Khadija Laurens Real Estate

06/19/2026

If you haven't made plans yet for the weekend, this is your sign to do just that!

Summer officially begins this weekend, and Chicago is celebrating the longest days of the year with a lineup of events celebrating Pride, honoring Juneteenth, and bringing neighbors together.

Here are three standout events to put on your radar, starting tonight with free music!

Old Town School of Folk Music Juneteenth Celebration
Lincoln Square | Friday
Free with suggested donation
Immerse yourself in Chicago blues as the Old Town School of Folk Music hosts a special Juneteenth performance featuring the Freddie Dixon Blues Band and violinist Judy Lei. It is a meaningful way to kick off the weekend while honoring this important day.

Pride Fest
Northalsted | Saturday and Sunday |
$20 suggested donation
Held every year the weekend before the Chicago Pride Parade, this two-day street festival features live performances across three stages, including a drag show, appearances from the Chicago Gay Men's Chorus, and live music. There are also parades and plenty of vendors!

Chicago After Dark: Northcenter
Northcenter Town Square | Saturday, 3-9 p.m. |
Free
Head to Northcenter Town Square for an evening of art, refreshments, performances, and family-friendly activities. It is a great way to experience the local neighborhood vibe and enjoy a summer with family.

For a full look at everything happening across the city this weekend, check out the complete list from Block Club Chicago here: https://blockclubchicago.org/2026/06/18/28-things-to-do-in-chicago-this-weekend-pride-fest-juneteenth-and-obama-center-open-house/

One of the best parts of living in Chicago is having all of this right outside your door. If you are thinking about buying or selling and want to be in a neighborhood where you can walk to events like these, I would love to help. Send me a message to start the conversation!

The Gold Coast Art Fair, Taste of Randolph and Fiesta Back of the Yards are also on deck.

06/17/2026

Did you know there's a science behind adding curb appeal to your home?

When it comes to trending exterior paint colors, homeowners are moving away from cold grays, off-whites, and stark black-and-white combinations.

As interior paint colors are leaning toward warm, earthy palettes, these trendy colors can benefit the exterior of your house, too. Popular 2026 color palettes includes creamy neutrals, soft greens, dusty pinks, and warm grays. Paired with a rich brown or a bold pop of color on your door, and your home will look refreshed and ready to catch the eye of potential buyers (or just a few jealous neighbors).

For more tips on painting your home this year, read more: https://www.bhg.com/curb-appeal-colors-2026-11994730

Give your home's exterior a makeover this summer with this trendy paint palette. From warm-toned neutrals to bold accent shades, these shades are guaranteed to boost your curb appeal.

06/15/2026

Finding the right neighborhood is like meeting a new best friend.

My fellow Chicago COMPASS realtors and I asked AI to describe Chicago neighborhoods as people, and the answers were surprisingly spot on. 🏙️

Swipe through to see which 'hood matches your vibe, whether you're looking for artsy, laid back, or lakefront energy. Do you agree/disagree? Where do you think you'd fit in best?

If you're ready to find a new place to live your best life, let's talk. I'll help you match with a community that fits your lifestyle, not just your budget.

Connect with me in a PM or call me at 312-752-6443. Your new favorite Chicago neighborhood might be closer than you think.

06/12/2026

Three Chicago Weekends, Three Neighborhoods Worth Exploring

This weekend offers three distinct ways to get out and enjoy the city. Whether you are drawn to Swedish traditions, Greek flavors, or a bit of Renaissance whimsy, there is something for you.

Just a few of the exciting things happening June 12-14 include:

Andersonville Midsommar Fest - Clark Street, Andersonville
This festival celebrates Swedish Midsommar tradition with live music across multiple stages, food from a wide array of vendors, and local goods as Clark Street transforms into a neighborhood street festival. The event also highlights Andersonville's LGBTQIA+ community. $10 suggested donation.

Faire in the Field - Clarendon Park, Uptown
Chicagoans can enjoy a Renaissance faire right in the city as Clarendon Park transforms into a mini ren faire for one day only on Saturday. The event includes live performances, a LARP arena, and a faerie encampment. Free.

Lincoln Square Greek Fest - St. Demetrios Church, Lincoln Square
Running Friday through Sunday, this festival offers authentic Greek food and pastries, live music and dancing, a vendor market, and the opportunity to tour St. Demetrios Church. $10 suggested donation.

If you are thinking about buying or selling a home this summer and want to be close to the city's best festivals and neighborhood events, now is a great time to start the conversation. Reach out and let's chat!

Find over 30 events to occupy your weekend here > https://blockclubchicago.org/2026/06/11/30-things-to-do-in-chicago-this-weekend-puerto-rican-peoples-day-parade-midsommarfest-and-more/

A pop-up Renaissance Faire, beach yoga, a new family program at Lincoln Park Zoo, a summer book sale and more markets and festivals are also on deck for the weekend.

06/10/2026

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is kicks off tomorrow at 3PM CST with Mexico vs. South Africa, but you don’t have to travel the world to feel the energy.

Whether you want the roar of the crowd or a nice breeze and a great cocktail, here are my top two plays for watching your favorite teams in Chicago:

🍻Crowd Favorite? Head to Recess in the West Loop for the official Chicago Fire Soccer Celebration! Think massive watch parties, a 360-degree jumbotron, limited-edition merch, and live music. This is THE spot for that high-energy, stadium feel. Grab your free mobile pass at SoccerAtRecess.com to guarantee entry!

🌆 Want a Relaxed Rooftop Vibe with Cocktails? For a more upscale experience, grab a spot at LondonHouse Chicago. Watch the game on their new large-format screen with the most incredible backdrop—rooftop views right above Wacker Drive. Nothing beats a goal celebration with that skyline view.

📅 NOTE TIMES ON THE ATTACHED SCHEDULE ARE EST Need the full match schedule? Find it here 👉 https://www.fifa.com/en/tournaments/mens/worldcup/canadamexicousa2026/articles/match-schedule-fixtures-results-teams-stadiums

📍 Save this post so you know where to go!

What matches are you looking forward to? Drop a ⚽ in the comments and share with me!

06/08/2026

Homeowners: Have you outgrown your home?

You’ve heard every headline about rates and prices. You’ve wondered if you should just wait.

But we known that life doesn’t wait for perfect market conditions. Whether it's a growing family or aging family member or realizing a life-long dream or career change, MILLIONS of major life changes are happening right now. They don’t pause because mortgage rates are high.

If your home no longer fits your life, waiting may be harder than navigating the current market.

Find out what your options are realistically. Read the recent post from Keeping Current Matters, then let's connect for a real conversation about the possiblities!

https://www.keepingcurrentmatters.com/2026/05/28/the-real-reason-some-people-are-still-moving-right-now/

📲312-752-6443

You may be telling yourself you’re going to wait to move – maybe you’re hoping mortgage rates will come down, prices will fall, or the market will feel a little easier.

06/05/2026

Three Chicago Events to Put on Your Radar This Weekend (June 5-7)

The first weekend of June is packed with quality options. Whether you're a longtime resident or new to the area, here are three standout events worth leaving the house for!

Chicago Blues Festival – Millennium Park (Fri-Sun)
Four stages. Billed as the largest free blues festival in the world. Bring a blanket, bring a friend, and take in some of the city's best live music. Admission is FREE.

Lincoln Park Greek Fest – Lincoln Park, on Sheffield (Fri-Sun)
Authentic Greek food, live traditional dancing, and a neighborhood festival atmosphere that's hard to beat. $10 suggested donation.

The Great Bake Walk – Lincoln Square (Sunday, 10AM-1PM)
Seven bakeries, seven baked goods, one self-guided walk. Upgrade options include craft beer and Bloody Marys along the route. Tickets start at $43.

This is the kind of weekend that makes Chicago feel like home! Find all the fun here >> https://blockclubchicago.org/2026/06/04/26-things-to-do-in-chicago-this-weekend-greek-fest-art-fairs-and-summer-kickoff/

Thinking about buying or selling this summer? I'm always up for a conversation. DM me or call 312-752-6443.

Beyond Wonderland, Greek Fest, Ribfest, Pokémon Go Fest and Día Del Niño celebrations are also on deck.

06/03/2026

Want to sell your Chicago home without immediately cutting the price? Stop guessing. Strategy wins.

With the Compass 3-Phased Marketing Strategy, listings are 30% less likely to drop in price.

Here is the exact, fast-paced blueprint to protect your equity:

🚀 Phase 1: Validate Pricing with Private Exclusives
Launch as a Private Exclusive to 340,000 agents. We test the price and build elite exposure without racking up public days on market or damaging your home's digital footprint.

💥 Phase 2: Expand Reach with Coming Soon
Move your listing Coming Soon on Compass and Redfin. This blasts your home to 60 million buyers to build early momentum while keeping your official price history spotless.

🏆 Phase 3: Sell Better with an Informed Campaign
Your home is listed to all public websites. Because your home arrives backed by real-world pricing validation and established buyer demand, you are positioned for the absolute best outcome.

Don't just plant a sign in the front yard and hope for the best. Market with a proven, risk-mitigated plan.

Ready to maximize your value in Chicago? DM me today or call me at 312-752-6443 to launch your custom 3-phase strategy.

06/01/2026

Keep your cool when it comes to your summer grilling setup!

These tips can help you reduce the risk of fires and ensure a safe summer grilling season.

https://www.realtor.com/news/trends/bbq-grill-home-safety-property-damage/

By knowing what causes grill-related fires, you can enjoy greater peace of mind during your cookouts in the warmer months ahead.

05/29/2026

Summer is officially here, Chicago! This weekend, May 29-31, our neighborhoods are packed with festivals, fresh air, and family fun. As a Chicago realtor, I know the best way to find your perfect home is to get out and explore what makes each area special. Here are 3 events to add to your list:

🎉 Do Division Fest – West Town
Friday through Sunday on Division Street between Damen and Leavitt. Live music on two stages (programmed by Empty Bottle and Subterranean), plus a kids fest, local shopping, and a fashion showcase. $10 suggested donation.

🪨 Kite Festival – Douglass Park
Saturday, noon-4pm at Douglass Park. Bring your kite and picnic blanket to the first-ever Douglass Park Kite Festival. Fly kites with other families while enjoying food, music, and art-making. Free kites available for those who don't have one. Free event.

🛋️ Lakeview Porch Fest – Lakeview
Sunday, 1-5pm at various locations throughout Lakeview. Discover local talent as musicians perform on residential porches. Tickets include coupons for local businesses. Tickets start at $13.64.

Looking for more ways to enjoy the start of summer? Explore yoga at the beach, a local artist's expo, and a kid-friendly bike ride. Get the details here:

Find a full list of 28 events here:
https://blockclubchicago.org/2026/05/28/28-things-to-do-in-chicago-this-weekend-do-division-fest-hot-dog-fest-and-more/

And when you're ready to call one of these incredible neighborhoods home, DM me. Let's find your perfect summer spot!

The Little Village 5K, an underground rave, an Aretha Franklin tribute, sunrise yoga and a brand-new kite festival are also on deck.