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Known as the Village of Plainfield, Plainfield, IL, is a thriving community that offers a perfect blend of small-town charm and modern amenities. Nestled in the scenic beauty of the Prairie State, Plainfield boasts a rich history, a welcoming atmosphere, and plenty to do around town. From endless outdoor recreation opportunities to the city’s love of art, you’re sure to find something to love. 

But what is Plainfield, IL, known for? If you’re looking at homes for sale in Plainfield or are just curious about what the city has to offer, this Redfin guide has everything you need to know. To give you a taste, read on for 10 things to love about Plainfield.

1. Historic downtown

Plainfield’s historic downtown is a true gem that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Upgraded in 2009, the city center is a pedestrian-focused haven lined with vintage storefronts, trees, and small-town charm. Visitors and residents alike can explore boutique shops, antique stores, and art galleries. Local cafes and restaurants offer delicious fare, and the area often hosts community events, including farmers’ markets, parades, and live music performances from local bands. 

2. Parks and recreation

Plainfield takes pride in its abundant green spaces. With over 80 parks and miles of trails, residents have ample opportunities for outdoor activities. 

The most popular park is Settler’s Park, which features a splash pad for kids, picnic areas, trails, and hosts numerous community events throughout the year, including concerts and outdoor movies. Commissioners Park, Van Horn Woods, and Four Seasons Park are other hotspots that host ice rinks, sports fields, forests, and large open spaces for relaxation.

The city is also home to numerous nature preserves, such as the Prairie Bluff Reserve, which is home to over 3 miles of trails for cycling, skiing, and more. Other preserves include the Rock Run Preserve, Eaton Preserve, and Riverview Farmstead Preserve, which all serve important roles in protecting local biodiversity. 

3. Lake Renwick Preserve

The largest and most famous natural landmark in the Plainfield area is the Lake Renwick Preserve, which is part of the Lily Cache Creek preservation system. This scenic gem features a 200 acre lake with structures designed to provide nesting homes for birds. The preserve is home to the largest protected nesting location of herons in Illinois, although public viewing is limited during nesting season. Additionally, cycling and fishing are only allowed in certain areas. 

There are three ways to access the preserve: through Copley Nature Park, Heron rookery Nature Preserve, or Turtle Lake. Unfortunately, only a few hundred feet from the preserve is a sand and gravel mine, which may impact the local wildlife. 

4. The DuPage River

The DuPage River runs through Plainfield, offering picturesque riverfront areas for relaxation and recreation. Fishing, kayaking, and serene waterfront walks are just a few ways to enjoy the natural beauty of the river. The city also recently adopted a Riverfront Master Plan, which aims to further highlight the DuPage River with overlooks, improved shoreline management, and recreation space. 

There are numerous trails that follow the river and connect different parks around the city. For example, the 30+ mile Dupage River Trail follows the river through most of Plainfield before heading north to Naperville and south to Shorewood. The trail connects Mather Woods, Renwick Park, Settlers’ Park, and Eaton Preserve. Other trails around the city also follow the river, although they may be disconnected. 

5. Historical landmarks

Plainfield boasts a rich history, and several historical landmarks showcase its past. The Naper Settlement offers a glimpse into the region’s history, while the historic Barber House serves as a testament to the town’s architectural heritage. Additionally, the area is home to a historic gas station, a Civil War enlistment center, and an opera house that was originally a church and town hall. 

6. Lewis University

Founded in 1932 just 20 miles outside of Plainfield, Lewis University has a rich history of academic excellence and community engagement. Inspired by its Catholic and Lasallian heritage, the university is known for its diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, covering fields such as business, aviation, religion, education, healthcare, and the arts. 

One of the standout features of Lewis University is its commitment to innovation and technology. The university’s aviation program, for example, is renowned for its state-of-the-art flight simulation facilities and providing students with hands-on experience in aeronautics. The university offers undergraduate and graduate programs, including air traffic control management, aviation maintenance, and unmanned aircraft systems.

The Plainfield Historic Preservation Commission recently created a self-guided walking tour that showcases the area’s history and highlights local architecture and businesses. The tour includes 53 historic properties around the town. 

7. Annual events

The town comes alive with a variety of annual festivals and events year-round. Yearly favorites include the seasonal Farmers Market, Irish Parade, Harvest 5k, and Homecoming Parade, which celebrates the new school year and welcoming alumni back to the area. Holiday celebrations are also popular in Plainfield, such as Spooktacular and The Heart of Christmas. 

No matter who you are or what you celebrate, you’re sure to find a community event to help you feel at home.

8. Proximity to Chicago

Plainfield’s proximity to Chicago is one of its standout features. Located just 35 miles southwest of downtown Chicago, Plainfield offers residents the best of both worlds – a serene suburban lifestyle with easy access to the vibrant Windy City. 

While it’s easiest to drive from Plainfield to Chicago, taking just over an hour, the city does offer two bus routes on weekdays. However, public transportation is minimal in Plainfield, so plan on driving a car. 

9. Plainfield tornado of 1990

A devastating F5 tornado struck Plainfield on August 28, 1990, the strongest August tornado in US history and one of the strongest of all time. It remains as one of the most memorable events in the village’s history and led to significant rebuilding and growth in the community. 

10. Community spirit

Community spirit is at the heart of what makes Plainfield, IL, a special place to live. Residents actively volunteer at libraries, parks, animal sheltered, and food banks, creating a sense of togetherness. Neighborhood associations also organize events, and local businesses support the town and contribute to its historic roots. Strong community engagement, welcoming neighbors, and ample public services helps make Plainfield a welcoming town open to everyone. 

What is Plainfield, IL, known for? Final thoughts

Plainfield, IL, is more than just a suburban town; it’s a thriving community with a rich history, excellent schools, and a strong sense of unity among its residents. From a charming downtown to natural beauty and diverse amenities, Plainfield offers something for people from all walks of life. And, with a convenient location near just an hour outside Chicago, it’s no wonder that Plainfield is a growing city beloved by locals.

So, if you’re considering living in Plainfield and want to buy a home or rent an apartment, you’re sure to find something to love. 

Source: redfin.com

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If you live in Chicago, IL, you’re familiar with the dynamic and multifaceted art scene. The city offers an unparalleled journey through human creativity, like world-renowned museums that house timeless masterpieces to cutting-edge galleries. But Chicago’s artistic landscape doesn’t stop at visual arts – it resonates with the music and dancing, spanning genres from blues to jazz, contemporary, and hip-hop.

Whether you’re touring apartments in Chicago, looking for homes for sale, or needing new recommendations, this Redfin article has you covered. Join us as we explore what makes Chicago a haven for art enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike. We’ll make recommendations on the top spots to visit and places to explore. Let’s get started.

Chicago museums to explore 

Chicago’s museums offer a captivating journey through history, culture, and creativity, showcasing diverse art, science, and innovation. Here are a few of the top museums in the city.

The Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago is a cornerstone of the city’s vibrant art scene, holding a revered status among locals and visitors. Its extensive collection spans centuries and continents, offering a rich artistic expression from ancient to contemporary times. With masterpieces by renowned artists such as Grant Wood’s “American Gothic” and Georges Seurat’s “A Sunday on La Grande Jatte,” the museum is an invaluable educational and cultural resource. Its commitment to showcasing diverse cultures and artistic genres solidifies the Art Institute’s pivotal role in shaping Chicago as a hub of creative inspiration and exploration.

Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago

This museum catalyzes conversations around contemporary issues and artistic evolution by showcasing works from established and emerging artists across various mediums. Its role in fostering artistic experimentation and encouraging dialogue makes the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago a vital and transformative force within the Chicago art scene.

Lively Chicago art festivals to check out 

Known for hosting exceptional art festivals, Chicago showcases diverse artistic expressions and fosters a vibrant atmosphere of cultural celebration. Here are a few of the top art festivals in the city. 

Millennium Art Festival

“The Millennium Art Festival provides a wonderful opportunity for people to interact with the artists and see spectacular, unique, hand-made pieces from artists all over the country,” shares Amy Amdur, CEO of Amdur Productions. “When attending these fests, we suggest planning ahead by visiting our website to get acquainted with the various artists and their work and the surrounding neighborhood. We encourage attendees to make a full day of it by enjoying a variety of activities at the fest, as well as exploring the unique shops and restaurants that are just steps away.”

Printer’s Row Art Fest

Nestled in the historic Printer’s Row neighborhood, the Printer’s Row Art Festival transforms the streets into a dynamic gallery where skilled artisans proudly display their handcrafted treasures. From intricate hand-bound books to mesmerizing woodblock prints, visitors can immerse themselves in the tactile beauty of the creative process.

Must-see Chicago galleries

From contemporary innovation to classical mastery, Chicago galleries showcase an array of artworks that mirror the city’s dynamic spirit and cultural diversity. Here are a few of the best. 

Bridgeport Art Center

“There are two expansive art galleries situated on the third and fourth floors of the Bridgeport Art Center,” reveals Karen I. Hirsch, a local photographer. “Moreover, individual artists within the building graciously unveil their studios to the public. Adding to the building’s allure is the Chicago Maritime Museum, nestled on the lower level.”

Blue Moon Gallery

Lynne, a publisher of the Fox Valley Art BEAT, an art news site, suggests visiting the Blue Moon Gallery. “The owner of Blue Moon Gallery, Kendra Kett, curates beautifully, choosing local artists who know what sells well and prices it right. Although the gallery looks deceptively small from the street, once inside, it is open, airy, and bright with soothing colors, a salon approach to display, tabletop art, high ceilings, and even clerestory windows filling the length with natural light.”

Local Chicago artists to Look into

Chicago boasts a wealth of exceptionally talented local artists, whose creativity and innovation contribute to the city’s thriving artistic landscape. Check out a local favorite below.

Plein Air Painters Chicago

“Did you know you can see art depicting Chicago being made by professional artists every Saturday morning from April through October,” says Mary Longe, a local artist. “Each weekend, 10-30 members of the renowned Plein Air Painters Chicago paint a neighborhood. You can watch, bring your own easel, or purchase art as it’s being completed by some of Chicago’s most talented artists. Iconic and compelling scenes are painted in oils, watercolors, pastels, gouache, casein, and acrylics.”

Chicago architecture that can’t be missed

Chicago’s architecture is integral to the city’s art scene, blending aesthetics and functionality to create a dynamic urban canvas. A great way to see the iconic Chicago landscape is through tours like the Chicago River Boat Architecture Tours. There you’ll be surrounded by historic and modern day buildings. Here are a few spots to keep in mind.

Chicago Riverwalk

“Immerse yourself in Chicago’s artistic scene by strolling down the Chicago Riverwalk,” suggests Christiane Sola, the Chicago School of Musical Arts co-founder. Enjoy the breathtaking architecture and local musicians performing along the route, creating an unforgettable urban gallery. An array of restaurants and bars and stunning waterfront views invite locals and tourists to savor Chicago’s boundless expression of art and vibrancy.”

Willis Tower

The Willis Tower is a monumental piece of architecture that significantly enriches the Chicago art scene. Once the world’s tallest building, its soaring silhouette seamlessly merges form and function, becoming an iconic representation of the city’s artistic spirit. The tower’s distinctive design, with its bundled-tube structure and imposing presence, has inspired countless artists to capture its essence through various mediums, from paintings to photographs.

Diverse Chicago dance communities to discover

The dance scene in Chicago resonates with performances, fusing jazz, ballet, and diverse movements that showcase the city’s artistic energy. Here are a few great spots to enjoy.

The South Side Jazz Coalition

The South Side Jazz Coalition hosts jazz jams, pop-up concerts, and the popular Jazz’n On The Steps in the beautiful Woodlawn neighborhood. Festivals will be happening in Bronzeville and Englewood through October, as live music is “the happening” on the south side of town.  

Scottish Country Dancing

Feel like venturing further afield? Head to Naperville. Participate in a lively class with Chicago Scottish Country Dance, a group that meets every Tuesday evening to learn and enjoy this social set dancing from Scotland. 

Other ways to dive into Chicago’s art scene 

Chicago is teeming with many shops showcasing vintage items, art, and records that further add to the diverse art scene. One way to learn about the city is taking a trip through the shops.

Explore some of Chicago’s popular shops

Mady from Renegade Craft, the leading showcase of independent craft and design, encourages you to “Kick the day off by sifting through records at Reckless Records, then head to Renegade vendor Demolition Collective’s storefront for a different kind of vintage sifting. Get your aura photographed by the loveliest Aura/Iris, then check out Gucha Gucha’s creative studio and shop. End the day with a visit to Co-Prosperity, an “experimental cultural center” that will inspire you to apply to Renegade yourself.”

Source: redfin.com

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You know that old saying, “Every little bit helps.” Well, the opposite might also be true when it comes to home prices.

A new study from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) revealed that a mere $1,000 increase in the cost of a new, median-priced home prevents more than 200,000 prospective buyers from even making an offer.

The NAHB makes several assumptions to come up with that number. For example, they use a median national new home price of $275,000. Additionally, the buyer is only expected to put down 10%. And the maximum front-end DTI can’t exceed 28%.

Also, the mortgage rate used is 4.5% on a 30-year fixed mortgage. For the record, if any of these details change just a little, the math could be thrown completely out of whack.

And guess what, mortgage rates do change all the time, and not everyone has to pay private mortgage insurance. It also depends on the type of loan in question, among other things.

Still, of the nearly 118 million households in the United States, 206,269 wouldn’t be able to purchase a home that is $1,000 more expensive.

Texas the Most Priced Out State in the Nation

Of course, the impact depends on where the home is located. In places where homes are already mostly unaffordable, tacking on another $1,000 to the sales price will do very little, if anything.

But in places where prices are largely affordable, a seemingly small shift can force thousands to continue renting as opposed to buying.

Overall, Texas would be the hardest hit state, with 18,250 households no longer able to qualify for a mortgage based on a $1,000 increase to a median-priced home.

Of course, there are more than nine million households in the Lone Star State, so it’s not as bad as it sounds.

Conversely, only 313 households (of over 225k) in Wyoming would be affected by a $1,000 home price increase, making it the least vulnerable state in the nation.

In California, where the population is largest, only 14,423 households would be priced out because there are fewer affordable new homes to begin with.

At the metro level, the New York-Northern New Jersey-Long Island area would be most affected by a $1,000 price increase, with 5,742 households effectively priced out.

It’s followed by the Chicago-Joliet-Naperville, IL-IN-WI MSA, where 5,325 households would be priced out, despite having about half the number of households.

Same story here – nearly a third of all local households can afford new homes in the Chi-Town metro, whereas only 19% of households in the New-York area can qualify for new home mortgages before any price hikes are even factored in.

Similar pricing out can be seen in places like Atlanta, Baltimore, Houston, and Las Vegas.

In Napa, California, where less than 15% of all households can afford a median-priced new home, only 18 households would be priced out.

By the way, the purpose of the study seems to be driven by the NAHB’s distaste for regulatory fees, which they claim are passed onto the consumer. For example, every $833 increase in cost (permits, impact fees) results in a $1,000 increase in home price.

And their research shows regulations imposed by the government account for 25% of the final price of a newly-built single-family home.

In reality, there are all always plenty of options to qualify for a mortgage, even if the numbers are really tight. Shopping around to get your interest rate and closing costs lower can make much more of an impact than a $1,000 home price increase.

(photo: Max Braun)

Source: thetruthaboutmortgage.com

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Plainfield, IL, is a small suburb southwest of Chicago known for its strong community, abundant nature, and rich history. From its picturesque parks and historic downtown area to its vibrant community events and diverse culinary scene, Plainfield embodies a lifestyle that appeals to many. But what’s it like living here? 

If you’re looking at homes for sale in Plainfield, apartments for rent, or are just curious about what the city has to offer, this Redfin guide is for you. To give you a taste of what you can expect, read on for 7 reasons to move to Plainfield, IL. 

1. Affordable cost of living 

Plainfield has a pretty affordable cost of living compared to other cities in the United States. Housing costs, in particular, are affordable and just below par with the national average. For example, the median sale price of a house in Plainfield is $415,000, $10,000 below the national average. This makes Plainfield an attractive option for those looking for an affordable place to live near Chicago.

Renting is also more affordable than a majority of the country; the average one-bedroom apartment costs $1,750, which is $250 below the national median.

2. Outdoor activities

With nearly 100 parks and trails, outdoor enthusiasts will never run out of options in Plainfield. The DuPage River provides a scenic backdrop for fishing and kayaking, while the Lake Renwick Preserve offers great bird-watching opportunities. And if you’re looking for a day trip, consider heading out to the Baker County Forest Preserve or the Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie. No matter what you choose, the area’s outdoor spaces provide everyone with plenty of ways to enjoy nature and stay active.

3. Historic downtown

Officially the Village of Plainfield, this city is full of history. The downtown area of Plainfield is especially filled with charm, characterized by historical buildings housing local businesses, unique shops, and restaurants. It’s a great spot for a leisurely stroll, a delicious meal, or some retail therapy. The city also hosts regular events, like Cruise Night, which add to the lively atmosphere. 

4. Convenient location

Conveniently situated near Naperville and just 35 miles from Chicago, Plainfield residents can easily access the larger city amenities and job opportunities. Excellent road connections and frequent buses to nearby cities make commuting a breeze, whether you’re headed to the office or planning a day out in the city. However, public transportation within Plainfield is very limited. 

5. Community events

A great reason to move to Plainfield is its calendar full of community events throughout the year. From markets in the spring and summer to holiday festivals in the winter, there’s something for everyone.

Consider visiting Settlers’ Park for concerts and movies during the summer, or strolling through the local farmers’ market on Sundays. During the winter, there are plenty of holiday events, including the Plainfield Holiday Artisan Market, parades, light festivals, and more. These events bring the community together and are a big part of what makes Plainfield a great place to live.

6. Diverse culinary scene

Plainfield’s culinary scene is growing, diverse, and exciting. From local American comfort food to authentic international cuisines, the city’s restaurants have something to offer every palate. If you’re in the mood for great food, consider visiting Sovereign, Imperial Kitchen, or Station One Smokehouse. This diversity not only means you’ll never run out of new dishes to try, but it also enriches the overall living experience in Plainfield.

However, the city lacks late-night options that many cities offer. This means you may have to commute for a fun night out. 

7. Growth and development

Over the past two decades, Plainfield has been experiencing a significant increase in population. From 1990 to 2021, the city’s population increased from 4,557 to over 44,000, turning from a small town into a thriving suburban city. 

Additionally, the city’s economic growth has been consistent over the years, reflecting a healthy local economy. This growth provides a variety of job opportunities and supports a robust local business scene. Whether you’re seeking employment or considering starting a business, Plainfield’s economic landscape is conducive.

Source: redfin.com

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Just outside of Chicago is the picturesque town of Naperville, where you’ll find beautiful natural scenery like the DuPage River. If you’re considering moving to Naperville, then you may be wondering whether to rent versus buy a home in the area. Even in today’s real estate market, there are pros and cons to consider if you’re renting or buying a home in Naperville, making it that much harder to decide what fits your goals. 

If you’re looking to buy a home in Naperville, the current median sale price for a home is $587,201 as of July. Or if you’re checking out apartments for rent in Naperville, the average monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $2,263. Depending on what you can afford and today’s mortgage rates, it may be that renting is cheaper than buying. But, there are many reasons why buying a home now may be more beneficial for your needs than renting. In this Redfin article, we will delve into the pros and cons of renting and buying in Naperville, helping you make an informed decision based on your unique circumstances. Let’s get started. 

Advantages of buying a home in Naperville

Increase in investment opportunities

The home prices in Naperville, and the surrounding areas, have been steadily increasing year over year. This trend shows market growth and a greater possibility in investment return. Becoming a homeowner is more likely to offer a good financial gain in the future. 

Money in your own pocket

The question, “Why rent when you can own?” applies much to our market. Owning a property allows you to stop paying another to live and start building equity into your own asset. In addition, the rental market in Naperville is typically lucrative, leaving a great opening to become an investor if you wanted to rent your home to another in the future.

Disadvantages of buying a home in Naperville

Interest rates

The increase in interest rates has made home buying more expensive. Home prices have still stayed strong and lenders are finding new creative ways to help with the rate increase, but buyers are still up against finding the right affordability. This increase in interest rates has made buyers have to adjust their monthly budget to fit their home buying wants or make exceptions in their home search to better fit their budgetary needs. 

Low inventory

If you consider yourself more of a picky buyer, you may have a difficult time finding the perfect home as we have low inventory in the Naperville area. With low inventory, you’re more likely to run into multiple offers and bidding wars. In addition, buyers are having to make exceptions for some of their home wants or compete in those multiple offers, especially when homes are updated or renovated. 

Determining if you are ready to buy a house in Naperville

There are several factors to consider if you’re deciding whether to rent vs buy in Naperville this year. Here are five points to look at:

1. Time of year: Naperville is a highly seasonal market. Time of year is a huge factor to consider when both selling and buying. You’ll typically see more inventory available in the spring and summer. During this time, homes usually sell faster, at a higher price, and you’ll have more competition. Less inventory is typically available in the fall and winter. However, there is typically less competition during that time and more likely to get a home at a lower price.

2. Financial stability: Before starting your homebuying journey, it’s important to understand your finances – including having a good credit score and a stable income. Be sure to set aside some additional funds for down payment, closing costs, home inspection fees, and additional expenses that are part of the homebuying process. It’s also good to build an emergency fund in case you incur any unforeseen costs.

3. Personal goals: You’ll also want to evaluate your personal goals and priorities before deciding to buy a home in Naperville. Are you looking for a move-in ready home or a renovation project? Do you want a home with modern upgrades or historic charm? Determining what’s important to you in a home can help you figure out if buying a home in Naperville aligns with those goals.

4. Long term commitment: Compared to renting an apartment, buying a home is a significant financial investment and time commitment. So, if you’re not sure you’ll be living in the area for more than a few years, it may be better to continue renting vs buying in Naperville.

5. Housing market conditions: When considering buying a home in Naperville, it’s essential to evaluate the current housing market conditions and how they impact how much house you can afford. Understanding whether it’s buyer’s or seller’s market can help you gauge competition – and help adjust your expectations. Currently, Naperville is in a seller’s market, meaning there are more buyers looking to purchase a home than there are homes on the market. 

If you’re unsure whether you’re ready to buy, consider consulting with your real estate or financial advisor to fully understand your options.

Is it competitive to buy a home in Naperville?

We’re seeing less inventory in the Naperville market, making home buying competitive. It’s common to see multiple offers on properties, and a home’s time on the market to be short before it goes under contract. This is especially true when it comes to homes that are under 20 years old or were recently renovated to trending styles. Offers typically include over list price, appraisal waivers, and as-is or waived inspections. With high interest rates, we have also seen an increase in cash or large down payment buyers.

Advantages of renting a home in Naperville

Maintenance costs and availability

Just as home prices have risen, so have the costs of contractors and materials. If you have home maintenance that you want to complete, it can be more costly and take a while to find a contractor. Renting helps you avoid these additional costs, as many of these costs will be covered by your landlord. 

Easier to move on from a property

Leases typically have an end date and tenants can choose to leave when following the cancellation terms of the contract. This allows tenants a little more flexibility to “get up and go” without the uncertainty of selling their investment as they don’t own the property.  

Disadvantages of renting a home in Naperville

Renewal changes and rent increases

Typical leases have a set time of expiration, whether it’s 6-months, 12-months, or month-to-month. When your lease ends, your landlord has the ability to end the lease, make modifications to the lease, or change the charges of the lease. This can leave you having to find new living options or increase in your monthly expenses to continue to live in the property. In addition, some leases allow cancellations prior to the lease ending, which may have a renter trying to find a new option of living quicker than they anticipated. 

Limitations to design

When renting, you’re paying to live in the landlord’s property. Therefore, there are typically more restrictions to using their property. This usually includes many limitations on personalizing the space such as type of flooring, painting, light fixtures, etc. This makes it more difficult if you want to add your own touches to make the home feel more like your own.

Renting vs buying in Naperville: A real estate agent’s final thoughts

I personally believe there is never a “bad” time to buy a home. The biggest focus should be to review your main goals for buying to identify if it’s a good time for you specifically. Ask yourself – How long do I see myself in this home? Do I have an interest in renting it in the future?; and if so, is the property rentable? Does this home fit all of my needs? Can I take on the disadvantages of buying a home? If you’re finding answers to be more yes than no, it’s a great time for you to buy.

Source: redfin.com