You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles
YUMPU automatically turns print PDFs into web optimized ePapers that Google loves.
your guide<br />
to home selling<br />
WITH<br />
TEAM CYNTHIA<br />
beyond properties<br />
109 N Marion St, Oak Park, IL · (708) 386-1366<br />
cynthia@beyondpropertiesrealty.com<br />
www.beyondpropertiesrealty.com
2
WHY WORK WITH TEAM CYNTHIA?<br />
HISTORY<br />
Our team sets goals high above the standard of most real estate agents.<br />
Our priority is to ensure that our clients receive the highest level of service and market specialization.<br />
Our team boasts an outstanding track record in the skills of negotiating, pricing, market knowledge,<br />
and client experience.<br />
Since beginning in 2011, <strong>Cynthia</strong> Howe Gajewski and her team have grown, not just in size, but also in<br />
ability. All members of the team play a significant role in your real estate experience.<br />
From the time you sign the listing agreement and up until you celebrate your closing,<br />
<strong>Cynthia</strong> will tirelessly represent you and your best interests.<br />
When you work with our team, you can expect far more than what the average Realtor can provide.<br />
WE HAVE A RECORD OF SUCCESS.<br />
HOW DO SALES OF THE “AVERAGE” AGENT COMPARE TO OUR TEAM?<br />
73<br />
IN 2021, TEAM CYNTHIA<br />
CLOSED ON 73 TRANSACTIONS.<br />
12<br />
THE AVERAGE AGENT<br />
CLOSED ONLY 12.<br />
source: National Association of Realtors<br />
3
WHY LIST WITH<br />
TEAM CYNTHIA:<br />
POINTS THAT PROVE OUR PROCESS WORKS:<br />
19<br />
DAYS<br />
99.98%<br />
TEAM CYNTHIA<br />
LISTINGS SPEND AN<br />
AVERAGE OF 19 DAYS<br />
ON THE MARKET<br />
BEFORE GOING<br />
UNDER CONTRACT.<br />
TEAM CYNTHIA<br />
LISTINGS SELL ON<br />
AVERAGE FOR 99.98%<br />
OF THE FINAL LIST<br />
PRICE.<br />
GET YOUR MONEY’S WORTH.<br />
IT DOESN’T COST MORE TO WORK WITH THE BEST.<br />
Statistics based on Feb. 2022 - Feb. 2023 listing data<br />
4
A WEALTH OF EXPERIENCE.<br />
DIVERSE BACKGROUNDS.<br />
THAT’S TEAM CYNTHIA.<br />
CYNTHIA HOWE GAJEWSKI<br />
REALTOR®, LISTING SPECIALIST, TEAM LEADER<br />
A self-professed optimist, <strong>Cynthia</strong> thrives on the challenge of selling her clients’<br />
properties for the best price and terms possible. Her experience with home renovation<br />
and restoration makes her a valuable resource. She is a woman with vision! Whether you<br />
are upsizing, downsizing, moving cross country, or selling an estate property, <strong>Cynthia</strong> will<br />
be your guide and trusted advisor.<br />
<strong>Cynthia</strong> is a creative personality, with sharp business acumen. She ran a successful<br />
business as a professional photographer for 20-plus years, working for clients such as<br />
the New York Times, Chicago-area universities and hospitals, political consulting groups,<br />
health care organizations, national magazines, and the National Association of Realtors<br />
(including Realtor Magazine). In 2006 <strong>Cynthia</strong> purchased, renovated and sold a single<br />
family home, further igniting her love of the real estate market. In 2011 she finally took<br />
the plunge and got her Illinois Broker and Managing Broker’s license and chose Beyond Properties Realty Group<br />
as her new business home. Beyond Properties mirrors <strong>Cynthia</strong>’s independent nature, belief in local business and<br />
passion for social responsibility.<br />
<strong>Cynthia</strong> has lived in Chicago since 1990 and Oak Park since 2011 with her husband Joe and their three children.<br />
As your realtor and leader of Team <strong>Cynthia</strong>, she will be your advisor and advocate, and negotiate strategically<br />
and smartly on your behalf. <strong>Cynthia</strong> knows that working as a team produces the best results for her clients.<br />
KAREN BALDWIN<br />
REALTOR®, BUYER SPECIALIST<br />
As a life-long Oak Parker, Karen is passionate about the Oak Park area. She is personable,<br />
dedicated, reliable, detail-oriented and understands the desire to find just the right fit<br />
in a home or property. She is very good at seeing “beyond” the decorating and finding<br />
the potential in your future space. Karen has been a highly regarded freelance editor for<br />
nearly 20 years. With a Communication background, she brings great attention to detail,<br />
adherence to deadlines and the juggling skills to get work accomplished in a timely<br />
manner. She has also completed the Certified Financial Planner designation and has<br />
been involved in local committees (Oak Park Citizens Involvement Committee, Oak Park<br />
Community Relations Committee, Oak Park Ike-290 Committee, and the Oak Park River<br />
Forest High School Alumni Association Board). With the support of <strong>Cynthia</strong> and Debbie,<br />
you can rest assured that all bases will be covered no matter what you need. Karen will<br />
work hard for you and is excited to help you find that special place.<br />
DEBBIE RACHAL<br />
REALTOR®, BUYER SPECIALIST<br />
Debbie first thought to become a real estate agent before she chose a career as an<br />
ultrasound technician. She considers listening and gathering information to be the key<br />
to problem-solving. Her communication skills and ability to assess or anticipate needs<br />
made her successful in that field, and these skills have followed her to her current role<br />
at Beyond Properties. When she speaks to a potential client, she makes a connection.<br />
She listens, asks questions, and follows up. Her goal is to assist buyers in making wise,<br />
informed choices that lead to a successful real estate investment. Debbie always brings<br />
passion and excitement when she guides a client through their home buying journey, and<br />
she looks forward to going beyond your expectations!<br />
5
TEAM CYNTHIA<br />
& BEYOND PROPERTIES.<br />
WHY BEYOND PROPERTIES REALTY GROUP?<br />
Beyond Properties Realty Group is one of the few woman-owned, independent real estate<br />
companies left in the area. Beyond Properties is small but mighty, and has assembled a team of the<br />
best and brightest real estate professionals in the Chicago area.<br />
Beyond Properties believes that the greatest strength of our company is the quality of our agents.<br />
Beyond Properties agents eat, sleep, and breathe real estate. You can be sure that we are not only<br />
on top of the current market strategies, but also we are embracing the latest technologies and<br />
strategies to better serve our clients. Best of all, we provide a level of trust, honesty, and integrity<br />
that is second-to-none. The list of accomplishments for Beyond Properties agents runs deep, but<br />
those achievements pale in comparison to the satisfaction we get from helping you sell your home<br />
and move onward and upward to reach your goals.<br />
THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT BEYOND PROPERTIES.<br />
Despite the fact that Beyond Properties opened its doors in 2007, when the economy and especially<br />
the real estate market was failing, Beyond Properties managed to double its size and production<br />
each year since its inception.<br />
Our success is no fluke. We are tenacious, with a can-do attitude that doesn’t let circumstances<br />
hinder our success. It’s all part of our commitment to create a progressive real estate brokerage<br />
focused on raising the bar on professionalism, service, and performance.<br />
6
HOME SELLING<br />
TIMELINE<br />
1<br />
PRE-LISTING APPOINTMENT<br />
2<br />
PRICING ANALYSIS<br />
3<br />
LISTING PREPARATION<br />
4<br />
MARKETING PERIOD<br />
5<br />
OFFER & NEGOTIATION<br />
6<br />
CONTINGENCY PERIOD<br />
7<br />
CLOSING!<br />
7
TEAM CYNTHIA’S<br />
MARKET ANALYSIS<br />
We know the trends, inventory levels, and market stats. But,<br />
that’s just the start of it. We are out and about—listing homes,<br />
showing homes, and selling homes every day. You can be sure<br />
that our team is on top of the local market conditions and that<br />
we will bring relevant experience and knowledge to the table.<br />
OUR COMPARATIVE MARKET ANALYSIS<br />
(CMA) TAKES THE FOLLOWING INTO<br />
ACCOUNT:<br />
YOUR PROPERTY’S FEATURES<br />
• Location<br />
• Square footage (finished and unfinished)<br />
• Standard features like bedrooms and bathrooms<br />
• Overall condition<br />
• Uniqueness<br />
ACTIVE COMPETITION<br />
• New and re-sale<br />
• Replacement costs<br />
• Price, location, features, and condition<br />
• List to sale price ratios<br />
• Market activity<br />
• Days on market<br />
RECENT SALES<br />
• Sold price<br />
• Price, location, features, and condition<br />
• Assessment ratios<br />
• Market time<br />
• Price changes<br />
• Inventory levels / supply and demand<br />
• Macro- and micro-level economic factors<br />
MARKET CONDITIONS<br />
• Interest rates<br />
• Consumer confidence<br />
• Area trends and developments<br />
8
CLIENT PERSPECTIVE<br />
<strong>Cynthia</strong> is amazing. From the very beginning of the process, I knew we were<br />
in good hands. Her attention to every conceivable detail was so important<br />
and so appreciated. She brought out the best in our property and helped<br />
communicate what we loved about it to prospective buyers. She was right<br />
there to support us during what could have potentially become difficult<br />
negotiations with the buyer. Always respectful to both sides, she explained<br />
our options throughout. <strong>Cynthia</strong> was continually calm and encouraged us<br />
throughout the ups and downs of selling our house. Her special touches<br />
and fantastic photography added so much to our listing. She took the time<br />
to go over any questions or concerns we had and was available each time<br />
we asked her to call or to stop by. <strong>Cynthia</strong> clearly cared and readily showed<br />
it in going the extra mile to make our experience great. I can’t say strongly<br />
enough how happy we are with both the process and the results.<br />
Polly, Berwyn, IL<br />
9
DETERMINING THE VALUE:<br />
PRICING YOUR HOME<br />
100 %<br />
Accurate pricing is an essential factor in creating a list price for your<br />
home. By combining our local market expertise with a data driven<br />
approach, our team will work with you to develop a pricing strategy<br />
that maximizes value to you.<br />
THE VALUE OF ACCURATE PRICING:<br />
MARKET VALUE VERSUS SELLING PRICE<br />
98 % 96 % 94 % 91 %<br />
80 %<br />
60 %<br />
40 %<br />
20 %<br />
WEEKS ON MARKET FOUR EIGHT TWELVE SIXTEEN<br />
10
CLIENT<br />
PERSPECTIVE<br />
<strong>Cynthia</strong> is a professional. She knows the market. Her realty<br />
expertise was essential in every aspect of my house sale-<br />
-from listing to closing. She sold my house quickly and<br />
helped me find the perfect new house. I have complete<br />
confidence in her.<br />
Marilyn, Oak Park, IL<br />
11
HOW WE LIST YOUR HOME.<br />
MARKET ANALYSIS<br />
PRIVATE SHOWINGS<br />
OPEN HOUSES<br />
PRESENT OFFERS<br />
NEGOTIATE OFFERS<br />
HOME INSPECTIONS<br />
WALK THROUGHS<br />
OVERSEE FINANCING<br />
ANSWER QUESTIONS<br />
OBTAIN FEEDBACK<br />
SCHEDULE VIEWINGS<br />
COMMUNICATE WITH<br />
BUYERS AGENTS<br />
CONTACT LENDER<br />
COMMUNICATE WITH<br />
ALL PARTIES<br />
MANAGE ONLINE<br />
LISTINGS<br />
UPDATE ALL SITES<br />
MARKETING PLANS<br />
ENTER IN MLS<br />
RESEARCH<br />
VIRTUAL TOUR<br />
TELEVISION<br />
TAKE PROFESSIONAL<br />
PHOTOS<br />
CREATE DIGITAL ADS<br />
CREATE PRINT ADS<br />
CREATE FLYERS<br />
CREATE CUSTOM<br />
SIGNS<br />
ATTEND CLOSINGS<br />
TEAM CYNTHIA HAS A RECORD OF SUCCESS AND<br />
PROVEN RESULTS FOR HELPING PEOPLE MOVE!<br />
12<br />
COULD ONE AGENT DO ALL OF THIS?<br />
CERTAINLY NOT WELL!
MARKETING YOUR HOME<br />
How consumers effectively receive real estate marketing information evolves quickly.<br />
What worked in years before has been replaced with more reliable and timely resources.<br />
With Team <strong>Cynthia</strong>, you can rest assured that your property is promoted effectively.<br />
The key to any successful real estate marketing strategy is to create maximum<br />
exposure—both to potential buyers, as well as their agents. It is important to give<br />
potential buyers what they want in a clear and concise manner. Our marketing<br />
program is built upon a combination of strategies that are based on measurable<br />
market trends.<br />
13
WHERE BUYERS COME FROM:<br />
BOUGHT AN OPEN HOUSE THEY SAW:<br />
1%<br />
BOUGHT FOR A COMBINATION OF REASONS:<br />
3%<br />
BOUGHT ADVERTISED PROPERTY:<br />
3%<br />
REFERRAL BY RELOCATION SERVICE:<br />
7%<br />
RESPONDED TO AN OPEN HOUSE BUT PURCHASED A DIFFERENT HOME:<br />
8%<br />
RESPONDED TO AN AD, BUT PURCHASED A DIFFERENT HOME:<br />
18%<br />
FOR SALE SIGNS:<br />
20%<br />
NAME/FIRM RECOGNITION OR SALESPERSON CONTACT:<br />
40%<br />
THIS IS WHY WE PROSPECT FOR BUYERS<br />
CONSISTENTLY TO SELL YOUR HOME. ASK ME HOW!<br />
14<br />
SOURCE: NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®
MARKETING YOUR HOME:<br />
PHOTOGRAPHY AND DESIGN<br />
One of the foundations for our marketing campaigns is great photography. We<br />
believe that your home’s first showing is online. Quality pictures are vital to help<br />
generate ‘in-person’ showings.<br />
As a former professional photographer, <strong>Cynthia</strong> will personally photograph your<br />
home, giving you photographs that will stand out above the rest!<br />
MARKETING STATS:<br />
A study by the Wall Street Journal found that homes with great photography:<br />
• Received 61% more views online than competing homes<br />
• Sell for anywhere from $934 to $116,076 more than homes without great photos<br />
• Increased likelihood of selling for homes above $300,000<br />
15
MARKETING YOUR HOME<br />
DIGITAL MEDIA<br />
VIDEO TOUR<br />
Our video tours are well known for their content and clarity. Each shoot is scheduled<br />
to allow the time to capture the most admirable features of the home. The best shots<br />
are selected with emphasis placed on the best angle, lighting, and position. Virtual<br />
tours take photographs beyond the still frame and transform them into a moving<br />
representation of your home. This attention to detail gives potential buyers the<br />
opportunity to visit your home from the comfort of theirs.<br />
3D WALK THROUGHS<br />
3D walk throughs use amazing technology that allow a consumer to walk through your<br />
property and see every room with amazing detail. We hire a professional company<br />
to scan your house, typically on the same day as your photo shoot. This 3D virtual<br />
walk through can be added to the MLS and even emailed as part of our e-mailed<br />
announcements about your listing.<br />
16
LOCAL EXPERTISE<br />
Chances are that we know your neighborhood, and your street very well.<br />
Be assured that we work hard at analyzing the most recent data to determine<br />
how to best place your property for sale in the current market. Our goal is<br />
always to aim for the shortest market time and best price and terms for your<br />
sale - to help you meet your goals with as little stress as possible!<br />
17
MARKETING YOUR HOME:<br />
WEB AND MOBILE<br />
Over the last 10 years, there has been a dramatic shift in not only how home<br />
buyers search for real estate, but also how much information they can have at their<br />
fingertips. The internet’s role in real estate is undeniable: National Association of<br />
Realtors’ studies have shown that nine out of 10 home buyers used the web in their<br />
home search.<br />
18<br />
Our team participates in the Internet Data Exchange (IDX) and syndicates our<br />
property listings throughout the internet. IDX listing syndication enables us to<br />
broadcast your property to over 50 of the most well-known real estate websites<br />
in the world. IDX also allows your home to be shared and displayed on the<br />
websites of other local and regional real estate brokerages.
MARKETING YOUR HOME<br />
ON THE WEB<br />
REALTOR.COM<br />
OUR<br />
ONLINE<br />
FOCUS<br />
OAKPARK.COM<br />
19
MARKETING YOUR HOME<br />
IN PRINT<br />
Team <strong>Cynthia</strong> works hard to strategically market your home to potential buyers.<br />
We use a combination of online platforms and in-house graphic designers to create<br />
promotions that are unique to your home.<br />
PREVIEW HOUSE<br />
Produced by the Advertising Department<br />
Broad Rooms, Big Opportunity<br />
S<br />
ometimes you just want to live in the<br />
middle of it all. Of course, great locations<br />
typically come at a steeper price, or with<br />
smaller room sizes, or lack of parking. Luckily,<br />
101 Bishop Quarter Lane crushes these three<br />
obstacles! Tucked in a beautiful well kept<br />
courtyard with mature trees and it’s own private<br />
patio, this townhouse is sure to surprise.<br />
Welcome inside: Enter from the main entry<br />
with an exterior storage closet to the left or from<br />
sliding doors from the patio. A nice size family<br />
room/ office space is here, with a half bath, and<br />
an entrance to the two car garage. Speaking of<br />
parking, this is a full-sized two car garage with<br />
room for extra storage. The driveway can also<br />
park two cars - great when you have guests!<br />
The second level of this generous townhouse<br />
is bright and open, and features the main living<br />
areas: a huge living room/ dining room combo<br />
with bay window - and don’t worry, there is<br />
plenty of room for a big table. On the west side<br />
is an equally large kitchen/ family room space<br />
with an island, and plenty of room for table<br />
seating and soft seating. There is a pantry here,<br />
and sliders to a balcony, and a large half bath.<br />
The third floor has full sized laundry and<br />
utility sink, plus two enormous bedrooms both<br />
with en suite baths and two closets. The back<br />
bedroom could be divided into two, similar to<br />
other units, but is really spectacular as it is. The<br />
size of the bedrooms is amazing.<br />
The bright and large spaces in this townhouse<br />
really set it apart from others. Priced for your<br />
updates, this unit has been meticulously<br />
maintained as well as upgraded in many areas<br />
by the original owner. The location? Fantastic.<br />
A bit over one block from Oak Park Avenue<br />
shops, restaurants, and the Green Line train<br />
(which easily accesses the Metra one stop<br />
away.) 1-2 blocks from OPRF High School, near<br />
the Farmer’s Market and the new Pete’s Fresh<br />
Market.<br />
101 Bishop Quarter Lane is currently listed<br />
for $354,900. For more information contact<br />
<strong>Cynthia</strong> Howe Gajewski at Beyond Properties<br />
Realty, 708-386-1366, or visit the Open House<br />
on Sunday November 8th 12-2pm<br />
20
CLIENT<br />
PERSPECTIVE<br />
<strong>Cynthia</strong> came in and told us what we needed to do to get our house ready<br />
to go on the market - we did what she said and we sold our house in one<br />
day above asking price. She really knows what she is doing!<br />
After the house had a contract, she stuck with us - the negotiation with<br />
the other side was very difficult. <strong>Cynthia</strong> was able to keep things going<br />
and calm until closing<br />
I would HIGHLY recommend <strong>Cynthia</strong> to anyone looking to sell their house.<br />
Amy, Oak Park, IL<br />
21
MARKETING ESSENTIALS<br />
MARKETING YOUR HOME<br />
We pride ourselves in maintaining great relationships with the other agents in our<br />
area. We aggressively market your property to our network using e-marketing,<br />
broker open houses, and good old-fashioned networking to ensure top-of-mind<br />
awareness.<br />
SIGNAGE<br />
Some communities in which we work don’t allow signage, so we focus on the internet<br />
to be our “sign.”<br />
In communities that allow signage, we take advantage of this advertisement<br />
opportunity and provide bright inviting signage that will entice people to stop and<br />
take a look at your home.<br />
BROKER’S TOURS<br />
Our team actively participates in ‘broker open house’ tours, which enable us to<br />
showcase your home to other real estate professionals.<br />
OPEN HOUSES<br />
While the web and online videos have definitely decreased open house traffic over<br />
the last five years, there are still buyers who hop in their cars on the weekends to go<br />
house hunting. We will work with you to develop an appropriate open house schedule<br />
for your home.<br />
We utilize the web, social media, and print media to increase open house traffic. This<br />
is just one of the many services that you will receive when you list your home with us.<br />
PREVIEW GATHERINGS FOR NEIGHBORS<br />
We like to try to get to know your neighbors and make them feel special by having a<br />
preview event to showcase your property, with your permission. We schedule a wine<br />
& cheese gathering for your neighbors and invite them to bring friends that may be<br />
interested in moving to your neighborhood. After all, everyone wants good neighbors!<br />
22
CLIENT<br />
PERSPECTIVE<br />
<strong>Cynthia</strong> is the real deal. She helped me sell my deceased father’s<br />
home in Forest Park, IL, while I lived out of state. <strong>Cynthia</strong> took care of<br />
everything from start to finish, repairs, inspections you name it, she<br />
got it done. In my opinion, if <strong>Cynthia</strong> is not helping you buy or sell<br />
your home, you are with the wrong Realtor.<br />
<strong>Cynthia</strong> truly cares about her clients. She worked hard to make this<br />
sad situation painless. Thank You <strong>Cynthia</strong>.<br />
Steve, Forest Park, IL<br />
23
CURB APPEAL<br />
Team <strong>Cynthia</strong> will work with you to assess your home’s current condition and will offer<br />
guidance as to exactly what is needed to be done in order to increase the appeal of<br />
your home to the widest group of buyers. We want your home to stand out amongst<br />
its competition. Today’s buyers are influenced by HGTV’s perfectly decorated homes<br />
and the area’s builder models that are staged to sell. With expectations at an all-time<br />
high, your home needs to be ready. Buyers spend weeks searching relentlessly for the<br />
home of their dreams...we want them to find yours.<br />
24
VISUAL HOME INSPECTION<br />
When a buyer shows interest in your home, we want you to be<br />
confident that your home not only looks good on the surface, but<br />
also that it is sound within. We recommend knowing that your<br />
home’s systems and structure are also ready for the market. We walk<br />
through and make recommendations on how to show your home is<br />
fit from the peak of the roof to the concrete of the foundation.<br />
CONDITION<br />
In our current market, prospective buyers desire homes<br />
that have not only been well-maintained, but also have<br />
been perfectly staged to show the space’s potential. We<br />
have expertise in working with home owners to prepare a<br />
home so that it wows today’s buyers.<br />
25
PREPARATION<br />
CONDITION<br />
HERE’S A CHECKLIST OF SOME OF OUR TOP HOME-STAGING TIPS...<br />
GET RID OF CLUTTER<br />
■ Remove half of books from bookcases<br />
■ Pack up those knick knacks. Remove all items (not<br />
for daily use) from counters<br />
■ Place any ‘must-have’ items in a box and store in a<br />
closet<br />
TOUCH IT UP<br />
■ Freshen up a room with a new coat of paint<br />
■ Patch any holes and repair damage to walls<br />
■ Re-caulk or repair any damaged trim or woodwork<br />
■ Paint the front door with a fresh coat<br />
LET THERE BE LIGHT<br />
■ Wash your windows inside and out<br />
■ Add floor and table lamps to lighten dark rooms<br />
■ Replace any burned out light bulbs<br />
■ Remove screens if you don’t use them<br />
ORGANIZE<br />
■ Remove off-season clothes from your bedroom<br />
closets and align hanging clothes<br />
■ Re-organize kitchen cabinets and line up plates<br />
and glassware<br />
■ Remove everything from closet floors and put<br />
away any non-essentials<br />
■ Fold and organize towels and linens<br />
■ Closets should be half-full<br />
MAKE IT SPARKLE<br />
■ Clean out cob webs and air vents<br />
■ Polish your chrome faucets and mirrors<br />
■ Replace worn rugs and hang up fresh towels<br />
■ Hire a professional to do a deep clean of your<br />
home<br />
DE-PERSONALIZE<br />
■ Remove magnets and photos from the refrigerator<br />
■ Use personal photos and family heirlooms in<br />
moderation<br />
■ Remove exotic artwork or wall decor<br />
■ Remove personal items from your bathroom<br />
counter-tops<br />
THE FIDO FACTOR<br />
■ Hide litter boxes and pet toys<br />
■ Steam clean carpets to remove pet odors<br />
■ Repair any pet damage to your home<br />
■ Remove animals for each showing<br />
MAXIMIZE CURB APPEAL<br />
■ Pressure wash your front walkway<br />
and re-paint your front porch<br />
■ Keep your lawn green and free of weeds<br />
■ Put down a fresh load of mulch<br />
■ Freshen up your entry by adding a new welcome<br />
mat and some potted plants<br />
FIX IT NOW<br />
■ Fix doors that don’t close properly<br />
■ Replace cracked floor tiles<br />
■ Replace broken or cracked windowpanes<br />
■ Repair any minor plumbing or electrical issues<br />
GO WITH THE FLOW<br />
■ Re-arrange furniture to demonstrate a room’s<br />
functionality<br />
■ Place furniture in a way that dictates logical traffic<br />
flow<br />
■ Remove over-sized or unused furniture to make<br />
rooms feel bigger<br />
■ Store unnecessary furniture, lamps, and<br />
bookshelves<br />
26
CLIENT PERSPECTIVE<br />
Simply stated - <strong>Cynthia</strong> is the best real estate agent I have ever encountered. In these difficult<br />
times to sell a property where competition is fierce, with many properties for sale - she was<br />
able to sell my house in a record time of less than a month. My house was quite antiquated<br />
to put it mildly; <strong>Cynthia</strong>’s suggestions about how to improve the property did wonders<br />
for its appearance. While the house was being remodeled and especially during the sales<br />
process, <strong>Cynthia</strong> was there for me in every possible way - informative, encouraging, positive<br />
and optimistic. I had some dark moments when I thought nothing would ever happen but<br />
with her help I was able to overcome these moments. There is nothing more important than<br />
a knowledgeable and supportive real estate agent and <strong>Cynthia</strong> rates highly on both. Loved<br />
working with <strong>Cynthia</strong> and so will everyone who works with her. My highest recommendations.<br />
Sanja, Forest Park, IL<br />
27
CLIENT PERSPECTIVE<br />
<strong>Cynthia</strong> was recommended to us by our financial advisor. From the minute we started working<br />
with her, the level of expertise, attention to detail, and responsiveness to our needs has been<br />
beyond our expectations. Her positive outlook and persistence in taking care of her clients are<br />
really what offsets her from others agents that we interviewed.<br />
<strong>Cynthia</strong> sold our current home, advising us on prepping for showings and the sale, took amazing<br />
photographs which made a real impact on marketing the home, and took a proactive approach<br />
with getting potential buyers in to view the house. All that work paid off as we were under<br />
contract within 2 weeks of going on the market.<br />
We are now continuing to work with her to find a new home. She is supportive and listens<br />
very carefully to what is important and helps to guide the process without being intrusive.<br />
I would not hesitate to recommend her to anyone looking for a real estate agent.<br />
Scott, Oak Park, IL<br />
28
PRE-LISTING<br />
HOME STAGING PLAN<br />
To get top dollar for your home, your home needs to be seen at its very best and stand<br />
out from similar homes in the marketplace. We want your home to distinguish itself from<br />
the competition. We can work with you on a detailed staging plan.<br />
When you live in your home, you don’t always see it the same way that a buyer or agent<br />
does. Since a home buyer will only spend a few minutes in your home, we want them to<br />
remember the fine details about the home, not about your personal items or what needs<br />
to be done to the home.<br />
When you list your home with us, we will meet with you to determine what should<br />
be done to prepare your home to attract buyers in your market. This may include<br />
decluttering, repositioning furniture, painting or small projects, and possibly bringing in<br />
decorative staging items or staging furniture as needed. Our strategy here is simple: to<br />
prepare your home to sell quickly and for the highest price possible.<br />
29
CLIENT PERSPECTIVE<br />
We were so fortunate to have found <strong>Cynthia</strong> Howe Gajewski. When we started taking<br />
steps to move out of Chicago and into Oak Park, <strong>Cynthia</strong> helped us find the right house<br />
in the right area of Oak Park for the right price; then helped us sell our condo in Chicago.<br />
Along the way, she made sure we completely understood the process(es) and answered<br />
every single question so that by the time we were signing offers, we couldn’t move fast<br />
enough - we were so excited! We had found our home.<br />
After living in the city for 17 years, we couldn’t imagine our lives outside of Chicago. Three<br />
weeks in our new house, in our new neighborhood, with our new neighbors and schools,<br />
and we’ve never been happier and wouldn’t have changed anything along the way.<br />
There truly was no better person to help match us with the perfect home and I couldn’t<br />
recommend her more. If you are looking to work with a true professional, who happens<br />
to also be an amazing person and an expert on the buying and selling process, <strong>Cynthia</strong> is<br />
your agent!<br />
Anne, Oak Park IL<br />
30
OUR TEAM: SPECIALIZATION<br />
• We’ve got you covered: If one of us has a commitment, the other team members are there for you. Holidays,<br />
vacations, meetings – you will not be stranded.<br />
• Double the knowledge: There are at least two sets of eyes on all things, unless confidential, such as your<br />
listing and MLS verbiage, advertising, and more. Each of us has unique gifts and talents that we utilize to give<br />
you the best possible service.<br />
• Communication: We meet regularly to discuss and share our clients’ progress. We communicate, coordinate,<br />
and brainstorm ideas to give you the best care and outcome with your sale!<br />
SELLING WITH US:<br />
OUR TEAM’S COMITTMENT.<br />
Upon reviewing the contract, <strong>Cynthia</strong> will work with you to determine what aspects of the<br />
offer are the most important. She will take you step by step through the process, promptly<br />
answer all your questions and address your concerns. <strong>Cynthia</strong> will show you that the right<br />
price is not the only factor to consider when an offer is presented.<br />
We want nothing more than for you to be comfortable through this process.<br />
Selling your home will be an enjoyable experience when you work with us!<br />
31
NEGOTIATING<br />
SO WE’VE RECEIVED AN OFFER…<br />
NOW THE REAL WORK BEGINS<br />
During the negotiation process we will involve you in all aspects of<br />
the communication so that you fully understand your options at<br />
any point in time. Team <strong>Cynthia</strong> will do everything we can during<br />
this process to achieve a positive outcome for you.<br />
32
BY YOUR SIDE.<br />
EVERY STEP OF THE WAY.<br />
CONTRACT<br />
TO CLOSE.<br />
Once you have negotiated and signed a contract, our next job is to stay on top of each<br />
and every step of the process to ensure your sale closes successfully. There are countless<br />
details and loose ends to handle, and you can be confident that our team will be as<br />
proficient during the post-contract stage as we were during the marketing phase. We<br />
will continue to keep you up to date on the closing process and will work diligently to<br />
ensure that your closing is as smooth and problem-free as possible.<br />
33
EQUAL HOUSING<br />
OPPORTUNITY<br />
PRESS<br />
Our team of brokers is committed to your success!<br />
NEW PRICE!<br />
Oak Park<br />
Extreme renovation a dream come true<br />
including a Master suite. 1st flr family rm<br />
opens to the kitchen, and very large deck,<br />
and STILL a large yard. Bright, stylish new<br />
interior. 4BR/3BA .......................... $799,900<br />
<strong>Cynthia</strong> Howe Gajewski • 312-933-8440<br />
Martha Murphy • 847-977-3456<br />
Oak Park<br />
American four-square in the Harrison Arts<br />
District. Sunny LR/DR, freshly painted and<br />
hardwood floors room. Mud rm can be<br />
great office space, play area, or breakfast<br />
room. Full BA on first flr. 3 car garage.<br />
4BR/2 BA ........................................ $387,000<br />
Erica Cuneen • 708-220-2025<br />
Erica Cuneen<br />
Shalena Thomas Martha Murphy<br />
Karen Baldwin Vicki May <strong>Cynthia</strong> Howe Gajewski<br />
Denise Espinosa Isaac Jordan<br />
Lisa Allen<br />
Ruby Blair Phil Joseph<br />
Denise Sacks<br />
NEW PRICE!<br />
NEW PRICE!<br />
NEW PRICE!<br />
3809 Park Ave., Brookfield<br />
Updated Bungalow on a double lot!<br />
Gorgeous maple Oak woodwork Parkthroughout.<br />
New 17ft. ceiling kitchen and (2015) windows features flood this quartz twofloor<br />
condo with subway sunlight. tile, SS Open appliances, concept<br />
countertops,<br />
oak chef’s floor, kitchen, all new DR and electric/plumbing, LR with FP. 3BR/3BA and<br />
custom +family pantry. room and Expansive office! ............ master $569,900 suite with<br />
generous Erica (11x11!) Cuneen • bath. 708-220-2025 New office and<br />
½ bath in the basement. Close to parks,<br />
metra, and downtown. 3 BR/2.5BA<br />
Oak Park<br />
HW floors throughout this family-friendly<br />
home. Large kit with gran cntr tops, SS<br />
apps. 1st flr laundry! FR & bar in finished<br />
bsmnt. Close to parks, shopping, schools,<br />
and trans. 4BR/1.5 BA ................. $440,000<br />
Erica Cuneen • 708-220-2025<br />
Brookfield<br />
Double lot! Maple wdwrk, New kit (‘15),<br />
quartz ctrtps, SS appls, oak flr, new elect/<br />
plumb. Master suite w/ (11x11!) BA. ½<br />
BA in the bsmnt. Close to parks, metra,<br />
downtown. 3 BR/2.5BA ............... $329,900<br />
Erica Cuneen • 708-220-2025<br />
Belmont-Cragin<br />
Certified historic Bungalow! HW floors,<br />
Forest Park<br />
Hdwd floors, open LR/DR. Kit/baths all<br />
freshly painted. LR w/decorative fp. Newer new! Gorgeous cabs, granite counter<br />
kit., gran countertops, SS appls. Full tops and ss appls. First flr BR, full BA. Deck,<br />
finished bsmnt has FR/BR. Landscaped two car gar. Close to blue line, access to<br />
yard with deck. 5BR/3BA 1-<strong>Cynthia</strong> ............ $349,900 Howe Gajewski_Layout everywhere! 3 BR/ 2BA 1 ............... 4/14/15 $295,000 5:34 PM Page 1<br />
Erica Cuneen • 708-220-2025<br />
Erica Cuneen • 708-220-2025<br />
NEW PRICE!<br />
NEW PRICE!<br />
Special Advertising Section<br />
Erica Cuneen<br />
els of customer<br />
Properties is a<br />
tainability. The<br />
y and statewide<br />
with Oak Park’s<br />
he Illinois Green<br />
and Beyond<br />
of the very few<br />
d, and locallya.<br />
n and her team<br />
our real estate<br />
contact her at<br />
ndpropertiesre-<br />
o<br />
34<br />
Oak Park<br />
On a great block! Enclosed front porch.<br />
Lots of updates…Hdwd flrs and open<br />
kitchen with granite and SS appliances.<br />
Finished basement with new carpet. New<br />
tear off roof. 3BR/1.5 BA ............ $374,900<br />
Erica Cuneen • 708-220-2025<br />
Forest Park<br />
Newer Construction! High-end finishes<br />
throughout. Spacious open kitchen with<br />
SS applcs, grani counter tops, and custom<br />
cabs. Attached heated garage! Near Blue<br />
line and I-290. 4BR/3.5BA .......... $399,900<br />
Erica Cuneen • 708-220-2025<br />
Forest Park<br />
Don’t keep paying rent! Fantastic condo<br />
with a balcony in a great FP location.<br />
Updates in kitchen including granite<br />
counter tops. New tile, vanity, fixtures and<br />
toilet in bathroom. 1BR/1 BA .......$84,900<br />
Erica Cuneen • 708-220-2025<br />
UNDER CONTRACT!<br />
Oak Park<br />
Modern touch on a quiet cul-de-sac. HW<br />
flrs on first flr. SS appls, quartz counters .<br />
1st flr BR, full BA, and fam rm. New 2nd flr<br />
BA, dual sinks, glass shower. 2-car garage.<br />
Close to trans. 4 BR/2BA ............. $449,900<br />
Denise Sacks • 708-217-2111<br />
UNDER CONTRACT!<br />
Oak Park<br />
Airy condo with generous spaces. HW<br />
flrs, bay window, architectural detailing<br />
in stone fireplace, built-in bookcases. In<br />
unit laundry hook-up. Near CTA, schools,<br />
parks, and shopping. 2BR/1BA . $189,000<br />
Erica Cuneen • 708-220-2025<br />
With an independent spirit,<br />
optimistic attitude and interest<br />
in architecture and homes, it<br />
was only natural for <strong>Cynthia</strong><br />
Howe Gajewski to step into<br />
the real estate world. She had<br />
Oak Park<br />
Oak Park<br />
Oak Park<br />
Oak Park experimented in real estate for<br />
Corner unit! Large eat-in kitchen, private<br />
balcony. Master Suite has walk-in closet,<br />
Great neighborhood. HW flrs under<br />
carpet on 1st flr. Eat-in kit, C/A, closets,<br />
home with beautiful<br />
WBFP, many windows,<br />
wdwrk, Spacious home with eat-in kitchen, formal<br />
finished years, DR, investing and first-flr fam rm. 3 properties generous BRs and renovating them.<br />
Wonderful<br />
wd flrs,<br />
yard. and BA with separate shower on the 2<br />
Working as a professional nd<br />
photographer for two<br />
floor. Beautiful backyard on a tree-lined<br />
full bath. HW parquet flrs. 1 heated fnshd bsmnt with rec rm, 2nd kitchen. attic, updated kit, low maintenance<br />
garage spc. Metra, Green Line, DTOP Needs TLC. Close to trans, shopping and Fantastic location across from Proksa<br />
$389,900<br />
decades,<br />
block. 3BR/1.5BA<br />
she was<br />
.........................<br />
frequently<br />
$449,000<br />
shooting for National<br />
dining, shopping. 2BR/2BA ....... $249,000 parks! 4BR/2BA ............................ $299,000 Park.4BR/2.5BA ............................<br />
Erica Cuneen • 708-220-2025<br />
Erica Cuneen • 708-220-2025<br />
Erica Cuneen • 708-220-2025<br />
Erica Cuneen • 708-220-2025<br />
Association of REALTORS ® and REALTOR ® Mag -<br />
azine. <strong>Cynthia</strong> finally decided it was time to delve<br />
into real estate as a career in early 2011, getting her<br />
salesperson and Broker’s license within a month.<br />
708.386.1366 • 109 N. Marion St., Oak Park • beyondpropertiesrealty.com<br />
She quickly became a multimillion dollar producer<br />
I<br />
V<br />
Maximize your real estate<br />
potential!<br />
n real estate finding the best outcome for<br />
your client often begins by seeing hidden<br />
potential. <strong>Cynthia</strong> Howe Gajewski is a<br />
Realtor whose experience in home renovation<br />
and restoration makes her a valuable<br />
resource to homeowners and buyers. Also<br />
an accomplished photographer, <strong>Cynthia</strong> is<br />
a woman with vision who loves to find the<br />
opportunities in homes that others may have<br />
missed.<br />
<strong>Cynthia</strong> traces her interest in real estate<br />
back to her childhood when she was fascinated<br />
by the grandeur of her grandparent’s<br />
Italianate Victorian farmhouse. “I admire<br />
the character and charm of older homes,”<br />
she says, “especially the variety of homes<br />
in our Oak Park and River Forest neighborhoods.”<br />
<strong>Cynthia</strong> particularly enjoys seeing<br />
older spaces reinvented to fit the needs of<br />
modern living.<br />
Matchmaking buyers with the right property<br />
is a challenge that <strong>Cynthia</strong> relishes. “It is so<br />
satisfying to see that chemistry happen,” she<br />
says, “I tell my buyers that buying a home is<br />
an emotional experience with practical considerations.<br />
A house can have everything on<br />
your wish list, but if you don’t get that ‘yes’<br />
feeling, then the list doesn’t matter. You can’t<br />
make yourself fall in love.”<br />
Twenty years as a professional photographer<br />
gives <strong>Cynthia</strong> the added edge in<br />
presenting and marketing seller’s homes<br />
in today’s market. She is always ready to<br />
icki May loves property! For years she<br />
would pass by houses, apartment<br />
buildings and storefronts, and think of<br />
ways to upgrade properties for appearance<br />
help sellers prepare,<br />
stage, and<br />
showcase their<br />
property to bring<br />
in the most buyers.<br />
“I absolutely love,”<br />
she says, “working<br />
with sellers who are<br />
motivated to get top<br />
dollar for their properties.”<br />
When sellers<br />
are willing to put in<br />
the extra bit of effort<br />
rent. As the economy<br />
improves more families<br />
may choose to<br />
purchase instead of<br />
October 28, 2015 B11<br />
<strong>Cynthia</strong> Howe Gajewski<br />
it can yield big returns. <strong>Cynthia</strong> will create for<br />
them a targeted room by room action plan<br />
that will show off the home’s fullest potential,<br />
with the goal of bringing in the highest offers.<br />
<strong>Cynthia</strong> stresses that her personal experience<br />
with home ownership and renovation<br />
are among the most important assets that<br />
she brings to her clients. “I’ve been down<br />
that renovation road a few times,” she says, “I<br />
know my market, and I know what improvements<br />
and upgrades really matter.”<br />
If you are looking to buy or sell your home,<br />
contact <strong>Cynthia</strong> Howe Gajewski at Beyond<br />
Properties Realty, 312-933-8440 or cynthia@beyondpropertiesrealty.com<br />
for a free<br />
consultation.<br />
Vicki May offers expertise and<br />
guidance for RE investors<br />
UNDER CONTRACT!<br />
<strong>Cynthia</strong> Howe Gajewski<br />
and is now producing at the $10 million range,<br />
expecting to top that this year. Living in Chicago<br />
since 1990, she is an expert in the area, and now<br />
specializes in serving Oak Park.<br />
Throughout her four years in the business, she has<br />
learned that personal service and attention matters<br />
more than anything. She strives to keep in touch<br />
with all of her clients, and takes the time to truly<br />
understand what is most important for them so she<br />
can meet their housing needs. With her knowledge<br />
of the market and background in investing, she is<br />
able to offer extensive advice. “I love the challenge<br />
of helping my buyers find the best property to meet<br />
their needs. Whether that means finding something<br />
that’s completely new or renovated, or finding an<br />
investment property that needs work, I can help<br />
them on all levels,” she says.<br />
<strong>Cynthia</strong> also has experience with staging, and loves<br />
to help maximize her listings by helping sellers make<br />
small aesthetic changes throughout the home. When<br />
sellers trust her and follow her advice, they find that<br />
they sell at a price much higher than they expected.<br />
She loves to exceed her clients’ expectations. “My<br />
clients always remember my commitment to service<br />
and my strong drive to help them meet their goals,”<br />
she says. <strong>Cynthia</strong> also utilizes her photography skills<br />
by taking her own professional photos of her listings,<br />
maximizing the properties’ best features.<br />
Her optimistic attitude helps her clients see the<br />
positive, even in difficult circumstances. She knows<br />
that some of her clients are reluctant to move or are<br />
scared to make a transition, and she is eager to help<br />
them see the benefits. “I grew up moving, so I<br />
learned early on that moving is an opportunity to<br />
change something or to make your life better. It’s a<br />
positive experience,” <strong>Cynthia</strong> says. “Every change<br />
brings opportunity.”<br />
Along with focusing on real estate, she is also<br />
involved with her community and local causes. The<br />
town of Oak Park makes efforts to be as en -<br />
vironmentally-friendly as possible, and <strong>Cynthia</strong> is<br />
involved in causes that promote green living. She<br />
also has her NAR’s Green Designation and is<br />
knowledgeable about Earth-friendly properties.<br />
During these past few years, she has learned that she<br />
loves the variety real estate provides, and enjoys<br />
building relationships with whom she works. Each<br />
day provides a new challenge, a new person to meet,<br />
a new property to see, and this is why real estate has<br />
become her passion. “Variety is the spice of life. I<br />
love that every day brings something new.”<br />
For more information about <strong>Cynthia</strong> Howe<br />
Gajewski of Beyond Properties Realty,<br />
109 N Marion St. Oak Park, IL 60301<br />
please call 708.406.9661 or email<br />
cynthia@beyondpropertiesrealty.com<br />
Copyright Top Agent Magazine
OUR PROMISE TO YOU<br />
We will put your best interests ahead of all else! We look<br />
forward to working with you and getting your home SOLD!<br />
- TEAM CYNTHIA<br />
35
WE GO ABOVE AND<br />
BEYOND YOUR EXPECTATIONS.<br />
beyond properties<br />
109 N Marion St, Oak Park, IL · (708) 386-1366<br />
cynthia@beyondpropertiesrealty.com<br />
www.beyondpropertiesrealty.com