Updated 2/24/2026
We've written about St. Patrick's Day celebrations before, but residents of the Chicago metro area know that the Irish spirit in Chicagoland extends well beyond the day itself. With deep Irish roots and a thriving community, there's no reason to limit your celebrations to just one weekend in March. Whether you're interested in traditional music, sports, cultural events or just enjoying a pint in an authentic Irish pub, here's how to keep the spirit of Ireland alive all year long.
Explore Irish History at the Irish American Heritage Center
Mayfair, Chicago, IL
Did you know that it wasn't until 1974 that single women were able to legally purchase a home without a cosigner? It was a change that came with the passing of the Equal Credit Opportunity Act and was just one of many steps taken toward achieving equity in the housing industry.
Just a few decades ago, financial independence for women was far from guaranteed. Today, single women are making history in real estate, outpacing single men as homebuyers. According to a recent report from the National Association of REALTORS®, single women made up between 17% and 20% of all homebuyers from 2016 to 2024. Comparatively, the share of single men wavered between 7% and 9%.
Whether you're about to move into a new home or you're simply ready to revamp your home for spring, this is a great time of year to invest in some new furniture and decor. Luckily, there are some truly exceptional local shops for housewares in Chicagoland, and our real estate agents are excited to share some of their favorites.
Planning on selling your home? A spotless home suggests it has been well-maintained, which is reassuring to buyers. To make the best impression and maximize your home's appeal, a thorough spring cleaning is essential. If you're not sure where to start, here's a room-by-room checklist you can follow to help you get your home sparkling and ready for showings.
Exterior
First impressions matter, and your home's curb appeal can make or break a sale. Plus, starting with the home's exterior is a great way to get outside and get some sunshine as the weather warms up. Here are some ways to refresh the outside of your home.