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Which housing type fits your personality?
September 5, 2008

Which TV show's house would be the best for you? "Dynasty," "Desperate Housewives," "The Cosby Show," "The Jetsons," "Dallas," or "Real World"?

With seven whimsical questions like this, an online survey examines how emotional instincts determine major decisions, such as the types of homes people choose to live in.

"Before visiting an open house or speaking with a sales associate, consumers research and collaborate online in what we call the 'dreaming phase' of the homebuying process," says Michael Fischer, senior vice president/marketing for Coldwell Banker Real Estate. "By delivering this fun and informative 'Housetrology' quiz on Facebook and on our Web site, we're helping future homeowners dream and identify the kinds of homes they like most."

Key findings:

• Seventy-eight percent believe quality of home is more important than square footage.

• 12 percent of respondents knew their house was "the one" -- even before stepping inside. After visiting just once, that figure rose to 51 percent. That makes a strong statement regarding curb appeal.

"I've seen how emotions can influence major life decisions such as finding a home," said Dr. Ruth Peters, a family psychologist, Coldwell Banker consultant and special correspondent on NBC's "Today" show. "And while validating our emotions and trusting instincts are important, it's essential to look past emotional triggers like perfect white picket fences, and consider practical factors as well to make the most informed decision for your family."

Two-thirds of Facebook correspondents fell into the quiz's Urbanist or Contemporarian categories. Urbanists "say 'no thanks' to minivans, puppies and 2.5 children, and prefer culture, chic decor and lofty views."

Contemporarians "crave open, light-filled spaces, high ceilings and majestic nature views, and love to bring the outside in by using natural materials."

Housetrology quiz: http://www.coldwellbanker.com/housetrology

Rental expo

The Chicago Department of Housing and Chicago Rents Right will host the upcoming Rental Housing Expo on the Near West Side.

The City of Chicago in partnership with organizations that represent both tenants and landlords formed the Chicago Rents Right program to educate Chicagoans about the rental process.

Bilingual workshops for landlords and tenants will provide information on conflict resolution, housing discrimination and common building code violations.

The free event will be Sept. 20 at Malcolm X College, 1900 W. Van Buren. Hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Dozens of exhibitors, including government and community agencies, banks, insurance companies, developers of rental housing and property managers, will be on hand.

Protection for renters who live in buildings that have gone into foreclosure will be discussed as well.

Fifth annual Rental Housing Expo. Visit http://www.cityofchicago.org/,or Chicago Rents Right, (312) 742-RENT.

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