Happy New Year

As the old year rushes to meet the new…
We are sending our best wishes to you!

Have a Safe and Happy New Year!

Just Listed in Edgewild Subdivision!

415 W Wolf Road, Peoria
Check out this amazing 5 bedroom 3 bath home located in Edgewild Subdivision. This raised ranch offers a spacious floor plan with updates that included, Brazilian Cherry floors throughout, new kitchen with Brazilian Cherry Cabinets and Roman Stone floor, 3 new bathrooms with tiled showers, new foyer with marble, neutral paint throughout, and new light fixtures throughout. The house offers an extra deep 2 stall garage, 2 working fireplaces, large back yard and new landscaping. Just move into this amazing home!! Check out the listing for more details. Email or call us at 309-657-0063 for more information.

Tax Credit for 1st Time Buyers and Current Homeowners

We received great news last week regarding the tax credits for purchasing a home. The 1st time homebuyer tax credit has been extended. Along with that, the government has issued a new tax credit for current homeowners. Buyers who have owned their current homes at least five years would be eligible for tax credits of up to $6,500. First-time homebuyers — or anyone who hasn't owned a home in the last three years — would still get up to $8,000. To qualify, buyers in both groups have to sign a purchase agreement by April 30, 2010, and close by June 30.

We are here to help you! Email or call us at 309-657-0063 today.

Additional Information:
Fact Sheet from The National Association of REALTORS (NAR)
Frequently Asked Questions
In-Depth: 2009 First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit
The Extended Home Buyer Tax Credit: The Basics for REALTORS, Homebuyers, and Home owners from the National Association of REALTORS.

Open Sunday!

Come see us at these great homes on Sunday, November 8th.

10412 N Attingham, Peoria

Garry Moore built all brick 2 story home located in Attingham Subdivision in Dunlap school district. This home offers a formal dining room with butlers pantry, informal dining located right next to the kitchen with fireplace, living room with three huge windows and fireplace, main floor master suite, main floor laundry. Go up the tiered stairs to an open air loft, two bedrooms with a split bathroom. The basement offers a theater room with screen and surround sound, wet bar and another bedroom and full bathroom. Speakers through out the house with iPod docking station. $699,900 Check out the listing for more details.

1424 Sunnyview Court, Pekin
New Construction 2 Bedroom 2 Full Bath Villa in Liberty Village. Approximately 1800 square feet of living space with 2 car attached garage. Age restricted to 55 and over. This home offers a Great Room, Dining Room, Den/Office, Sunroom, Laundry Room, Kitchen with Breakfast Bar, and 2 Large Bedrooms. The Master Bedroom has a Master Bath. This is a quality built home by E.O. Reed. Lawn care, snow removal, and emergency call system are all included in monthly association fee. $184,900 Check out the listing for more details.

Email or call us at 309-657-0063 if you have any questions.

Another Amazing Listing!

5720 Mooring Way, Peoria

Come and see this 4 bedroom 3 bath Signature Home located in THE COVES. This home offers over 2400 finished sq. ft. with 784 sq. ft. in the basement. There is no wasted space in this house. The Kitchen with granite counter tops and large breakfast bar over looks the great room with a gas fireplace. The basement offers a large Rec room and a full bathroom. The house has upgrades galore, trim, landscaping, irrigation system, flooring and a tiled shower in the master finishes it off. Do not miss this!!! Some Interior pictures of similar model. $294,900 See the listing for more details. Email or call us at 309-657-0063 if you have any questions.

Two More New Listings!

398 Clayton's Way, Metamora
Enjoy country living at its finest in this custom built ranch home by Rick Hinck. This 3 bedroom 2 full bath home is just under 2000 square feet and sits on a 2 acre corner lot in rural Metamora. The custom kitchen offers Merrilat cabinets, tiled backsplash, and granite tops. There are beautiful hardwood floors throughout. The living room has an RSF wood burning fireplace that is tied to the central heating duct system. Propane usage is very minimal. The master bedroom has a master bath and a WIC. Bedroom 2 also has a WIC. There is an abundance of closet space. The basement has 9’ ceilings and 2 egress windows. The exterior offers 2 covered porches, a 20X25 stamped patio, and a 3 car garage. A rare find. $279,900 Check out the listing for more details. Email or call us at 309-657-0063 if you have any questions.

2804 Pine Hill Lane, Peoria
Absolute move in condition at a great price! This 3 bedroom 2 full bath Ranch in Idylbrook Subdivision is a must see. This home has many updates including new windows and sliding glass door in 2009, roof in 2005, complete bath remodel, water heater in 2004, garage door opener in 2007, and lots of fresh paint. The home also offers hardwood floors, an extra deep garage, a front porch, a deck, and a fenced in backyard. All kitchen appliances stay! $159,900 Check out the listing for more details. Email or call us at 309-657-0063 if you have any questions.

New Listing in Chillicothe!

14821 Fruitland, Chillicothe
WOW!! This 3 bedroom, 1 bath ranch located just outside of Chillicothe. The house has many updates. Newer flooring including wood in the living room, carpet in the bedrooms, and tile in the kitchen. All appliances stay but are not warranted. The one-stall garage has been enclosed for a workshop, but it can be changed back to a garage. The heating and cooling were new in 2007 and the well was replaced in 2000. Very clean and neat. Ready for a new family. Do not miss out!!! Check out the listing for more details. Email or call us at 309-657-0063 if you have any questions.

Two New Listings!

250 Briargate, Washington
Great 3 bedroom 1 bath home located in Washington. Recent updates include roof, siding, windows, gutters, driveway, insulation, furnace and a/c, ceiling fans. The home offers an oversized 2 stall garage, nice landscaping, full fenced back yard with no neighbors behind you. All appliances in the home stay, but are not warranted. $98,900 Check-out the listing for more details. Email or call us at 309-657-0063 if you have any questions.

1405 W Margaret, Peoria
Absolutely Charming! Great Curb Appeal! This 2 bedroom 1 bath home has a full basement and a 1 car garage. The home offers an eat in kitchen with newer laminate flooring, countertops, sink, faucet, and disposal. The stove and refrigerator stay. The hardwood floors have been refinished throughout. There is lots of fresh paint and some of the light fixtures are newer. The backyard is beautifully landscaped and has a brick patio for entertaining. Move In Condition! $82,500 Check-out the listing for more details. Email or call us at 309-657-0063 if you have any questions.

Just Listed!

2320 N Linn, Peoria
Absolute move in condition! This 2 story has so many updates! The kitchen has been completely remodeled with new cabinets, Corian countertops, a breakfast bar, light fixtures, under cabinet lighting, stainless steel appliances, and a natural slate tile floor and backsplash. The living room boasts hardwood floors, built in cabinets, a brick wood burning fireplace, and French doors leading to the dining room. The master bedroom has double closets and newer carpet. The exterior has an inviting covered front porch, maintenance free vinyl siding and a deck on the rear of the home. The home also offers a detached 2 car garage. This is truly a must see! $84,900 View the listing for more details. Email or call us at 309-657-0063 if you have any questions.

Time is running out!

Time is running out! The $8,000 tax credit for first-time home buyers will expire December 1, 2009. You must be closed on the home by November 30, 2009. Email or call us at 309-657-0063 for more details. We want to help you get started!

The National Association of REALTORS (NAR) has published a few great resources to help.
Chart Highlighting the Major Modifications to the First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit
Frequently Asked Questions

We also have Tips for First-Time Home Buyers in the Buyers section of our website.

Come Visit Us Sunday!

We are having an Open House from 11:00 to 12:30 at
1313 William Drive, Chillicothe
Come take a look at this very well maintained 3 bedroom ranch with a full finished basement in Chillicothe! You will love the location! This home is conveniently located directly behind the high school. There is school bus service to the elementary and jr. high schools from this home. Many updates have been done over the years including vinyl siding, windows, architectural roof, high efficient furnace and air conditioner, 100 amp electrical service and much more. Hardwood floors under the carpet in bedrooms. This is a great home with a large backyard. Make it yours! See the listing for more details.

Just Listed in Peoria!

3013 N Mission, Peoria
Move right into this cute 2 bedroom 1 bath home that is conveniently located close to shopping and bus stop. The eat in kitchen has newer cabinets and the appliances stay! The stackable washer and dryer also stay. This home has several updates including the windows in 2001, the roof and gutters in 2005, and all new carpet in September 2009! There is also an oversized 1 car detached garage and a 3 season porch on the front of the house! Check-out the listing for more details. Email or call us at 309-657-0063 if you have any questions.

Go Green!

Tips for homeowners to make their home more eco-friendly.

Interest in the environment and green building has moved beyond installing energy efficient appliances and swapping out incandescent light bulbs for compact fluorescents. With luxury condos touting eco-friendly features like rain water recycling and construction companies incorporating energy saving features into new homes, it's no wonder real estate professionals say more and more potential home buyers are asking about "green homes."

With demand for environmentally friendly homes blossoming across the country, one way to make a home stand out in a stalled real estate market is to retro-fit it to green standards. Below are some tips from the professionals at Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation on how to make your home sustainable, energy- and cost-efficient now, to appeal to eco-conscious home buyers later.

Replace hardwood floors with renewable materials. While hardwood has been the flooring of choice for the past several years, bamboo floors are much more eco-friendly because bamboo grows quickly and can be easily replaced. In the kitchen, linoleum floors, made from solidified linseed oil, wood flour or cork dust over a burlap or canvas backing, is very eco-friendly compared to modern floor coverings made from polyvinyl chloride.

Don't flush away your money. Consider replacing existing commodes with low-flow toilets which use approximately 20 percent less water per flush, or dual-flush toilets with two buttons to give home owners the choice of flushing with a half- or full tank.

A ray of light. In many neighborhoods, owning a home on the north side of the street has always been more desirable than ones on the south side. South-facing windows provide more natural daylight, making a home more bright and cheery. More importantly, natural daylight helps keep indoor climate comfortable during the winter months, allowing a homeowner to lower the thermostat. Alternatively, drawing shades during key daylight hours during the summer can help cut down on air conditioning needs.

Green gardening. Sustainable landscaping is becoming all the rage to eco-conscious home owners. Planting native plants, vegetation and shade trees strategically around a home will keep it cool during the summer and block cold winds during the winter. Native vegetation thrives in its preferred environment and won’t require excess water. In addition, concrete driveways and patios can be replaced with permeable paving materials, allowing water to pass through to the ground, in turn reducing runoff that erodes soil and causes flooding of sewer systems.

Switch to green power. The use of renewable energy in a home, such as solar, wind, water or geothermal, greatly helps reduce pollution. However, installing solar panels or wind generators can be enormously expensive. Today, many utility companies in the U.S. are offering home owners an option to purchase a form of renewable energy that does not cost much more than conventional energy. The government also offers many financial incentives to home owners who install renewable-energy systems.

Open Sunday

Come see us Sunday at our Open Houses!

6818 N Buckeye, Edwards
Five bedroom, three and a half bath two- story Signature Home located in Sommer Place in Edwards. Dunlap schools, great three-stall garage with master suite and three bedrooms upstairs. The finished basement offers a Rec room with a fifth bedroom that has an egress window and a full bathroom. This house has 9’ foot basement, a 16x12 patio, gas log fireplace, tile in the kitchen, laundry and entry way! $299,900 See the listing for more details.

112 Woodbrook Court, East Peoria
Great 3 bedroom 2.5 bath home located in Stonewood Subdivision in East Peoria. There are many upgrades including a fully Sodded Yard, a large deck, upgraded carpet and pad, and a fully painted basement. This home was built in 2006 and sits at the end of a cul de sac. The entry has hardwood floors in the foyer, a gas log fireplace in the great room, and a Master suite with whirlpool tub and separate shower. This home is in immaculate condition and a pleasure to show! $199,900 See the listing for more details.

Coldwell Banker Ranked Highest in Home Seller Satisfaction!

Coldwell Banker was recently ranked the HIGHEST IN HOME SELLER SATISFACTION by J.D. Power and Associates! We received the following press release late last week.

J.D. POWER AND ASSOCIATES RANKS COLDWELL BANKER HIGHEST IN HOME SELLER SATISFACTION

PARSIPPANY, N.J. – Sept. 17, 2009 – Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC ranked highest among real estate companies in satisfying home sellers according to the recently released J.D. Power and Associates 2009 Home Buyer/Seller StudySM.

“This recognition is a testament to the brand’s legacy as an industry leader, our commitment to innovation and, above all, our powerful network,” said Jim Gillespie, president and CEO of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. “With unsurpassed local knowledge, expertise and work ethic, we at Coldwell Banker have always felt that our network of professionals is the greatest in the industry, and we’re pleased J.D. Power and Associates recognized it.”

The independently administered study measured customer satisfaction of homebuyers and sellers among the largest national real estate firms. The study incorporates more than 3,100 evaluations from 2,801 respondents who bought or sold a home between April 2008 and June 2009. The survey was fielded between April and June 2009.

J.D. Power and Associates examined four factors in the home-selling experience including: agent; marketing; office; and package of additional services. Among home sellers, Coldwell Banker Real Estate ranked highest with a score of 815 and performed particularly well in all four factors.

Coldwell Banker Real Estate also ranked particularly high in the home-buyer segment. The brand ranked second with a score of 801 on a 1,000-point scale, performing particularly well in the office factor.

Complete results for the study can be found here.

About Coldwell Banker®Since 1906, the Coldwell Banker® organization has been a premier full-service real estate provider. In 2008, Franchise Times magazine’s prestigious Top 200 issue ranked the Coldwell Banker system No. 1 in real estate for the ninth straight year and 12th among franchisors in all industries. The Coldwell Banker System has approximately 3,500 residential real estate offices and approximately 100,000 sales associates in 47 countries and territories. The Coldwell Banker System is a leader in the industry in residential and commercial real estate, and in niche markets such as resort, new home and luxury property through its Coldwell Banker Previews International® division. It is a pioneer in consumer services with its Coldwell Banker Concierge® Service Program and award-winning Web site, www.coldwellbanker.com. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC is a subsidiary of Realogy Corporation, a global provider of real estate and relocation services. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Each office is independently owned and operated.

About J.D. Power and AssociatesHeadquartered in Westlake Village, Calif., J.D. Power and Associates is a global marketing information services company operating in key business sectors including market research, forecasting, performance improvement, Web intelligence and customer satisfaction. The company's quality and satisfaction measurements are based on responses from millions of consumers annually. For more information on home building and home improvement, car reviews and ratings, car insurance, health insurance, cell phone ratings, and more, please visit JDPower.com. J.D. Power and Associates is a business unit of The McGraw-Hill Companies.###

Open Sunday!

We hope to see you Sunday at

1312 Willow, Washington

Over 2500 finished square feet! Magnificent 2 story new construction in Bristol Park. Very open floor plan in this 4 bedroom and 2-1/2 bath home with a fireplaced Great Room, Kitchen with hard surface countertops, Formal Dining, Informal Dining, & main floor laundry. This home offers hardwood and ceramic tile floors, arched doorways, rounded corners, vaulted ceilings, tray ceilings, 9’ ceilings on the main level and a 9’ basement. All 4 bedrooms are upstairs including a Master Suite with 2 walk in closets. The Master Bath has dual sinks, a walk-in shower, and a corner whirlpool tub. Bedrooms 3 & 4 also have walk in closets, and the main bath also has dual sinks. Still time to make selections! $256,900. Check-out the listing for more details.

Get Your House Ready to Show to Buyers

A house that "sparkles" on the surface will sell faster than its shabby neighbor, even though both are structurally well maintained.

From experience, REALTORS® also know that a "well-polished" house appeals to more buyers and will sell faster and for a higher price. Additionally, buyers feel more comfortable purchasing a well-cared for home because if what they can see is well maintained, they assume that what they can't see has probably also been well maintained. In readying your house for sale, consider:

• how much should you spend to prepare your house for sale?
• exterior and curb appeal
• interior appeal

Before putting your house on the market, take as much time as necessary (and as little money as possible) to maximize its exterior and interior appeal.

To learn more about how much you should spend preparing your home for sale, exterior and interior appeal, visit the Sellers section of our website or contact us.

Just Listed!

2812 W Parkridge, Peoria

Great 2 bedroom 1.5 bath ranch style home located in Wardcliffe subdivision. This house has updates galore, including new kitchen appliances, new flooring through out, updated bathroom, updated kitchen, updated roof, updated main bathroom, updated half bath, paint throughout house, and laundry area. The Partial finished basement has new paint and carpet with a separate area for storage. The home sits on a nice lot with mature trees, 2 stall attached garage and a back patio. All appliances stay, just move right in!!! $134,900 Check-out the listing for more details. Email or call us at 309-657-0063.

Enjoy Labor Day!

We hope you enjoy the day that rewards all of your hard work! Have a safe and happy weekend!

Just Listed in Stonewood Subdivision!

112 Woodbrook Court, East Peoria

Great 3 bedroom 2.5 bath home located in Stonewood Subdivision in East Peoria. There are many upgrades including a fully Sodded Yard, a large deck, upgraded carpet and pad, and a fully painted basement. This home was built in 2006 and sits at the end of a cul de sac. The entry has hardwood floors in the foyer, a gas log fireplace in the great room, and a Master suite with whirlpool tub and separate shower. This home is in immaculate condition and a pleasure to show! $199,900 Check-out the listing for more details. Email or call us at 309-0657-0063 if you have any questions.

Open Houses!

Come see us Sunday at our Open Houses!

528 Fondulac Drive, East Peoria
Truly beautiful two-story four bedroom on much desired Fondulac Drive. Sitting on 3/4 of an acre with seasonal river views of the Peoria skyline. Wonderfully updated with hardwood and ceramic tile floors, fresh pain, new roof in 2005, new siding in 2005, new carpet in 2005, appliances in 2004, almost all new exterior Pella windows throughout, 200 amp service in 2007. Both bathrooms have been remodeled in 2006 and 2007. New water heater in 2007. Reverse osmosis system in the kitchen. The home offers lots of original woodworking, crown molding, and built-ins. There is plenty of storage and closet space. Sit back, relax and enjoy the nature from the three-season sun porch. $219,900. Check-out the listing for more details.

147 Sheffield, Groveland
Great 3 bedroom 2 bath ranch located in Groveland. This house sits on a corner lot, with a fenced back yard for privacy and a deck for grilling and 2200 sq ft of finished living space. There is a great room on the main level with a gas fireplace, and a family room and rec area in the finished basement. The basement offers room for storage and a gas fireplace. There is also an area stubbed for a bathroom. Do not miss out on this great home. $164,900. Check-out the listing for more details.

Coldwell Banker Real Estate Surveys 1,000 Men and Women to Discover Gender Differences in Home-Buying Process

Survey Finds that While Couples Make Real Estate Buying Decisions Together, Women Make Up Their Minds Significantly Faster than Men

PARSIPPANY, N.J. (August 17, 2009) – It often seems as though men and women are from different planets, but every day millions of couples navigate through day-to-day and even life-altering decisions. Because a home is the biggest purchase most people will make in their lifetime, Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC surveyed 1,000 individuals to discover how much men and women differ in the home-buying process.

The real estate company engaged a third-party research firm, International Communications Research (ICR), to delve into the innerpsyche of men and women, asking questions such as “How long did it take for you to know that the last home you purchased was right for you?” and “If you found the home of your dreams but had concerns about its security, would you still be interested?” Coldwell Banker Real Estate also surveyed couples on additional topics, such as “Who wears the pants in the relationship?” when it comes to making major financial decisions.

“The results were surprising,” said Diann Patton, the Coldwell Banker consumer real estate expert. “Not only did we uncover some of the inherent differences between men and women, but we also pinpointed a number of ways that the two genders are actually the same. For example, both men and women are increasingly concerned with having a space to work in their homes – something we would not have seen 40 years ago.” She continued, “We also found that feeling insecure about a home’s safety is a deal-breaker for most people, regardless of gender.”

Patton noted this topic is particularly timely given that many first-time homebuyers are hoping to take advantage of the $8,000 tax credit before it expires on December 1, 2009.

Below are some key highlights from the Coldwell Banker Real Estate study:

Women may be inclined to make up their mind more quickly than men …
When asked how long it took before they knew their home was “right” for them, almost 70 percent of women had made up their mind the day they walked into the house, vs. 62 percent of men. Conversely, significantly more men needed two or more visits: (32 percent of men vs. 23 percent of women).

Women would rather live closer to their extended family than to their job …
55 percent of women find it more important to be closer to their extended family (those that do not live in their household) than to their job, compared to only 37 percent of men.

A home’s security is a deal-breaker for both men and women …
64 percent of women said that if they found the home of their dreams but had concerns about its security, they would no longer be interested. More than half of men agreed (51 percent).

Couples say that no one “wears the pants in the relationship” in terms of major financial decisions …
When asked who wears the pants in the relationship (when it comes to major financial decisions, such as purchasing a home), almost 70 percent of respondents living with their significant other said it’s actually mutual.
However, 23 percent think that they, themselves, wear the pants in the relationship, not their partner. More men than women said this (26 percent vs. 20 percent, respectively).

Men and women agree on how they would use a spare room, for the most part …
When the respondents were asked how they would use an extra 12 x 12 room if it could be anything they wanted, men and women agreed on the top three most popular, and very practical, responses:

• Bedroom: 25 percent
• Office/Study: 15 percent
• Family Room / Den: 11 percent

However, men really do want a “Man Cave”…
Interestingly, out of the 8 percent who indicated they would turn that spare room into an entertainment center, it was a preponderance of men leading the charge. In fact, four times as many men as women said they would use the extra space for recreation / entertainment.

In addition to providing background on the survey results, Patton is able to offer tips for couples who are currently going through the process of buying a home. “These results further validate how critical it is for couples to recognize each other’s differences and work together, from deciding a neighborhood to how to use a spare room,” she said. “Online tools and the expertise of a real estate professional can be particularly helpful for couples, especially if they work together step-by-step along the way.”

Methodology: Coldwell Banker Real Estate engaged ICR to conduct an omnibus survey via telephone in May 2009, among more than 1,000 respondents.

About Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC
Since 1906, the Coldwell Banker® organization has been a premier full-service real estate provider. In 2008, Franchise Times magazine’s prestigious Top 200 issue ranked the Coldwell Banker system No. 1 in real estate for the ninth straight year and 12th among franchisors in all industries. The Coldwell Banker System has approximately 3,200 residential real estate offices and approximately 100,000 sales associates in 47 countries and territories. The Coldwell Banker System is a leader in the industry in residential and commercial real estate, and in niche markets such as resort, new home and luxury property through its Coldwell Banker Previews International® division. It is a pioneer in consumer services with its Coldwell Banker Concierge® Service Program and award-winning Web site, http://coldwellbanker.com/. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC is a subsidiary of Realogy Corporation, a global provider of real estate and relocation services. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Each office is independently owned and operated.

Great New Listings!

409 Lexington, Washington
Great 2 story home located in Colonial Manor subdivision in Washington! 5 bedrooms and 2.5 baths with a master suite and generous room sizes. The house offers a full basement that could be finished for additional living space. The lot spans over one half of an acre with a deck, and the wooded surroundings give you the privacy you are looking for. Do not miss out on this house. $199,500 See the listing for more details. Email or call us at 309-657-0063 if you have any questions.

1313 William Drive, Chillicothe
Come take a look at this very well maintained 3 bedroom ranch with a full finished basement in Chillicothe! You will love the location! This home is conveniently located directly behind the high school. There is school bus service to the elementary and jr. high schools from this home. Many updates have been done over the years including vinyl siding, windows, architectural roof, high efficient furnace and air conditioner, 100 amp electrical service and much more. Hardwood floors under the carpet in bedrooms. This is a great home with a large backyard. Make it yours! $124,900 See the listing for more details. Email or call us at 309-657-0063 if you have any questions.

How to Make More with Less

There are modifications owners of smaller homes can make to create the illusion of space. For sellers of small homes, creatively manufactured space will appeal to buyers. And buyers should inspect a potential home with an eye towards how they can maximize unused space for their own benefit.

Being imaginative with furnishings, decorations and interior architecture can enable homeowners to craft a more useful, and attractive environment. The professionals at Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC offer some of their best tips for living big in a small home:

To add space, add a wall. One would assume to maximize space one would remove walls but interior designers recommend adding a wall slightly breaks up a room, or putting a freestanding bookcase in the middle of a room to make a space appear larger.

A room of one's own. For older children, loft beds can free up large amounts of space. They can be redesigned by teenagers as social areas, study spaces, for storage, or as game centers in their rooms. When there is a real lack of space, consider investing in a bed with storage underneath, saving the need for a bureau.

Manufacture space. Look for opportunities for built-ins, such as bookshelves in staircases, unusual cabinet possibilities, drawers under beds, etc. Using mirrors on walls opens a room and makes it feel larger. Consider turning the sills on bow and bay windows in the kitchen into window seats, offering more seating and a cozy, café-like environment.

The home office. There are many ways to set-up a home office, whether it's a desk at the foot of the bed or a more complete set-up in the basement. Another spot to consider is on the second floor stairway landing, which is especially good for working parents who can focus on work and yet still be in the midst of family activity.

Visit the Sellers section of our website for more information. Email or call us at 309-657-0063 if you have any questions.

Amazing New Listing in Attingham Subdivision!

10412 N Attingham, Peoria

Garry Moore built all brick 2 story home located in Attingham Subdivision in Dunlap school district. This home offers a formal dining room with butlers pantry, informal dining located right next to the kitchen with fireplace, living room with three huge windows and fireplace, main floor master suite, main floor laundry. Go up the tiered stairs to an open air loft, two bedrooms with a split bathroom. The basement offers a theater room with screen and surround sound, wet bar and another bedroom and full bathroom. Speakers through out the house with iPod docking station. $699,900 Check out the listing for more details. Email or call us at 309-657-0063 if you have any questions.

Home Buyer’s Seminar on Saturday, August 22

First-time homebuyers are encouraged to attend the Home Buyer’s Seminar on Saturday, August 22nd from 9:00 AM-11:00 AM at the PAAR Office located at 7307 N. Willowlake Court in Peoria. Find out how you can take advantage of the $8,000 tax credit due to expire December 1st, receive a free credit report, and more. Call 688-8591 to register. Reservations are encouraged for material and refreshment preparation!

Tips to Ensure a Smooth Move

For many families, moving can be a very stressful event. Besides coming to terms with your new life in a new home, you and your family will also need to think about moving day. Too often, families get caught up in various activities before moving day and fail to make the proper preparations. If you and your family are preparing to move, try to stay calm and organized throughout the process. For a few extra pointers on how to make your moving day a success, consider the simple advice outlined here.

Make a detailed checklist
It can be difficult to keep track of all the tasks associated with moving. Hence, you should try to organize your days leading up to and beyond moving day. If you have a reminder of what needs to be done and where you need to be, you are more likely to have a smooth moving day.

Prepare for day 1
Prior to packing all of your boxes, you may want to assemble one box of necessities for the whole family. As most families finish unpacking their trucks late in the evening, there is often little desire to open several boxes to find pillows and toothbrushes. To prevent a stressful first night in your new home, try to place anything your family might need in the first 24 hours in a separate box, mark it clearly and keep it accessible during moving. Also, if you have any valuable or irreplaceable items – such as jewelry and personal keepsakes – you should try to wrap the items well and keep them with you while moving.

To help with your checklist, you should try to include all of the following items in your day 1 box:

• Personal toiletries
• Soap
• Toilet paper
• Snacks and drinks
• Flashlight
• Screwdriver
• Pliers
• Set of plastic plates and cutlery
• Paper towels or tissue

Pack manageable boxes
Unless you have lots of large, lightweight items – such as down comforters and blankets – you shouldn’t need too many oversized boxes. Oversized moving materials often force homeowners into packing boxes that are too heavy and unmanageable. Instead, try to find plenty of midsized boxes and distribute weight evenly. Furthermore, if you are moving yourself, make sure you have all the necessary materials on hand before packing, including bubble wrap or packing peanuts for fragile items.

Label every box
When packing your boxes, try not to place items for different rooms in the same box. After sealing up each box, simply mark which room the items belong in. When you arrive at your new home, you will be able to take each box to its rightful place and each family member can spend time organizing their own space.

De-clutter as you go
As you prepare to move out of your home, try to organize your belongings and set aside unwanted items. After unpacking in your new home, you will be happy having more space and fewer items to arrange. Before moving out, you can hold a yard sale or make a charitable donation to get rid of your unwanted belongings.

Get the family involved
If you have children, help them get excited about moving. With something to look forward to – like the chance to decorate a new bedroom – children often get more involved in the moving process. Also, you may want to ask your friends and family for help on moving day. Even if no one is able to move furniture with you, a family member could watch your pet for the day or take care of errands.

Though moving day can be a very overwhelming time for families, proper organization can make help turn that stress into excitement. If you follow your timeline leading up to moving day, you and your family will have no problem approaching the big move with confidence.

The staff at Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC writes select articles about important topics related to real estate. For more information about buying a home or selling your current property, visit ColdwellBanker.com today.

Visit Moving with Kids and Moving with Pets on our website for more moving tip. There is a lot of helpful information for you on our website, so check it out! Email or call us at 309-657-0063 if you have questions.

Come See Us Sunday!

We hope to see you Sunday at our Open Houses!

11020 N Onyx, Dunlap

Step into this SIGNATURE HOME built 4 bedroom 3 bath ranch located in Stonegate subdivision in Dunlap. This home has over 3400 finished square feet of living space. Including a finished basement with wet bar, a huge REC room, a full bath and a 4th bedroom with egress window. The main floor is open and inviting, it has a split floor plan, with double walk-ins in the master bedroom and a large master bath. A formal dining room and breakfast bar and eating area round out this amazing Custum floor plan. Get in now and make some of your own selection. $419,900 See the listing for more details.

2604 Sydney, Pekin

Quality built 3 bedroom 2 bath home by E.O. Reed Construction. Located in Marigold Estates in Pekin this 1490 sqft ranch offers a large open floor plan with plaster walls, carpet and ceramic tile floors, Andersen windows, and a full basement. The kitchen has Corian ® Countertops and a breakfast bar. The living room has a gas log fireplace with electric and cable hook-ups above it for a flat screen TV. The split bedroom floor plan offers some privacy for the master suite. A 2 stall attached garage and patio off the dining room finish off this completed new construction. $219,900 See the listing for more details.

1424 Sunnyview, Pekin
New Construction 2 Bedroom 2 Full Bath Villa in Liberty Village. Approximately 1800 square feet of living space with 2 car attached garage. Age restricted to 55 and over. This home offers a Great Room, Dining Room, Den/Office, Sunroom, Laundry Room, Kitchen with Breakfast Bar, and 2 Large Bedrooms. The Master Bedroom has a Master Bath. This is a quality built home by E.O. Reed. Lawn care, snow removal, and emergency call system are all included in monthly association fee. $189,900 See the listing for more details.

Email or call us at 309-657-0063 if you have any questions.

So you think you can Stage?

Staging is de-personalizing and preparing a house for the unknown buyer. Staging requires an objective and professional assessment of a house’s strengths and challenge areas, as well as providing solutions to help buyers fall in love with what they see. That is why it is KEY to hire someone who is specifically trained to prepare a house for sale. ANYONE can say they are a Home Stager. I strongly recommend you check credentials. The Accredited Staging Professional Designation™ (ASP) is the ONLY nationally recognized professional designation for home staging.

We recently Staged and sold our home in 6 DAYS. While packing, I found pictures of our home I took several years ago (before I took the Staging training). I now look at some of these pictures and wonder what I was thinking. We also remodeled a few rooms - this is not considered staging.

Living in a home and marketing a house are different! We do not live in a Staged house. It required us to put forth some effort. De-clutter, move furniture, all the tasks that I instruct clients to do. After I took the training and certification, I slowly started making changes. There were still a lot of changes we had to make when we decided to sell our house.

Email or call me at 309-657-1038 if you have any questions. Staging can work for you too!

Open, Open, Open Houses!

We are busy, busy, busy. We would love to see you Sunday at our Open Houses!

13627 N Wild Spruce, Chillicothe
This stunning 5 bedroom 3 and a half bath 2 story in Cedar Hills Estates is a must see! The main floor offers a kitchen with granite countertops, hardwood floors, a family room with gas log fireplace, a formal living room, a formal dining room, an informal dining room, main floor laundry and a half bath. 4 bedrooms are upstairs including the Master Bedroom with Master Bath and walk-in closet and another full bath. The basement is finished with a 5th bedroom and a Rec Room, a Bar Room and a third full bath. The yard is beautifully landscaped complete with an irrigation system and a stamped concrete patio. This is truly a magnificent home! $289,900 See the listing for more details.

2502 W Carlisle, Dunlap
Do not miss this amazing 4 bdrm 2.5 bath Signature Home Located in Wynncrest Subdivision. The home was built in 2008 and has a large corner lot with full sod. All four bedrooms are located upstairs, 3 of which have walk in closets.The master suite has a whirlpool tub and double vanity, vaulted ceilings and double walk in closets. The unique side load garage gives the house a nice appearance. The kitchen has granite counter tops and Custom Cabinets and comes fully applianced. The washer and dryer stay.The landscaping is completed and the radon Mitigation system is installed. Just move right in! $269,900 See the listing for more details.

1423 E Valley Shore, Peoria
Check out this 3 bedroom home located in Mossville and IVC school district. This very well maintained home offers 3 bedrooms on the main floor with a full bath and a large kitchen dining area. There is an attached garage and a full finished basement. The sliding glass door from the dining area leads to the fenced backyard. The basement has a large laundry area, storage area, office and a rec room. Do not miss this opportunity! $97,500
See the listing for more details.

Email or call us at 309-657-0063 if you have any questions.

Open Sunday!

We are having an Open House Sunday from 2 - 4 at

11020 N Onyx, Dunlap

Step into this SIGNATURE HOME built 4 bedroom 3 bath ranch located in Stonegate subdivision in Dunlap. This home has over 3400 finished square feet of living space. Including a finished basement with wet bar, a huge REC room, a full bath and a 4th bedroom with egress window. The main floor is open and inviting, it has a split floor plan, with double walk-ins in the master bedroom and a large master bath. A formal dining room and breakfast bar and eating area round out this amazing Custum floor plan. Get in now and make some of your own selection. $419,900 See the listing for all the details.

629 E Swords, Edelstein

Looking for a great home away from the hustle and bustle of the city? This amazing 4 bedroom 2 and a half bath home is located on a 1 acre wooded lot with year round lake views with lake rights and a dock. The many updates in this house include a complete kitchen remodel w granite tops, newly finished hardwood floors in the dining room and living room, new carpet in the family room, and zoned heating and cooling. The elegant master suite offers a marble and ceramic master bath with whirlpool tub, dual sinks, and a double sided fireplace. There is a large bonus room off the master. The full walk out basement has a rec room and a built in bar. The Peoria park district is your neighbor in the back. $259,900 See the listing for all the details.

147 Sheffield, Groveland

Great 3 bedroom 2 bath ranch located in Groveland. This house sits on a corner lot, with a fenced back yard for privacy and a deck for grilling and 2200 sqft of finished living space. There is a great room on the main level with a gas fireplace, and a family room and rec area in the finished basement. The basement offers room for storage and a gas fireplace. There is also an area stubbed for a bathroom. Do not miss out on this great home. $164,900 See the listing for all the details.

Email or call us at 309-657-0063 with any questions.

Local Market Update

The Peoria Area Association of REALTORS (PAAR) provides a report of single family home sales by city and county. Below is a link to the most recent report. The first table compares June 2009 to June 2008. The second compares Year To Date 2009 to Year To Date 2008. Some numbers are up, some are down. It really depends on the location. If you have any questions or would like more information, please email or call us at 309-657-0063.

http://www.paarealtors.com/members/news/statistics/MarketUpdates/200906/2009_June_Summary.pdf

New Construction in Pekin

1424 Sunnyview Court, Pekin
New Construction 2 Bedroom 2 Full Bath Villa in Liberty Village. Approximately 1800 square feet of living space with 2 car attached garage. Age restricted to 55 and over. This home offers a Great Room, Dining Room, Den/Office, Sunroom, Laundry Room, Kitchen with Breakfast Bar, and 2 Large Bedrooms. The Master Bedroom has a Master Bath. This is a quality built home by E.O. Reed. Lawn care, snow removal, and emergency call system are all included in monthly association fee. See the listing for all the details. Email or call us at 309-657-0063 if you have any questions.

Making the Most of Curb Appeal

As more home buyers and real estate agents use the internet to research properties, first impressions are more important than ever. Before scheduling appointments or visiting open houses, home buyers and their agents will often drive by homes for sale and make assessments based on the exterior. More often than not, if a home buyer doesn’t like the outside of a home, they won’t care to see the inside. Yet, it is possible to dramatically alter the appearance of your home with a few simple tasks. As you prepare to list your home, consider implementing some of the tips mentioned here to maximize your property’s curb appeal.

Before you begin making repairs to the exterior of your home, you may want to analyze your home from a distance. Look at your home from across the street and try to pinpoint the best and worst qualities of the property. As you walk towards your home, try to make note of both your first impressions and any elements that stand out. When looking at your home from the exterior, you may also want to compare its appearance to other homes in the neighborhood. While you may feel as if you know the details of your home intimately, this step can help you think like a potential buyer and assist you in maximizing the curb appeal.

When it is time to get to work, you should approach the exterior of your home in the same way you would a bedroom or kitchen. Just as you wouldn’t want a prospective home buyer to see dirty dishes in your sink, you want to make sure the front of your home is as attractive as possible. While the chores associated with maximizing curb appeal will differ from home to home, the following are the most common and effective methods of enticing potential buyers indoors for a closer look:

• Paint – Perhaps the most effective of all pre-sale repairs, a simple coat of paint to the exterior, doors and shutters can make your home appear well cared for and in good condition. When painting the exterior of the home, you may also want to consider if new door knobs and other hardware could boost the appearance of your home. If you don’t replace any of the metal on the exterior of your home, polishing brass hardware and cleaning or painting iron fences can also give your home a fresh look.
• Lawn – There are a number of landscaping tricks that may improve the curb appeal of your home. First, the lawn should be mowed, raked and edged. Next, try to thoroughly weed all planter boxes, trim larger plants and include some extra flowers near the front of the house. If any large trees hang over your home or obscure the view from the street, you may want to cut away some large branches. You may also want to consider investing some extra money into landscaping by hiring professionals to make your front yard as attractive as possible.
• Windows and Gutters – Much like the fresh paint applied to the exterior, taking time to clean the windows can certainly change the appearance of your home. Likewise, try to keep your rain gutters free of leaves and debris as you never know where a potential home buyer might look.
• Driveway – If you have an old, cracked driveway, hiring a professional to reseal the surface can add to your home’s curb appeal. If the driveway rests in direct sight in front of the home, this step can become even more important.
• Lighting – As potential home buyers could drive by your property at any time, you want to make sure your home is inviting at night. By installing a street lamp and a front porch light – both of which should match the style of your home – you will dramatically boost your home’s 24/7 curb appeal. If you anticipate potential home buyers coming onto the property after dark, calm lighting that lines the driveway and path to the front door can put your visitors at ease.
• Pressure Clean – This process can be applied to both the exterior of the home and the driveway. Just one treatment can eliminate years of dirt, mold and mildew from your property.

If you need to improve the curb appeal of your home before putting it up for sale, the best tool could be your ability to think like a buyer. By repairing or minimizing your property’s flaws and drawing attention to key selling points, you may be surprised by the responses you receive from potential home buyers.

The staff at Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC writes select articles about important topics related to real estate. For more information about buying a home or selling your current property, visit ColdwellBanker.com today.

Visit the Sellers section of our website for more information. We are here to help you with all of your real estate needs! Email or call us at 309-657-0063 if you have any questions.

Come see us Sunday!

We are having an Open House at two locations on Sunday afternoon.

620 Columbia, Washburn
If you are looking for peace and quiet, this is the place for you! Located off of Rt.26 just north of Spring Bay this home sits on 6.4 acres and is much larger than it appears. This 3 bedroom 2 full bath home is in move in condition. Updates include bathrooms remodeled, 90% efficient furnace, water heater, flooring, & paint. The 2 car garage was built approximately 5 years ago. The siding and roof have been replaced within the last 10 years. The septic system was new 3 years ago. Enjoy awesome river views and an abundance of wildlife including deer, turkey & much more! Check-out the listing for more details.

216 Turnron, East Peoria
Great 2 story in East Peoria, Offering 3 bedrooms 2 baths and bonus room for extra space. A room on the upper level and one in the basement could be used as bedrooms or an office. With 1840 square feet of finished living space this home is ready for you to move right in. In the last 3 years, new gutter guards, hot water heater, kitchen counter top, kitchen sink, garage door, hardwood floors upstairs, storm door and boiler. Roof in 2002, windows in 2004. Don’t miss out. Check-out the listing for more details.

Email or call us at 309-657-0063 if you have any questions.

Just Listed in Dunlap!

2502 W Carlisle Lane, Dunlap

Do not miss this amazing 4 bedroom 2.5 bath Signature Home Located in Wynncrest Subdivision. The home was built in 2008, and has a large corner lot with full sod. All four bedrooms are located upstairs, 3 of which have walk in closets. The master suite has a whirlpool tub and double vanity, vaulted ceilings and double walk in closets. The unique side load garage gives the house a nice appearance. The kitchen has granite counter tops and Amish cabinets and comes fully applianced. The washer and dryer stay. The landscaping is completed and the radon Mitigation system is installed. Just move right in. $269,900 Check-out the listing for more details. Email or call us at 309-657-0063 with any questions.

Two New Listings!

6818 N Buckeye, Edwards
Signature Home 5 bedroom 3 and a half bath 2 story Signature home located in Sommer Place in Edwards. Dunlap schools, great 3 stall garage with 3 bedrooms upstairs and a master suite. The finished basement offers a Rec room with a 5th bedroom that has an egress window and a full bathroom. This house has 9’ foot basement, a 16x12 patio, gas log fireplace, tile in the kitchen, laundry and entry way. August 15th Completion! $299,900 Check-out the listing for more details. Email or call us at 309-657-0063 if you have any questions.

1102 N Manning, Chillicothe
Very attractive 4 bedroom 1 and half bath Cape Cod home located in Chillicothe. This updated home includes newer flooring, updated kitchen with new cabinets, countertops, stainless steel appliances, light fixtures and flooring. The bath on the main floor has been updated with new vanity, flooring and fixtures. The basement is half finished. The Carrier furnace and air conditioner were new in 07’ and are high efficient. The water heater is also newer. The windows, siding, roof, and gutters have all been updated since 2000. The 2 car garage is extra deep. This home is move in ready! $164,900 Check-out the listing for more details. Email or call us at 309-657-0063 if you have any questions.

Making the Best Decisions When Purchasing an Older Home

There is much information that points to the benefits to buying an older home. Older homes generally have lower purchase prices relative to newer houses. They tend to be located in established neighborhoods with an existing history of schools, transportation and commercial center offerings. Older houses have mature landscaping and period-style architecture and craftsmanship. If this type of home-buying information is important to you, you may want to consider an older house. Still, older homes come with their own set of issues. In order to make the best home-buying decision, here are five information topics you may want to discuss with your real estate agent.

1) Structural Issues
The structural condition of older homes can vary greatly. It if has been maintained, the structure of an older house will likely reflect the quality craftsmanship of earlier times and will only need minor repairs, reinforcement or maintenance. More recent additions may have been built to a lower standard than the original home, and can need major repairs or renovations. If the original building has not been well maintained, you may be in for a serious structural overhaul. Neglected crawlspaces can have foundation and floor structure defects. Continuous water intrusion or past fires could have damaged structural areas that are now concealed. Be sure your home inspector investigates the structure of an older house thoroughly.

2) What is Involved with Remodeling
Many people purchase an older home with the intention of remodeling it in order to make the house more comfortable and raise the home value. Like many equations in life, the decision to remodel an older home boils down to time or money. If you decide to spend more of your time and less of your money, you’ll need to be handy and have your weekends free of other commitments for several months. If you prefer to save your time, but spend more money, your real estate agent can refer you to a contractor who specializes in raising house value by remodeling older homes.

3) Zoning Issues
Before you purchase an older house with the intention of remodeling and raising the home value, be sure to investigate the zoning regulations. Many older homes come with zoning restrictions, including pre-determined setbacks from property lines, limits on roof height, etc. If the home is on a municipal historic register, regulations will likely be even more stringent in order to preserve the house’s historic character. If you’re considering alternative uses for your older house, like turning it into a commercial office, building an in-law apartment, etc., be sure to ask your real estate agent about zoning specifics.

4) Cost of Operations
Higher repair and maintenance expenses should be factored into the budget when calculating the total cost for purchasing an older home. Renovations, repairs and even pre-purchase inspection costs can be considerably higher than if purchasing a newer house. Also, the lack of modern insulation materials means bigger gas and electric bills in order to heat and power the house. And, major appliances, plumbing and heating systems will likely need maintenance within the first few years of your ownership.

5) Termites
In an older home, it’s possible that termites and other wood destroying insects could have damaged timbers and structural supports for years before they were detected. It would be highly unusual for a house to survive for 100 years without any kind of termite/ant/beetle infestation. It’s important to determine whether there are any signs of current infestation, and the extent of the damage of past infestations. If a wood destroying insect has eaten away at the structural support of a house for a significant amount of time before being discovered, you may need to add some reinforcement to the beams and posts in the basement. It is also very important to protect against future infestations. You may want to consider having a pest control company do preventative treatments as well as periodic visual inspections.

The staff at Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC writes select articles about important topics related to real estate. For more information about buying a home or selling your current property, visit ColdwellBanker.com today.


Visit the Buyers section of our website for more information. Email or call us at 309-657-0063 if you have questions.

Happy Fourth of July!

It's good to celebrate all the things that bring us together as a community and a country. Have a safe and happy Fourth of July!

Just Listed in Peoria!

821 W Ridge Road, Peoria

Come take a look at this three bedroom, one and a half bath Ranch with a full basement and a two car garage. This home has many updates including cabinets, countertops, refinished hardwood floors, carpet, laminate, windows, trim and paint. The basement is partially finished. The backyard is completely fenced in. This home is conveniently located close to shopping and restaurants. Take advantage of the $8000 first time homebuyer tax credit! See the listing for more details. Email or call us at 309-657-0063 with questions.

Come See Us!

The Parade of Homes is on Saturday and Sunday from 1:00 to 5:00. You can find us at these listings.

2602 W Carrington, Dunlap
Don’t miss this 5 bedroom 3 ½ bath “Signature Home” located in Dunlap’s Wynncrest Subdivision. This home offers granite countertops in the kitchen with hardwood floors, carried through to the foyer and pass-through from the garage. A large 2 story foyer with a loft welcomes your guests into the home. Upstairs are 4 bedrooms with 2 full baths. The master suite offers a walk-in closet and a large bathroom. The partially finished basement offers a bedroom, full bathroom and a rec room for all your entertaining. $327,400 Check-out the listing for more details.

2604 Sydney Place, Pekin
Quality built 3 bedroom 2 bath home by E.O. Reed Construction. Located in Marigold Estates in Pekin this 1490 sqft ranch offers a large open floor plan with plaster walls, carpet and ceramic tile floors, Andersen windows, and a full basement. The kitchen has Corian ® Countertops and a breakfast bar. The living room has a gas log fireplace with electric and cable hook-ups above it for a flat screen TV. The split bedroom floor plan offers some privacy for the master suite. A 2 stall attached garage and patio off the dining room finish off this completed new construction. $224,900 Check-out the listing for more details.

We are also having an Open House on Sunday from 1:00 to 3:00.

13627 N Wild Spruce, Chillicothe
This stunning 5 bedroom 3 and a half bath 2 story in Cedar Hills Estates is a must see! The main floor offers a kitchen with granite countertops, hardwood floors, a family room with gas log fireplace, a formal living room, a formal dining room, an informal dining room, mf laundry and a half bath. 4 bedrooms are upstairs including the Master Bedroom w Master Bath and WIC and another full bath. The basement is finished with a 5th bedroom and a Rec Room, a Bar Room and a third full bath. The yard is beautifully landscaped complete with an irrigation system and a stamped concrete patio. This is truly a magnificent home! $289,900 Check out the listing for more details.

Email or call us at 309-657-0063 if you have any questions.

New Listings

147 Sheffield, Groveland
Great 3 bedroom 2 bath ranch located in Groveland. This house sits on a corner lot, with a fenced back yard for privacy and a deck for grilling. There is a great room on the main level with a gas fireplace, and a family room and rec area in the finished basement. The basement offers room for storage and a gas fireplace. There is also an area stubbed for a bathroom. Do not miss out on this great home. $169,900 See the listing for more details.

4900 N Knoxville Unit 109A, Peoria
2 Bedroom 2 Full Bath Condo with many updates. The kitchen has been completely remodeled with new cabinets, countertops, ceramic tile floor, and stainless appliances. The furnace and A/C have been updated within the last 2 years. The formal dining room has newer hardwood floors. There is newer carpet throughout the entire condo. The living room has a marble fireplace and sliders that lead to the concrete patio. Laundry room is in unit. There is a heated pool on site. This unit comes with 2 parking spaces in the heated garage, and 2 storage units in attic area. Water and Cable are included in HOA fee. $119,000 See the listing for more details.

Email or call us at 309-657-0063 if you have any questions.

Tips for Finding the Right Home for Your Family

When beginning the process of finding a new home, it is often difficult to know where to begin. Before researching the market or analyzing housing options, home buyers may want to start by prioritizing their family’s needs, determining what are “need-to-haves” and what are “nice-to-haves.” Below are some factors you may want to consider when trying to find the right home for your family.

When you begin searching for the right home for your family, you may first want to determine what would be the best location. One of the best ways to find a home location that suits your family is to assess your needs and determine how much your family can compromise. For instance, do you have small children or pets that require a large backyard to play in? Or would you be equally happy taking your kids and dog to the local park? Do you need quiet surroundings, like a dead-end street, or do you prefer the hustle and bustle of metropolitan areas? These are the types of general assessments which may help you determine an ideal location for your family.

Though it may be easy to determine what type of environment your family wants to reside in, you will want to spend more time analyzing the details of the neighborhoods you are considering. As you try to determine which neighborhoods are best for your family, you may want to take into account such factors as the quality of nearby schools and the proximity to shopping or your workplace. After seeing what different neighborhoods have to offer, compare the pros and cons of each area you are considering to determine the best location for your family.

After you have a chance to look at a few homes and research various neighborhoods, try to visualize the best home for your family. Though you have probably already thought about how many bedrooms and bathrooms your family needs, consider keeping a list of desired amenities – both essential and those that you could live without – as you continue the home buying process. You may also want to consider what type of home construction your family needs, from a standard single-family home to a condominium or even a multi-family home. Upon viewing particular homes, you may realize that your family needs a certain amount of storage space or more overall square footage than you realized. Add and subtract from this list as you look at more homes, always keeping track of where your family can compromise.

For instance, if you find a home that meets all of your family’s needs but has a smaller than desired garage, you could still be faced with an opportunity that is too good to pass up. Furthermore, you might find the perfect home in a neighborhood you never thought to consider, or in a specific type of construction that was initially ruled out of your search. Quite simply, try not to limit your family’s options too much and remain open-minded throughout the home buying process. You might even find a great home with special features you never thought your family could afford – like a pool, a spa or an extra fireplace.

When trying to find the best home for your family, try to stay organized and keep your priorities straight. As you look at different homes, try to consider how each property fits your family’s needs. After finding some homes that meet your family’s needs, you may then want to focus on each home’s desirable extras to help narrow down your search. By making such lists and assessing your family’s needs throughout the home buying process, you might be surprised how quickly you uncover the home of your dreams.

The staff at Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC writes select articles about important topics related to real estate. For more information about buying a home or selling your current property, visit ColdwellBanker.com today.

Visit the Buyers section of our website for more information. Email or call us at 309-657-0063 if you have questions.