Real Estate Blog - December, 2024

Simple Steps To Help You Save for Your First Home

Turning a dream into reality starts with one thing: a plan. And if buying your first home is on your list of goals, now’s the perfect time to put a plan in motion to help you save.

And the best part? Reaching your savings goal doesn’t mean making huge sacrifices overnight – small, consistent steps can get you there over time. Here are a few strategies that can help speed up the process.

Step 1: Build a Budget That Works for You

Knowing where your money’s going is the first step to saving more of it. Take some time to track the money you’ve got coming in and going out. This helps you spot areas where you're spending more than you realize. It also helps to give yourself some guidelines on what you want to spend for groceries, gas, and more – try to…

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How Eco-Friendly Features Can Boost Your Home’s Value

Selling your house? Or just looking to increase the value and appeal of your home for when you do? Here’s something you should know – homebuyers are increasingly looking for homes with environmentally friendly features.

What Energy Efficient Features Do Buyers Want?

According to recent data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), when buyers think about eco-friendly features, they’re looking for (see visual below):

• Heating and cooling costs: 82% of buyers consider heating and cooling costs to be one of the most important factors when looking for a home. And efficient heating and cooling systems with programmable thermostats can significantly lower monthly energy bills.
• Windows and doors with proper insulation: These help…

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Discover Your Dream Townhome at 251 Bennett Dr in Easton Park, Carol Stream

251 Bennett Dr, Carol Stream, IL

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Experience the Best of Townhome Living at 251 Bennett Dr in Easton Park, Carol Stream! Nestled in the highly desirable community, this sunlit, end-unit townhome is the perfect blend of style and functionality. Boasting 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and an English lower-level living area, this 1,982 sq. ft. gem offers room for everyone. The main level features an open-concept floor plan with soaring vaulted ceilings in the kitchen, living, and dining areas. The chef's kitchen is a dream with 42" cabinets, granite…

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Why More Sellers Are Hiring a Real Estate Agent

Some Highlights

• More homeowners are realizing they need an agent’s help in this complex market – and that’s why a record-low number of people are selling without a pro by their side.
• Without an agent’s help, tackling pricing, staging and repairs, paperwork, negotiation, and more can be a real headache.
• Selling without a pro isn’t worth the hassle. Let’s connect to see if we’d work well together.

Originally posted at Simplifying The Market.

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Prime St. Charles Living: Spacious 4-Bedroom Home Near Parks & Schools

3106 Charlemagne Ln, St Charles, IL

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Welcome to 3106 Charlemagne Lane in beautiful St. Charles, Illinois! This stunning 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom two-story home is a true gem, offering modern updates, newer mechanicals, a newer roof, charming curb appeal, and a highly sought-after location. Situated on a landscaped, fenced lot, the home features a spacious 3-car attached garage and a welcoming front porch. The backyard is a private oasis with a huge deck, patio, and plenty of room for outdoor fun. Step inside to discover…

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What’s Motivating More Buyers To Choose a Newly Built Home?

Planning to buy a home soon? Why not go for something brand-new? Because data shows a lot more buyers are seeing the appeal of new home construction these days – and you may find out it’s what you want too.

The National Association of Realtors (NAR), explains that newly built homes accounted for 15% of all homes sold last year. That’s a significant increase, and is actually the highest percentage in 17 years (see graph below):

To get a closer look at why so many people are opting for a brand-new home, NAR surveyed recent buyers. And here are the top reasons why new builds gained so much popularity (see graph below):

 Avoiding Renovations or Problems with Plumbing or Electricity (42%)

According to buyers, the number one benefit is the peace of…

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The Personal Joys of Having a Home To Call Your Own

There’s no doubt that owning a home comes with significant financial benefits. And this time of year is a great time to reflect on the other reasons why owning a home is so meaningful.

A house is more than four walls and a roof – it’s a place where memories are made, connections are built, and life happens.

From the sense of accomplishment that comes with owning your own home to the joy of creating a space that’s uniquely yours, the emotional connections we have to our homes can be just as important as the financial ones.

Here are some of the things that turn a house into a happy home.

1. It’s an Accomplishment You Can Be Proud Of

Buying a home is a significant milestone, whether it’s your first or your fifth. You’ve worked hard to make it…

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Charming Cape Cod Home at 490 E Elm St, Sycamore, IL – A Perfect Blend of Style and Convenience!

490 E Elm St, Sycamore, IL

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This delightful Cape Cod home is nestled on a spacious lot near downtown Sycamore, offering the perfect mix of charm and convenience. Located close to parks, nature preserves, and a golf course, this property is ideal for those who love the outdoors. The home features a 1.5-car attached garage and an enclosed porch, adding to its appeal. Inside, you'll find hardwood and luxury vinyl plank flooring, arched doorways, and a spacious living room perfect for gathering. The updated kitchen boasts…

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The #1 Reason People Move: To Be Closer to Family and Friends

Have you ever thought about packing up and moving to be closer to the people who mean the most to you? Maybe you’re tired of long drives to see your family or wish your kids could spend more time with their grandparents. Clearly, a lot of other people feel the same way.

According to recent data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the desire to be near family and friends is the #1 reason people move (see graph below):

That’s because moving isn’t just about finding a new house – it’s about living a life where you’re surrounded by the people who matter most. Whether it’s catching up over weeknight dinners, watching your kids play with their cousins, or just knowing someone’s there when you need them, living near loved ones changes…

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How Home Equity May Help You Buy Your Next Home in Cash

Building equity in your house is one of the biggest financial advantages of homeownership. And right now, homeowners across the country are sitting on record amounts of it.

Here’s a look at how that equity could be a game changer for you, and why it’ll flip your perspective from “Why would I move right now?” to “Why wouldn’t I?”

Home Equity: What Is It?

Home equity is the difference between how much your house is worth and how much you still owe on your mortgage. For example, if your house is valued at $400,000 and you only owe $200,000 on your mortgage, your equity would be $200,000.

Why Equity Is Such a Big Deal for Homeowners Looking To Sell

Recent data from the Census and ATTOM shows how significant today’s home equity really is. In…

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