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Le’Dia Smith | Chicago, IL REALTOR®

@lediatherealtor

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✨ Your broker, educator & Chicago insider
🏡 First-time buyers, sellers, and investors
📩 [email protected]
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Eight years ago today, I signed a mortgage on a 2-flat in Chicago, and it was the most intentional, yet unaware decision I’d ever made.

After college, I moved back home. My oldest brother and favorite cousin told me to save for an investment property, and I half-listened because I wanted to travel 🙃 So the timing took longer than I would’ve wanted, yet it ultimately worked out perfectly.

Six real estate agents, a listing with only one photo, and an early morning appointment later, I found the one. And everything that has happened since traces back to that decision.

I had plenty of encouragement, but no real playbook for managing a three-story home and becoming a landlord/Airbnb host. I knew that I could figure it out, and one day guide others through doing the same.

THANK YOU to my Mom and loved ones that helped make my house a home since 2018 in every way you could imagine. Thank you to the respectable short-term rental guests that visited and temporarily made it theirs (the bad ones get no love 😭). Thank you to those who ask for the Airbnb link to share with those that need a comfortable Chicago stay ♥️

Happy 8yr Homeaversary to me! #homeownership #homeaversary #chicagorealestate taken in Chicago, Illinois by @lediatherealtor

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7 months ago

There’s a new grocery store that opened up in Chicago’s Austin neighborhood, and it’s both Black-owned AND woman-owned!

I recently stopped by Forty Acres Fresh Market (@fortyacresfreshmarket) to see what grocery shopping looks like, and capped myself at a $50 budget on this trip.

For years, many residents in parts of the West Side have had limited access to fresh produce and nearby grocery options, often needing to travel outside the neighborhood to shop. As a product of this community, my family and I were consistently traveling to Oak Park, and I am grateful that no longer has to happen.

What started as a mobile produce pop-up has now grown into a brick-and-mortar market focused on improving food access, creating local jobs, and investing in the community. Now that’s how to give back! 👏🏾

From fresh juices and produce to a hot bar and everyday grocery staples, I was able to stay under budget. And what made this visit even more special, Founder Liz is my Soror🔺🐘

📍 Forty Acres Fresh Market
5713 W Chicago Ave
Chicago, IL 60651
Open daily from 8am - 8pm

#Chicago #chicagogram #FortyAcres #freshmarket

P.S. I have beef with Jif’s Natural Crunchy peanut butter bc when I accidentally grab that instead of creamy, it’s a heartbreaking experience 🤣 taken in Chicago, Illinois by @lediatherealtor

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7 months ago

This is my thankless contribution to your home and a gift that I will not stop giving — because there is a right way to hang toilet paper 🙃🧻

As a wise friend put it, “I like my toilet paper to have bangs, not a mullet” 😭

What’s your preference: Over or under? We ain’t judging! 👀

#overnotunder #sorrynotsorry #yourewelcome #realestatehumor by @lediatherealtor

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3 days ago

Congratulations to West Loop’s newest homeowners! This closing has been my favorite of the year because I was able to help my dear friend and her husband transition into an exciting new chapter. It started at a NYE party when they mentioned they were ready for a change and open to homeownership. Soon after, we pivoted solely to purchasing once they shared the news of their new bundle of joy 👶🏼

This journey was not linear, as we went under contract more than once, yet each time I made sure they never felt pressured to settle. Advocating for my clients means being willing to pivot as many times as it takes and ensuring they felt confident in the decision because it’s *their* home. And that’s when we secured this beauty, beating out another offer to ensure they can start this next chapter with excitement. Congratulations again!

If you’re renting and wondering whether buying makes sense for your next chapter, let’s set up a quick consultation and discuss your goals. Send a DM or email/text, and we can get started! Imagine celebrating the holidays in your new home 🏡✨

Le’Dia J. Smith, Licensed Real Estate Broker
📱 (773) 231-6180
📥 LeDiaSmith@kw.com

#Chicago #WestLoop #chicagorealestate #firsttimehomebuyer taken in Chicago, Illinois by @lediatherealtor

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3 days ago

The best ramen in Chicago is at High Five Ramen, and I’d put my unborn child on the line to defend that statement.

This ramen speakeasy is intimate, full of flavor, has incredible staff, and the perfect treat for any type of weather (bc I am guilty of actively going in the summer). After my first trip to Japan, I came back craving creamy broth, and High Five Ramen has stolen my heart since.

Things to remember:
-1/4 spice is perfect for most, 1/2 can work for the pros, but DO NOT TRY FULL SPICE. I’ve witnessed people struggling and begging for milk 😩

-If there is a wait, go grab a drink at Green Street Meats. You can bring your drink down with you if you’re called before you finish.

-Get there at opening or within an hour of closing so you can avoid a waitlist. This may not always work on popular nights, but a good rule of thumb.

-Tell them “Leisa” sent you! 🙋🏾‍♀️

Name a spot that can beat @highfiveramen — I’ll wait 👀🍜 #Chicago #WestLoop #chicagorestaurants #ramen taken in Chicago, Illinois by @lediatherealtor

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5 days ago

My favorite month of the year is finally here! 🥳🍂 As temperatures drop and cozy season settles in, here are my top picks for enjoying fall in Chicago:

🍷Lincoln Park Wine Festival: Back to celebrate its 10th year with wine tastings from around the world, a live DJ, and food from local vendors. Sessions last two hours and you get to take home a commemorative wine glass. One of my favorite events each October!

👣 Open House Chicago: If you’ve always wanted to get on the inside of many of Chicago’s historic and prized buildings, this may be your chance. Each year, the Chicago Architecture Center opens up more than 200 landmark buildings, churches, theatres, and hotspots across 30 neighborhoods for free. There’s about 20 new sites and a few making its return, including Cadillac Palace Theatre, House of Blues, and Auditorium Theatre.

🎞️ Chicago International Film Festival: 12 days of premieres with more than 100 films at North America’s longest-running competitive film festival. Perfect for film lovers — especially my fellow AMC Stubs A-List members 👋🏾

What are you looking forward to? Anything else you’d add so we can add it to our radar? Save this list and check back next month 👻 And shout out to my Libras and October Scorpios — HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!

#Chicago #thingstodoinChicago #exploreChicago taken in Chicago, Illinois by @lediatherealtor

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9 days ago

POV: You just got the keys to this $2.275M Gold Coast penthouse 💁🏾‍♀️

Sitting right off of the Magnificent Mile, this 3 bedroom and 3 bathroom penthouse condo has 31 floor-to-ceiling windows, which fills the home with natural light and incredible views all day. It was completely redone with over $1.4M in renovations, including a marble fireplace imported from France, a kitchen equipped with Sub-Zero, Wolf and Miele, a glass wine room, and a private theater with its own bar.

Building perks include 24-hour door staff, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center. Once you step outside, you’re minutes from Oak Street Beach, Rush Street fine dining, and the shops along Michigan Avenue. It’s the perfect location for your Chicago adventure.

Tell me your favorite feature in the comments, and DM me if you’re interested in a private tour. Pre-approval or proof of funds required.

Le’Dia J. Smith, Licensed Real Estate Broker
📱 (773) 231-6180
📥 LeDiaSmith@kw.com

#Chicago #chicagorealestate #luxuryhomes #GoldCoast

Exclusively listed by Coldwell Banker Realty taken in Chicago, Illinois by @lediatherealtor

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21 days ago

Tbh I’m tired of hearing uninformed and biased comments about Chicago’s South and West Sides, especially when they make up about 75% of the city 🫩

This is Kenwood, one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in the city. It was founded in the 1850s as an escape for wealthy families who wanted room to breathe (think: huge lots and mansions) and peace away from downtown, without giving up easy access to it.

It’s about one square mile and feels like a charming little suburb inside of the city. Kenwood sits comfortably between the lake, Hyde Park, and Bronzeville, so everything you need is close. Lake Shore Drive and the Metra can get you downtown in 10-15 minutes, or you can take the scenic route along the lakefront and soak in remarkable skyline views.

Every time I’m here, I’m in awe. Much of Kenwood is a designated Chicago Landmark district, and the historic homes here are beautifully preserved, including designs by legends like Frank Lloyd Wright. The houses are massive, and the greystones stand so tall they inspire you to take a deep breath, pull your shoulders back, and stand a little taller yourself. It’s quiet, it’s convenient, and you can feel the history on every block.

Here are my favorite places in the Kenwood/Hyde Park area — let me know yours in the comments:

-Carver 47 Food and Wellness Center (café)
-Virtue Restaurant (Southern)
-Ascione Bistro (Italian)
-Italian Fiesta (pizza)
-Cantina Rosa (cocktail bar)

I have a longer list of my food and activity recommendations across the city. Comment “guide” and I’ll send it your way!

Chicago has 77 community areas, each with its own history, culture, and way or life. You deserve to see more of this incredible city, and I can’t wait to show you so you’ll go see for yourself.

#Chicago #Kenwood #chicagorestaurants taken in Chicago, Illinois by @lediatherealtor

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20 days ago

Earlier this week, Keller Williams ONEChicago hosted our 11th Annual Charity Golf Outing! It was a hilariously fun day of friendly competition, lots of golfing tips 🙃, and incredible company. (I’m no Tiger Woods just YET, but give me more practice.)

Thank you to everyone who came out to play a round, sponsored a hole, or donated to a worthy cause. This year, we raised funds for Shriners Hospitals for Children and Lydia Home, two organizations doing great work for kids and families in the Chicagoland area. Giving back to the community we serve is a huge part of who we are at KW, and I’m proud to be part of a team that actively shows up everyday.

If you’re interested in joining us next year as a golfer or sponsor, please let me know and I’ll keep you posted on registration. See you on the golf course!🏌🏾‍♀️

#KellerWilliams #KWONEChicago #golffundraiser #chicagorealtor taken in Hawthorn Woods Country Club by @lediatherealtor

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23 days ago

Mortgage interest rates just hit 7.03%*, the highest they’ve been since January 2025 🤯 If that number makes you want to remain on the sidelines, I understand — but know that you have more control here than it seems.

The right strategy and negotiation can lower what you actually pay in the short and long-term. No one can time the market, but you can take control of your interest rate today.

Here are the strategies I’m walking my buyers through right now: seller credits, interest rate buydowns, purchasing permanent points, and shopping rates. As long as you’re financially and mentally prepared for homeownership, we can build the right strategy and timeline that best suits >you<.

Comment below or DM “RATE” and let’s talk through your home search! Follow along and share with someone you know who is starting their homebuying journey and can use helpful tips.

*Note: This is based on Freddie Mac’s weekly average, which is updated each Thursday. You can find daily rates at Mortgage News Daily (currently showing 7.45% as of 9/24/26)

Le’Dia J. Smith, Licensed Real Estate Broker
📱 (773) 231-6180
📥 LeDiaSmith@kw.com

#chicagorealtor #mortgagerates #homebuyingprocess #firsttimehomebuyer #homeownership by @lediatherealtor

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24 days ago

Congratulations to my seller on the successful sale of her mother’s home in Chicago’s Rosemoor! This deal had all of the twists and turns you could imagine, but having constant, proactive communication with each party kept the deal moving through every challenge and my client at ease. Deals like this matter beyond the sale; they’re part of what keeps the South Side moving forward. Excited to see how this home is revitalized!

Wins to celebrate:
-Strong pricing strategy and negotiation resulted in a full-price offer within 7 days of listing
-Sold 91% faster than the average home in the area (7 days versus 79)
-Client was able to forego a short sale and walked away with a check
-Happy client 🙂‍↔️

If you’re thinking about a transition and buying/selling a home across the Chicagoland area, let’s strategize the best path forward. Book a free consultation or send a DM to get started 🤝🏾

Le’Dia J. Smith, Licensed Real Estate Broker
📱 (773) 231-6180
📥 LeDiaSmith@kw.com

#Chicago #chicagorealestate #DSCRloan #realestateinvestor taken in Chicago, Illinois by @lediatherealtor

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3 months ago

Summertime Chi really came in swinging with heat waves and monsoons 🥵 But alas, here are my top picks to get you out of the house and exploring Chicago’s best season because there’s endless things to do:

📚 Obama Presidential Center Museum: This incredible campus opened on Juneteenth and is a stunner! It’s free to visit the gardens, plazas, restaurants, and public art installations, as only tickets are needed for the museum. Pro tip: Sign up to become a Founding Member of the Obama Foundation for early access to reserve museum tickets this summer since general admission is currently sold out through November.

🎶 Chosen Few DJs Picnic and Music Festival: The world’s longest-running house music festival is right here in Jackson Park. Bring your coolers, lawn chairs, and grills, and jam with the city to our best house DJs.

🛼 Summer Skate at Navy Pier: Bring back the nostalgia! A seasonal retro ‘90s indoor skating rink with throwback music, disco lights, and arcade games. Adults only sessions during Skate After Dark on July 11th and 25th.

What are you looking forward to? Save this list and check back next month ☀️

#Chicago #thingstodoinChicago #exploreChicago taken in Chicago, Illinois by @lediatherealtor

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3 months ago