ovember kicks off the holiday season, and with Thanksgiving many are inspired to examine what they are most thankful for. Not surprisingly, we have much in common regarding giving thanks. We are thankful for our friends, family, significant others, pets, health, freedom, and much more.
Thanksgiving began in America in 1621 when a bountiful harvest was undoubtedly something to be thankful for. As food costs rise, many families are working even harder to put food on the table, yet we do have so much to be thankful for.
Although, it may appear more challenging to obtain the American Dream of homeownership this year, we can be optimistic and thankful that many safeguards and opportunities are in place on the road to achieving this dream.
I am fascinated by how real estate practices differ worldwide and how our system works to protect us as much as possible. In several developed countries, there are few formal rules and a regulated real estate licensing body does not exist. Although title insurance is available, it is costly. Therefore, less than 1% of real estate sales in these countries include this vital protection.
Some countries own all the land and therefore have control. The governmental bodies will lease you the
Nland, and you may build a home, but you never own the land. Other countries require complicated steps for many, including requiring the purchase offer to be notarized and registered with the government before a sale occurs. In addition, numerous governmental fees can be extremely high, narrowing down how many can achieve the dream even more.
Indeed, our system isn't perfect. It has, however, provided an organized, safe, and predictable method for buying and owning real estate. Professional real estate brokers' licensing and continuing education requirements help assure that all parties are treated fairly, and the risk of falling prey to unethical practices is minimalized.
At Gambino, our agents take your dream to heart, and we are continually thankful for the trust you have in us to help you achieve your goal of homeownership. It is in high hopes that when you sit down for your definition of a bountiful feast on the 24th and 25th of November, you are surrounded by loved ones under a roof that you call your own – the American Dream!
Publisher: Gambino Realtors
Editor: Kathy Heeren-Ellis
Design: Sarah E. Diamond
The Gambino Home Guide is a presentation of properties for sale in the Northern Illinois region. Since 1923, Gambino Realtors has navigated buyers and sellers through real estate transactions www.GoGambino.com
3815 N. Mulford Road Rockford, IL 61114 815.282.2222
5330 Williams Drive Roscoe, IL 61073 815.623.3333
Every time there’s a news segment about the housing market, we hear about the affordability challenges buyers are facing today. Those headlines are focused on how much mortgage rates have climbed this year. And while it’s true rates have risen dramatically, it’s important to remember they aren’t the only factor in the affordability equation.
Here are three measures used to establish home affordability: home prices, mortgage rates, and wages. Let’s look closely at each one.
This is the factor most people are focused on when they talk about homebuying conditions today. So far, current rates are almost four full percentage points higher than they were at the beginning of the year. As Len Kiefer, Deputy Chief Economist at Freddie Mac, explains:
“U.S. 30-year fixed mortgage rates have increased 3.83 percentage points since the end of last year. That's the biggest year-to-date increase in rates in over 50 years.”
That increase in mortgage rates is impacting how much it costs to
finance a home purchase, creating a challenge for many buyers that’s pricing some out of the market. While the current global uncertainty makes it difficult to project where mortgage rates will go in the future, experts do say that rates will likely remain high as long as inflation does.
The second factor at play is home prices. Home prices have made headlines over the past few years because they skyrocketed during the pandemic. Now, the most recent Home Price Index from S&P Case-Shiller shows home values continued to decelerate for a fifth consecutive month (shown in Exhibit A, page 5).
This deceleration is happening because higher mortgage rates are moderating demand, and as a result, easing the buyer competition and bidding wars that previously drove prices up.
What’s worth noting though, is how much higher home prices still are than they were before the pandemic (shown in Exhibit B, page 5). Even now, we have a long way to go to get to more normal levels of home price appreciation,
which is historically closer to 4%. When both mortgage rates and home prices are high, affordability and your purchasing power become a greater challenge.
But while prices are still elevated in many markets, some areas are seeing slight declines. It all depends on your local market. For insight into what’s happening in your area, reach out to a trusted real estate professional.
The one big, positive component in the affordability equation is the increase in American wages. The graph below uses data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) to show how wages have grown over time. This year is no exception.
As the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports: “Median weekly earnings of the nation's 120.2 million full-time wage and salary workers were $1,070 in the third quarter of 2022 (not
seasonally adjusted), the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported…This was 6.9 percent higher than a year earlier…”
So, when you think about affordability, remember the full picture includes more than just mortgage rates. Home prices and wages need to be factored in as well. Because wages have been rising, they’re a big reason why serious buyers are still purchasing homes this year.
If you have questions or want to learn more, reach out to a trusted advisor who can explain how all of these variables work together and what’s happening in your area. As Leslie Rouda Smith, President of the National Association of Realtors (NAR), says: “Buying or selling a home involves a series of requirements and variables, and it's important to have someone in your corner from start to finish to make the process as smooth as possible… and objectivity to deliver trusted expertise to consumers in every U.S. ZIP code.”
To learn more, let’s connect today and make sure you have a trusted lender so you’re able to make an informed decision if you’re planning to buy or sell a home right now. Call Gambino Realtors at 815.282.2222.
Stunning home completely renovated and move-in ready. Your dream kitchen features stainless steel appliances, double oven, and a ten-foot granite island with cooktop. Kitchen opens to the breakfast area, formal dining room, large deck, and living room, all of which have views of the dense woods. This floor plan features a first floor laundry, office or den, and private guest room. The second floor boasts four bedrooms, three full baths, and a second laundry room. Master suite has vaulted ceilings, large walk-in closet, a soaking tub, tile
shower, and double bowl sink. The fully finished lower level features a rec room with a wet bar and counter, a full bathroom, and the sixth bedroom, which has a large sitting room attached - perfect for a mother-in-law suite or teen. This beautiful home has a new concrete drive, new roof, new stonework, new vinyl siding, soffit, fascia, and gutters. Enjoy the outdoors from your elevated deck and gradelevel brick patio. Close to shopping, I-90, and dining.
Donya Bundy 608.295.5181 dbundy@GoGambino.com
Linda Elliott 815.988.8954
lelliott@GoGambino.com
This lovely home reflects the signature style of prominent architect Jerome Cerny. You will find volume ceilings, hardwood floors, bay windows, intricately designed millwork, grand fireplaces and built-ins throughout. The main floor features a sunken living room, formal dining room, and a great room that looks out onto the sun-lit solarium. The kitchen connects to a combination mudroom, laundry, and one of two half baths. Though private and secluded, it is convenient to area amenities and US -20.
Enter this Victorian dream through the double glass doors into the great room with beamed ceilings. The chef's kitchen is fit to prepare a delightful feast where all can gather around the 10 foot island. The upper floor has a study with bookcases and a soaring wood ceiling with exposed brick pillar. The lower level includes a fifth bedroom, full bath, second kitchen, rec room, office, playroom, craft room, and half bath. The property is fenced, and has a large backyard and paved entertaining area.
Kathy Heeren-Ellis 815.708.4061 kheerenellis@GoGambino.com
This home will wow you from the soaring entry to the beautifully finished, fully exposed lower level. The sunken living room with floor-toceiling windows flows into the formal dining room with French doors. The Cherry hardwood floors are stunning. Fully equipped kitchen with stainless appliances, granite, and a planning desk. The gorgeous family room boasts cherry floors, a stone fireplace, and sliders to the fantastic deck. The master bedroom features an en suite with a spectacular custom shower and whirlpool tub. The hall bathroom is updated, and the laundry room is on the second floor. Three skylights let the light shine in throughout the seasons. The finished lower level is spacious, featuring a full bath, fourth bedroom, and rec room with a bar. Your outdoor paradise awaits with a stunning inground pool surrounded by elegant wrought iron fencing and a lovely raspberry garden.
Karl Gasbarra
815.975.4218 karl@GoGambino.com
An adorable, updated farmhouse with modern finishes welcomes you to enjoy sunsets from the wraparound porch and explore the nearly five acres in the Winnebago School District. The dining room boasts built-in cabinets and a granite serving counter. The kitchen has a massive, eight-foot granite island with mahogany, cherry-stained cabinets, a tile backsplash, a double oven, and stainless appliances. The drop zone/mud room has a locker system and floor-to-ceiling windows. The laundry and a full bath are conveniently located on the first floor. The living room opens to the gorgeous wraparound porch. An open staircase leads to three large bedrooms and an enormous updated bath with dual vanity sinks. So much room for storage, including a large walk-in closet in the third bedroom and a walk-in closet off the hallway with an entrance to a walk-up attic for more storage or expansion. This property is perfect for hosting family events, a possible event venue, a home business, or a photography studio. The charming barn is completely updated with new electric, balcony, and an overhead garage door to an outdoor entertainment area with a fire pit. Zoned agricultural, this rural property has it all!
Kathy Heeren-Ellis
815.708.4061 kheerenellis@GoGambino.com
Welcome to this four-level home with 3,600 square feet of living space tucked away on a fenced, one-acre country lot. The lovely front porch sets the tone in creating a welcoming space. The fabulous kitchen and dining area boast access to the upper deck, Corian countertops, and stainless appliances. The updated hall bath has granite top vanities. Enjoy relaxing in the family room next to the wood-burning stove, where you can walk out the slider to the stamped concrete patio and beautiful yard. Fully equipped with lots of updates, including the roof, interior paint, well pump, pressure tank, engineered siding, exterior lights, some newer windows, garage door and opener, and central air. The garage is heated, so you can work on hobbies throughout the year. The gorgeous acreage includes apple, cherry, and pecan trees and a garden shed with a generous sized loft.
Take advantage of this two-story, one-owner home with easy access to I-90! As you enter, the foyer and the living room are lit with natural light coming through the several large windows near the top of the expansive 20-foot ceiling. Next to the den is the family room with a fireplace that flows into the kitchen. From there, you can step out onto the two-tier deck and look over your back yard's playground, which includes a firepit and aboveground pool with yet another deck. The second floor boasts four bedrooms, with the master featuring a huge ensuite with jetted tub and a large walk-in closet. The partially finished basement is plumbed for a bath and egress window in what could be a fight bedroom. This home has been well taken care of and is ready for you to move in to create new memories.
Ginny Meyer 815.262.8082 gmeyer@GoGambino.com
Custom, all brick, 2,346 square foot ranch in impeccable condition. This stunning home is situated on a 0.68 acre lot in the desirable Guilford Woods subdivision on a cul-de-sac. Walk into an inviting entrance to the large living room and formal dining room with a built-in China cabinet. Floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace, sliding door leading to deck, gazebo with two skylights, and view of a large yard with garden and fruit trees. Large, finished rec room. Close to shopping, schools, restaurants, and I-90.
This updated tri-level will give you the space you need! The kitchen has all stainless appliances and quartz counters with large single sink and island. Enjoy the expansive deck that is great for entertaining and includes a newer 20 x 12 metal gazebo. The shed is not included. New windows 2019 with transferrable warranty. Central air was done in 2021 and a new roof in 2011. Fireplace is cosmetic and does not emit heat. Agent Owned.
Rockford
$272,900
4 BD | 4 BA | 4,164 SQ FT
This stunning all-brick ranch has been well taken care of and updated to make it move-in ready! It features a finished, fully exposed lower level with a huge rec room and second kitchen. The first floor has beautiful hardwood floors, primarily throughout. The renovated eat-in kitchen has granite counters with backsplash and lots of natural light. This spacious house offers a first floor laundry, dual wood-burning fireplaces with attachments, sixpanel doors, crown molding, and a greenhouse. The garage has a separate connected heated workshop with 10-foot ceilings. Relax on the covered deck that runs the length of the house or the spacious patio below. The tranquility from the sights and sounds of the creek flowing through the 1.3 acre property is next to none, along with the mature trees and beautiful landscaping. Gonzalo Montoya 815.540.0003
This beautiful Roscoe Rambler provides convenience with a country flair. The stunning open concept welcomes you! Gather around the huge granite island with your guests. The kitchen features stainless appliances, granite countertops, and stylish white cabinets. The masterful kitchen flows into a cozy living room with a wood-burning fireplace. Three bedrooms and two full bathrooms create opportunistic spaces for entertaining, relaxing, and privacy when you desire. The master bedroom boasts a walk out to the den featuring sliders to the deck and an expansive wooded back yard where a bonfire get-together is ideal on those cool evenings.
Welcome to the desirable Meadow Crest Subdivision! This spacious, charming two-story sparkles throughout. Oak hardwood floors and natural sunlight adorn this home. Formal living and dining rooms offer entertaining space. Beautiful combo family room open to kitchen with all stainless appliances and a new dishwasher. First floor laundry conveniently located. Master bedroom with walk-in closet and ensuite with double sinks. The additional three bedrooms are light and oversized. Enjoy the luxurious new carpeting and the huge 20 x 30 deck overlooking the half acre, fenced yard. Excellent location in the Roscoe/ Hononegah School District and easy access to I-90. You don’t want to wait to check this one out!
Cheryl Jacobs 815.494.4956 cjacobs@teamlunde
Loads of potential in this large riverfront English Tudor on 1.24 acres on the Kishwaukee River! Large rooms, main floor living and family rooms, some partially finished rooms in basement with electric done, and walls and doors in. Most of the upper level has new wood-look flooring. Main floor needs flooring in some rooms and some kitchen appliances. There is a main floor laundry and half bath, large family room with fireplace and patio door out to huge deck with screened-in gazebo, mostly solid woods down to the river.
4214 Barley Ridge Trail | Cherry Valley
Once you make these deliciously simple brownies, everyone will be asking for more! Starts with a box brownie mix and premade frosting and ends in a decadent dessert! This can be doubled and made in a 9x13 pan. Brownies can be stored after cutting in an airtight container in fridge for longer shelf life and to stay moist.
1 box (16 oz) original brownie mix
Water, vegetable oil and egg called for on brownie mix box
2/3 cup mint-flavored chocolate chips
1 cup creamy vanilla frosting (from 16 oz container)
1/4 teaspoon mint extract
Green gel food coloring
1/3 cup mint-flavored chocolate chips
4 teaspoons butter
4 teaspoons corn syrup 1 teaspoon hot water
Heat oven to 350°F (325°F for dark or nonstick pan). Grease bottom of 9-inch square pan with shortening or cooking spray.
Make brownie batter as directed on box. Stir in 2/3 cup chocolate chips. Spread in pan.
Bake 28 to 31 minutes or until toothpick inserted 2 inches from side of pan comes out almost clean. Cool completely on cooling rack, about 1 1/2 hours.
In small bowl, stir all Frosting ingredients using spoon until well blended. Spread frosting over brownies.
In 1-quart saucepan, heat Glaze ingredients over low heat, stirring occasionally, until melted. Stir in 1/4 teaspoon hot water at a time, until mixture is thin enough to drizzle. Drizzle over frosted brownies. Refrigerate about 30 minutes or until glaze is firm.
Cut into 4 rows by 4 rows.
Kimberly Schwartz 815.977.1919 kschwartz@GoGambino.com
Carson
815.871.5131 cbreed@GoGambino.com
Carson was great! He listed my home fast and gave me my offers in a timely manner. He was always pleasant to work with and willing to help with whatever was needed to make sure the sale went through. I will definitely look for Carson when I’m ready to buy my new home. Thanks so much. - Julie W.
Anna was wonderful to work with. She was patient, kind and helpful in helping us find the perfect 1st home!!! - Margo W.
Pam was FANTASTIC to work with! She kept us informed throughout the entire process from listing to closing. She even went ABOVE and BEYOND when we had left some items behind in the home by sending them to us, and helped us work through some issues that arose after closing. Whether your buying or selling, you will NOT be disappointed in working with Pam. - DeAnn S. 815.289.6323 pcunningham@GoGambino.com 815.670.8751 amarinoa@GoGambino.com
Connie is a knowledgeable, caring, and thoughtful realtor. She did everything she could to make our homebuying process seamless. I would highly recommend her for her attention to detail and sense of humor. Thank you for helping us find the right home! - Liz B. 815.815.222.6076 cparis@GoGambino.com
Beautiful two story boasting a front brick façade within walking distance of Rock Valley College. Enter the spacious foyer featuring high ceilings, lots of windows, and a fashionable, open staircase leading to the upstairs bedrooms. Get cozy by the fireplace in the family room or entertain in the formal living and dining rooms. The kitchen is wellfitted with stainless appliances and sliders out to the deck overlooking the large yard. First floor laundry and high-end laminated flooring throughout the house. The fifth bedroom in the basement has an egress window with more views of the fenced yard. There is plenty of room for your hobby equipment or toys in the two-and-a-half-car garage. This home is in a beautiful location, close to shopping, restaurants, and much more. Miguel Lobato 815.494.7905
Open floor plan ranch is waiting for you to call home. This lovingly cared for home includes many updates, such as granite and updated appliances in the kitchen, updated main bath, roof in 2018, and siding in 2014. The large rec room with walkout to the yard is a great space for entertaining. The back yard is a dream come true featuring a lighted deck off the atrium overlooking a dream garden with beautiful perennials and walking paths to enjoy throughout the year.
A fabulous location near the entrance of Chicory Ridge with no neighbors behind. Great curb appeal greets you with this sizeable ranch ready for the next owner to make memories. Freshly painted, the main level provides a master with its own bath and two other bedrooms and full bath for family or friends. A spacious great room accented with fireplace that leads to the eat-in kitchen with ample cabinets creates an excellent space to prepare a meal. Sliders access the spacious deck that overlooks the nicely landscaped yard.
With a superb location near shopping, dining, and activities, this all-brick ranch home is sure to please. Not to mention low county taxes! Meticulously cared for, you can expect mint condition as soon as you walk in the door. Gleaming hardwood floors create warmth throughout. The winter months are approaching. Picture yourself warming up next to the gorgeous stone fireplace. The kitchen is wellequipped with newer appliances. Lots of white trim and neutral paint colors, so all you need to do is decorate. New windows and doors. Newer driveway, roof, water heater, and water softener. Enjoy the incredible views of the half-acre lot from the covered patio, and relax knowing how solid this home is.
2515 Driftwood Lane | Rockford
3 BD | 3 BA | 2,449 SQ FT
Super cool three bedroom, three full baths, ranch in desirable NE neighborhood. Tea or coffee in the morning is delightful in the bright and sunny eat-in kitchen. The living room and dining room combo features a bay window and cozy fireplace. The hardwood floors, and neutral carpet create an inviting and bright space. The master includes in ensuite. Finished lower level with a second fireplace, rec room, and a hot tub room. The sizeable deck overlooks the large yard with lush, green grass and mature trees.
3 BD | 1/1 BA | 1,606 SQ FT
Mostly brick ranch on a lovely, mature tree shaded lot over a half acre on a private hilltop. Freshly painted main floor. Welcoming, light, and bright living room. Kitchen with lots of cabinets and open to the dining area and family room with a fireplace. Wall with lots of windows to enjoy. Beautiful garden attracts the butterflies. Master bedroom with updated bath. Lower level rec room with a second kitchen. Great location close to I-90/39/20. Minutes from numerous forest preserves. Very private and secluded setting.
Cheryl Jacobs 815.494.4956 cjacobs@GoGambino.com
Ginny Meyer
815.262.8082 gmeyer@GoGambino.com
Old-world charm in the desirable Churchills Grove neighborhood near downtown Rockford and all its shopping, dining, and entertainment. The hardwood floors are impeccable. The heated sunroom is a fantastic space to enjoy throughout the year. Large eat-in kitchen with adorable greenhouse window and workspace. Entertain family and friends while gathered around the beautiful fireplace. Tons of white woodwork and soft paint colors create an inviting warmth and a modern touch. The spacious yard is fenced and includes lots of beautiful perennials. You will fall in love with this home and its excellent location!
Welcome home to this 1857 masterpiece with deep overhanging eaves seemingly supported with rows of corbels, tall arched windows on 3+ acres backing up to Prairie Path. Amazing distinguished architectural details inside and outside. Grand pillared front porch, gracious foyer with open staircase, and walnut railing. Mostly 12' ceilings and hardwood floors on main level. You will find wide, deeply-molded woodwork, wide baseboards and lovely arched windows with window seats throughout the home. Family room, formal parlor, and dining room. Country kitchen, chair railing, and original cupboards. Unfinished summer kitchen off main kitchen waiting for your final touches. Second floor boasts refinished pine flooring, four spacious bedrooms with lots of windows, bath, sunroom, and library. Great property that exudes privacy.
Beautiful new front door and storm. Kitchen with newer appliances. Living room with wood burning fireplace. Spacious family room. Fenced rear yard with deck and firepit. Immaculate condition inside and out.
Linda Elliott | 815.988.8954
Fantastic three bedroom, three full bath with gorgeous hardwood floors, ceramic baths, large breezeway, deck, inground pool, and privacy fenced rear yard. All this is nestled in well established, desirable neighborhood.
John Weiland | 815.494.6214
Tri-level with three car garage. Large living room with wood burning fireplace. Family and rec room ready to be finished and two fourth level rooms semi-finished. Great location with South Beloit schools.
Laura Haynes | 815.985.1115
This gorgeous home has so much to offer! Secluded with many trees. The yard is sure to be a relaxing destination. The home features the perfect amount of space with roomy kitchen and dining areas! A large garage.
Chrissy Dawson | 815.985.5649
Harlem Schools! Quiet, cul-de-sac location! Open floor plan. Sliders to three-season room. Access to deck to enjoy nicely landscaped, private yard. Basement ready for your decorating ideas. Super location!
Ginny Meyer | 815.262.8082
Three bedroom, two full bath ranch with oversized family room sitting on 1.18 acres which gives you lots of outdoor space to roam and play. Main floor master. Bring all your updating ideas. This home is ready to be yours.
Kevin Fisher | 815.494.9595
an opportunity to buy a unique property in a great location within the Beloit Township. You will be within walking distance of the Rock River to enjoy strolls and beautiful sunsets. Amidst this quaint setting, you will find this home comfortable with three bedrooms, a full bath, and a half bath. There is extra space perfect for a music room or home office. The huge yard is where it all happens. Entertain family and friends by the fire pit, or relax and enjoy the picturesque views. Perfect for the green thumb in the family as the yard also includes a garden area and greenhouse. A nature lover’s paradise tucked away in the Turner School District, yet still close to shopping and everyday conveniences.
As you look ahead to the winter season, you’re likely making plans and thinking about what you want to achieve before the year ends. One of those key decision points could be whether or not you want to sell your home this year. If the location or size of your current home no longer meets your needs, finding a house that better suits your lifestyle may be a top priority for you. But with today’s cooling housing market, is it really a good time to sell your house, or should you wait? If you’re ready to make your decision, here are three reasons you may want to consider selling before the end of the year.
Typically, in the residential real estate market, homeowners are less likely to list their houses toward the end of the year. That’s because people get busy around the holidays and deprioritize selling their house until the start of the new year when their schedules and social calendars calm down.
Selling now, while other homeowners may hold off until after the holidays, can help your house stand out. Start the process with a real estate professional today so you can get your house on the market and get ahead of your competition.
Even though housing supply has increased this year as buyer demand has moderated, it’s still low overall. That means there aren’t enough homes on the market today, especially as the millennial generation reaches their peak homebuying years. As Mark Fleming, Chief Economist at First American, says: “While not the frenzy of 2021, the largest living generation, the Millennials, will continue to age into their prime home-buying years, creating a demographic tailwind for the housing market.”
Serious buyers will still be looking this winter and your house may be exactly what they’re searching for. If you work with an agent to list your house now, you’ll be able to get in front of the eager buyers who are hoping to make a move before the year ends.
Don’t forget, today’s homeowners have record amounts of equity. According to CoreLogic, the average amount of equity per mortgage holder has climbed to almost $300,000. That’s an alltime high. That means the equity you have in your house right now could cover some, if not all, of a down payment on the home of your dreams.
And as you weigh the reasons to sell before winter, don’t lose sight of why you’re thinking about moving in the first place. Maybe it’s time to buy a house that’s in a better location for you, has the space you and your loved ones have been craving, or simply gives you that sense of home. A trusted real estate advisor can help you determine how much home equity you have and how you can use it to achieve your goal of making a move.
If you’re thinking about selling your house so you can find a home that better suits your needs, don’t delay your plans. Let’s connect so you can accomplish your goals before winter. Call Gambino Realtors at 815.282.2222.
Welcome to this remodeled bungalow that offers 3,100 square feet of living space with four bedrooms and two full baths. This desirable neighborhood is minutes from downtown Rockford. Updated kitchen with stainless appliances, new cabinetry, countertops, and ceramic tile floors. The bedrooms are spacious with deep closets and new carpet. Inviting living room with ceiling cross beams and laminated flooring. Formal dining with builtins with ceiling cross beams. Freshly painted throughout. This amazing home has it all, including a shortterm rental Airbnb with a full kitchen and full bath. If you are looking for a home that allows you to earn extra income, then look no further. Most of the windows have been replaced. All new light fixtures throughout. New furnace and ductwork. Don't second guess yourself, this home would be perfect for you.
Jay Dowthard
815.289.7530
jdowthard@GoGambino.com
Brick home near Sinnissippi and Anderson Gardens. First floor offers living room with fireplace, a dining room, sunroom, three-season porch and eat-in kitchen. Beautiful hardwood floor under carpet throughout.
Connie Paris | 815.637.0165
Brick and stone ranch with an attached two car garage. Chain link fenced yard. Updated kitchen with some unique design elements and a Sub-Zero stainless fridge. Spacious rec room, porch and patio.
Lyle McKinney | 815.543.2008
Dream kitchen. Spacious master with bath boasting a designer custom tiled shower. New windows and six panel doors. New mechanicals. Large yard. Tandem two car garage. Quality throughout.
Linda Elliott | 815.988.8954
Hardwood floors throughout. Tile flooring in kitchen and dining and lots of cabinets. Lower level has rec room and bonus room. Small deck. Fenced yard. Attached garage plus a detached 1.5 car garage for extra storage.
Laura Haynes | 815.985.1115
Unique ranch great for in-law setup. Seven car garage, above ground pool, fenced double lot. Updated kitchen and appliances. Screened gazebo. Finished lower level. Gas fireplace. Maintenance free exterior.
John Weiland | 815.494.6214
Move-in ready home in Harlem school district. Hardwood floors. Large family room with fireplace, heated floor and plenty of natural light. Fenced back yard. Patio. Stainless appliances. Central vac. Partially finished basement.
Mike Weerda | 815.985.2895
Great retro house situated on a hill with an oversized tree-shaded yard. Welcome to this three bedroom, low maintenance, 1,254 square foot ranch with an attached oversized garage. The inviting foyer with hardwood flooring opens to a spacious great room with hardwood flooring and a cove molding ceiling that adds a wow factor. Country kitchen with lots of counter space and cabinets, stainless refrigerator, and eating area. Nice-sized bedrooms; one is fitted with a walk-in closet. A full bath is conveniently located on the main level. Basement for storage, or one could use decorating ideas to expand for living space. Updates include roof shingles in 2020 and furnace in 2016. Close to schools, parks, shopping, and Prairie Path. Minutes to US 20.
Lovely ranch home located in the heart of Loves Park! Very spacious living and dining area with laminate flooring and neutral paint colors. There are two bedrooms on the main level with a possible third in the lower level because there is an egress window - or it could be a good-sized rec room. Updated kitchen with lots of cabinets and counter space. All stainless appliances in the kitchen stay, including the stove, microwave, dishwasher, refrigerator, and washer and dryer in the lower level. In addition to a good-sized finished space in the basement, there is a walk-in closet, laundry, and storage. Deck in the back overlooking the fenced yard and the playset stays. This move-in ready home in the Harlem School district is ready for a new owner! Mikhaele
Welcome to this beautiful two-story home which has been lovingly cared for. Sun-filled, eat-in kitchen with all appliances and pantry with pullout shelves. Gorgeous formal dining room and living room to gather around the table with family and friends. The recently updated and inviting threeseason porch welcomes you to enjoy a cup of coffee and listen to the birds singing. Three nice bedrooms and a roomy updated bath complete the upstairs. Hardwoods under the carpet and natural woodwork reveal the true beauty of this home. The beautifully landscaped yard is an excellent backdrop to enjoy nature throughout the year. Newer windows throughout. Roof, central air, and furnace are all within 10 years old. Located in the Guilford High School District, this gorgeous home is in a great location.
Cheryl Jacobs 815.494.4956 cjacobs@teamlunde
This fantastic four bedroom bungalow has been recently updated and would be perfect for you! Enjoy cooking in the lovely kitchen that has been tastefully finished. The 1920's charm still exists with excellent wood trim and moldings. Gleaming hardwood floors on the main level. Spacious living room that is light and bright. Huge dining room with plenty of space to host dinner parties. There are two good-sized bedrooms on the main floor and two on the upper level. Set up your man or woman cave in the full-size basement that has been freshly painted. Enjoy morning coffee on the three-season porch. Sliders off the kitchen lead to an enormous back yard ready for outdoor activities. Wheelchair ramp accessible. Many updates, including a new roof and gutters in 2022, a new furnace in 2020, and a new kitchen in 2020.
Ginny Meyer 815.262.8082
gmeyer@GoGambino.com
Tranquil community nestled among the Rock River - welcome to River Key Subdivision. Your waterfront dream home awaits
with easy access to boating, fishing, skiing or lounging by the water’s edge in this river community. Inspired by the water way of life, River Key properties are located on the riverfront, countryside, or a quiet canal with access to the beautiful Rock River. The lots have potential for full walk out or partially exposed lower levels. The development has curbs and gutters, city water and sewer, residents-only boat ramp and storage areas, and Owen Township tax rate. River Key is conveniently located near the 173 Corridor and I-90.
Meticulously cared for and updated ranch condo. Two bedrooms, three full baths, and a large two car garage. Custom granite in neutral colors in the well-equipped kitchen and both baths. The bright and open spacious living/dining room combo offers plenty of gathering space, as well as lots of windows. Sliders from the great room lead to an inviting rear deck. The master bedroom with ensuite and walk-in closet is generous in size. First floor laundry for convenience. The lower level offers more living space with a rec room, gas fireplace, bonus room and full bath. Updates include the furnace and central air in 2013 and the roof in 2012. Association dues include lawncare, snow removal, and exterior insurance for a low $120 per month. Absolutely gorgeous condo in a 55 plus community!
Cheryl Jacobs 815.494.4956 cjacobs@teamlunde
While higher mortgage rates are creating affordability challenges for homebuyers this year, there is some good news for those people still looking to buy a home.
As the market has cooled this year, some of the intensity buyers faced during the peak frenzy of the pandemic has cooled too. Here are just a few trends that may benefit you when you go to buy a home today.
During the pandemic, housing supply hit a record low at the same time buyer demand skyrocketed. This combination made it difficult to find a home because there just weren’t enough to meet buyer demand. According to Calculated Risk, the supply of homes for sale increased by 39.5% for the week ending October 28 compared to the same week last year.
Even though it’s still a sellers’ market and supply is still lower than more normal levels, you have more to choose from in your home search. That makes finding your dream home a bit less difficult.
One of the top stories in real estate over the past two years was the intensity and frequency of bidding wars. But today, things are different. With more options, you’ll likely see less competition from other buyers looking for homes. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the average number of offers on recently sold homes has declined. This September, the average was 2.5 offers per sale. In contrast, last September, the average was 3.7 offers per sale.
If you tried to buy a house over the past two years, you probably experienced the bidding war frenzy firsthand and may have been outbid on several homes along the way. Now you have a chance to jump back into the market and enjoy searching for a home with less competition.
And when you have less competition, you also have more negotiating power as a buyer. Over the last two years, more buyers were willing to skip important steps in the homebuying process, like the appraisal or inspection, to try to win a bidding war. But the latest data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows the percentage of buyers waiving those contingencies is going down.
As a buyer, this is good news. The appraisal and the inspection give you important information about the value and condition of the home you’re buying. And if something turns up in the inspection, you have more power today to renegotiate with the seller.
A survey from realtor.com confirms more sellers are accepting offers that include contingencies today. According to that report, 95% of sellers said buyers requested a home inspection, and 67% negotiated with buyers on repairs as a result of the inspection findings.
While buyers still face challenges today, they’re not necessarily the same ones you may have been up against just a year or so ago. If you were outbid or had trouble finding a home in the past, now may be the moment you’ve been waiting for. Let’s connect to start the homebuying process today. Call Gambino Realtors at 815.282.2222.
Victorian six-unit
0.7-acre lot
nice yard
tenant use or expandable storage for owner. Potential seventh basement apartment to rehab. Units: two, one - bedroom and four studio apartments. Four garage and expansive off-street blacktop parking, two-room detached workshop with propane hookup and four car garage attic for storage. Basement also has tenant storage closets, work/supply area and coin operated washer and dryer (as is). All new electrical and remodeled baths. GHW system. Separate electric meter for tenants. Tenant owned window AC units. Owner pays heat, exterior lighting, mowing, snow removal, water, garbage and sewer. Owner contracting for exterior paint in Spring. Five fire security lights that go on in the event normal power is lost during fire.
