I’ve been thinking a lot about “luxury” and what it means to me. Yes, I have a taste for private islands and the private yachts and jets required to get there, but there’s more to luxury real estate than what you do with the money. This issue’s cover story dives into the city and suburban luxury markets, and I suggest all you fancy agents do your homework.
First up, Josh Lipton got married! Congrats to Josh and his new wife. I wish you all the happiness in the world.
You’ll be relieved to know that Tommy Choi and Matt Laricy are still living the high life, and this time they brought a few friends with them on a private helicopter ride to a tasting and dinner for ACE champagne. I’m not sure what happened to my invite, because champagne and private helicopters are two of my favorite things.
If there are cameras at an event, it’s a safe bet that Nick Libert and Marki Lemons are close by. While attending the Illinois Realtor lobby day at the state capital, the two easily sniffed out the film crew with a few of their pals to make a statement.
Mike Opyd and Rafay Qamar opened their own RE/MAX branch in the West Loop, which they’re calling RE/MAX NEXT. Looks like the Cubs are partly responsible for this new endeavor, as I happen to know that these two first met for an introductory chat the morning after the Cubs’ World Series victory in Game Seven. My guess is there were sunglasses and perhaps some hair of the dog involved.
As always, real estate folks know how to party, especially on April 27. With three happening events on the same day, I tried my darndest to make an appearance at all of them.
First, I headed over to the CONLON/Christie’s Preview Party for The Marquis on Maple in Downers Grove. The property is gorgeous, and the drinks and hors d’ouevres were more than worth the drive.
On my way back to the city, I popped into Lemont for the Estates of Montefiori grand opening party. Ascend Development Group’s new properties are located steps from Cog Hill Golf & Country Club, one of my favorite spots to hit the links. While looking at newly completed models, I slurped down some signature drinks and snacked.
Last, but of course nothing is ever the least, I hightailed it back to the city for the Caden James preview party hosted by Fulton Grace. This was the last stop, so I was able to focus more on the drinks than the appetizers. Thanks to everyone who kept me fed and hydrated on the 27th!
On May 2, Chicago Agent and Chase Bank hosted a panel luncheon at Prime and Provisions, discussing how builders can build trust with agents and clients. Of course I had to show up for steak. I saw lots of familiar faces, but had to keep a low profile myself, of course.
Birthdays! Katherine Sather celebrates on May 10, while Mimi Harpur, Jonathan McCulloch, Joe Caltabiano and Brett Decker all share a May 12 birthday. Doug Horwich is all alone on lucky number 13, while Carrie McCormick, Tannis Demers and Shelly Frody all share a May 14 day of birth. Greg Allen Eldridge and his three names will celebrate on May 16, while Shelly Cellak and all the l’s in her name will party together on May 19.