buyers should be prepared for additional investments in renovations.

Highland Park: 1980 Old Brier Road

Listed at $1,000,000 and sold at $1,000,005, this five-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bath home in Highland Park stands out with updated interiors and a private pond. The unique feature of the pond might be a selling point or a deal-breaker, depending on personal preferences. Highland Park offers updated homes but may come with higher taxes.

Lake Forest: 900 Timber

Listed at $999,000 and sold for $995,000, this four-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath colonial in Lake Forest provides a fresh, updated look. While lacking a mudroom, it compensates with a modern kitchen and an attractive backyard. Lake Forest's appeal lies in its spacious lots, prestigious community, and proximity to the lake.

Conclusion:

The North Shore real estate market offers a diverse array of homes for $1 million, each with its unique charm, features, and considerations. From the historical appeal of Wilmette to the prestigious estates of Lake Forest, finding the perfect home involves balancing factors like size, condition, location, and personal preferences. Whether you're drawn to the scenic landscapes of Glencoe or the suburban tranquility of Deerfield, exploring North Shore homes at the million-dollar mark promises a captivating journey through distinctive neighborhoods and architectural styles.