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ABOUT THE TOUR

The internet is a hub for home design, boasting millions of images of beautiful homes to sift through, stare at, and save for another day. It’s true—design inspiration is everywhere, but nowhere quite like the experience of Midwest Home ’s 2024 Luxury Home Tour. We take away the computer monitor, and instead, hand you Pinterest-perfect new and remodeled homes to visit and explore in person. You get to see it, breathe it, be in it.

DATES: Friday – Sunday 

• August 2-4 
• August 9-11

HOURS: 12:00 to 6:00 p.m. each day

PASSPORTS:  $15 – provide entry into each home during the tour. Passport Tickets are valid all three weekends of the tour. 

PASSPORTS AT THE DOOR: $20 – purchase at the door gives you access into each home during the tour. 

SINGLE VISIT: $5 Single Home visits 

2024 BUILDERS & REMODELERS

More Builders & Remodelers To Be Added Soon! 

2024 homes & remodels on the tour.

Coming Soon! 

2024 SPONSORS

Interested in Showing a Home or Sponsoring the Luxury Home Tour or Midwest Home Design Awards ?

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Chicago, Villas and Luxury Homes for sale - Prestigious Properties in Chicago

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Chicago is a lively and pleasurable city to live in, exceptionally culturally rich and full of commercial activity. As the world capital of modern architecture, even before New York, Chicago boasts some of the most iconic skyscrapers in the United States, such as the Willis Tower, which with its 433 meters was once the tallest building in the world. Moreover, it is precisely in Chicago that the very first skyscraper was built in 1884. Chicago has excellent cultural offerings including numerous museum such as the prestigious Art Institute with its impressive collection of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist and Surrealist art. Another attraction is the Millenium Park with its Cloud Gate, a steel bean-shaped sculpture that has become one of the symbols of the city. The luxury real estate market in Chicago is rich and varied. The city’s downtown zone is the most sought after area for luxury properties. In the heart of downtown is the Loop, the most important business district in the US after Midtown Manhattan, as well as the area north of Michigan Avenue dedicated to high end shopping, known as the Magnificent Mile, which also features numerous prestigious condos and lofts inside striking Art Deco structures. Other prestigious neighborhoods include the Gold Coast, located along the suggestive shores of Lake Michigan and the Chicago River, offering exclusive, seductive options: it is difficult to resist the sophistication of the highly sought after Astor Street District. And living near the shores of a beautiful urban life is certainly appealing for those looking for a quality of life atypical of a metropolis.

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Tour Chicago’s Best Luxury Homes and Apartments with Real Estate Agent Andrei Savtchenko

• Post author: Scott
• Post category: Cities

Ever wanted a glimpse into the world of luxury real estate in Chicago? Well, look no further! Join top-rated real estate agent Andrei Savtchenko as he takes you on a tour of the best luxury homes and apartments in the city. With his expertise, you’ll get to see the stunning interiors and exclusive features that make these properties so desirable. From upscale apartments to spacious houses, Andrei knows just where to go to find your dream home. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to explore the luxury real estate scene in Chicago with a knowledgeable guide by your side.

In this video by Andrei Savtchenko, he introduces a 133-year-old Gold Coast Greystone that has undergone a beautiful renovation. Located just 500 feet away from the lake on the iconic Cedar Street, this property is a true gem. The exterior showcases a stunning Renaissance and Italianate style, with black stone, fans, sconces, and a historic black cupola. Step inside and be amazed by the sophisticated living room with a porcelain tile fireplace and wet bar. And yes, there’s even a glass elevator, just like the one in Scarface! The kitchen is a culinary dream, with herringbone floors, beautiful cabinets, and a 14-foot island with a live edge counter. Explore further and you’ll find more spacious bedrooms, each with unique and exquisite features. Join Andrei as he takes you on this unforgettable journey through Chicago’s luxury real estate market.

Table of Contents

Tour Chicago’s Best Luxury Homes and Apartments

Introduction to andrei savtchenko.

If you’re searching for the best luxury homes and apartments in Chicago, you’re in luck! Meet Andrei Savtchenko, a highly-rated real estate agent in the area who specializes in luxury properties. With his expertise and guidance, you can embark on a tour of some of the most exquisite and sought-after properties in the city. Whether you’re looking for an upscale apartment or a spacious house, Andrei is your go-to person to help you find your dream home. Get ready to explore the luxurious real estate scene of Chicago with Andrei Savtchenko!

Benefits of Touring with a Real Estate Agent

When it comes to touring luxury homes and apartments, having a real estate agent by your side can make all the difference. Andrei Savtchenko offers a range of benefits to ensure that your tour experience is smooth and enjoyable. First and foremost, he has extensive knowledge of the Chicago real estate market, allowing him to identify the best properties that match your preferences and requirements. Additionally, as a professional in the industry, Andrei has established relationships with property owners and other agents, giving you access to exclusive listings and opportunities. He also has a keen eye for detail and will provide valuable insights during each viewing, helping you make an informed decision. With Andrei as your guide, you can experience the ultimate luxury tour of Chicago without any hassle.

Exploring the Luxury Real Estate Scene in Chicago

Chicago is known for its vibrant and diverse real estate scene, offering a wide range of luxury homes and apartments to suit every taste. From historic mansions to contemporary penthouses, the city boasts an impressive array of properties that embody elegance, sophistication, and impeccable craftsmanship. Whether you’re captivated by architectural marvels or breathtaking city views, Chicago has something for everyone. Let’s dive into two of the most exquisite luxury properties that Andrei Savtchenko can show you during your tour.

Luxury Homes in Chicago

The palmolive.

One of the standout luxury properties in Chicago is The Palmolive, located at 159 East Walton. This prestigious building offers the epitome of luxury living with its remarkable amenities and breathtaking views. Let’s take a closer look at The Palmolive.

Situated in the heart of Chicago, The Palmolive enjoys a prime location that offers convenience and exclusivity. With its proximity to renowned dining establishments, cultural attractions, and Lake Michigan, residents can indulge in the vibrant city life while enjoying the tranquility of one of Chicago’s most beautiful neighborhoods.

The Palmolive boasts a luxurious lifestyle, and the price reflects its exclusivity. Priced at $6,850,000, this property offers unrivaled elegance and opulence.

Specifications

With a total square footage of 4,984, The Palmolive provides ample space for luxurious living. The property features 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and 2 half bathrooms, ensuring an abundance of comfort and privacy. Additionally, the listing agent for The Palmolive is Brian Loomis from Coldwell Banker, a reputable agency known for its expertise in luxury real estate.

Gold Coast Greystone

Another magnificent luxury property in Chicago is the Gold Coast Greystone. This stunning 133-year-old residence has been beautifully renovated, showcasing the perfect blend of historical charm and modern elegance. Let’s discover the captivating features of the Gold Coast Greystone.

Positioned on the iconic Cedar Street, the Gold Coast Greystone enjoys a prime spot just 500 feet away from Lake Michigan. This highly sought-after location offers a picturesque setting and easy access to the waterfront, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate the beauty of nature.

The exterior of the Gold Coast Greystone is a true masterpiece that exudes romance and elegance. Designed in the Revival style with influences from Italante’s architecture, the property boasts a striking black stone facade, black fans, sconces, and a historic black cupola. The exterior alone will leave you in awe of its beauty and charm.

As you step inside the Gold Coast Greystone, you’ll be greeted by an interior that is equally captivating. The sophisticated living room features a porcelain tile fireplace and a wet bar, setting the stage for luxurious gatherings and relaxation. Notably, the property is equipped with a glass elevator—a remarkable feature reminiscent of the infamous Scarface movie. The magnificent kitchen is a chef’s dream, featuring herringbone floors, beautiful cabinets, and a spectacular 14-foot island with a live edge counter, perfect for entertaining guests in style.

Exterior Features

Aside from The Palmolive and the Gold Coast Greystone, Chicago’s luxury real estate scene is marked by incredible exterior features that are sure to impress. Let’s explore some of the notable highlights that make these properties stand out from the rest.

Romance Revival Style

Many luxury properties in Chicago pay homage to the city’s architectural history by incorporating elements of the Romance Revival style. This architectural style embraces intricate detailing, symmetrical designs, and ornate embellishments, creating a timeless and grand impression.

Black Stone

Luxury homes and apartments in Chicago often feature black stone exteriors, lending a sophisticated and elegant aesthetic. The use of black stone not only adds visual appeal but also evokes a sense of drama and opulence.

Iconic Black Cupola

Chicago’s luxury properties sometimes boast an iconic black cupola, a traditional architectural feature that adds character and charm to the building. The black cupola is not only visually striking but also serves as a symbol of luxury and heritage.

Interior Features

Just as the exteriors of luxury homes in Chicago are breathtaking, the interiors are equally stunning. Let’s take a closer look at some of the remarkable interior features that you can expect to find during your tour.

Sophisticated Living Room

Luxury living rooms in Chicago often feature sophisticated designs that reflect timeless elegance. From carefully curated furnishings to impeccable lighting schemes, every detail is meticulously chosen to create a space that is both visually impressive and inviting.

Porcelain Tile Fireplace

Fireplaces are often centerpieces in luxurious living rooms, and Chicago’s luxury homes are no exception. Porcelain tile fireplaces add a touch of refinement and warmth, creating a cozy ambiance for residents and guests to enjoy.

Glass Elevator

A glass elevator is a unique and impressive feature sometimes found in luxury properties in Chicago. Beyond its functionality, a glass elevator provides a sense of exclusivity and modernity, adding to the overall luxurious experience.

Magnificent Kitchen

Luxury kitchens in Chicago are designed to impress even the most discerning chefs. From top-of-the-line appliances to exquisite cabinetry, these kitchens are a culinary enthusiast’s dream come true. The attention to detail and emphasis on functionality ensure a seamless cooking experience in a setting that is as beautiful as it is practical.

Herringbone Floors

Herringbone floors are a classic flooring choice that can be found in many luxury properties in Chicago. This design pattern adds a touch of sophistication and elegance, creating a truly stunning visual element that complements any interior.

14-foot Island with Live Edge Counter

If you love hosting gatherings and entertaining guests, then a 14-foot island with a live edge counter will be a dream come true. This spacious and beautifully crafted feature not only serves as a practical workspace but also becomes a focal point in the kitchen, allowing for seamless interaction and creating lasting memories with loved ones.

Second Level

During your tour of luxury homes in Chicago, you’ll likely have the opportunity to explore the second level of these remarkable properties. This level often showcases additional living spaces and unique features. Let’s uncover what awaits you on the second level.

Former Living Room

On the second level, you may find a former living room, which offers a versatile space that can be transformed to suit your needs. With its awe-inspiring natural light, covered ceilings, and stunning wallpaper that resembles exotic stone, this room is a testament to the exquisite details found throughout the property.

Iron Glass Doors

Iron glass doors can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any space, and luxury properties in Chicago often feature these distinctive elements. These doors allow natural light to flow seamlessly between rooms while also providing a stylish and modern aesthetic.

Natural Light

Ample natural light is a hallmark of luxurious living spaces in Chicago. The second level of these properties often benefits from large windows and open floor plans, allowing for an abundance of natural light to flood the interiors. This creates an inviting and bright atmosphere, making it ideal for both relaxation and entertaining guests.

Exotic Stone Wallpaper

For those who appreciate unique and luxurious details, the second level may feature stunning wallpaper that resembles exotic stone. This distinctive design element adds texture, richness, and an air of sophistication to the living spaces, creating a truly exceptional experience.

Third Level

As you continue your tour, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the third level of luxury homes in Chicago. This level often showcases private retreats and additional amenities. Let’s discover what awaits you on the third level.

Primary Bedroom

The third level is often home to the primary bedroom, offering a private sanctuary that embodies luxury and comfort. With exquisite finishes, ample space, and thoughtfully designed layouts, these bedrooms provide the perfect escape from the bustling city life below.

Laundry Room

Convenience and functionality are essential in any luxury home, and the third level often features a well-equipped laundry room. These rooms are designed with the utmost attention to detail, providing both practicality and style.

Adjacent Bedroom

The third level of luxury homes in Chicago may also include an adjacent bedroom, perfect for guests or family members. These bedrooms are often spacious and elegantly designed, providing a sense of comfort and relaxation.

Chicago’s luxury real estate scene is truly unparalleled, offering a wide range of exquisite homes and apartments that showcase the city’s architectural prowess and timeless elegance. By embarking on a tour with real estate agent Andrei Savtchenko, you can experience the best that Chicago has to offer in terms of luxury living. Whether you’re captivated by the historic charm of The Palmolive or the beautifully renovated Gold Coast Greystone, Andrei will guide you through a journey of luxury and refinement. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to explore Chicago’s luxury real estate scene and find your dream home. Schedule a tour with Andrei Savtchenko today and embark on a remarkable journey in search of your perfect luxury property.

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Read Today’s Top Story: How to make the jump into the luxury home market

How to make the jump into the luxury home market

by Jason Porterfield

A price point. A service. Location. Finishes. All those things can signify luxury, and they can be daunting to agents who have never worked in that market.

So how do agents who are experienced in selling traditional residential real estate make the leap into the high-end world of luxury real estate? It may require changing your way of thinking, how you market and brand yourself, and where you invest your resources.

Jennifer Zimmerman of Jameson Sotheby’s International Realty in Hoffman Estates sees luxury as a mindset that an agent should have before selling high-end homes.

“I feel that it does encompass all the goods and services that are superior, like great craftsmanship and premium price,” she said. “But really, when we’re looking at a luxury price, luxury buyers are seeking such exceptional experiences. They’re not expecting the norm. These are the type of people that are definitely looking for something a little high-quality and more exclusive.”

Luxury clients have high expectations when it comes to service, details and the quality of the property, according to Rafael Murillo of the RM Luxury Group with COMPASS Realty’s Sports & Entertainment Division. Those clients want personalized experiences that match their specific needs, he said. Learning how to provide that level of service is the key to succeeding in the luxury market.

“Privacy matters to them, so they prefer discreet transactions and expect confidentiality from their real estate agent,” he said. “When working with luxury clients, it’s important to build and keep relationships. Real estate agents might need to connect with professionals like architects, designers and financial advisors to offer complete services.”

Megan McCleary of the McCleary Group with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices in Hinsdale works to provide that high level of service. That mindset has paid off since she started in the luxury market 13 years ago.

“That’s what I’ve always strived to provide to my buyers and sellers,” she said. “A high level of service and being responsive. Following through on my actions, and from the early days, people referred me. I’ve gotten a lot of business referrals. I feel like that’s a huge compliment.”

Planning and geography

McCleary recommends that agents who want to break through in luxury real estate develop a business plan and stick with it. Her own plan was to have a geographical focus on a market she knew well. She was already a homeowner in Hinsdale when she began working in real estate, having moved there right after graduating from college more than 20 years ago. Most homes in that suburb and in the surrounding area sell at luxury price points, bringing her into the luxury market from the beginning. After she and her husband built a couple homes there, she decided that she would focus her real estate career on that area.

“It’s where I raised my family, so it was the n atural place for me to go into real estate,” she said, explaining that she has always been active in the community. “I knew it extremely well, and I knew the surrounding area. I didn’t want to be an agent that was stretching myself geographically where I would have to drive farther than I wanted to and where I really didn’t know the market that well.

“It took me a little bit longer to get my first deal, and I think the reason was because I made a decision that I wanted to focus on geography versus just going everywhere. While I have a lot of luxury business, my focus is on geography, like Hinsdale, Clarendon Hills, Western Springs, Oak Brook, Burr Ridge and some of the other surrounding communities.”

That geographical focus enables her to be present and provide a high level of service for her luxury clients. She has a support team that helps her with many of the details of the business, but she is the only agent on her team.

“The only way I can do the level of business that I do is by having a very strong focus on my business plan and having really great support people on my team,” McCleary said.

Similarly, Murillo focused on downtown Chicago from the start of his career. He concentrated on rentals, particularly in high-rise buildings, and educated himself on all of the residential space in that area. He learned details such as which buildings were strictly rentals or which were condos and which had amenities such as pools.

“Since nobody else in my office wanted to handle rentals, I took them on and treated them as valuable opportunities,” he said, noting that the approach eventually led to referrals. “I kept meticulous records in spreadsheets, sent thank-you cards to my clients, took them out for coffee or drinks and added them to my social media channels to stay connected. Over time, some of my rental clients transitioned into buyers and sellers. Fortunately, some of these rental clients were quite wealthy, serving as a steppingstone for me to enter the luxury real estate market. One of my most significant rental deals was for $30,000 per month, and another was for $23,000 per month.”

Zimmerman recommends that agents become experts on their area of choice before attempting to sell luxury real estate. She had 10 years of experience selling in Arlington Heights and some clients in the $400,000-$700,000 range when she began selling luxury.

“You have to gain your expertise, you have to make sure that you know everything that’s going on,” she said. “You go to those properties, I don’t care if no one’s looking for it, you better know exactly what’s out there because someone is going to ask you. You need to know about all the new construction, you need to know about anything over a million that goes up. And you need to know everything about that, from the exact neighborhoods to the yard to the schools. You want to know what light fixtures are in there, all those details. You need to have that in your head because people are coming to you and looking for you as the Arlington Heights luxury expert.”

Marketing and branding

Zimmerman worked in sales and marketing before becoming a real estate agent. She was always attracted to art, fashion and design aesthetics associated with luxury. Those elements also go into her marketing and branding, where she strives for authenticity.

“I wanted to brand and market myself differently, because I am creative,” she said. “When you first start, you don’t really know what it is to be in real estate from the perception of others … You haven’t created an identity yet. I think your identity changes. My identity has completely changed over the last 10 years, but I’ve always stayed true to myself.

“When you are branding yourself from the beginning, all the way through your career, your brand can evolve into something absolutely amazing. It just always has to be authentic. I think that following your authenticity as a person and just evolving in that makes for great branding.”

Murillo focused on building his brand “from the get-go,” with the aim of making it a household name in Chicago’s luxury real estate market. Rather than following the lead of other agents, he studied how luxury lifestyle brands are marketed to their target audience and worked to ensure his own marketing and branding stood out.

“I maintained an active presence on Facebook and Instagram, but I was careful to only post content that aligned with my brand and looked professional,” he said. “Back then, numerous agents weren’t utilizing social media as a marketing platform. This initially helped me stand out from the crowd, allowing me to establish a strong following of over 20,000 followers across my social media channels.”

He invested in his personal website, a Google Business Profile and other social media platforms, as well as print advertising in lifestyle magazines, to bolster his brand awareness. He embraced video marketing.

“I became known for creating cinematic lifestyle videos that showcased not just the property, but also the lifestyle it offered,” he said. “This included using drone videography to capture the city in a unique way and incorporating elements like models or luxury cars to enhance the appeal. Recently, I even featured a boat in one of my videos for a lakefront property. I believe that in selling luxury real estate, it’s not just about the property itself, but also about selling the lifestyle that comes with it.”

McCleary used her background in marketing to help her find a foothold in the luxury market, selling luxury as a lifestyle in advertisements running in local print publications, sometimes using photos of her own house to help sell the idea of luxury. She branched out to helping other agents on their marketing to let people know she was a real estate broker and to build credibility.

“Having my background in advertising, I knew that getting myself out there was really important,” she said. “That’s tricky when you don’t have a house to sell, so you figure out a way to market yourself and appeal to the broader market. So, one of the things I did when I first started is I would ask other successful agents if I could market their properties, and I would give them credit. It made the people in the community aware, along with other marketing and promoting that I was doing, that I was in the real estate business. It was completely aboveboard, it was full disclosure that wasn’t my listing.”

A willingness to invest

Agents who want to sell luxury homes should be prepared to invest heavily in marketing to reach potential buyers, McCleary said. The risk involved can be daunting.

“You really have to be able to spend money before you have the money,” she said. “It’s an investment in your business. I feel like this is a place where I am fully capable and comfortable with the money that I invest in my business. But if someone’s in the luxury market, there are more costs involved in a luxury property versus something that’s not.”

Zimmerman seconded the value of investing in clients and support.

“You also have to invest back in your marketing,” she said. “You can’t just go for a C-minus on your marketing. Your marketing needs to be really good, or don’t send it out. I don’t want anybody to get a postcard that is not up to their level, because I just feel like it’s a reflection of yourself.”

Murillo recommends that agents invest not only money in high-quality videography, photography, targeted advertising and marketing strategies to appeal to luxury clients, but also time in learning about it and connecting with professionals in related industries such as architecture, interior design, finance and luxury lifestyle services.

“Find ways to set yourself apart from competitors,” he said. “Whether it’s through unique marketing strategies, specialized expertise or value-added services, find what makes you stand out in the luxury real estate market. Above all, maintain integrity, professionalism and discretion in all your dealings with luxury clients. Trust and reputation are essential in the luxury real estate market, so prioritize building and preserving your professional image.”

EXPERT SOURCES

Megan McCleary , McCleary Group, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

Rafael Murillo , RM Luxury Group, COMPASS

Jennifer Zimmerman , Jameson Sotheby’s International Realty

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