Broker Blake | Baird & Warner
I'm Blake Galler, an Evanston-based real estate broker with Baird & Warner. If you're buying or selling here, I can help you compare the property, the location and the numbers before you make a decision.
A condo near your train, a house with room for a workshop, or a place where you can leave the car parked more often: those are different searches. Before we build a list of homes, I want to know what would make your everyday life easier.
In Evanston, I would compare the exact address as closely as the floor plan. Walk the route you expect to use, look at parking, and visit at a time that reflects your routine. A location that looks convenient on a map may feel different in person.
Start here if proximity to downtown destinations and rail connections matters to you. For a condo, compare the building as well as the unit: elevator access, parking arrangements, monthly assessments and upcoming work deserve a close look.
If you're considering this part of Evanston, map your trips around the stations and the specific block. When comparing older buildings, pay attention to storage, laundry, stairs, windows and the association's maintenance plans.
Use the shops, station and your regular destinations as reference points, then compare each property on its own. Lot layout, garage access and the condition of an older house can change the practical value of a listing.
Evanston has CTA, Metra and bus options. Compare the station, walking route, transfers and service at the time you travel. The City transportation page is a useful starting point; check the operator for current schedules and alerts.
Pricing a condo and pricing a detached house call for different comparisons. I start with recent relevant sales, look at competing listings, and discuss where your home is similar or different. Then we decide what preparation is worth doing before photography and showings.
A citywide median can't tell you what a particular home is worth. For your search or sale, let's look at the property type, condition, location and relevant time period. I can help you distinguish asking prices from closed sale prices and understand what the current competition means for you.
Understand the market numbers or open the property search and enter Evanston.
Yes. I work with both buyers and sellers. If your move involves both, we'll discuss the sale, financing and timing together so you can evaluate the options.
Begin with the full cost and the building's condition, not just the unit price. Review association documents and upcoming projects with the appropriate professionals, and confirm what the assessment covers.
Verify the specific address directly with the relevant school district. Do not assume an assignment from a listing description, neighborhood name or nearby school.
That depends on your priorities and the available homes. Compare actual properties, your daily routes and ownership costs. The Wilmette guide can help you frame those questions.
CONTACT BLAKE GALLER
Send me your location preferences, budget and timing, or the address of the home you're considering selling. We can work out a useful next step.
REALTOR® | Broker Blake | Baird & Warner
Baird & Warner, EvanstonServing Evanston, Chicago, Wilmette, Skokie and the North Shore.
Evanston aerial: Cityofevanston, Wikimedia Commons, CC0. Cropped for display.
