The real estate market in Chicago is mighty different from that of the Bay Area. Whereas we sold our Mountain View townhouse in one week in a four-way bidding war, our realtor here once thought it might take four to five months to get a reasonable offer. Property moves slower so buyers have slower expectations. Another interesting difference is that potential buyers have to make an appointment with our realtor in order to see the place and then he is here to show them around. There are no lock box viewings in Chicago.

Our house went on the market on Tuesday and we've had much more interest than he expected. Thursday night we spent the evening hiding out in Target petting the $300 life-like pony they are trying to sell in the toy department. Last night we walked over to Pat's for some pasta only the showings weren't quite over so, once we realized everyone was still in the house, we ran into the garage and let Simon drive the car until the coast was clear. The house has had a very positive response and some of the visitors have already scheduled second viewings for Sunday afternoon - all during nap time. Matthew says he will become a religious man if we end up with a bidding war situation - that is fairly unheard of in these parts. Hava is looking forward to celebrating the holidays this year with a religious man. Please cross your fingers.

And, for all of you who never made it out to visit, you can finally have a virtual tour!