Open House Magazine Summer 2023

BETTER LIVING BY DESIGN magazine

DREAM IT, THEN DO IT! AMAZING BEFORE & AFTERS

GREAT FINDS! OUR GO-TO SHOPS FOR HOME DECOR

SMALL SPACES: LIVING LARGE IN LESS THAN 350 SQ. FT

It’s all about the details.

Identifying what is truly important in our lives, and finding ways to live more fully, have become more of a cultural focus over the last few years. How we choose where we live is a central part of that journey. One of the favorite parts of my job as a real estate agent is getting to know each of our clients personally, and helping them to see the opportunities to design the lifestyle they want in their next home.

Flexibility and function are key for our buyers. Some are looking for a space they can make their own: on page 4, you’ll meet our client Kim who knew exactly what she wanted, but wasn’t sure how to pull it all together. After we helped find the perfect home in the exact neighborhood she desired, she took a chance on a young designer who brought her vision to life.

For others, living by design is about how a new home can be the perfect way to blend households. On page 10 you’ll read how we helped Jim and Michele secure the perfect space to customize for themselves, and see the transformation they created together.

We also have a passion for helping our senior clients craft their plans to downsize their homes, but not their lives. On page 12 you’ll hear how my sweet clients Mike and Lorrie are enjoying a lifestyle change to an active community that offers room to spare for the hobbies they both truly enjoy.

On the seller side, our experience showcasing in-demand lifestyle elements through staging propels our listings to the top—in terms of visibility and showing activity—and delivers top dollar on the sale of the home.

Personally, this year marks a huge milestone for me: celebrating 20 years as a real estate professional and officially launching The Burhop Group. It’s an honor to look back at how I’ve been able to serve so many amazing clients over the years, and I’m proud to share the details of their success here with you.

My mother is thinking about selling her home and downsizing, but she’s not sure where to look and doesn’t want to go to an “old-folks home.” What are her options? There are many options she could consider such as a single-level ranch, townhome, or condominium. All offer less maintenance and more manageable space if she is capable of independent living. Active adult or senior-living communities are also a great option and offer activities, wellness, and lifestyle amenities such as Pickleball courts, fitness or yoga centers, community gardens, and meal delivery programs. Deciding whether she wants to find a home that allows her to continue to age in place should be a priority. We can help give specific advice and cost estimates for each option.

What unique features in a home are buyers most interested in now? Flexible spaces are at the top of wish lists, and many are looking for a home that can grow with them over time. They may initially need a home office or play room for kids, but as time moves on, they can use the space to showcase a passion. Recently I’ve seen rooms dedicated to music, reading, and even bourbon tasting!

I recently inherited my parent’s home and we need to get rid of a lot of old furniture and clothing. Do you know of any good resources that can help with this? We have many resources and can make suggestions depending on the items. We are environmentally-conscious and try to recommend organizations that will not just put unused items in a landfill. You can find a listing of vetted donation and recycling centers on our website, and we’re always adding new options such as a group we recently discovered who collects and distributes items to Ukrainian refugees. n

Have a question? E-mail me at shaunna.burhop@bairdwarner.com

“Our experience showcasing indemand lifestyle elements through staging propels our listings to the top— and delivers top dollar on the sale of the home.”

Shaunna Burhop, CRN, CSC, SRES

ASK SHAUNNA

Celebrating another successful photo shoot with Tracy Bongiorno, who shares her best home decorating sources with us on page 7.

CONTENTS

TREASURE HUNTING

Tracy Bongiorno shares the goods on her top go-to spots for the best in unique furniture, tableware, and more.

DESIGNING WOMAN

An interview with

DESIGN WITHIN REACH

A mod studio makeover in Chicago’s Lakeview proves big ideas can come in small spaces.

THE PERFECT MIX

A couple finds harmony and balance in designing a new space together.

13 ALL ABOARD THE ARLINGTON EXPRESS

Shaunna helps one couple let go of the past in order to make space for their future.

14 OUR SERVICES

Our goal as The Burhop Group is to exceed your expectations of what a real estate agent can do for you. Buying, selling, retiring, or relocating—we are the team you can trust to help you achieve your dreams. Make the right move with us!

Facebook: Like us at Shaunna Burhop Real Estate and Tracy Bongiorno Real Estate for all the latest news and events.

Instagram: Follow ShaunnaBurhop RealEstate to see new listings, inspiring images, and amazing before and afters.

LinkedIn: Connect with Shaunna Burhop and Tracy Bongiorno to share resources and valuable real estate insights.

Email: Send your questions, comments or ideas to shaunna.burhop@ bairdwarner.com or just write to say hi!

… or old school ;) Call us directly at 847.275.0277. Let's chat about how we can help you navigate the buying and selling process.

LET'S GET SOCIAL

Josie Chapman on mixing metals, rethinking neutrals, and how to create a “Wow!” moment in your home.

Below: Taking in all of the details in my client’s stunning Northbrook home with her talented designer, Josie Chapman (on right). Right: The renovation included new paint, lighting, and the transformation of the sunroom to a stunning new dining space. Josie rounded out the home with new luxurious furniture from Crate & Barrel.

Designing Woman

The secrets to creating sophisticated spaces with interior designer Josie Chapman

Our client Kim had her heart set on a neighborhood and home style she had fallen in love with years before. The problem was that homes in the area rarely went up for sale—and her existing home would need to sell first. We went to work and created a customized multi-phase approach to help her get there. Our comprehensive listing plan delivered a top-dollar sale for her previous home, while our innovative target marketing helped us uncover a listing not yet on the market, but prime for updating. The profitable sale enabled Kim to hire a professional designer, Josie Chapman, to help bring her dream home to life. I was amazed by the transformation Josie brought to Kim’s new home, so I sat down with her to learn more about the design as well as her creative process.

Above: While the cabinets were in good condition, the dark backsplash and black countertops didn't fit with Kim's style. Replacing them with white Quartz, as well as expanding the peninsula to allow for bar seating, completely transformed the kitchen.

How did you and my client, Kim, meet? What was she looking for?

Kim found me by walking into Crate & Barrel and looking for some design assistance for her recently purchased home. Her main considerations were that she would be working from home; she would be sharing a space with her mom, which was new for her; and that her sons would be visiting from California often and needed to feel welcome. Overall, she wanted something new that felt more updated to her current needs and lifestyle.

How did you come up with the design for Kim’s home?

Functionality and practicality are at the forefront of my designs, but the goal is to create an environment that gives that sense of peace we all desire. I do this in a few different ways. First, we focus on the ambience and mood of »

Right: Josie loves mixing different metals. Metals add weight to a room when you need depth and dimension, and the color and finish also determines what the lighting will pick up. “I am madly in love with the metal light fixture above the dining room table,” she says. “It's quite striking and completes the ‘WOW’ moment.” Below: With open concept designs, there is a risk that some space will be underutilized. We suggested adding a counter-seating area, which maximized the space, seating four people comfortably.

+ PRO TIP: When used in small doses, dark colors can make an interior look polished and crisp.

a space. This can be achieved through color, fabric, and lighting. I then play with texture and juxtaposition just to give the space character and add interest. Next is ergonomics, which relates to designing for efficiency and comfort within the environment. Finally, I consider the friends and family who will experience the space. To achieve the correct look and feel, we design our homes not just around our own desires, but also to the liking of those who are most important to us.

Get the Look

Kim wanted a space that her mom felt comfortable in, that her friends would enjoy, and that felt fresh and Caliinspired for when her kids visited from the West Coast. Ultimately, Kim and her friends and family all love it.

What are some of the key elements of the space? What makes this so cozy? Wood; mixed metals; neutral and luxe textures; modern lighting; and large artwork. The renovation included new paint, lighting, and the transformation

Before: The fireplace was a bit dull and lacked depth, so Josie bumped out the frame with lime-wash side walls and topped them with a live-edge wood mantle, adding beautiful but subtle texture to the space.

of the sunroom to a stunning new dining space. We also gave the existing fireplace a much-needed makeover, with a new mantle and lime-wash walls, and used sentimental pieces from the past mixed with the new. For example, Kim's existing Crate & Barrel wood table worked seamlessly in one of the most beautiful spots in the home.

Did you suggest anything outside of what the client was expecting?

I don't believe she was expecting to see how multiple neutrals and textures can still be fun, lively, and inviting. Kim appreciated how each hand-selected piece worked together with the tones of her wood floors, railings, and wooden cabinets, adding the warmth that the space really needed.

I really love the warmth as well. What was your favorite part?

My favorite part was the process as a whole! It allows me to show, express, and make my vision tangible. And in this process, I had the chance to get to know Kim, who is now a dear friend. This all wouldn't have been possible without your help, Shaunna, so I thank you and The Burhop Group for helping her find her dream home! n

“Figuring out the lifestyle of who I am designing for is essential to the work I do.”

<< continued

Mara Hoffman chair in Ivory, $699; westelm.com / Polished Drop Terrarium, $38; anthropologie.com / Meron mirror in natural, $199; article.com / Adora mango wood side table, $178; polyandbark.com

California-cool is all about simple, natural elements coming together to create a classic-but-carefree vibe even if you live far from the coast. No shoes required.

+ Spanning an entire city block, the Randolph Street Market is located both indoors and outdoors with tons of dealer tents, music, food, and of course boozy beverages for the adults!

4

Gold + Oak MOUNT PROSPECT

“Owner Katie Papanicholas curates this shop from talented artisans across the globe, and it's become my go-to source for home decor with a global twist.” // 400 W. Central Rd., goldandoakco.com n

Lurvey Garden Center

DES PLAINES

TREASURE HUNTING

Searching for unique home decor can be an adventure— our broker and expert stager Tracy Bongiorno clues us in on her favorite local sources for creating a stylish space, both indoors and out.

1 2

Randolph Street Market

WEST LOOP, CHICAG0

“This is a true European-style indoor and outdoor market that happens once a month throughout the year, and it’s the place to find vintage goods, antiques, designer items and more! I love strolling through the aisles and finding unique barware, vessels, and vases.” // 1341 W. Randolph St., randolphstreetmarket.com.

Brackett & Co.

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS

“They offer everything from gorgeous tablescape decor to smaller furniture pieces such as side tables and lamps, and even design assistance as well.”

// 13 W. Campbell St., brackettandcompany.com

3

“This family-owned garden center has so much more than just beautiful plants. You'll find everything you need to create your very own outdoor oasis.” // 2550 E. Dempster St., lurveys.com

+ PRO TIP:

When selling your home, sprucing up outdoor spaces can be just as important (and valuable!) as staging your interiors.

DESIGN Within Reach

Shaunna helps friends realize their investment dreams with a tiny 325-square-foot studio apartment in Chicago’s hot Lakeview neighborhood.

Good friends of mine, a family who formed a small real estate investment company called GLU Enterprises in Chicago, reached out to me with a dilemma. They were excited to see another studio come up for sale in the same Lakeview highrise where they currently owned a similar unit (which came with a rare and much coveted parking spot in the building), but they needed to act fast—and all four of the partners were unable to be in Chicago due to the travel restrictions at the time. After sending them videos of the unit, they saw the potential to renovate and decided to purchase. I needed to quickly figure out how we could handle every aspect of the sale remotely—from negotiating, to inspection, and ultimately to closing. In addition, this unit was essentially an estate sale, and I found out the sellers had not filed the proper paperwork with the probate court to enable them to transfer the title to a new buyer. As an added hurdle, a court date would have to be scheduled.

Working with the attorney I had recommended, we pushed to move forward as quickly as possible to coordinate the new court date and we worked fast to obtain the necessary paperwork. We closed shortly after, buying the family some time so the fun part could begin: a much needed small-space makeover!

Luckily one of the family members is a designer who was more than up for the challenge. Adam (who also happens to be my marketing designer and art

Above, top: Shaunna enjoys the new builtin window bar, which adds much-needed counter space and offers a great view while working from home. All of the messy cable boxes and wires have been hidden in a recessed nook behind the Samsung Frame TV. Above: The mirrored wall was one of the only original features kept, a throwback to when the building was a hotel in the 1960s.

Love this hidden coffee bar inside the pantry!

director for this magazine), had big plans to turn this small studio into a chic modern rental that could compete with new construction in the Lakeview area. Luckily, the family found a highly-skilled contractor who lived in the building—Scott Eisner of Eisner Construction—and Adam was able to design and provide direction remotely while Scott went to work.

Gutting the entire unit, but keeping the floor plan the same, they updated the kitchen with modern appliances including a space-saving speed oven built into the new peninsula, and a floor-to-ceiling pantry cabinet that conceals a full coffee bar. Since the new cabinets extended out into the main living area, Adam clad the wall with high-gloss white cover panels

which helps make the pantry almost disappear into the space. He also had matching countertops installed along the windows, creating a great place to Zoom by day and a relaxing spot to dine at night with sunset views.

The bathroom was also given a stunning refresh with beautiful blue subway tile, and the walk-in closet was tricked out in Elfa shelving.

But the best trick was saved for last: Adam used two different floor tiles, essentially dividing the space in two. Large black square tiles visually connect the kitchen, bath and closet areas, while a faux wood plank tile connects the bedroom, living room, and bar—creating the illusion of a bigger space overall.

Adam and his family love the results. “For our rentals, our motto is: ‘Small Space Done Right.’ We believe that just because you choose to live efficiently in a studio, it shouldn’t mean compromising good design or sacrificing elements that make your home feel cool and unique.” I agree. A tiny studio isn’t for everyone—but in the case of this super mod pied-a-terre, I could easily be convinced. n

Before: The unit’s interior was in fairly decent shape, but in need of an update.

THE PERFECT MIX

A couple blends two households into one well-designed home they both love

Jim and Michele came to us as a referral from another agent who trusted The Burhop Group to handle their home search during an extremely low-inventory market. At the time, the couple was living in Jim’s Des Plaines condo after recently combining households, but quickly realized they would need more space.

Getting to know our clients, and their desired lifestyle, is the first step of our home search process. We take the time to understand how they want to live in their new space, neighborhood, and broader community. We also consider how long they plan to be in the home, and how that influences their search list “must-haves” that might change over time, as well as impact future resale. In this case, the couple was searching for something move-in ready that had already been upgraded to suit their style; however, the existing tight market conditions at the time were making that really tough. Before we met they had already lost out in multiple offers, and decided to expand the search to include homes they could

Before: The entire space felt dated and lacked connection to the nearby dining room. After: Crisp white cabinetry topped with beautiful quartz tops and classic subway tile quickly modernized the whole space, while a simple move of the microwave below the counter made it feel larger overall. Removing part of the wall to the dining area opened up the space and provided better flow for entertaining.

THE SEARCH MUST-HAVES:

n A QUIET NEIGHBORHOOD

n OPEN PLAN, BUT WITH SOME DIVISION

n LOTS OF CLOSET SPACE

n MULTIPLE SPACES TO WORK, RELAX, AND ENTERTAIN

n FIRST-FLOOR PRIMARY SUITE

upgrade or renovate to match their new desired lifestyle.

When we are touring homes with our buyers, we like to strike a balance between asking questions and actively listening to their impressions as they walk through. Finding ways to create a vision for potential changes, and bridge differences of opinion to create a joint priority list, are things we have learned to do through years of experience. Jim’s practical nature prioritized space for a big screen TV and home office, while Michele added her perspective on

the overall feel and flow of the space. Together, they expressed clear ideas about the upgrades they would need to make to create a beautiful home they would both love.

Jim and Michele both agreed that having space to entertain friends and family was a top priority, as well as the importance of a quiet space (separate from the main living areas) where Jim could work from home. As with many couples, they also realized they might not spend all their relaxing moments together, so it would probably be a »

DIY: How to “Smear” your Fireplace

Give your fireplace a faux finish that mimics what you’d find in old European cottages with a German Smear mortar wash.

1. PREP THE BRICK: Start with a vacuum of the entire surface, then use a solution of dish soap and water to clean the bricks thoroughly. Once clean and dry, seal the brick using a sponge roller and brick sealant.

2. PREP THE MORTAR : Cut one small corner from a zip-top freezer bag and fill with pre-mixed mortar, then squeeze into all of the grout lines.

3. START SMEARING! Take a putty knife and at a 45-degree angle, wipe the excess mortar from the joint across the neighboring bricks. Don't try to be perfect! An irregular finish with both heavy and lighter sections of mortar will look even more authentic.

good idea to have two separate areas to watch different tv shows—or to just have a place to escape and read quietly.

As they toured homes and continued to talk through what each liked (or disliked), their ideas started to evolve. Initially, a first-floor primary bedroom wasn’t a priority, but as they traversed tall flights of stairs to get to second-level bedrooms, it was quickly added to the list! Not only did they realize it would be more practical as they considered aging, a main level bedroom is also better for guests who need access to a full bathroom.

With extremely limited inventory, being available to look and advise on every opportunity became critical. They became interested in a new listing in a neighborhood I happened to be very familiar with, having helped other clients purchase a home there just a few years prior. This townhome community was small, quiet, and friendly—and I thought the floor plan had many advantages.

The home we had identified offered a generously-sized first floor primary bedroom suite, family room with

Before and after: The transformations in the bedroom, where the wallpaper was stripped, and bathroom, which was gutted and reconfigured, were some of the most dramatic in the house.

vaulted ceilings, and great kitchen space. As we spent time in the home, we bounced ideas off of each other and they appreciated my input about changes that I had seen in similar properties and how it could impact their resale value. Excited by the idea of customizing the space, the couple decided to purchase; but before they made a final commitment, we quickly brought in a contractor to confirm that the changes were possible. We discussed offer and negotiation strategies, and knew if they wanted to present a winning bid, we would have to move fast and make it appealing to the seller. Asking the right questions and building a strong rapport with the listing agent is critical to any successful negotiation.

After closing, collaborating with a contractor who understood their vision and could make good design recommendations was an important

step, and key to their success in the renovation. Reconfiguring a closet and the main level bathroom was one of Michele’s favorite improvements, providing better access and use of space while upgrading to modern amenities. Switching to white cabinetry made the kitchen space feel more bright and airy, and extending the countertop provided a more functional dining and entertainment space. The fireplace transformation was the most dramatic, and created a beautiful focal point in the family room.

Jim and Michele feel all of the changes they made ultimately gave them the home that they had been searching for, and they are looking forward to enjoying these beautiful spaces for years to come. “I can honestly say that without Shaunna this would not have happened. She was a great advocate during the roughest time to purchase a new home.” n

“Shaunna was a great advocate during the roughest time to purchase a new home.”

All Aboard the Arlington Express

Shaunna guides a couple through the process of selling their long-time family home and starting their next chapter in an active senior community

Moving from one home to another can be a big change—but moving away from a community you have lived in your whole life can bring a flood of emotions.

I met Mike and Lorrie through a referral from a friend of theirs. They had loved raising their family in their vintage bungalow in Arlington Heights that was steps from town, popular parks and other amenities, but they were ready for a change—even though they knew it would be difficult leaving a home they’ve loved for years.

Sitting down with our senior clients to get to know them, and understanding what is really important to them, is the first and most important step in the process. With Mike and Lorrie, we learned they were excited about the potential of a

more maintenance-free lifestyle, move-in ready spaces, and room for Mike’s model train hobby. They also loved the feeling of being involved in a community and staying active.

After researching and touring several neighborhoods, they set their sights on an active community in Huntley, Illinois. We explored various floor plans as homes came on the market, and quickly found their perfect match. The fact that it was located on Arlington Street was a sure sign!

Six months after moving in, they said they couldn’t imagine a better place. Mike is enjoying the local model railroad club, and Lorrie has returned to dancing. They love the nature trails and all the people they have met, and we are so happy we were able to help them find the perfect place for the next phase of their life together! n

Sun City Huntley by Del Webb is a beautiful resort-style common interest community for the active adult 55 years old and better, located northwest of Chicago in the friendly village of Huntley, Illinois. With numerous amenities including Prairie and Meadow View Lodges, an award-winning 18-hole golf course, and state-of-the art fitness centers, members enjoy special interest groups and countless other activities. Below: Mike and Lorrie on the front porch of their new home located within the community.

Trusted. Innovative.

STAGING + SELLING SEARCHING + INVESTING

Every home has a story, a unique narrative that has the ability to captivate the imagination and enable potential buyers to imagine themselves living their best lives in your home. Whether your goal is to capture a high value quick sale, or coordinate with a new home purchase, creating and marketing that story is critical.

Key benefits include:

• Personalized, honest advice and options tailored to your unique home and goals

• Comprehensive pricing assessment of your home’s value in the current market plus tips and customized recommendations for improvements that can maximize your bottom line

• Professional staging, pre-listing preparation, and stand out photography to present your home in its best light

Together, Shaunna Burhop and Tracy Bongiorno are The Burhop Group—your one-stop trusted resource for all things real estate! Their combined experience, compassion, and network of trusted resources will make whatever your lifestyle transition is less stressful and more successful for you and your family. Call for a free consultation today at 847.275.0277.*

• Persistent communications to a network of potential buyers and top producing agents, promoting your listing to the top

• Sophisticated online marketing and social media campaigns, utilizing high-quality imagery and storytelling

• Personal attention to get you through inspection, appraisal, and other contract contingencies

Whether a first-time buyer, seasoned investor, or transitioning seller moving to a larger or smaller home, we’ll listen and collaborate with you to define your goals and develop your overall search strategy. You’ll benefit from our experience, strong market knowledge, negotiation skills, attention to detail, and community network.

Key benefits include:

• A Home Buyer Direct Access Program providing access to off-market listings—we can often make arrangements for a private tour before a home hits the market

• Creativity and professionalism that has enabled buyers to successfully purchase their home even in competitive multiple offer situations or under condition of selling their existing home first

• Honest advice and personal attention to get you through inspection, appraisal, and other contract contingencies

• Analytical insights regarding home values, area market trends, and community comparisons to assist buyers with decision making

• Access to our network of trusted service providers such as attorneys, inspectors, and lenders

“Shaunna was extremely helpful and knowledgeable when it came to picking out our first home! Since it was our first time buying, we had loads of questions and she had the answers. She was honest, responsive, and very easy to work with. She still checks in on us till this day. I’d recommend the Burhop Group to anyone!”

— Caroline, Arlington Heights

*Virtual appointments are always available!

Respected. Passionate.

+ DESIGN

With aging inventory throughout our marketplace and tough competition for value properties, identifying homes that have the potential for modernization takes a critical eye. Being able to assess both the financial implications and the design possibilities, we can provide you with valuable information as well as a network of vetted pros you can rely on.

Key benefits include:

• Financial analysis and historical data review to assist with decisions about post-renovation value

• Extensive knowledge of renovated inventory to offer initial design modernization ideas that fit with today’s lifestyle

• Hands-on approach to getting you through inspection, appraisal, and other contract contingencies

• Recommendations of trusted contractors and design professionals

• Access to financial professionals specializing in loans suited to renovation or construction

+ RETIREMENT SENIOR LIVING + ESTATES

Relocation or retirement plans provide an extra level of logistics whether moving across town or across the country. Relocating can have the added stress of changing jobs or settling the family into a new routine, while retiring often involves downsizing to smaller spaces. Our insights and experience can help make the process easier.

Key benefits include:

• Targeting areas to relocate or retire via our network of trusted experts who can provide local market knowledge and advice

• Communications with out-of-area agents to coordinate the home sale and purchase

• Access to moving companies and other service providers who specialize in out of state moves

• Certifications that enable us to work with all of the top thirdparty relocation companies (if you have an employer-sponsored relocation package)

Whether choosing to move to a senior community or helping sell the estate of a loved one, the process can be fraught with complexity, emotion, and stressful decision-making. Having a trusted advisor who can guide you makes all the difference. We provide options and recommendations based on a caring and compassionate approach.

Key benefits include:

• Connecting you with trusted professional service providers such as estate sale companies, legal counsel, movers, and tradespeople

• Compassionate and sensitive handling of sellers who may not have moved in a very long time

• Resources for senior move management including a design consultant who can help with space planning into smaller homes

• Access to all of the benefits of our Senior Lifestyle Transitions Program, a process we’ve developed to help guide you or your loved one through the next phase of their life

Check out theburhopgroup.com to find more information about all of our capabilities, including our new Advisory Services. We’ll provide perspective, resources, and honest advice long after your closing.

Make the right move with us.