Gagliardo Group, COMPASS

Gagliardo Group/Compass has over 30 licensed realtors who are highly recognized and respected in the River Forest and greater Chicago area. They are among the most knowledgeable real estate agents in the field with personal roots in the communities they serve, giving them an “at-home” advantage. They are equipped with excellent agents plus an experienced tech savvy support staff, offering agents and their clients unprecedented service.

Family owned since 1958

WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY

We had an absolutely fantastic experience working with Nicole to sell my father-in-law's condo in the heart of downtown Evanston. She was consistently professional, knowledgeable, and responsive through the entire process. Incredibly, we had a formal offer within just one hour of being on the market. Beyond her real estate expertise, Nicole is genuinely kind and always a pleasure to work with. Her profe...

— Kristina and Josh

WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY

Working with Nicole was an absolute pleasure! She made our entire process seamless and stress free and was incredibly patient with us over several weeks as we narrowed down our preferences. Nicole is knowledgeable, responsive, and always asked the right questions on our behalf; making sure we had all the information we needed to make the best decision! ☺️ We couldn't be more excited about our new place a...

— Veronica

WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY

Nicole was amazing from start to finish! She was super proactive about sending us options to look at through Compass, and made herself available on short notice to accompany us on tours. She walked us through the more complicated steps with ease and explained everything in an accessible way. When the time came to put in an application, she was again quick to the draw to help us get in our materials as p...

— Miranda

WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY

We were lucky enough to be connected with Colleen for our move from Chicago (West Loop) to Glen Ellyn. I can not say enough about how happy we were to have her help us through this process. She was professional and knowledgeable - but more importantly, she was on top of every little detail from the beginning to the end of the process (and even after we closed). She made sure we made the right decision f...

— Buyer

WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY

Colleen is a rare true professional in an industry of many who don't want to work for their commission. I have been a developer, builder and contractor for over 30 years and worked with Colleen on business projects as well as our personal home. Colleen is very thorough, prompt, communicates and goes the extra mile for every detail from inception to well after the closing. She works 24/7! You won't find a...

— Pete

WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY

Andy was absolutely fantastic to work with. Selling my home came with a lot of moving parts, and he made the entire process so much easier. He was knowledgeable, responsive, honest, and genuinely had my best interests in mind. I couldn’t have asked for a better realtor and would recommend him to anyone!

— Kelly K

Recent Blog Posts

Meet our team.

Sunny park path bordered by mature trees, clipped hedges, and flower beds.
Things You Might Not Know About Oak Park, IL

September 9, 2025

Uncovering the Rich History, Culture, and Charm of a Beloved Chicago Suburb.

Russet brick home entry with a glazed oak door, limestone steps, ivory bay window and autumn oakleaf hydrangea.
Who Keeps Winning Forest Park's Casket Races?

October 8, 2026

Brick two-flat with twin green doors, separate concrete stoops, and divided-light windows.
Melrose Park Housing: Single-Family and Multi-Family Market Snapshots

August 20, 2026

Brick bungalow with a recessed oak door, diagonal stone walk, and yellowing serviceberry above a rain-darkened garden.
Why Elmwood Park's Newest Bakery Skipped Restaurant Row

October 1, 2026

Two-story red-brown brick house with a deep columned porch, curving brick walkway, and broad lawn beneath mature trees.
Why Forest Park's Home Prices Haven't Caught Up to Oak Park and River Forest

September 3, 2026

Weathered garage gable with an X-braced carriage door, rusted hinge, and small four-pane window.
In Oak Park's Historic Districts, It's the Garage That Holds Up a Sale

August 13, 2026

Red-brick rowhouse with limestone trim, a green door, clipped shrubs, and fallen ginkgo leaves on the sidewalk.
Downtown Riverside Doesn't Get New Storefronts Often. This Year, It Got Two.

September 17, 2026

Brick-and-limestone home with a columned porch, beneath an oak canopy, beyond a broad lawn and boxwood hedge.
River Forest Fenced Off Three Parks This Year. Here's What Was Behind Each One.

September 24, 2026

A bluestone path curves past ornamental grasses beneath a purple beech tree, beside a red-brick house.
Riverside Turned 150. The Real Story Wasn't the Party, It Was Who Ran It

August 27, 2026

Brick bungalow with an enclosed glowing porch, a short front lawn, and autumn maple foliage at twilight.
Melrose Park's Halloween Runs on Three Different Calendars

October 15, 2026

Brick house with a limestone-capped porch, divided-lite windows, mature trees, and a curving paver walkway.
Why the Historic Tax Freeze on an Oak Park Listing Rarely Comes With the House

September 10, 2026

Two-story brick house with a large front-yard tree and walkway to the entrance.

River Forest

Living in River Forest, IL

September 19, 2024

Learn about the luxury of residing in the picturesque village of River Forest, Illinois.

Dining room with a round wooden table, glass-front cabinet, and tall plant.
Smart Ways to Add Storage to an Older Chicago-Area Home

October 2, 2026

Practical Storage Solutions for Vintage Homes in Oak Park, River Forest, and the Greater Chicago Area.

A person signs paperwork beside a model house and laptop at a wooden desk.

Real Estate

The Benefits of Working with a Local Real Estate Expert

April 9, 2025

Why local market knowledge makes all the difference in a successful transaction.

Dining room with a large garden-facing window, wooden table, and two pendant lights.
Tips for Moving Into an Older Home in the Greater Chicago Area: What to Inspect, Update, and Prioritize

September 29, 2026

Your Guide to Buying and Settling Into Older Homes in Oak Park, River Forest, and the Greater Chicago Area.

Neighborhood rooftops and autumn trees with the Chicago skyline in the distance.

Elmwood Park

From Elmwood Park to River Forest, Get to Know These 3 Illinois Communities

Andy Gagliardo  |  May 26, 2022

Here are three dynamic Chicago, IL, neighborhoods to consider during your search for your next home.

Bathroom with a gray double vanity, marble-tiled glass shower, and freestanding tub.
Bathroom Renovation Ideas That Add Value in Greater Chicago Homes

September 16, 2026

Smart Bathroom Upgrades That Pay Off Across Oak Park, River Forest, and the Greater Chicago Area.

Autumn sidewalk beneath large trees with vivid red and orange leaves.
A Weekend in River Forest: How Locals Actually Spend Their Time

September 23, 2026

A Local’s Guide to Parks, Restaurants, and Everyday Favorites.

Open sign hanging in a shop window above the word SHOP.

River Forest

11 Best Places to Shop in River Forest

August 6, 2024

The ultimate shopping guide for River Forest locals and visitors.

White and pink daisies among green foliage, with warm light filtering across the garden.
Spring and Summer: A Room-by-Room Checklist for Cleaning Your Home Before You List

May 29, 2026

Your Pre-Listing Guide for One of Chicago's Most Coveted Suburbs.

Two-story gray house with a covered porch, front steps, and dormer window.

Real Estate

Understanding What "Move-In Ready" Really Means and Whether It's Right for You

May 29, 2024

Discover the True Meaning of a Move-In Ready Home and Determine if It's the Right Choice For You in River Forest Real Estate.

Two people compare paint color swatches beside painting supplies on the floor.
How to Choose Paint Colors When Preparing Your Home for Sale in the Greater Chicago Area

September 1, 2026

A Practical Color Palette Guide for Oak Park and River Forest Home Sellers.

A hand holds house keys above a wooden table beside a miniature house.
How to Buy and Sell a Home at the Same Time in Oak Park or River Forest

September 1, 2026

Coordinating Two of the Biggest Moves of Your Life: Buying and Selling Real Estate in Oak Park or River Forest.

Dirt trail winding through a leafy woodland with tall trees and fallen logs.

River Forest

A Guide to River Forest Parks

July 22, 2024

Lose yourself in the placid atmosphere of these River Forest parks.

Red two-story house with a covered porch between neighboring homes on a leafy street.
Relocating to the Chicago Suburbs: Why River Forest Belongs on Your Shortlist

August 21, 2026

What Sets This Village Apart From the Rest of the West Suburbs.

House keys beside white HOME letters on burlap and a wood slice.
The Emotional Journey of Buying a Home in the Greater Chicago Area: What to Expect at Every Stage

August 21, 2026

The Feelings Behind the Biggest Purchase of Your Life: Buying a Home in the Greater Chicago Area.

White shaker kitchen with a quartz island, honed limestone backsplash, oak floor, and brass cabinet pulls.
Food, Fun, and Festivals In Melrose Park

July 9, 2026

Modern kitchen with dark cabinetry, stainless appliances, and a white veined stone island.
Kitchen Updates That Actually Pay Off When You Sell

August 11, 2026

Where Smart Renovation Dollars Go Furthest.

Bright living room with built-in shelves, wicker chairs, and large windows.
Staging a Home on a Budget: High-Impact Changes That Cost Almost Nothing

August 11, 2026

Small Moves, Big Returns Before You List.

Brick porch corner with turned column, glowing divided-light window, hanging lantern, and flowering hydrangeas.
What to Do in Oak Park Before Summer Ends

August 6, 2026

White double window with sheer curtains overlooking a leafy lawn and trees.
Natural Light Tips for Older Homes: Brightening Up Classic Chicago-Area Architecture

August 6, 2026

Bringing Sunlight Back Into Bungalows, Foursquares, and Vintage Charm.

Navy door with brass hardware and glowing glass, framed by red brick, concrete steps, and late-summer hydrangeas.
The Taste of Elmwood Park, Read as a Map of The Circle

August 6, 2026

A hand passes house keys with a small wooden house keychain over paperwork.

Negotiation

5 Real Estate Negotiation Strategies from an Expert

September 25, 2024

Mastering the art of negotiation in real estate transactions.

Organized garage workshop with wall-mounted tools and shelves of storage bins and supplies.
Garage Organization Ideas That Add Real Value to Your Home

July 23, 2026

Smart Storage Strategies That Pay Off When You Sell.

Painted entry and limestone stoop beneath a projecting brick bay window and mature tree canopy.
Elmwood Park Real Estate Market Overview For Buyers

July 23, 2026

A couple celebrates moving into a bright living room, holding boxes beside a covered sofa and unpacked cartons.
Moving to Oak Park, IL: What to Know Before You Relocate

August 22, 2025

Explore the neighborhoods, schools, housing market, and community lifestyle that make moving to Oak Park, IL a smart and rewarding decision.

Rear patio with bluestone paving, a brick facade, French doors, limestone details, and hydrangeas.
Step-By-Step Guide To Selling Your Melrose Park Home

July 16, 2026

A red SOLD sign stands before a blurred two-story house.
When Is the Best Time to Sell a House?

September 9, 2025

Understanding Market Timing in the Greater Chicago Area.

Landscaped garden with a winding flagstone path, colorful flowers, and a wooden bench.
How to Design an Outdoor Living Space That Extends Your Home's Appeal

July 7, 2026

Make the Most of Every Square Foot, Inside and Out.

Paintbrushes, a roller, and masking tape on a plastic drop cloth.
The Best Upgrades to Make Before Listing — and the Ones to Skip

July 7, 2026

Spend Smart, Sell Faster: A Pre-Listing Guide for Oak Park Sellers.

Wooden house cutout beside five rising stacks of coins on a reflective surface.

Real Estate

Decoding The Relationship Between Home Age And Market Value

June 17, 2025

How the age of a property influences buyer perception, market pricing, and investment potential.

Oak entry door with leaded-glass panels beside a staircase, limestone threshold, and potted aspidistra.
Guide To Buying A Historic Home In Riverside

July 2, 2026

Bright white kitchen with a large island, six bar stools, and sliding glass doors to a green yard.
What Buyers Are Really Looking For in River Forest, IL, Homes Right Now

July 1, 2026

Smart Updates That Help Sellers Maximize Their Home's Value.

Red-brick house with a limestone porch, curved brick walkway, clipped shrubs, and mature trees.
Everyday Life In Riverside’s Historic Village

June 25, 2026

Living room with white brick fireplace, oak ceiling beams, and sofa beside tall windows.
Forest Park vs Oak Park For Your Next Home

June 18, 2026

Brick and limestone porch with warm light glowing through the window.
Exploring Dining and Nightlife In Forest Park

June 11, 2026

Real Estate

Real Estate Financing 101: Understanding the Basics

August 6, 2024

Mapping out the paths you might take to homeownership.

Person marking an architectural plan with a pen at a desk beside a laptop.
6 Tips for Hiring a Remodeling Contractor

January 20, 2026

Remodel With Confidence: Your Guide To Hiring The Right Professional.

Open-plan kitchen with gray cabinets, a large wood island, and pendant lights beside a bright living area.
6 Amenities that Increase Home Value in Oak Park, IL

January 20, 2026

Most Impactful Home Upgrades: Stand Out, Sell Fast, and Maximize Value.

Person reviewing printed charts and paperwork, holding a pen over a document.
How to Set the Right Price for Your Home in Today's Market

December 18, 2025

Get ready to achieve your real estate goals with a strategic pricing plan.

People shake hands over real estate paperwork, with a model house and keys on the table.
How to Know You've Found the Right Real Estate Team to Sell Your Oak Park, IL, Home

December 16, 2025

Trust your Oak Park home sale to the team with the expertise, reputation, and relentless drive to achieve your goals.

Large stone-and-brick house with steep gables, an arched entrance, and landscaped front yard.

Selling

How to Get the Best Price for Your River Forest, Illinois Home

Andy Gagliardo  |  March 23, 2022

Finding the right time to sell, working with an experienced agent, and updating your home are all ways to help you get the best possible price for your River Forest ho… Read more

Living room with a deep green curved sofa against white paneled walls and built-in shelving.
Why You Should Work With an Interior Designer in River Forest, IL

October 30, 2025

How local design professionals add value, beauty, and functionality to River Forest homes.

Quiet residential street lined with homes and mature trees in autumn.
Living in Oak Park, IL

November 12, 2025

A Vibrant Village with Timeless Character and Urban Convenience.

Woman in a red shirt cleaning a rain-speckled window with a squeegee.
How to Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal in One Weekend

November 12, 2025

Simple, High-Impact Updates to Make Your Home Stand Out.

Rows of paint color swatches in a spectrum of bright hues.
The Science of Color: How to Choose Paint Tones for Every Room

October 30, 2025

Understanding the psychology, lighting, and design principles behind how to choose colors for a room.

Two-story brick home with an attached garage, landscaped lawn, flowering tulips, and mature trees.

Selling

Top 6 Things to Know Before Selling Your Home

Andy Gagliardo  |  August 7, 2022

Prepare with these six steps before you sell.

Two white Adirondack chairs face the ocean from a deck at sunset.

Improvements

Make the Most of Your Outdoor Living Space with These 10 Updates

Andy Gagliardo  |  September 20, 2022

Enjoy the outdoors from the comfort of your home.

Modern kitchen with a veined marble island, light wood cabinets, and black pendant lights.

Improvements

Top 8 Kitchen Renovations Homebuyers Want

Andy Gagliardo  |  May 2, 2022

A luxury kitchen goes beyond the big features and incorporates even the smallest details.

An agent shows a family a bright kitchen with wood cabinetry and open shelving.

Buying

What to Look for During an Open House

Andy Gagliardo  |  September 21, 2022

Here are trusted tips and tricks for navigating open houses.

A couple loads moving boxes into the open trunk of a car.

Moving

How to Make Sure You’re Ready to Relocate

Andy Gagliardo  |  October 8, 2022

Assessing motivations and considerations for relocating.

Gray two-story house with a red front door, covered porch, and flowering trees.

Investing

Why Invest in River Forest Real Estate?

Andy Gagliardo  |  July 11, 2022

With prices falling and inventory rising near Chicago, now’s a good time to invest in River Forest real estate.

Woman with a small white dog in an open car trunk beside golden autumn trees.

River Forest

4 Day Trips From River Forest, IL

September 19, 2024

Explore the best day trip destinations within a short drive from River Forest, Illinois.

Living room with white seating, a leather ottoman, large windows, and a wood-plank ceiling.

Selling

Ultimate Guide to Selling Your House in River Forest

August 6, 2024

A Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners Looking to Sell Their Property in River Forest, IL.

Large brick-and-stucco home with multiple gables, landscaped flower beds, and a broad lawn.

Selling

When is the Best Time to Sell a House?

May 2, 2023

Could timing affect your bottom line? Here’s when you should sell your home for the best ROI.

Bright hallway with built-in bookshelves, a louvered closet, and a view into the kitchen.

River Forest

The Ultimate Guide to Flipping Houses in River Forest

August 6, 2024

Discover Comprehensive Insights and Expert Tips for Flipping Houses in River Forest, IL, to Maximize Your Investment and Achieve Lucrative Returns.

Person holding signs reading “Sale Pending” and “SOLD” outside a home.
Ultimate Guide to Selling Your House in River Forest, IL

August 22, 2025

A complete guide to selling a house in River Forest, IL—from pricing strategy to closing day—designed for homeowners who want maximum value and a smooth experience.

Covered blue-sided porch with black entry door, white wicker seating, and leafy garden views.
How to Maintain Your House's Foundation

July 28, 2025

Practical Strategies for Protecting Your Home’s Structural Heart.

Couple celebrates moving into a new home with their dog and a set of keys.
​​Tips for Moving with Pets

July 28, 2025

Essential Advice for a Smooth and Stress-Free Pet Relocation.

A suited person holds a miniature house during a meeting about real estate.
Why You Need a Listing Page When Selling Your Oak Park, IL, Home

July 28, 2025

Maximize Exposure and Engage Buyers with a Dedicated Online Presence.

Backpacker crossing a wooden bridge over a stream in a dense evergreen forest.

River Forest

Hiking in River Forest, IL

April 9, 2025

Explore scenic trails and nature escapes in this picturesque Chicago suburb.

Woman in a mustard-yellow sweater taking a photograph with a DSLR camera among trees.

Selling

6 Photography Secrets to Make Your River Forest, IL Home Stand Out

June 4, 2025

Maximize visual appeal and attract more buyers with expert photography techniques.

A man writes in a notebook while a woman in overalls looks on in a bright home.

Selling

Everything You Need to Know About Getting Your Home Inspected Before Selling

June 4, 2025

How a pre-sale inspection can streamline your sale and increase buyer confidence.

White house behind leafy landscaping and large clusters of blue hydrangeas.

Design

The Role of Landscaping in Boosting Your Home's Aesthetic Appeal

June 4, 2025

Enhancing curb appeal and property value through thoughtful outdoor design.

Home office with green walls, a wooden desk, computer, and bright curtained window.

Design

Essential Home Office Design Tips

June 17, 2025

Creating a productive, comfortable, and elegant workspace within your home.

Three yellow and white smiley-face tags hang on a metal mesh fence.

Selling

The Emotional Side Of Selling A Home

June 17, 2025

Navigating the personal complexities behind one of life’s biggest financial decisions.

Red open house sign with a right-pointing arrow on a glass door.

Selling

The Art of the Open House: How to Win Over Buyers in One Visit

April 9, 2025

Maximize impact and create a lasting impression in a single showing.

An OPEN sign hangs above the word SHOP in a warmly lit storefront window.

River Forest

River Forest Business Spotlight: Showcasing Local Businesses and Entrepreneurs

January 3, 2025

A showcase of five notable local businesses in the suburban enclave of River Forest.

Christmas cookies on a cooling rack beside a rolling pin, cookie cutters, and a plate of meringues.

River Forest

Festive Events and Traditions in and around River Forest, IL

December 12, 2024

Exploring the magic of the holiday season in River Forest.

Brick home’s rear exterior with a raised deck, enclosed sunroom, and patio seating.

River Forest

Education Excellence: Overview of Schools in River Forest, IL

December 4, 2024

Top-Tier Educational Opportunities that Make this Community a Prime Place to Live.

Two-story brick and stucco house with a covered entry, landscaped lawn, and front steps.

Activities

Arts and Culture: Immersing Yourself in River Forest's Creative Scene

November 26, 2024

Explore the Rich Tapestry of Artistic and Cultural Experiences in this Charming Suburb.

Person swinging in a leafy garden, viewed from behind with their shoe soles facing the camera.

Activities

Family-Friendly Activities in River Forest, IL

November 7, 2024

Discover Fun and Engaging Experiences for the Whole Family in this Charming Community.

Tudor-style brick and stone house with a tall chimney, landscaped garden, and curved brick walkway.

River Forest

River Forest Real Estate Market Trends

November 7, 2024

Exploring the Current Patterns and What They Mean for Buyers and Sellers.

Couple compares paint swatches and a tablet while planning a home renovation.

Improvements

Tips for Hiring a Remodeling Contractor

September 25, 2024

A guide to finding the right professional for your home renovation.

Modern bathroom with a freestanding tub, white pebble floor, and tropical palm.

Design

Luxury Home Design Trends for 2025

September 25, 2024

Exploring the future of luxury living.

Laptop displaying Google on a wooden garden table, with a smartphone beside it.

Real Estate

6 Most Googled Questions About Real Estate in 2024

September 19, 2024

Understanding the current real estate landscape by exploring the most searched questions.

A hand holds a pen above real estate paperwork beside a small house model.

Real Estate

How to Find a Real Estate Agent

September 19, 2024

Choosing the right real estate agent is crucial for a successful buying or selling experience.

Tudor-style brick and stone home with a chimney and curved brick walkway through landscaped gardens.

Buying

How to Buy a Luxury Home

September 19, 2024

Purchasing a luxury home in River Forest, IL, requires careful planning, expert guidance, and an understanding of the unique aspects of the local market.

Family walks along a leafy park path, with a young boy riding on his father's shoulders.

River Forest

Things To Do in River Forest, IL

September 19, 2024

Discover a variety of activities and experiences in the charming area of River Forest, Illinois.

Modern living room with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking water and a distant city skyline.
Home Remodel Tips for a Successful Renovation

December 22, 2023

Embracing Chicago's Charm: A Journey Through Home Renovation.

Modern house at night beside a swimming pool and raised square spa.

Buying

The Differences Between Buying A Second Home vs Investment Property

March 26, 2024

Navigating the Nuances: Deciphering Between Second Homes and Investment Properties.

Two-story brick home with a broad roof, arched entrance, and landscaped front lawn.

River Forest

Architectural Landmarks in River Forest

July 22, 2024

The town includes several houses designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.

Plated restaurant dish topped with greens and pastry, served beside wine glasses and bread.

River Forest

5 Best Restaurants in River Forest

August 6, 2024

A culinary journey through River Forest's finest dining spots.

Yellow brick home with dark trim, steep roof, attached garage, and landscaped front garden.

River Forest

Everything You Need to Know About Moving to River Forest

August 6, 2024

Essential information about relocating to this charming village.

Tudor-style home with a brick-and-stone facade, arched entry, upper balcony, and manicured front lawn.

Buying

Secrets to Buying a Home in River Forest Right Now

May 1, 2023

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or you’re relocating to the area, here’s everything you need to know about buying River Forest real estate.

Bright white kitchen with a marble island, built-in wine refrigerators, black stools, and geometric pendant lights.

Improvements

The Best ROI Home Improvements for Your Home

August 10, 2023

Savvy homeowners seek the best return on investment in home improvement projects that complement their surroundings.

Modern living room with a floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace and large garden-facing windows.
Open House Tips for Sellers Who Want to Host the Perfect Showing

August 24, 2023

Unveiling the secrets of a successful open house – a comprehensive guide for sellers.

Two-story light brick house with dark shutters, attached garage, and curved garden walkway.

Selling

Everything You Need to Know about Getting Your Home Inspected Before Selling

November 22, 2023

A comprehensive guide to streamlining your sale process with a home inspection.

Two-story brick house with white-trimmed entrance, landscaped shrubs, and a curved walkway across the lawn.

Elmwood Park

Buying a Home in Elmwood Park

October 5, 2023

Elmwood Park: A Homebuyer’s Guide

Work With Us