for sale sign in front of white house

4 Tips for First-Time Home Buyers

Buying a home for the first time can be stressful, but with these tips from Edward R. James Companies, you will be on the right track to finding the right home for you. Contact us to meet with an agent so we can help you become a homeowner to the house of your dreams.

calculator and forms on desk

Plan and Polish

The best way to take on the process of buying a home is to be prepared. Plan your finances and set a budget early on. Check your credit score and continue to polish it. Start saving up for your down payment, and stick to your budget. Don’t forget about closing costs!

mortgage approval stamp

Get Preapproved

A preapproval from your lender is a letter that states exactly how much they will loan to you. Getting preapproval for your mortgage will put you in a better position when making an offer on a house, making the process easier once your offer is accepted. Checking this box is helpful for positioning you as a serious buyer, which will continue to help this process go smoothly.

luxury kitchen

Make a List of Your Needs

This list is essential when shopping for your new home to have a better idea of what you are looking for. Keeping a list will help you narrow down which places are worth touring, and how best to spend your budget. Don’t go in blind, but remember to keep an open mind! You may be surprised by things you end up liking or not liking once you start looking.

luxury home exterior

Find a Real Estate Agent

Having a real estate agent by your side is the best way to save yourself time and hassle, because they help you with every step of the process. Real estate agents familiar with the area you are interested in can best advise you on pricing and market conditions. They may find problems with a house that you were unaware of, or have suggestions of new places to look at which would better suit your needs within your budget.

Buying your first home can seem like a far off goal, but our team at Edward R. James Companies wants to make that goal attainable for you. It is our mission to enhance your life by creating exceptional homes in exceptional places. Check out our homes for sale today!

Contact Us

/0 Comments/by
wooden housing market graph

What to Know About the Illinois Housing Market Right Now

The housing market can be overwhelming, but here at Edward R. James Companies, we have all the information you need for a smooth process in Illinois. Keep reading to learn more about the Illinois housing market today, and get in touch with us if you are looking to buy a home! Whether it’s your first home or your next home, Edward R. James Companies is committed to creating the perfect home for you.

gray luxury home

Buying

While overall housing prices are increasing, the average prices in Illinois are lower than the national median. These low prices can offset mortgage rates, which are stabilizing around 6.7%. However, the inventory of houses are low, making it trickier to find everything you want in your home, and you might encounter more bidding wars with other home buyers.

house for sale

Selling

Some also say Illinois is currently a “seller’s market” with high demand for homes and low inventory. This means interest rates increase and more buyers paying over listing price. Property values in Illinois are also rising, making this a great time to sell your home for more worth.

renters keys

Renting

The renting market temperature in Illinois is warm, as renters continue to find affordable places due to rent in Illinois being nearly 14% lower than national averages. While monthly rates have decreased since August 2023, the year-over-year charge has increased since 2022.

neighborhood

Market Forecast

The sales prices of Illinois are forecasted to slightly dip, while still higher than in 2022. With this dip, total home sales are estimated to also increase. Rental prices will increase as property taxes rise. There is no forecast of a housing crash, though the market typically slows down a bit towards the end of the year.

The housing market of Illinois has a lot to offer, and has a place for everyone to feel at home. The best way to navigate the housing market is with a real estate agent at your side. Our team understands everyone has unique needs for their homes, and it’s our mission to bring those to life in a house that will always feel like home. Contact Edward R. James Companies to meet with an agent today!

Schedule an Appointment

/0 Comments/by
gray and white living room

What You’re Really Paying For When You Build a Luxury Home

If you are interested in building your next home, check out our process at Edward R. James Companies to learn more about luxury homes. These homes are designed to enhance your life and become the sanctuary of your dreams. Read on to learn about what comes with the luxury homes of Edward R. James Companies.

blue luxury house exterior

Exceptional Quality

At the Edward R. James Companies, our luxury homes are built with superior craftsmanship to offer elegant and contextual architecture. We focus on proportions, balance, and materials which provide strong aesthetics and durability. Our builders are dedicated to the details that  make the value of your home exceptional for a long time.

dark reading office

Customized to Your Needs

A major benefit of building your own luxury home is the opportunity to create a place that reflects your personal style. Our team understands the importance of including personalized features that make your home uniquely yours. Customized options of luxury homes often include smart home technology, personalized cabinetry, unique architectural designs, and more.

white luxury home exterior

Location and Size

Luxury homes are built in exceptional locations. From beautiful views to low crime rates, the location of luxury home builds offer a relaxed lifestyle. These locations also typically include land, which allows your home to be larger in size. Here at the Edward R. James Companies, we specialize in designing large, luxury homes with generous floor plans, high ceilings, and plenty of natural light.

luxury home living room

Lasting Enjoyment

With 60 years of experience under our belt, the Edward R. James Companies understand the importance of the integrity and quality of your home. We are dedicated to not only building homes with materials meant to last, but building homes that you will love for years to come. Luxury homes personalized to your needs, with the right materials and design, will ensure lasting enjoyment.

Luxury homes from Edward R. James Companies come with the qualities that will enhance your relaxation and enjoyment. If you’re interested in a customizable and exceptional luxury home build, contact us today!

View Our Luxury Homes Builds

/0 Comments/by

4 Reasons To Buy a House New

As an Illinois home builder that has been around for over 60 years, Edward R. James Companies understands the value of buying a new house. From personalized details to energy efficiency, newer homes offer a range of benefits that older homes simply can’t match. As you consider making one of the most significant investments of your lifetime, let us explain why investing in a new home could be the perfect decision for you and your family. Here are four reasons why we believe a new house is worth considering.

a new home

1. Personalization

When you buy a new home, you get to choose everything from the flooring to the countertops. You have complete control over the personalized details that make the house feel like your own. In contrast, older homes usually come with outdated finishes and fixtures that can detract from your enjoyment of the space.

kitchen appliances

2. Lower Maintenance Costs

One of the major benefits of a new home is the ability to avoid costly repairs and maintenance that come with an older home. Newer homes possess up-to-date features and appliances, so investing in one can help you save a lot on your utility bills.

insulation

3. Energy Efficiency

A newly-built home is designed to be more energy efficient than an older one in most cases. Energy-efficient HVAC systems, windows, and insulation will help you save money on utility bills and reduce your carbon footprint.

image says safety

4. Improved Safety

Newer homes also come equipped with the latest safety features, such as fire-resistant materials, advanced smoke alarms, and window locks. These features provide additional peace of mind, which is particularly important for first-time homebuyers or families with young children.

Buying a new house offers many benefits. If you’re considering investing in a new luxury home in Illinois, the team at Edward R. James Companies is here to help. With our home design and new construction expertise, we can create a beautiful, functional, and energy-efficient living space that meets your unique needs and preferences. So why wait? Contact our team today to learn more about our new home construction services and start building the home of your dreams!

 

Contact Us!

/0 Comments/by

What Makes a Home a Luxury Home?

If you’re in the market for a new home in Illinois, you might be wondering what sets a luxury home apart from an ordinary one. Luxury homes are built with the finest materials, superior craftsmanship, and are designed with personalized features that are tailored to your lifestyle. At Edward R. James Companies, we understand the importance of creating a home that is not just a place to live, but a sanctuary that reflects your style, personality, and way of life. Get in touch with us today!

Location

One of the most important aspects of a luxury home is its location. A prime location is essential when it comes to buying a luxury home. Edward R. James Companies understands this and selects only the most exclusive neighborhoods and areas to build their new construction homes.

Size

Luxury homes are typically larger than ordinary homes, providing plenty of space to entertain and relax. Edward R. James Companies builds luxury homes with generous floor plans, high ceilings, and plenty of natural light.

Personalized Features

Luxury homes are designed with personalized features that are tailored to your lifestyle. From state-of-the-art technology to beautiful finishes, Edward R. James Companies builds luxury homes with the latest and greatest features. Personalized cabinetry, high-end appliances, smart home technology, and unique architectural details are important concepts to consider.

Excellent Craftsmanship

Luxury homes are built with superior craftsmanship and attention to detail. At Edward R. James Companies, we pride ourselves on our excellent craftsmanship and quality construction. We use only the finest materials and employ skilled craftsmen to build our luxury homes. Our homes are not just beautiful, but built to last.

If you are in the market for a luxury home, Edward R. James Companies should be your go-to home builder in Illinois. We understand that your home is not just a place to live, but a reflection of who you are. Contact us today to learn more about our luxury homes!

Call Us
/0 Comments/by

The Best Places To Live in Illinois

For decades, if you wanted to live in Illinois, the Windy City was the number-one destination. Now, however, there are several amazing communities outside of Chicago that offer even better living experiences. As part of our commitment to show clients exceptional homes in exceptional places, today the team at Edward R. James Companies is sharing four of the best places to live in Illinois. Continue reading to learn more, then contact us to view our properties!

Northbrook

The first area to explore is Northbrook, located in Cook County. As a quiet village that boasts excellent schools, parks, and recreational facilities, it’s a great place to raise a family. It’s also home to first-class shopping destinations such as Northbrook Court, a local hotspot packed with specialty stores and restaurants. Perhaps it’s no surprise that our homes in Anets Woods of Northbrook are all sold out!

Hinsdale

The community of Hinsdale is renowned for its top-notch schools, picturesque streets, and opulent homes. The town has superb parks and green spaces, including the 52-acre Katherine Legge Memorial Park. Additionally, the quaint downtown area offers some of the best shopping experiences in the state, and it’s not too far from our duplex villas and single-family homes in Hinsdale Meadows.

Northfield

Known for its proximity to the North Branch of the Chicago River, living in Northfield provides easy access to nearby attractions such as the forest preserves, the Chicago Botanic Garden, and numerous golf courses. Edward R. James Companies is also a name that’s well-known in the area, thanks to our luxury rental townhome community in Northfield Mews, which features premium finishes, spacious floorplans, and resort-style amenities.

Glenview

Glenview is another fantastic option for potential buyers searching for exquisite living spaces in Illinois. In fact, Glenview is so wonderful that we’ve called it home for more than 60 years! We love everything from the top-rated restaurants to the Glenview Summer Fest, and our passion lies in building luxury homes for anyone else looking to live nearby.

If you’re searching for the best places to live in Illinois, look no further than these spectacular communities. Edward R. James Companies has crafted magnificent luxury homes and townhomes in these areas, so now’s the time to experience upscale living for yourself. Contact us today to schedule a property tour!

View Our Communities
/0 Comments/by

Ways to Enhance Your Luxury Home with Smart Home Technology

Are you looking to add an extra touch of luxury to your home? Smart home technology can be a great way to upgrade your living space and provide convenience and energy efficiency. With many smart technology options out there, it can be hard to decide which products to invest in. To help you out, Edward R. James Partners has put together a list of smart home systems to elevate your luxury home and lifestyle. 

lighting in a bedroom

Smart Lighting 

Smart lighting solutions like Philips Hue and LIFX allow you to control the lighting in your home with the touch of a button. Smart lighting lets you control the lights in your home from your mobile device or laptop. You can dim the lights, change the color, and even set timers. Create the perfect atmosphere for entertaining or relaxing and welcome luxury into your life.

Thermostat

Smart Thermostats

 Smart thermostats like the Nest Learning Thermostat are a brilliant way to save money with your thermostat system. Installing this luxury technology allows you to control the temperature of your home from anywhere and automatically adjusts the temperatures to the most efficient setting. You may even start to save money on your energy bills!

security system on phone

Smart Security Systems

Edward R. James Partners highly advises installing smart security systems like SimpliSafe and Vivint to help deter intruders and keep your home safe. These come with motion sensors, video cameras, and even doorbells that connect to your phone. Installing a smart lock on your front door provides convenience and peace of mind. As an added bonus, you can unlock your door with your mobile device or a code, giving you the ability to let in guests even when you’re not home.

smart fridge

Smart Appliances 

Smart appliances like the Samsung Family Hub refrigerator can make your life easier. See what’s in the fridge without opening the door, order groceries online, and even watch TV. These are great ways to add elegance to your kitchen and save energy!

At Edward R. James Partners, our mission is to enhance the quality of life for our residents and the communities in which we build and the luxury details we include in every building masterpiece. We strive for excellence in each phase of the development process, with a focus on Chicago luxury home building.  Reach out to our experts for inspiration and information today!

Reach Out To Our Luxury Home Experts!

/0 Comments/by

How to Choose the Right Location for Your Luxury Home

When it comes to purchasing a luxury home, choosing the right location is paramount. The location of your home can have a huge impact on your daily life and the value of your property. To make sure you choose the right location for your luxury home, Edward R. James Partners wants to share their insight on selecting the perfect location for your luxury home.

luxury home

Research the Neighborhoods

Before you finalize any decisions, it’s crucial to do extensive research. If you’re looking for a luxury home, you want to ensure that the neighborhood surrounding it is also of a high caliber. Look into the average home values, types of neighbors, and the overall safety of the area. See what amenities they offer, such as nearby schools, parks, shops, and restaurants. This can help you determine if the area is suitable for your lifestyle.

luxury home

Consider Proximity to Your Workplace

If you have a long, dreadful commute to work, it may be worth investing in a home closer to your place of work. This will save you time and money on transportation costs and ultimately make you happier in your day-to-day expenditures.

luxury kitchen

Look at the Property Values

Check out the current and projected property values in the area and surrounding regions. This will give you an approximation of how much your investment can appreciate over time. Ask yourself: what is the job market like? Are the businesses in this area thriving? Knowing these answers will help you determine if the area is a good fit for your luxury home.

people talking

Talk With People

Meeting the neighbors and exploring the local culture can help you make an informed decision about where to buy. If you’re looking for a vibrant, cultural experience, you should look for a neighborhood that reflects your interests. Don’t be afraid to get to know the people who live in the area. Talk to them about their experiences and find out what they like and dislike about the area!

Edward R. James Partners are experts in the luxury home-building business, creating outstanding masterpieces in Chicago for years. Our builders use the same tips to scout locations for our luxury homes and business and hope it helps you! If you’re interested in viewing our elaborate portfolio of past projects, explore ideas for your dream home today! 

Speak With Us About Our New Luxury Models!

/0 Comments/by

An Inside Look Into The Edward R. James Process

Welcome to Edward R. James Companies, a full-service home-building company that specializes in creating beautiful homes in places that offer unique benefits to our customers. When it comes to providing a great experience for our customers, we work to be unmatched! But what exactly does that process look like? Keep reading to take an inside look at the Edward R. James process and what makes us different. 

Privately-Owned Business

At Edward R. James Companies, our team is dedicated to providing the best services for our clients and homebuyers, and we’re able to focus on this because we’re a privately-owned business. Because we’re family-owned, we know that our name and reputation are directly impacted by the work we do and the services we provide, which is why we only do top-quality work!

Understanding Our Client Needs

Our clients are at the heart of everything we do, which is why our process is centered around what needs and requirements we need to fulfill to ensure a job well done. Before we begin anything else, our team will work with you to understand all the details necessary for your project, from your goals to any restrictions and, of course, your needs and expectations.

Fully Integrated Design & Build

From the design phase all the way through construction completion, our team and services are fully integrated to ensure the highest level of quality for your project. Whether you’re a homeowner having your dream home built to perfection or you’re partnering with us to have a housing community built in the perfect location, our team stands by their work along every step of the way. 

Superior Customer Service & Value

Of course, providing high-quality products is a top priority, but we know that providing a great experience is how we ensure that our customers have positive experiences. That’s why we’ll work with you along every step of the way to ensure that we’re providing the best customer service and the best value to our customers at all times. 

Learn more about the Edward R. James difference and get started with us online today!

Visit Our Website to See More!

/0 Comments/by

Four Reasons You Should Have Your Home Built by Edward R James Partners

At Edward R. James Companies, we understand that building a home is a big investment. That’s why we strive to provide our customers with the best possible new construction experience. With more than 60 years of experience, our process offers seamless integration, uncompromising quality, and superior service. Read below about some reasons why you should have us as your home builder, and contact us to get started today! 

More Than 60 Years of Experience

First, with more than 60 years of experience, you can trust that your new construction home will be built with expert precision. We are both the developer and builder on each project —managing the creation of each home and community from beginning to end. Plus, our process allows for unique customization, so you can personalize your home to meet your individual tastes. 

Our Process Offers Seamless Integration 

Second, you can be sure that your luxury home will be built with uncompromising quality. We pay attention to the things you cannot see that impact the integrity of your home and the quality of your experience. From the sturdy foundation to the smallest detail, we use superior materials to ensure lasting quality. 

Quality is Top Priority 

Third, our process offers seamless integration. We are constantly looking for ways to make our process more efficient and effective, so you can be sure that your luxury home will be built with the highest standards of quality. From the initial design to the final walkthrough, we will be there to ensure that your home is built to your exact specifications. 

Customer Satisfaction is Our Mission 

Lastly, customer satisfaction is our mission. We take great care to offer our customers the utmost courtesy and timely response to any issues that may arise both during and after the closing of their new construction home. You can have peace of mind knowing that any problems you may have will be handled in a professional and timely manner.  

Whether you’re looking for a new construction home in Anets Woods of Northbrook, Hinsdale Meadows, or Northfield Mews, Edward R James Partners are the home builder you can trust to make your dream a reality. Contact us to get started today! 

Contact Us

/0 Comments/by