J.D. Barrett - Chicagoland Broker

04/10/2026

Open House Saturday! My favorite weekend activity is hitting up open houses around the city. Check these two listings out that I will be hosting tomorrow! Stop on by!

758 N. Larrabee: https://zenlist.com/listing/mred:12610775?as=j-d.barrett

737 W. Washington: https://zenlist.com/listing/mred:12615225?as=j-d.barrett

04/05/2026

Come take a look at this stunning new construction home in Wilmette, IL!

- $2,345,000
- 5 Beds
- 5.5 Baths
- 5,000 sqft.

04/03/2026

I’m super excited about this one!

I’m typically skeptical about new construction but when I stepped inside 1917 Washington, I knew this one was a star.

Stunning new construction in the coveted McKenzie School District by a Chicago/North Shore luxury builder. This 5,000 SF, four-level home features 5 bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms, 10' ceilings on the main level, and an attached two-car garage.

Top-of-the-line finishes include white oak hardwood floors, custom white oak kitchen cabinetry, quartzite and marble countertops/backsplashes, Hansgrohe fixtures, curbless showers, and high-end lighting throughout. The open-concept kitchen connects to a light-filled family room with a marble fireplace, while a private office, dining room with butler’s pantry, mudroom, and walk-in pantry complete the main level.

The primary suite boasts a vaulted ceiling, expansive walk-in closet, and spa-like bathroom with dual vanities, soaking tub, heated floors, and curbless shower. Additional bedrooms, a laundry room, and flexible third-floor space offer plenty of room for family and guests. Fully finished basement includes a 5th bedroom, full bath, media/recreation room, wet bar, and abundant storage.

Check in out here: https://zenlist.com/listing/mred:12572517?as=j-d.barrett

03/21/2026

Come take a look at these views! ✨✨

Just steps away from Lake Michigan, Michigan Avenue, and endless dining and shopping experiences!

DM me for deets!

03/19/2026

Come visit me Saturday in River North/Streeterville!

Check these listings out!
✨ 30 E. Huron #2204: https://zenlist.com/listing/mred:12592921?as=j-d.barrett

✨ 777 N. Michigan #3709: https://zenlist.com/listing/mred:12593187?as=j-d.barrett

03/17/2026

03/10/2026

I get asked all the time about the pros and cons of renting vs. owning.

And if you know me personally, you know I’m not going to give you the sugar-coated version. Homeownership hasn’t always been peaches and buttercups for my partner and me. Like most big life decisions, it’s come with excitement, stress, uncertainty… and a lot of learning along the way.

That’s why I always say the “rent vs. buy” debate isn’t as simple or as mathematical as people make it out to be.

Yes, numbers matter. But the truth is, both renting and owning are deeply personal decisions. They’re emotional, financial, and sometimes stressful. What works for one person might be completely wrong for someone else.

And that’s exactly how I approach real estate.

I will never tell someone they’re automatically better off owning than renting. I will never pressure someone into buying if it doesn’t make sense for their life. My job isn’t to push a transaction, it’s to help people make informed decisions that feel right for them.

With that in mind, I put together a simple Rent vs. Own snapshot based on current listings in a few neighborhoods where I’ve been helping clients lately: Lakeview, Edgewater, and Buena Park.

These are just ballpark estimates, but they give a helpful look at what the numbers can look like in today’s market.

Because at the end of the day, the goal isn’t to convince you to buy.

The goal is to help you understand your options.

If you’re curious what the rent vs. own numbers might look like for you, send me a DM. I’m always happy to run a quick comparison based on your situation and the neighborhoods you’re interested in.

No pressure. No sales pitch. Just real numbers and an honest conversation.

03/08/2026

Take a look at these breathtaking views at the Aqua!