I can’t believe I’m actually writing this: WE ARE HOMEOWNERS! IN THE CITY OF CHICAGO.
Okay, it’s really a condo. But it’s everything I’ve always dreamed of. A nice 1700 square foot vintage penthouse that’s been completely refinished. The espresso floors called my name the moment we walked into the open house!
So, here’s how the story goes: This past May Tony and I decided to stop spending our money on the ridiculous rent prices in the city (and everything else that’s incredibly expensive in Chicago) and look for a place to really call our own. Our apartment wasn’t the best and actually quite large for the two of us, but the kitchen was terribly small with poor lighting, so it just wasn’t a place that ever felt like home.
Through some mutual friends we found a realtor and a lending group we really trusted. Since the housing market is booming, there wasn’t much out there. And if there was, it was going FAST. We quickly figured out that we didn’t like the newer modern layouts of the condos in the city — the kitchens tended to be incredibly small and feel of the space lacked character. After months of searching, we were disappointed and figured we’d have to resign our lease at our current apartment until next year.
However, a day before we were supposed to resign and extend our lease, I spent some time online looking for places and spotted our soon to be condo. It was BEAUTIFUL and immediately I knew it was the one. I sent it to Tony, who also loved it!
The price was a little above what we wanted to pay (but oh so gorgeous!), but we also went in knowing that not much work needed to be done since the place was in such wonderful condition. As far as location, our condo is located in Ravenswood (a Chicago neighborhood), which is a lovely and booming. Initially I thought that we would end up heading more west to an area like Wicker Park or Bucktown, but the house pickin’s were slim there.
Anyway, we went to an open house on the condo and fell in LOVE. We walked out, called our realtor and made an offer that evening.
picture of our new living room!
So that’s the story. Buying a house is stressful and more complicated than I thought it would be, but I’m so happy to have purchased when we did. We’re thrilled and plan on moving in this weekend!
I’m in the process of working with a design company to help decorate my bedroom. I will, of course, be giving you updates along the way. We’re calling it #AmbitiousHome. How cute is that?
Well that’s what’s new with me. Such an exciting time in my life right now. So thanks for being patient with my chaoticness over the past few months. I’ve literally been scrambling to get things done, mostly because of the house & moving.
Anyway, let’s get onto my favorites from the week. SUCH good stuff this week!
This Strawberry Coconut Granola is everything.
Can we dive into a bowl of these fries together? As in literally dive.
Absolutely making this easy dinner next week (in my new kitchen!)
I hope you guys didn’t miss my nut free granola bars (definite shameless plug).
Paleo pumpkin magic bars. DEAD.
Still struggling to use up all that zucchini? Here’s an awesome healthy southwest inspired recipe!
I am ridiculously obsessed with credenzas.
Really wanting to try this parsley mask.Â
4 questions to help you follow your heart’s desires.
You need to read this article from the NY Times.
Actually really kind of in love with these kylie+kendall booties.
Have a wonderful, happy weekend!
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13 comments
YAYAYAYAY!!! Congrats!!! I’m still renting (wah) but I just rented out my first condo rather than an apartment and I. LOVE. IT.
So much more space and privacy, but not all the work of owning an actual home. I hope #AmbitiousHome treats ya well!! What great timing, thank goodness you didn’t resign that old lease.
Can’t wait to see all your new recipes with your new place’s awesome lighting 😀 <3
Very nice!! Love the sunroom off of the living room. PLEASE show us pictures once you decorate your new Ambitious Home 🙂
Oh my GAWWWWD it’s gorgeous!! That’s literally like my dream living room right there. Wishing you both so much happiness in your new HOME! <3
Wow, it’s beautiful! Congratulations Monique and good luck with the move!
OMG OMG OMG! So excited for you two! Ravenswood is absolutely amazing and your condo looks so perfect. Congrats and all the luck in the world moving 🙂
Congrats on the move, Ravenswood is so cute! Definitely go to River Valley Farmers Table for brunch sometime. I went there the last time I was visiting friends in Chicago and it doesn’t disappoint!
Gorgeous!! I love Ravenswood too – I’m in that neck of the woods a few times a week. It’s so peaceful. 🙂 Congrats!
Girl your new home is GORGEOUS!!!
CONGRATS!!! It is beeeautiful!!!!! We just closed on our first home as well so I totally get it!
Hey Monique! Beautiful home! I just wanted to warn you that posting a picture from the listing makes it really easy for someone to do a Google Image search and find out your address. It happened to a friend of mine who has a really popular blog and someone posted her address online. Just wanted to throw that out there. Thanks for sharing, can’t wait to see your pics when you guys are in!
I LOVE it! Congrats!! And thanks for featuring our zucchini recipe! xo
Finally got around to reading this. Your new home looks beautiful!!! Congratuations and all the Very Best!!