Suburb Spotlight: Living in Glenview, Illinois
It’s time for another installment in our Suburb Spotlight series! As part of our series we’ve been traveling around to some of Chicago’s most desirable suburbs, including Park Ridge, Winnetka and Highland Park. Join us as we venture to Glenview, a suburban village known for its residential neighborhoods, parks, and proximity to the city of Chicago. If the idea of living in a community that boasts a robust and diverse real estate market, coupled with a high-quality of life and an array of amenities appeals to you, then Glenview, Illinois might just be your ideal home.
Glenview Real Estate Overview
Town center at The Glen shopping mall
With a population of 48,705, Glenview offers a diverse array of property types to suit different tastes and budgets, from charming single-family homes to modern condos. The city has a homeownership rate of 79%, indicating a thriving real estate market that is both beneficial for buyers and sellers.
Average Home Prices
Glenview’s home prices are relatively higher than those in surrounding areas. At $543,022, the average Glenview home value is a sign of the city’s overall attractiveness, with factors such as property type, location and cost of living playing a significant role in property valuation. Over the past decade, Glenview’s home prices have trended upwards, indicating a healthy and growing market.
While the average home price does fluctuate, one thing remains constant — the appeal of Glenview’s green spaces. The city’s many trees and parks add a unique charm, enhancing the appeal of properties and contributing to the overall quality of life in the area. This is one of the many reasons why Glenview homes are in high demand.
In addition to the allure of green spaces, the city's excellent school system, low crime rates, and access to amenities like shopping, dining, and recreational facilities, also play a role in the higher home prices. The city's commitment to maintaining a high quality of life for its residents is reflected in the value placed on its real estate.
Another factor contributing to the higher home prices is the city's strategic location. Situated in the heart of Chicago’s norther suburbs, Glenview offers easy access to major highways, public transportation, and is just a short drive from downtown Chicago. This prime location adds to the city's appeal and is a major selling point for potential homebuyers.
Although home prices in Glenview may be higher than in some nearby areas, the value that homeowners receive in terms of quality of life, amenities, and location often justifies the investment. As such, the real estate market in Glenview continues to thrive, making it an attractive option for both homebuyers and investors.
Types of Properties
When it comes to property types, Glenview offers a varied mix to cater to different buyer preferences. The city’s real estate portfolio predominantly features condominiums, townhouses, and single-family homes, providing ample opportunities for buyers to choose a property that aligns with their lifestyle and budget.
The typical single-family home will set you back around $550k. When it comes to condos you can expect to pay an average of $350,000 to $500,000. This wide price range caters to different buyer budgets, ensuring that everyone from first-time buyers to seasoned investors can find something that works. Prospective buyers should consider the benefits and drawbacks of each property type.
For instance, single-family homes offer the advantages of:
Increased space
Privacy
Land and building ownership
However, these come with responsibilities such as property maintenance and higher property taxes in Illinois.
Current Market Trends
Understanding current market trends is imperative for those hoping to buy or sell property in Glenview. Factors impacting property values include the type of property, land use and location, and the desirability of Glenview as a place to live.
In the past year, the Glenview real estate market has seen significant changes. The average home prices in Glenview have risen compared to the previous year. In fact, in November 2023 Glenview home prices jumped 20.7% compared to the same time the previous year. This indicates a high demand for properties in the area, suggesting a robust and expanding real estate market in Glenview.
Living in Glenview: Lifestyle and Amenities
Aerial view of Gallery Park in Glenview, Illinois
Living in Glenview offers residents:
Suburban charm
Urban amenities
Quality schools
Diverse outdoor activities
A wide range of dining options
Add to this the convenience of public transportation, access to healthcare services, and a supportive community, and it’s clear why Glenview has become such a popular place to live.
Outdoor Activities
Enjoy the natural beauty of Glenview, a city that provides numerous of outdoor activities. With so many parks, trails, and recreational facilities, Glenview ensures that its residents can stay active and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Among the highest-rated parks in Glenview are Gallery Park, Flick Park, The Grove, Johns Park, and Roosevelt Park, each offering a unique outdoor experience. For those who prefer hiking and biking, trails like the Glenview North Branch to Skokie River Trail and the LaBagh Woods Nature Trail closer to Chicago offer scenic routes to explore.
Lastly, Glenview also hosts outdoor festivals and events, such as the Glenview Summer Art Fair, Glenview Farmers Market, and Glenview Summer Concert Series, providing a communal experience for residents and visitors alike.
Dining and Shopping
The variety of Glenview’s restaurants matches the diversity of its real estate market. Some local favorites include:
Blufish Sushi Bistro
Plateia Mediterranean Kitchen
Cafe El Tapatio
Cafe Lucci
Jibek Jolu
In addition, Glenview offers a wide range of cuisine types, including Indian, Chinese and Mexican, ensuring there is something to tantalize every palate.
Shopping enthusiasts won’t be disappointed either. The city boasts several renowned shopping destinations, such as The Glen Town Center, Northbrook Court, and Willow Creek Center. From high-end boutiques to popular chains, these shopping centers cater to all tastes and budgets, making Glenview a shopper’s paradise.
Schools and Education
Glenview’s commitment to quality education is evident in its highly rated public schools. The city is home to top-rated schools like Avoca West Elementary, making it an ideal place for families with children. In addition to the public schools, Glenview also houses an international school, LinguaChi, that provides a bilingual education program, catering to the diverse needs of its residents.
The city's school district — District 34 — includes a total of eight schools, serving students from kindergarten through eighth grade. These schools are known for their strong academic programs, dedicated teachers, and supportive communities. High school students in Glenview typically attend Glenbrook North or Glenbrook South High Schools, which are part of District 225 and are known for their rigorous curriculum, wide range of extracurricular activities, and high college placement rate. As recently as 2021, Glenbrook District 225 was ranked as the #2 public school district in the entire country!
For those seeking private education, Glenview is home to several private and parochial schools, including Christian Heritage Academy, Glenview New Church School and Our Lady of Perpetual Help. These institutions offer a variety of educational approaches and religious affiliations, providing families with numerous options to choose from.
Glenview also places a strong emphasis on lifelong learning. The Glenview Public Library offers a variety of programs and resources for residents of all ages, from children's story times to adult education classes. Additionally, the North Suburban YMCA in Glenview offers programs for children, adults, and seniors, including fitness classes, art classes, and youth sports programs.
All in all, Glenview's strong commitment to education at all levels makes it a highly desirable location for families and individuals who value a high-quality education.
Safety in Glenview
Safety is an important consideration when choosing a place to live, and Glenview doesn’t disappoint in this regard. The city’s crime rates are 38.3% lower than the national average, making it a secure place to live and raise a family. With a strong law enforcement presence, Glenview takes the safety of its residents seriously.
Property Crimes
In terms of property crimes, Glenview once again boasts rates below state and national averages. The rate of property crime in Glenview is 7 per 1,000 residents, which is considerably lower than the national average of approximately 19.6 cases per 1,000 individuals.
The most prevalent types of property crimes in Glenview are larceny-theft, burglary, and motor vehicle theft. Despite these occurrences, Glenview’s property crime rate is lower than that of its neighboring towns or cities, further reinforcing its status as a secure place to live.
Buying a Home in Glenview: Tips and Advice
Tranquil neighborhood in Glenview, Illinois
Purchasing a home in Glenview represents a major investment, and access to accurate information can streamline the process. From understanding the local market to working with a knowledgeable real estate agent and exploring financing options, there are several aspects to consider when embarking on your home buying journey.
Working with a Local Real Estate Agent
Engaging a local real estate agent can be a big help during the home buying process in Glenview. They have an in-depth understanding of the local market, providing valuable insights and guidance. Some benefits of working with a local agent include:
Access to off-market properties that may not be listed publicly
A strong network of industry professionals
Help in navigating the buying process smoothly and efficiently
Experience negotiating the best price and terms on your home
Understanding the Local Market
Understanding the dynamics of the local market is crucial when it comes to successfully purchasing a home in Glenview. The city’s real estate market offers:
A unique blend of suburban living with convenient access to urban amenities
Considerable demand
A superior school district
A variety of housing options
Proximity to transportation, amenities, and attractions
It’s easy to see why Glenview — located in a sought-after area — is so popular.
To get a sense of the local market, get in touch with an agent that has plenty of experience working with buyers and sellers in the area. Agents with access to a multiple listing service (MLS) can also help you keep track of new listings that come onto the market and estimate the value of homes in the area.
Financing Options
Numerous financing options are available for your home purchase in Glenview. Common mortgage programs include:
IHDA Mortgage
IHDAccess Forgivable Mortgage
IHDAccess Deferred
IHDAccess Repayable
Opening Doors program
These programs offer assistance for down payments and closing costs and can be combined with FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional mortgages. Just make sure you’re eligible before deciding on a specific financing option. FHA loans, for example, require a FICO® score of at least 580 for a 3.5% down payment, or a 10% down payment for scores between 500 and 579.
Additionally, several down payment assistance programs are available in Glenview. These include programs administered by the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago — offering up to $6,000 in assistance — and programs sponsored by IHDA, CHA, FHA, and NHS Chicago.
Selling Your Home in Glenview: Strategies for Success
Illustration of a home for sale
If you’re planning to sell your home in Glenview, consider the following strategies for a successful transaction:
Set a competitive price for your home
Implement marketing strategies to attract potential buyers
Focus on presentation and staging to make your home more appealing
Prepare your home for sale by making necessary repairs and improvements
Work with a real estate agent to secure a buyer and negotiate the best deal
By following these steps, you can maximize the value of your home and increase your chances of a successful sale.
Pricing Your Home
Establishing an appropriate price for your home is key to drawing in potential buyers. Several factors determine home prices in Glenview, including:
Location
Size and condition of the property
Market demand
Economic factors
Comparable sales
Interest rates
To calculate your home value in Glenview, you can work with real estate agents who have plenty of experience in the area. Tools and resources such as MLS are crucial for estimating the value of homes in the specified area. Keep a close eye on other homes which are entering the market while also analyzing previous sales data. Remember, market trends in Glenview can have a considerable effect on home pricing, and staying informed about these trends can help you price your home competitively.
Marketing Your Property
Effectively promoting your property is essential to generating interest from potential buyers. Consider partnering with a local real estate agent to elevate your marketing efforts. They can list your property on multiple platforms, publicize it through various channels such as social media, and advise on staging the property to make it more attractive to potential buyers.
While digital marketing is increasingly popular, traditional marketing methods may still prove effective in Glenview. These methods, such as print advertising in newspapers and other publications, can reach a broad audience and help in creating interest in the property. Ultimately, a combination of digital and traditional marketing strategies can help you reach a wider pool of potential buyers.
Staging and Presentation
Staging and presentation are pivotal in the process of selling a home in Glenview. A professionally staged home can make the property more attractive to prospective buyers, help them visualize themselves living in the space, and create a positive first impression.
When staging a home for sale in Glenview, consider the following tips:
Obtain the expertise of a professional stager to evaluate the property and offer advice
Remove potential distractions such as pets or damages
Maximize visual appeal both inside and outside the home
Efficiently arrange furniture and decor
If the property is empty, consider virtual staging or renting furniture to showcase the space’s potential.
Wrapping Up
Whether you’re looking to buy or sell a home in Glenview, understanding the local real estate market is key. With its diverse property types, robust market, high-quality of life, and low crime rates, Glenview presents a compelling option for both buyers and sellers. With the right strategies and a knowledgeable real estate agent by your side, you can navigate Glenview’s real estate market with confidence and ease. Get in touch to kick off your real estate journey today!