$170,433Average Value$121Average Price per Sq Ft85Homes For Sale
Plentiful greenspace and access to Chicago
Surrounded by nearly 400 acres of lush, public green space, the village of Park Forest is appropriately named. But open air isn’t all that this town 25 miles south of Chicago offers its residents. The community makes an effort to honor the legacy of service members, as the suburb was originally planned as a housing community for World War II veterans and their families. “Yes, there are a lot of parks here,” says Nina Kendrick, a former Park Forest local and Broker at Luxe Living Realty. “But it’s the affordability and community-mindedness that really draw people in. Plus, it’s equidistant to two major interstates, making the commutes pretty easy.”
New subdivisions are rising across Park Forest, expanding choices throughout the community.
Residents fish and unwind by the one-acre pond at Somonauk Park in Park Forest.
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Mid-century ranch houses and townhomes
A walk along the sidewalks lining Park Forest’s wide residential streets will reveal mature trees, tidy lawns and well-maintained homes with personal driveways and attached garages. Ranch houses and Split levels with Mid-century modern styles range from 1,000 to 2,000 square feet in size and around $125,000 to $300,000 in price, while 1,000-square-foot townhomes can go for $50,000 to $100,000. “Park Forest is a great place for someone looking for their first home,” says Margaret Banks, a Broker at Home Sellers Realty with 30 years of experience in the area. “And for those who want something even more affordable, there are townhomes and co-op communities where the properties have private porches and full basements.”
Park Forest offers ample yards, private driveways, and garages.
Newer townhomes with two-car garages are available in Park Forest, many under $150K.
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Community excitement at Central Park
Central Park, with its impressive grasslands and arched bridges over preserved wetlands, provides outdoor excitement for the whole family. “People love using the tennis courts, dog park and walking trails through the forest preserve,” Kendrick says. “And the Park Forest Aqua Center at the park has a popular community pool that’s open to the public. The park also hosts a few parades throughout the year, like the Fourth of July parade and a silent parade honoring fallen firefighters.” Banks adds that all the events are free. “All you had to do is bring your lawn chair and cooler.” Somonauk Park is in the midst of an $800,000 renovation, which will include a fishing pond, kayaking and zip lines. Residents looking to experience the quiet and serenity of nature can walk the 20-mile Thorn Creek Trail through the undisturbed forested area of the preserve.
Central Park in Park Forest delights with scenic trails and charming footbridges.
Residents enjoy tranquil waterside views at Somonauk Park in Park Forest.
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Wineglasses at Vintrendi and music on Main
Folks sip on the wine of their choice at Vintrendi, which conveniently sits next to Dining on the Green, an event space and banquet hall that overlooks gardens and a gazebo. In the heart of Park Forest is a quaint downtown area, where the Main Street Nights festival is held from June to August. Free of charge, residents can jam to jazz, funk and R&B while local and upcoming artists – as well as well-known musicians like CeCe Peniston and Chicago blues legend John Primer – grace the stage.
Sip wine with a charcuterie board at Vintrendi Wine Company in downtown Park Forest.
Dining on the Green is a downtown Park Forest event space and banquet hall.
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Local eats and cocktails near Main Street
Park Forest residents can grab drinks, turkey burgers and tacos while they watch the game at Stacy’s Bistro, a local spot that also hosts Karaoke Thursdays. On Main Street, locals enjoy classic barbeque take-out plates at All-Out Smoke Pit. Nail and hair salons, boutiques and more restaurants are also on Main Street. Groceries and essentials can be picked up nearby, as Walmart, Food4Less and Aldi all line Lincoln Highway on the north side of town.
All Out Smoke Pit in Park Forest serves classic, slow-smoked ribs and barbecue.
Locals gather for good food and good times at Stacy’s Bistro in Park Forest.
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Taking the Metra or I-57 into the city
Commutes into Chicago are no sweat, as Interstate 57 trails the western part of town and Interstate 294 is just north. “People can also take the Metra into the city. The train picks up along the west side of Park Forest,” Kendrick adds. Bus riders take advantage of the Pace bus that services most of the area.
Public school focus on Arts and Technology
Students living in Park Forest can spend their early years at Mohawk Primary Center, which receives a B-minus from Niche. Michelle Obama School of Technology and the Arts, also graded a B-minus, supports middle-grade learners’ focus on academics, arts and technology. Students can then advance to Bloom High School, which Niche grades a C-plus and ranks in the top half of best high schools for athletes in Illinois.
Mohawk Primary Center near Park Forest offers a 13:1 student-teacher ratio.
Michelle Obama School of Technology and the Arts supports Park Forest learners.
Bloom High School offers a well-rounded, enriching path for Park Forest students.
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Written By
Dana Chesser
Photography Contributed By
Justin Schmidt
Video By
Joan Wall
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Araceli Montalvo,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Park Forest, IL sell after 50 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Park Forest, IL over the last 12 months is $154,000, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome home to your dream oasis! This stunningly updated 3-bedroom, 3-bath residence embodies luxury, comfort, and privacy at every turn. As you approach, a picturesque paver walkway welcomes you home to a serene backyard retreat, expertly designed for relaxation and entertainment. Step inside to discover an elegant, open, and airy layout brimming with quality upgrades. The inviting space
Welcome to a beautifully refreshed split-level home offering the perfect combination of space, style, affordability, and homeownership opportunity. One of the most exciting features of this offering is the seller's $10,000 closing cost credit for qualified buyers, a substantial incentive that can dramatically reduce the cash needed to purchase a home. For many FHA buyers, total out-of-pocket
Fully renovated in 2024, this move-in ready 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers modern updates and stylish finishes throughout. The spacious floor plan features an updated kitchen, renovated bathrooms, a large living room perfect for entertaining, and a spacious primary bedroom. Conveniently located in the heart of Park Forest, just steps from the Park Forest Public Library, parks, schools, shopping,
First floor bedroom with direct exterior entrance and adjacent full bath make a perfect in-law suite, private home office, or possibly even an AirBNB space. Entire home is nicely updated with new kitchen cabinets and counters and new stainless steel appliances and even a washer and dryer are included. Easy care plank flooring throughout (no carpet here!) and fresh paint throughout. Fully updated
Move right in and enjoy this beautifully updated home! The spacious interior features newer appliances, granite countertops, white shaker cabinetry, updated flooring throughout, six panel doors, custom window blinds, recessed lighting, and a stylish bathroom complete with a large linen closet. Thoughtfully designed and impeccably maintained, the home shows like a professionally staged model while
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Excellent opportunity to own a freshly updated home in Park Forest. The property is located on a large lot and has a large family home with a wood-burning fireplace. Newly updated kitchen and bathrooms, new carpet, and within a close proximity to shopping and restaurants. This is an excellent value for the price!
**Serious seller says sell - price reduced $20,000!**From the moment you enter this originally designed and completely reimagined two-story home, you'll appreciate the thoughtful updates and inviting atmosphere. Within its approximately 2,744 square feet, the current owner has seamlessly combined the home's original architectural elements and one-of-a-kind custom details with thoughtful modern
Vacant 3.95 acre lot at the end of Central Park Ave. Great single family homesite or it looks like there are a dozen (12 )duplex lots with water and sewer stubbed in on Tamarack street (this is the South West portion of the property). corporate seller says lets make a deal ! Estate homes on one side and duplex product on the other. If you are looking for a small infill project or a great single
Tired of the rental safari? Discover comfort and stability in this budget-friendly ranch featuring a cozy, efficiently designed interior. Step inside to a relaxing living room with a large bay window and brand-new carpeting that continues throughout the hallway and all three bedrooms. Fully equipped eat-in kitchen showcases classic wood cabinetry accented by practical wainscoting and conveniently
Welcome to this well-maintained and spacious home located on a quiet residential block in Chicago's South Deering neighborhood. This charming property offers the perfect blend of comfort, functionality, and opportunity-ideal for homeowners and investors alike. Inside, you'll find a bright and inviting layout with generous living spaces, large windows that fill the home with natural light, and a
Great opportunity in Park Forest! This 3-bedroom, 1.5 bath home offers solid potential for buyers looking to add their personal touch or investors seeking their next project. The property features a functional layout, spacious living area, and generous yard space. Additional living space added to home, can be used as a family room. With some updates and repairs, this home has the potential to
This cozy and affordable 2-bedroom, 1-bath ranch-style home is the perfect opportunity for a first-time buyer, downsizer, or savvy investor. This one-story home features a spacious layout, stainless steel appliances, and an in-unit washer and dryer plus NO steps! The large backyard is perfect for savoring slow days, gardening or entertaining and features 1 car detached garage. Updates include
Welcome to this beautiful split-level home nestled on a quiet block, offering the perfect blend of comfort and modern updates. This home features 3 spacious bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms along with a bright, open floor concept that creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. The large kitchen is perfect for cooking and gathering, featuring quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a
Opportunity awaits at 435 Victory Drive in Park Forest! This 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers a spacious layout and strong potential for an owner-occupant, investor, or rehabber looking to add value. The property will be conveyed vacant, providing a blank canvas for your renovation vision. Photos have been digitally enhanced to showcase the home's potential after improvements. Located in an
Discover the perfect blend of suburban tranquility and city convenience at Westbridge Apartments in Park Forest, IL. With just 12,000 residents, this peaceful community offers easy access to Chicago through convenient car routes and Metra service. Explore the green spaces of Park Forest, including Sauk Trail Woods and the Old Plank Trail for hiking and cycling adventures. Choose from our range of
Oakwood Townhomes – Space, Privacy, and ComfortStep into the comfort of townhome living at Oakwood Townhomes. Offering spacious 1, 2, and 3 bedroom floor plans, each home is designed with multiple levels of living space, private entrances, and thoughtful features that bring a true sense of home.Located in a quiet residential setting, Oakwood provides the privacy you want with the
Apply now or schedule your self-tour today and take the first step toward getting more than just a place to live. Rent with FirstKey Homes for a home that's right for you, plus professional service and maintenance, innovative resident programs, and more; that's the power of purple!This 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom rental home in Park Forest, IL, has a lot to offer; does it check all your boxes?
Lease this home and get more from Invitation Homes professional property management. This home comes fully loaded with quality amenities, must-have services, high-end tech and ProCare® professional maintenance. Your estimated total monthly payment is $2139.90. That covers your base rent, $1995.00 + our required services designed to make your life easier: Air Filter Delivery Fee ($9.95), Internet
Discover this well-maintained 3-bedroom, 1-bath home in Park Forest, IL, featuring hardwood floors, hardwood cabinets, and granite kitchen counters. The living area highlights a fireplace and floor-to-ceiling windows that bring in abundant light, while large windows throughout enhance the open feel. The kitchen includes a stove/oven and fridge, and the bathroom offers a soaking tub. Additional
Welcome to this well-maintained and move-in ready 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom rental home offering comfort, convenience, and functionality. This inviting residence features a spacious layout designed for everyday living, with generously sized bedrooms that provide a warm and comfortable atmosphere with carpeting throughout each room. The home has been updated with newer light fixtures, adding a fresh
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Tameka AndersonAlways Home Real Estate Services LLC
Absolutely Lovely 3 Bedroom 2 Bath Rental. Renovated Ranch Home with an amazing floor plan! Features include a Fabulous 24x23 Primary bedroom with an ensuite bath and 2 large closets, spacious living room that opens into a modern kitchen with Stainless Steel appliances, skylight and wood ceilings to add character! In the family room you will fall in love with the classic wood beam ceilings and
Don't miss this nice cozy home for rent, recently rehabbed. Fenced yard, side drive to the 2-car garage, no stairs or carpet to deal with, furnished with Stove, Refrigerator, Dishwasher. Central Air will be installed. Park Forest voucher accepted. This property is available for immediate occupancy. There is no Security Deposit, there is a non-refundable move-in fee. Don't hesitate, schedule your
Tucked away in the sought-after Maynegaite community of Olympia Fields, this executive rental offers space, privacy, and a layout designed for both everyday living and entertaining. Set on an oversized lot just south of the historic Olympia Fields Country Club and conveniently located near US Route 30 (Lincoln Highway) and Indiana Street, this home features 4 spacious bedrooms and 3 bathrooms
Alyssa Reils@properties Christie's International Real Estate
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