FINDING HOME IN CHICAGOLAND
isn’t luck. it’s strategy.

Oak Park • River Forest • Elmwood Park • Chicago • western suburbs

I help people find home in Chicagoland

Real estate is about numbers. But it is also about belonging.

I do not just help people buy and sell houses. I help them find home.

Whether you are relocating to Chicagoland, downsizing in Oak Park, selling in the western suburbs, or buying your first home in Chicago, you deserve clear strategy and steady guidance.

Licensed since 2007, I have helped buyers and sellers navigate competitive markets with smart pricing, strong negotiation, and thoughtful preparation.

Selling your home in Oak Park or the Chicago suburbs

Getting top dollar is not about luck. It is about preparation and positioning.

Before your home hits the market, we will talk through:

  • As-is value vs. improvement strategy
  • Accurate pricing based on hyper-local data
  • Professional marketing that creates demand
  • Negotiation strategy that protects your bottom line

When you get paid, I get paid. No upfront fees. Just thoughtful preparation and strong representation.

Learn more about selling your home   |   What is my home worth?

Buying a home in Chicagoland

Whether you are searching in Oak Park, Chicago, or the western suburbs, I will help you:

  • Understand neighborhood differences beyond listing photos
  • Navigate taxes, commute realities, and market timing
  • Compete strategically in multiple-offer situations
  • Access off-market opportunities through the Private Listing Network and Top Agent Network

Buying a home is not just about inventory. It is about fit.

What is your Oak Park or Chicago home worth?

Curious what your home could sell for in today's market?

Get a data-backed estimate and a real strategy conversation, not just an automated number.

Find your home's value

Why work with Laurie Christofano with RE/MAX?

  • Deep local knowledge of Oak Park and the near-west suburbs
  • Clear, honest communication without jargon
  • Licensed since 2007 with experience across multiple market cycles
  • Strong negotiation in competitive markets
  • Inclusive representation for first-time buyers, downsizers, relocators, and LGBTQ+ families

I live here. I raise my family here. I care deeply about the communities I serve.

Meet Laurie

Ready to make your next move?

If you are thinking about buying or selling in Chicago or the western suburbs, let us talk through what your next chapter looks like.

Call or text: 630-248-1976
Email: laurie@OPRFhomesforsale.com

Let us find the right fit, not just the right house.

Read next

Chicagoland Realtor helping you find home - a quick read on why community matters just as much as the house.

FAQs

As a top-performing Realtor with RE/MAX in Oak Park, Chicago, and its western suburbs, I offer a full range of real estate services, including buying, selling, and relocation assistance. I specialize in helping families find their dream homes, first-time buyers navigate the market, and sellers get the best value for their properties. Whether you are looking for homes in Oak Park, River Forest, or other nearby communities, I am here to guide you every step of the way.

Pricing your home correctly is crucial to a successful sale. I use a combination of comparative market analysis, local market trends, and an in-depth understanding of the Oak Park and Chicago housing markets to set a competitive and fair price for your home. I also factor in your home's unique features, its as-is value versus its fixed-up value, and current buyer demand.

Before your home hits the market, I work closely with you to ensure it is in top shape. This includes advising on necessary repairs or updates, staging for maximum appeal, and professional photography to showcase your home in the best light. I also create a strategic marketing plan to generate buzz and interest from qualified buyers, so we are fully prepared from day one.

I use a multi-channel marketing approach that includes online listings, social media promotion, email campaigns, and targeted ads. My marketing strategies are designed to reach both local and out-of-town buyers, highlighting the best aspects of your home and the surrounding community. I also leverage my network and local connections to spread the word about your listing.

As someone who has lived in the Chicago area my entire life and has been in real estate since 2007, I understand the challenges first-time buyers face. I offer personalized guidance through every step of the process, from securing financing to finding the right neighborhood and making a competitive offer. My goal is to make your first home-buying experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.

What sets me apart is my deep knowledge of the Chicagoland area, especially Oak Park and the western suburbs, and my commitment to my clients. I am not just selling houses. I am helping people find their place in a community. I am also tech-savvy, using modern tools to give my clients an edge in the market, and I am committed to inclusive representation.

Getting started is easy. Whether you are looking to buy or sell, I offer a free consultation to discuss your needs and how I can help. You can reach me at 630-248-1976 or laurie@OPRFhomesforsale.com to schedule a meeting. From there, we will create a tailored plan to achieve your real estate goals.

I serve a wide range of communities in the Chicagoland area, with a focus on Oak Park, River Forest, Berwyn, and the surrounding western suburbs. I also have extensive experience with the city of Chicago, particularly neighborhoods that offer a suburban feel with easy access to urban amenities. My goal is to help you find the right home in a community that fits your lifestyle.

Absolutely. I specialize in helping clients who are looking to downsize, whether that means moving to a smaller home, a condo, or a different type of property that better suits their current needs. I understand the unique challenges downsizers face, such as maintaining key features like garage space or minimizing stairs while finding a home that still feels like the right fit.

Yes. I regularly share market updates and insights to keep clients informed about trends in Oak Park, River Forest, and the western suburbs. Whether you are curious about median sales prices, market time, or inventory levels, I can provide current data and explain what it means for your buying or selling strategy.

The amount you will make selling your house depends on several factors, including your home's location, condition, and the current market. I will help you evaluate your home's potential by analyzing local sales and factoring in its unique features. Reach out for a personalized home value estimate and selling strategy.

Yes, you can sell your home as-is. While making updates can increase the sale price, some buyers are willing to purchase homes in their current condition. I will help you decide whether selling as-is or making a few key improvements is more likely to get you the best return.

Finding homes for sale near you is easy with my customized home search tools. You can search by neighborhood, price, and home type. I will also help you narrow down your options and schedule showings to find the right fit in your desired location.

Latest homes for sale in Oak Park and surrounding suburbs

1338 Home Avenue, Berwyn

$515,000

4 Beds ⋅

3 Baths ⋅

12793244 MLS ⋅

NEW Status

Classic Berwyn bungalow charm meets thoughtfully expanded living space in this exceptionally maintained home, featuring four bedrooms, three rehabbed full baths, inviting spaces to gather, entertain and unwind. Hardwood floors flow throughout the main level, where a spacious living room welcomes abundant natural light through a large octagon windows and features a rebuilt decorative fireplace with an electric insert. The formal dining room connects the living room and kitchen, creating an easy flow for everyday living and holiday entertaining. Rehabbed in 2022, the beautifully appointed kitchen features black stainless steel appliances, a farmhouse sink, granite countertops, soft-close 42-inch cabinetry with crown molding, and a built-in wine rack. Two generous main-level bedrooms offer expanded closets, with a built-in washer and dryer in one bedroom for added convenience, while a full bath rehabbed in 2022 serves the main floor. A versatile rear entry offers space for a mudroom or breakfast area, complete with new shelving, cabinetry, and a storage rack, and opens to a well-maintained backyard with a Trex deck, mature landscaping, a wheelchair lift and a two-car garage with electric to charge an EV/Hybbrid vehicle with service "party"garage door opening to the yard. Upstairs, the primary bedroom features a walk-in closet, complemented by an additional bedroom and a full bath rehabbed in 2024 with dual sinks, a separate shower, and extended ceiling height. The basement adds a spacious recreation area with a bar, kitchenette, additional laundry, a workroom, and a large full bath rehabbed in 2022, offering flexibility for extended household needs and multigenerational living. Major updates include the roof, water service line, and backflow preventer in 2024; a 200-amp electrical panel in 2022; central air in 2021; water heater in 2017; furnace in 2014; and windows in 2005. Conveniently located near Costco, the Roosevelt and Cermak corridors, dining, shopping, and world-famous FitzGerald's, with easy access to Chicago, airports and transportation. A standout bungalow offering space, character and substantial updates-ready for its next chapter.

1338 Home Avenue, Berwyn

3519 Maple Avenue, Brookfield

$359,000

3 Beds ⋅

2 Baths ⋅

12789639 MLS ⋅

NEW Status

Beautifully updated, full of character, and perfectly situated in the heart of Brookfield! Welcome to 3519 Maple Avenue, where timeless charm meets thoughtful modern updates. This inviting 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers a unique four-level layout, original hardwood floors, and a stunning chef-inspired kitchen that truly serves as the heart of the home. The beautifully updated kitchen is a showstopper, featuring gorgeous quartz countertops, an oversized eat-in island, newer appliances, custom cabinetry, and a workstation sink. A one-of-a-kind built-in coffee bar with open shelving adds both charm and functionality, creating the perfect space for morning coffee, entertaining, or gathering with family and friends. The home's thoughtfully designed layout offers distinct living spaces across four levels. The main living area features the kitchen and living/dining space, while the upper levels provide two comfortable bedrooms, a full bathroom, and a private top-level primary bedroom retreat. The lower level offers additional flexible living space with newer plush carpeting, tile flooring, laundry facilities, and a second bathroom. Step outside to discover one of the home's most special features: a beautiful backyard retreat complete with a charming brick patio. Whether enjoying a quiet morning outdoors, hosting summer gatherings, or simply unwinding at the end of the day, this private-feeling outdoor space is a wonderful extension of the home. A detached one-car garage adds everyday convenience. Location is everything, and this home delivers! Situated within highly sought-after Brookfield-La Grange Park School District 95 and the Riverside Brookfield High School district, the property offers exceptional access to everything that makes Brookfield such a desirable community. Enjoy being minutes from Metra service, the vibrant Eight Corners district, downtown Brookfield's shops, restaurants, and nightlife, and just a short trip from the renowned Brookfield Zoo Chicago. With its distinctive layout, beautifully updated kitchen, inviting outdoor spaces, and unbeatable access to neighborhood amenities, 3519 Maple Avenue offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the best of Brookfield living.

3519 Maple Avenue, Brookfield

629 S Lombard Avenue, Oak Park

$795,000

4 Beds ⋅

3 Baths ⋅

12789487 MLS ⋅

NEW Status

Beautiful original details, thoughtful updates and four levels of living space make this Oak Park home something special! The inviting front porch feels like a magical outdoor room of its own. Inside, you'll find original woodwork including built-ins and art glass windows in both the living and dining rooms, beamed ceilings in the dining room, and a gas fireplace. The light-filled kitchen features stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, a breakfast bar and direct access to the spacious deck, complete with a natural gas grill. With four bedrooms and three bathrooms, there's plenty of room to spread out. Three nicely sized bedrooms are on the second floor, while the finished third floor is dedicated to a private primary suite with its own bathroom. The finished lower level includes a family room, bathroom, laundry area, a flex space for an office or craft area, and additional storage. Outside, enjoy the two-tiered deck, paver patio, dedicated dog run and a spacious, professionally landscaped yard all set on a wide lot. The landscaping is freshly mulched and prepped for winter so nothing to do but enjoy! A 2.5-car garage plus party door and an additional off-street parking pad in the front round out the outdoor amenities. All this in a great Oak Park location near the CTA Blue Line, I-290, the Park District's Community Recreation Center (CRC) and the Harrison Street Arts District which includes Publican Quality Bread, Mora, The Happy Apple Pie Shop and more. So much to love both at home and around the neighborhood!

629 S Lombard Avenue, Oak Park

813 Thomas Avenue, Forest Park

$425,000

3 Beds ⋅

3 Baths ⋅

12783610 MLS ⋅

NEW Status

Sundrenched, stylish, surprisingly-spacious home in a fantastic Forest Park location beckons! From the inviting front porch, enter into the roomy foyer and appreciate the gleaming hardwood floors, bright tall windows, high ceilings, and the vast, open floorplan, perfect for today's needs. Gather with your loved ones in the massive, sun-soaked living room with its wall of east facing bay windows with loads of space for multiple conversations - perfect for entertaining and every day living. The adjacent dining room will easily host your largest holiday dinners and opens to the unbelievably large kitchen! Cooking your gourmet meals or prepping every day snacks is a delight in this kitchen with loads of stylish, painted wood cabinetry with miles of granite countertops; a huge, eat-at island with range and hood; all stainless steel appliances; a large, deep double sink; tons of storage and more! The kitchen opens to a large space, with options to have a breakfast or craft table, office nook, and to create a backdoor mudroom. An oversized powder room with storage, and a spacious front coat closet round out this level. When you're ready to retire, head upstairs to the massive, sunlit second level to find three generous bedrooms and two full baths! The unexpectedly huge, bright primary bedroom boasts plenty of space for a king bed plus a sitting area; a matching pair of organized closets; and a private balcony with sunset (and July 4th fireworks!) views. The huge en-suite has a large walk-in shower, double vanity plus an additional separate vanity with storage making everyday living more convenient! Two additional, sunny, generous bedrooms, both big enough to fit king beds, and both with large closets and a trendy, roomy, bright hallway bath with linen closet complete this level. Head down to the tall, dry basement for additional space - currently used as a gym - with the mechanicals, laundry and storage; plenty of space for a future generous family room or play area. Outside you'll find a zero maintenance yard and a large, oversized garage - with two parking bays plus an additional, insulated work or recreation space. Lots of updates too - new roof - 2026, some new windows - 2026, furnace - 2023, basement tuckpointing - 2023, water heater - 2022 and more. All this in a fantastic location with friendly neighbors close to the best of Forest Park recreation including the Roos Center, pool, park district facilities, parks, tennis, and more! Close to public transit, the 290, shopping, dining, ice cream, nightlife. This move-in ready, expanded home with room to roam is the one you've been waiting for--welcome home!

813 Thomas Avenue, Forest Park

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The data relating to real estate for sale on this website comes in part from the Broker Reciprocity program of Midwest Real Estate Data LLC. Real Estate listings held by brokerage firms other than our company are marked with the MRED Broker Reciprocity logo or the Broker Reciprocity thumbnail logo (the MRED logo) and detailed information about them includes the names of the listing brokers. Some properties which appear for sale on this website may subsequently have sold and may no longer be available. The accuracy of all information, regardless of source, including but not limited to square footages and lot sizes, is deemed reliable but not guaranteed and should be personally verified through personal inspection by and/or with the appropriate professionals. The information being provided is for consumers personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing.

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