Home improvement projects enable homeowners to transform their homes into their ideal living spaces.
According to iProperty Management, most homeowners in the United States spent between $5,000 and $10,000 improving their homes in 2018. And it doesn’t stop there, as home improvement sales are projected to reach $465 billion in 2022.
Various renovation projects are best left to the professionals. However, many homeowners are eager to get their own hands dirty with various projects, large and small. Having the right tools and gear on hand can make projects go all the more smoothly. Holiday shoppers can consider these ideas as they seek to ensure DIYers have all they need to get the job done.
• Painting time-savers: Painting requires some basic essentials, from paint trays to rollers to brushes. Projects can be made more efficient with innovative products that help save time and reduce mess. One such item is a paint brush cover, which snaps over wet paintbrushes between coats so they won’t dry out or require rinsing. Brushes that cut in easily and others with flexible handles for get-
ting in tight places also make painting projects that much easier.
• Cordless drill: A mechanical drill makes easy work of assembly projects and general renovations that require screws as fasteners. A cordless rechargeable drill will be easy to maneuver when handling projects away from outlets. Going cord-free also reduces the risk of trips and falls on errant cords.
• Lawn care subscription service: Home improvements extend to the exterior. In addition to mowers, trimmers and garden shears, DIYers may benefit from subscription products that improve on property care. These formulations are customized to the specific needs of homeowners’ lawn or landscaping greenery and are shipped right to their door.
• Rotary tool kit: This is one of the most versatile tools homeowners can have on hand. A rotary tool can engrave, grind, sharpen, polish, cut, carve, and more depending on the accessory attachment.
• Multi-use ladder: A ladder is a necessity for various projects inside and outside the home. One that can transform into an A-frame, scaffold system, staircase ladder and other
configurations helps ensure maximum safe reach for the job at hand.
• Composter: Whether you use an indoor kitchen composter or one designed for outdoor use, being able to generate one’s own compost is great for avid gardeners. Compost, often called “black gold,” is made from kitchen scraps, leaves and other items that break down into a rich fertilizer.
• Tool box/tool organizer: Tool storage is a market all its own. It runs the gamut from rolling metal storage containers to plastic or metal boxes to canvas bags to plastic molded curated kits. Tool organizer kits also come at various price points, so it’s easy for shoppers to choose one that fits their budgets.
• Organizing units: Organizing units are available in prefabricated
kits that are easily assembled when needed, as well as custom-made products that are installed by a professional. They may be an option for a handy person looking to organize tools and other items for home repairs.
Do-it-yourselfers can be even more handy with tools geared toward their interests and repair needs.
Jaw-dropping features can sell a home in a heartbeat. A penthouse apartment with floor-to-ceiling windows and a panoramic view of a city skyline likely won’t prove a hard sell, nor will a home with an infinity pool overlooking a landscape of rolling hills. As awe-inspiring as such features can be, some more subtle components, such as authentic hardwood floors, also can do much to make a home more appealing to prospective buyers.
Hardwood flooring is a soughtafter commodity. Data from the National Association of Realtors indicates that 54 percent of home buyers are willing to pay more for hardwood floors. In fact, NAR figures indicate that 28 percent of buyers between the ages of 35 and 54 consider hardwood floors “very important” when looking for a home. Homeowners who are considering selling their homes, or those who simply want to upgrade their existing flooring, may want to consider installing hardwood flooring. Though it’s a project best left to professionals, hardwood flooring can be installed by skilled DIYers. In such instances, homeowners may want to keep these dos and don’ts in mind.
DO hire a professional if you have limited or no DIY flooring experience. Hardwood flooring installation
is not generally a project for novice DIYers. Hardwood flooring projects may present some common challenges, but no two homes are the same. So unless they have prior experience installing floors in multiple rooms or homes, homeowners may save themselves time, trouble and a significant amount of money hiring a professional to do the job.
DON’T ignore the subfloor. New hardwoods won’t erase the problem of subfloors in poor condition.
According to the home renovation experts at BobVila.com, squeaky floors could be an indication that the subfloor has begun to warp or twist. Sinking floors are another indicator of deteriorating subfloors. Subfloors should be somewhat level before new hardwoods are installed, so DIYers should inspect and address subfloor issues before installing new flooring.
DO expose wood flooring to the elements in your home prior to installation. The home improvement resource BuildDirect recommends acclimating hardwoods to the space where they will be installed. Skipping this important step could result in gaps during the winter and cupping over the summer. To acclimate hardwoods, open the boxes and spread them out for about a week while running the air conditioner or heater at
normal levels. When storing hardwoods prior to installation, avoid keeping them in potentially moist areas like a basement.
DON’T skimp on tools. A DIY hardwood flooring installation might be less expensive than hiring a professional, but homeowners should resist any temptation to increase
those savings further by purchasing less costly tools or fewer tools than is necessary to complete the job. BuildDirect notes that DIYers will need at least a miter saw, table saw, cleatnailer or stapler, finish nailer, compressor, jamb saw, chalk line, nail set, and tape measurer when installing hardwood floors. Purchase all neces-
sary tools and read product reviews to ensure each tool is up to the task. Wood floors can be awe-inspiring. Some homeowners can install such flooring on their own, and the project can be much easier if they learn as much about installation as possible prior to beginning the project.
Homeowners who aren’t interested in doing the work themselves turn to contractors to ensure the job is done not only to code, but on time and efficiently.
After receiving an initial estimate from a contractor, homeowners may wonder if there is any additional wiggle room in contractors’ costs.
Certain contractors are willing to negotiate while others are firm in their prices. However, learning the basics of negotiation can put homeowners in position to save money on dream renovations.
Getting the best price typically require shopping around and not settling on the first bid. Experts recommend getting at least three estimates on the same job — and be sure to let each contractor know that you are soliciting multiple bids. This alone may entice a specific contractor to give you his or her best offer up front. Avoid simply choosing the lowest bid. Look at quality of work, reputation and reviews. If you like a costly contractor more than another, see if that contractor is willing to match a lower bid to win the job.
Pick the right season
As with other industries, home reno-
vation work heats up during certain seasons or times of year. General contractors may be more willing to negotiate for a lower price depending on when their busy season may be. Jobs may slow down in winter, for example.
Talk about supplies
Even after getting a good bid, you may be able to speak with your contractor about lowering costs even more by choosing less costly supplies. Find out if contractors can source materials from a low-cost supplier. In addition, discuss if you can purchase your own supplies.
Ask to do a portion
Be honest with the contractor about
your budget and figure out if there is any way for you to do some of the work to lower costs. The contractor can give you jobs that are within your abilities, which can shave dollars off the final price.
Know your rights and laws
Understand the laws governing contract language in your state or province. Contracts should also spell out the change order process so that expectations of changes and costs will be known in advance.
These are just some of the tactics homeowners can use when negotiating the price of home remodels or improvements.
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 12TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT WILL COUNTY, ILLINOIS
THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA
BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF CWABS INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-3
of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.
Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale.
building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales.
For information, examine the court file, CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL, 60527 (630) 794-9876
One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE
You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.
CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C.
PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on February 28, 2018, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 1:00 PM on November 9, 2022, at the Attorneys Title Guaranty, 2742 Caton Farm Road, JOLIET, IL, 60435, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate:
Commonly known as 3506 MORGAN ST., STEGER, IL 60475
Property Index No. 23-15-05-110-024-0000; 2315-05-110-025-0000
The real estate is improved with a residence.
Sale terms: 10% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial Sale fee for the Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof
The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information.
If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).
IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW.
You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our
15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100
BURR RIDGE IL, 60527
630-794-5300
E-Mail: pleadings@il.cslegal.com
Attorney File No. 14-17-15766
Attorney ARDC No. 00468002
Case Number: 17 CH 02031
TJSC#: 42-3531
NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff’s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.
Case # 17 CH 02031 I3204300
Published 10/5/22, 10/12/22, 10/19/22
Myron Paul Rieser of Plainfield, Illinois, (last resided in Los Gatos, California), passed away peacefully at age 83 on September 23, 2022 after bravely battling cancer for several years. Myron was born February 6,1939 to Ruth (Kuhn) and Clarence Rieser. As the eldest of five children, much of his early life was spent on the family farm in Plainfield, IL, where he graduated from Plainfield High School in the Class of 1957. After attending Northern Illinois University, Myron took a position with Dyna-Color in Aurora, Illinois and was subsequently transferred to Virginia. Myron ultimately ended up in Maryland as a Vice President for District Photo Inc. where he raised his family.
Myron and Lynne Anne See (m. 1960) were blessed with three wonderful children –Todd (Mary Martinelli), Beth (Kevin Bacchi) and Scarlet (Ted Wert) and four grandchildren- Chad and Rachel Rieser, and Brianna and Kaitlyn Wert.
Myron was also a beloved stepfather to Chris Lark, whom he loved along with Chris’s daughters, Amanda, Sarah and Sophie.
Myron was passionate about family and sports. He played football in his younger days, softball as an adult, and then watched his grandchildren’s participation in sports during his later years which was his true “happy place”! He also loved his hometown, Chicago Cubs baseball team as well as his local, Washington Redskins football team (now Commanders).
Following retirement from District Photo Inc., Myron moved West, starting in Wyoming where he found his companion, Sue Cristallo. They resided in Los Gatos, CA where he enjoyed his peaceful retirement on Sue’s horse ranch for 13 years. They also enjoyed spending time with Sue’s children, Jennifer, Margi, Jeff and Andy, along with her grandchildren, Bradley, Mackenzie, and Madison LaRue, and Randy Brown.
Myron was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Alvin, and niece, Valerie Berger. Myron is survived
by his three loving sisters Laurenda, Charlene and Sally, along with many incredible cousins, nieces, and nephews.
To honor his wishes, Myron will be cremated, and his remains will be with his children in Southern California as well as a New Orleans themed “celebration of life” is planned for February 2023.
Myron’s “larger than life” personality and positive disposition is what made him the man he was, bringing joy to all those around him. With Myron’s heart being as big as it was, in lieu of flowers, his wish was for you to donate to the charity of your choice.
That said, remember Myron as the “eternal optimist” who put a smile on the face of anyone he was in contact with.
“Whoever is happy will make others happy too”. -Anne Frank
To leave a condolence:
https://www.joinobit.com/ obituaries/2856-myron-paulrieser-1939_02_06-2022_09_23
OR
To contact any of Myron’s children:
in/bethrieser/ https://www.linkedin.com/ in/scarlet-wert-42661214/ https://www.linkedin.com/ in/toddrieser/
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 12TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
WILL COUNTY, ILLINOIS
THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON
THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATE
OF CWABS INC., ASSETBACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 20073
Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4).
If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest com munity, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).
IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCOR DANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLO SURE LAW.
PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclo sure and Sale entered in the above cause on February 28, 2018, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 1:00 PM on November 9, 2022, at the Attor neys Title Guaranty, 2742 Caton Farm Road, JOLIET, IL, 60435, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth be low, the following described real estate:
LOTS 3 AND 4 IN BLOCK 6 IN KEENEY AND BEER’S BOULEVARD ADDITION TO COLUMBIA HEIGHTS, BEING A SUBDIVISION OF THE WEST 992.77 FEET OF THE NORTHEAST FRAC TIONAL 1/4 AND THE EAST 736.43 FEET OF THE NORTHWEST FRAC TIONAL 1/4 OF SECTION 5, TOWN SHIP 34 NORTH, RANGE 14 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 4, PAGES 90 AND 91, AS DOCUMENT 171641, IN WILL COUNTY, ILLINOIS
Commonly known as 3506 MORGAN ST., STEGER, IL 60475
Property Index No. 23-15-05-110-0240000; 23-15-05-110-025-0000
The real estate is improved with a resi dence.
Sale terms: 10% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Cor poration. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial Sale fee for the Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residen tial real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee ac quiring the residential real estate pursu ant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real es tate whose rights in and to the residen tial real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is fur ther subject to confirmation by the court.
Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirma tion of the sale.
The property will NOT be open for in spection and plaintiff makes no rep resentation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are ad monished to check the court file to veri fy all information.
If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclo sure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property
You will need a photo identification is sued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the fore closure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales.
For information, examine the court file, CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL, 60527 (630) 794-9876
THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION
One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE
You can also visit The Judicial Sales Cor poration at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day sta tus report of pending sales.
CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C.
15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100
BURR RIDGE IL, 60527 630-794-5300
E-Mail: pleadings@il.cslegal.com
Attorney File No. 14-17-15766
Attorney ARDC No. 00468002
Case Number: 17 CH 02031
TJSC#: 42-3531
NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Col lection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff’s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.
Case # 17 CH 02031
I3204300
Published 10/5/22, 10/12/22, 10/19/22
