About BuildSmart — Western Suburbs Edition
The Western Suburbs' Only Publication Dedicated to New Construction
BuildSmart is the independent new construction report for Chicago's western suburbs — presented by Sergio Sells Chicagoland. No builder pays for coverage. No opinions are for sale.
Why this publication exists
When Sergio Zgrzebski started representing buyers in new construction transactions, he noticed a problem: buyers were walking into model homes completely unprepared. They didn't know which builders had the best warranty track records, which communities had HOA issues, or how to negotiate closing cost assistance.
Real estate websites were full of listings but short on honest analysis. Builder websites were marketing, not journalism. There was no independent voice for the buyer.
BuildSmart was created to fill that gap — a publication that treats home buyers like intelligent adults who deserve real information, not sales pitches.
Editorial principle
"No builder pays for coverage. No opinions are for sale. Every recommendation is made solely in the interest of the buyer."
— BuildSmart editorial policy
Sergiusz "Sergio" Zgrzebski, REALTOR®
Founder & Lead Editor
Keller Williams Premiere Properties
Originally from Gdynia, Poland, Sergio immigrated to the US in 2002 after earning his journalism degree in Warsaw, then pursued TV production at Columbia College Chicago. He spent nearly twenty years as a general assignment reporter and anchor for WPVN Polvision TV — a background that gave him an encyclopedic knowledge of the Chicagoland area and a talent for translating complex information into clear, actionable guidance. Licensed since 2015 and based in Glen Ellyn at Keller Williams Premiere Properties, Sergio has closed over $80 million in real estate, specializing in new construction across DuPage, Kane, and Cook counties. He has personally toured hundreds of model homes, reviewed dozens of builder contracts, and helped buyers navigate every major new construction community in Chicago's western suburbs.
What we stand for
Independent
No builder pays for coverage or placement. Editorial decisions are made solely on what's useful to buyers.
Honest
Sergio shares his real opinions — including when a builder has problems or a community isn't worth the price.
Local
Every article, guide, and community profile is written by someone who actually tours these communities and reads these contracts.
Exclusive to BuildSmart
The ClimateScore™
Every community and home profile on BuildSmart carries a ClimateScore — a 1–10 rating that tells buyers how resilient and sustainable a property is before they sign.
Weatherproofing
Insulation ratings, window efficiency, roof materials, storm resistance, and builder-standard energy envelope. A well-sealed home costs less to heat and cool — and holds its value longer.
Electricity & Energy
Solar panel availability or pre-wiring, backup power generator options, EV charging readiness, and the builder's standard HERS score. Energy independence is increasingly a buyer priority.
Environmental Factors
Flood zone designation, proximity to industrial sites, tree canopy and green space, community stormwater management, and long-term climate risk for the specific location.
How scores are assigned
Each factor is weighted and scored by Sergio based on builder disclosures, community data, and on-site assessments. Scores range from 1 (significant concerns) to 10 (exceptional sustainability). A score of 7+ indicates a property well-positioned for long-term value and lower operating costs.
Get in touch
Whether you have a question about a community, want to schedule a tour, or have a tip for the publication — Sergio reads every message.