Gambino Realtors Home Guide - Volume Three, Issue Nine 2022

CONTENTS

GAMBINO REALTORS

What to Expect With Mortgage Interest Rates

Every time I hear a prediction about the future from an expert, I wonder to myself whether anyone will recall if that prediction came true. As it turns out, there were many predictions that didn’t bear out over time. In fact, there are quite a few that are laughable.

Consider the following:

- In 1903, the president of Michigan Savings Bank warned Henry Ford’s lawyer Horace Rackham to protect his money. “The horse is here to stay but the automobile is only a novelty—a fad”

- In 1906, composer John Philip Sousa warned about “The Menace of Mechanical Music” in an article attacking machines that brought symphonies into people’s homes. He suggested that phonographs would completely eliminate the need to learn a musical instrument.

- "The world potential market for copying machines is 5,000 at most," IBM told the eventual founders of Xerox in 1959.

The list of predictions gone wrong is very long indeed and includes many “experts” who were absolutely certain that their vision of the future was correct.

I received a report recently about the predictions for mortgage interest rates over the next 12 months.

These predictions come from four reliable sources: The Mortgage Bankers Association, The National Association of REALTORS, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Although they are not in agreement on the exact rates, they do share a common prediction that rates will be stable and decline slightly over the next 12 months. The average of their predictions has rates at 5.4% in the 4th quarter this year, and gradually dropping to 4.8% by this time next year.

I’ve been around long enough to know that these predictions can easily be wrong due to the fluctuations in our economy. I’d say that all things being equal, and stable, these predictions could bear out. On the other hand, if our economy stumbles, all bets are out the window.

The only mortgage interest rate that is certain is today’s.

Jonathan R. Krause, President Gambino Realtors

HOME GUIDE ISSUE NINE | 2022

VOLUME THREE

Publisher: Gambino Realtors

Editor: Kathy Heeren-Ellis

Design: Sarah E. Diamond

Photo Editing: Derek Stone

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

Three Things Buyers Can Do in Today's Housing Market

It’s clear the 2022 housing market has been defined by rising mortgage rates. With rates on the rise, it’s also become more costly to purchase a home. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR):

“Compared to one year ago, the monthly mortgage payment rose to $1,944 from $1,265, an increase of 53.7%.”

If you’re thinking of buying a home or have been trying to recently, that’s a big increase in a monthly mortgage payment – and it may be causing you to press pause on your plans. This jump is making homes less affordable, especially compared to the last two years when mortgage rates were at all time historic lows.

The good news is you can navigate today’s housing market and this rising rate environment with a few simple tips.

“A variety of mortgages are available with varying down payment and eligibility requirements.”

1. Expand Your Search Area and Criteria

If you’ve been looking for a home in a specific area that’s starting to feel out of your price range, you may want to try looking a little further out in a location that could be more affordable. Expanding your search location or re-prioritizing the items on your wish list can open up opportunities you haven’t considered, and that could help you afford more of what you need (and want) in a home. As CNET notes:

“Area growth is likely to keep pace with the market, which means that the suburbs might be hopping within five years. Consider stepping out of your ideal location by searching in the nearby cities. You may find better prices and more square footage.”

2. Explore Alternative Financing Options

Working with a trusted lender to learn about the different loan types and options is essential too. According to Nerd Wallet:

“A variety of mortgages are

available with varying down payment and eligibility requirements.”

Experts know how to point you in the right direction when it comes to exploring ways to find the best home loan for your situation. With rising mortgage rates making it more costly to finance a home today, there may be an ideal option out there your loan officer can introduce you to. This could make a home purchase more affordable and within your financial reach over the life of your loan.

3. Look for Grants, Gift Funds, and Down Payment Assistance

There are also many options available when it comes to securing the funding you need to purchase a home. One valuable resource to explore is downpaymentresource.com.

Searching for specific down payment assistance options available in your local community could be a game changer when it comes to taking your first step toward homeownership. As NAR indicates:

“Many local governments and non-profit organizations offer down-payment assistance grants and loans, targeted to area borrowers and often with specific borrower requirements.”

Plus, there are programs and special benefits for individuals working in certain professions or with unique statuses, including teachers, doctors and nurses, and veterans.

Ultimately, that means there are many federal, state, and local programs available for you to explore. The best way to do that is to connect with a local real estate professional and your lender to learn more about what’s available in your area.

If you’ve been searching for a home and have found yourself stepping out of the process because you’re worried about rising costs, let’s connect. Having a team of local advisors on your side may be just what you need to guide your search in a new and more affordable direction. Call Gambino Realtors at 815.282.2222.

Here are three things you may want to consider to help make your homeownership goals a reality:

“Compared to one year ago, the monthly mortgage payment rose to $1,944 from $1,265, an increase of 53.7%.”

Built in 2018 by Ambassador Homes, the craftsmanship and design of this one-owner home are outstanding. The amenities and unique features appeal to today’s buyer. This home boasts an an open floor plan with volume ceilings, engineered European Oak floors, a striking kitchen with graphite cabinetry, granite counters and stainless appliances, pull out microwave, pendant lighting, and open design. Sliding doors off the dining area are ideally located to enjoy your

large privacy fenced back yard. The master includes a walk-in closet and an en-suite bath with double sinks, granite countertops, a walk-in shower, and porcelain tile. The lower level is finished to include a large family room, a bedroom with an egress window and full bath, and two bonus spaces perfect for an office, gym, craft room, or playroom. Located in the soughtafter Old River Hills Subdivision and Hononegah School District. This is a fantastic find!

Welcome to this gorgeous home with beautiful views boasting five bedrooms, three full, and one-half baths! The kitchen has granite countertops, a center island with seating and storage, and an eating area open to the family room with a fireplace and access to the deck overlooking the beautiful back yard. There is a sizeable den/office to create a work from home space. Three bedrooms, and the laundry room are conveniently located on the main floor. The master features a private ensuite with separate vanities, jetted tub, and a large walk-in closet. The finished walkout lower level of approximately 2,000 square feet includes a family room with a fireplace, access to the large patio, a rec area with a wet bar, two bedrooms, and a full bath. This home is custom-built and will accommodate a wheelchair with laminate floors for easy moving on the main level. 608.290.1924

This gorgeous 2,000 square foot, split bedroom ranch is complete and ready to move in with three bedrooms, two full baths, and a three car garage. Fabulous curb appeal with a full brick front facade. New kitchen in 2019 with stainless appliances and quartz counters. Great room is light and bright with a 10 foot ceiling. Entertain in the dining room with a soaring 12 foot ceiling. First floor laundry. Super open and light. Deck, patio, yard, and irrigation. Belvidere North High School. This home is immaculate.

This nearly new, open concept, split bedroom design ranch home is a must see! There are three gracious bedrooms. The master includes two walk-in closets and a luxurious private bath. The kitchen has white cabinets with granite counters, two pantries and a large island with sink and dishwasher. The basement is large, has lots of potential, and is waiting for your finishing touches. Updated spaces within this ranch, so you can spend your time relaxing or entertaining in style.

All the information you provided was so helpful, to understand the process of buying a home, and also in this market place. The strategic way of scheduling 8 or more homes in one day was key...very easy to speak to and with great suggestions. 10/10 would definitely recommend.

- Marco C.

Sue Ellis

You were great, listening of what we where looking for, always returning our phone calls, being on time on every showing. Thank you so much for your time, you are very professional , knowledgeable and easy to work with. - Jose and Lilia R. 815.520.6134

Jackie was amazing in helping my purchase my first home! She was incredibly flexible in arranging showings and readily accommodated both virtual and in person showings based on my schedule. She walked me through the entire process and answered all of my questions. - M. Schuman

Jackie Tabor

Jackie was immensely helpful in assisting us with finding our first home. She is extremely knowledgeable, flexible, and honest. We recommend her to everybody we know, and will definitely reach out to her if we’re ever in the market again! - Shanna F.

Scot Craig

Scot was very knowledgeable and helpful when it came time to sell our home. He went above and beyond to help in every way possible. He was able to tell us what to repair and how to set up for showing and open house. We were very pleased with the results and quality of care of understanding that Scot put into his work. Due to all the help Scot gave my family is able to move on to the next adventure! Thank you so much!

- Darin and Heather G.

Scot did an excellent job selling my home, everything went super-smoothly and he took care of all of the paperwork needed. He is very friendly and personable. It was a joy having him as my realtor! - Kathy K.

Beautiful ranch home nestled on 1.77 acres. Huge great room with wood burning, stone fireplace. Hardwood floors in the living and dining rooms and newer carpet in the bedrooms. Tray ceilings in the master bedroom, dining room, great room, and curved corners for a stylish finish. Kitchen has upgraded cabinets, stainless appliances, a breakfast bar, granite counters, and an eating area with windows looking out to the back yard. Master bedroom has a private bath with a soaker tub and shower plus a huge walk-in closet attached to first floor laundry for convenience. The basement, with partial exposure, has many finishing options and a rough-in for an additional bath. Garage loversthere is a heated, six and a half car garage with two – two-car overhead doors plus an additional overhead door that goes out back to a concrete patio and the deck. Lots of mature landscaping and trees line the lot for privacy.

The property, known as Wind Ridge Herb Farm, has been providing organic herbs and herbal products for over 23 years to their client base covering much of Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin. The farm is known to its many visitors as a unique and extraordinary setting for weddings and events, and for comfortable stays in the guesthouse thru Airbnb or VRBO. There are two houses on the property: a magnificent 1889 historical Victorian with over 4,000 square feet is currently used as the owner's residence, and a second separate, private two story guesthouse operates as a popular vacation rental with a four night minimum stay due to its popularity.

The vacation rental popularity presents significant revenue potential should the main house be offered as a vacation rental also. Zoned Agricultural, a special use permit makes this all possible with very few restrictions. With five hoop houses, three barns, numerous outbuildings, a 60 x 90 indoor riding arena, three pastures, two paddocks, loafing shed, chicken coops, a hog house and lots of critters, the potential for income has barely been tapped. With a fabulous following for over two decades, this is a turn-key business with the potential for substantial growth in a beautiful, peaceful, and private setting.

This Victorian home with four floors, five bedrooms, four full baths, two half baths, and five fireplaces is an oasis of privacy and modern elegance. Enter this light-filled home through the double glass doors into the great room with a beamed ceiling. The chef's kitchen has a commercial hood and cooktop, pot filler, a warming drawer, side by side commercial freezer and fridge, loads of cabinets with pullouts, upper lit glass display cabinets, 10-foot center marbled quartzite island with prep sink and seating, updated quartz counters, and marble

backsplash. The master suite is luxurious with a fireplace and ensuite with a soaking tub, heated floors, and stunning closet featuring built-ins. Connect with history in the study on the upper floor, which includes stately bookcases and a soaring wood ceiling with an exposed brick pillar. The lower level consists of a fifth bedroom, full bath, second kitchen, rec room, office, playroom, craft room, and half bath. The mix of modern amenities and preserved history is a dream.

Fantastic, totally updated home features cherry hardwood floors, quartz countertops, an island, a large pantry, luxurious heated bathroom floors, and a first floor laundry room. Enjoy the spacious design featuring an open concept floor plan with a living room, family room, and dining room. The lower level offers excellent gathering space and comes complete with a rec room, wet bar, mud room, and a walkout to a patio overlooking the beautiful five-acre property. Need outbuildings? How about 3? Two of the outbuildings boast concrete floors.

One is heated for a great workspace, and they are all in excellent condition!

There is also a storage shed, a playhouse, and a pool for outdoor fun. A DogWatch fence is already installed, so bring your furry family members to join you in relaxation in the lush yard.

Heather Porter 815.988.7443

W i t h s t r o n g b u y e r d e m a n d , h o m e p r i c e s a r e t h e h i g h e s t e v e r ! G e t t o p d o l l a r f o r y o u r h o u s e !

W h i c h m e a n s t h a t y o u w o n ’ t b e i n c o n v e n i e n c e d w i t h s h o w i n g s a n d o p e n h o u s e s f o r v e r y l o n g !

I t ’ s t r u e ! W e h a v e t h e t o o l s a n d e x p e r t i s e t o h e l p y o u b e a p o w e r f u l b u y e r i n t o d a y ’ s c o m p e t i t i v e m a r k e t . A d d e d B o n u s : O v e r l a p t h e s a l e o f y o u r n e w h o m e s o y o u c a n r e d e c o r a t e b e f o r e m o v i n g i n .

H O M E P R I C E S A R E A T A N A L L T I M E H I G H

H O M E S A R E S E L L I N G Q U I C K L Y Find out what your home may be worth at GoGambino.com

B A N K S W I L L H E L P Y O U B U Y A N E W H O M E B E F O R E S E L L I N G Y O U R O L D H O M E !

14.28 acres - zoned Agricultural. Over 2,100 square feet, four-season room, and a sizeable in-ground pool. Five acres of woods with nine(+) of tillable land. Home has a solar field, you get to enjoy free electricity.

Frank Gambino | 815.637.0113

Fantastic home on 10 acres. Updated kitchen with granite and stainless appliances. Soaring ceilings in the great room with wood burning fireplace. Master with large bath and whirlpool. First floor laundry. Two outbuildings.

Frank Gambino | 815.637.0113

This beautiful two-story home is conveniently located in the Riverbend Subdivision. This home features new hardwood flooring, carpets, a newly renovated kitchen with appliances and a main floor laundry room.

Aimee Leon | 815.516.7879

Home features hardwoods, efficient wood burning stove in family room, eating area in the kitchen, sunny Florida room, first floor master and laundry, partially exposed lower level, beautifully done landscaping, and shed.

Kevin Fisher | 815.494.9595

Open foyer with tall ceiling and tons of windows, open staircase leading to upstairs. First floor laundry and family room with fireplace. Newer high end laminate flooring throughout the house. Fully fenced yard.

Miguel Lobato | 815.231.4129

Need more space? Want to walk to the golf course? Then look no further! Over 2,900 square feet. Just a block from Aldeen Golf Course! Relax on the deck after work, and enjoy the wonderful use of space!

Mike Hakanson | 815.509.8518

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.

Custom ranch home nestled on a 1.5 acre parcel in the Aberdeen Subdivision on Swan Hills Golf Course. A spacious foyer welcomes you to the open floor plan with soaring ceilings. The main level is home to the impressive owner’s suite set off by French doors and hosts an office flanked with gas fireplace, built-ins, dual closets, and a bathroom rich with amenities. A spacious living room boasting a dual-sided stone fireplace that meets the renovated kitchen featuring a breakfast corner with skylights, deck access, granite countertops, hardwood floors, custom cabinetry, island for socializing, and newer appliances. A vast three-season porch with additional access to the deck overlooking the grounds and golf course. The first floor laundry/ mud room is conveniently accessed from the spotless garage. The living extends in the lower level with three additional nice-sized bedrooms, a family room, a utility/storage room, and direct access to the garage.

Team Lunde 815.985.9522

Enjoy a 100 feet river frontage with no flood insurance required. Plenty of room with for all of your toys with the six car, 1,500 square foot garage with 11 foot ceiling. This property is an excellent river front find.

Keith Ruiz | 815.985.0870

Lots of character in this beautiful home. Sits on 1.17 acres. There is a second kitchen and living area, perfect for an in-law apartment. Pool and jacuzzi stay. Conveniently located close to Rock Cut State Park, 173, and 39/90/20.

Miguel Lobato | 815.231.4129

This four bedroom home just needs a little TLC to be an amazing home with two full and two half baths! The back yard is fully fenced. New roof in 2022.

Stefanie Yarber | 815.995.0836

Ranch with loads of windows and an open floor plan. Private back yard with fenced area. Living room with dark wood flooring, and white woodwork. Kitchen with open cabinets and shelving, stainless appliances.

Claudia Hernandez | 815.262.7472

Four wood burning fireplaces in living room, family room, rec room and lower level bedroom. In-ground pool and jacuzzi. Lower level with rec room, sauna, two bedrooms, game room, second kitchen, and wet bar. Short sale.

Jean Campbell | 815.505.8336

Gorgeous brick cape cod with updates galore! Gourmet kitchen with granite, stainless appliances and beautiful cabinetry. Spacious living and dining rooms. First floor laundry. Private back yard. Great location!

Jay Dowthard | 815.289.7530

Beautiful split level home located in Mulford Hills and Harlem School District. The first floor boasts cathedral ceilings in foyer, living room, formal dining room and kitchen plus bayed dining area with sliders to multi-tiered deck and pergola. Spacious lower level family room with wood burning fireplace, fourth bedroom or den and half bath. Upper level master with en suite and his and hers closets. Open basement ready for future expansion and storage. Minutes from I-90, Mercy Hospital, shopping and restaurants.

Don’t miss this gem! Better than new two-story home tucked away in the Winnebago School District. Entertain or relax in the spacious living room with gas fireplace, twostory ceiling, and new oak hardwood flooring. Master bedroom features a large master bath. Egress window in lower level. Wood deck with custom seating overlooking the mature trees and lush lawn. New furnace and central air. So much to enjoy about this home, come see for yourself.

A charming country home nestled on a flag lot with a long driveway welcomes you to privacy and seclusion. This property has it all! The inviting front porch brings you to a stunning great room with hardwood floors and a peaked 15' ceiling. An array of huge windows provides lots of light and picture postcard views of the property during all seasons. Kitchen with island, cabinets with pullouts, and a big slider to the cozy deck. Two bedrooms and a full bath comprise the main level. An open stairway leads to the primary bedroom. Skylights in the bedroom and bath create an open and airy feeling. 33x40 metal building for your hobbies or storage, a three(+) car garage with one bay heated and air conditioned.

Would you love your own private resort without leaving home? This well-appointed ranch has all the luxuries of a five-star resort. The expansive, relaxing deck features a pergola with ceiling fans and lights. Take a dip in the heated pool after dinner on the deck. Beautiful eat-in kitchen with stainless appliances and a huge center island. Open vaulted great room and dining room. Master with spacious en suite with whirlpool tub. Hand-scraped Acacia wood floors elevate the look throughout. The lower level features three additional bedrooms with egress windows, a full bath, a rec room, and a generous theater room. The fenced one acre(+/-) landscaped yard is a joy through all seasons. Many updates have been done, including a new roof in 2020, a 96-efficiency furnace in 2020, central air in 2015, a water heater in 2021, a leaf guard gutter system in 2021, and sump and lift pump in 2022. Hobbies and toys are no issue with the heated garage with 10' ceilings and an 18x8 door.

Cheryl Jacobs 815.494.4956

SHOULD I SELL MY HOUSE THIS YEAR?

There’s no denying the housing market is undergoing a shift this season as buyer demand slows and the number of homes for sale grows. But that shift actually gives you some unique benefits when you sell. Here’s a look at the key opportunities you have if you list your house this fall.

Opportunity #1: You Have More Options for Your Move

One of the biggest stories today is the growing supply of homes for sale. Housing inventory has been increasing since the start of the year, primarily because higher mortgage rates helped cool off the peak frenzy of buyer demand. But what you may not realize is, that actually could benefit you.

If you’re selling your house to make a move, it means you’ll have more options for your own home search. That gives you an even better chance to find a home that checks all of your boxes. So, if you’ve put off selling because you were worried about being able to find somewhere to go, know your options have improved.

Opportunity #2: The Number of Homes on the Market Is Still Low

Just remember, while data shows the number of homes for sale has increased this year, housing supply is still firmly in sellers’ market territory. To be in a balanced market where there are enough homes available to meet the pace of buyer demand, there would need to be a six months’ supply of homes. According to the latest report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), in July, there was only a

3.3 months’ supply.

While you’ll have more options for your own home search, inventory is still low, and that means your home will still be in demand if you price it right. That’s why the most recent data from NAR also shows the average home sold in July still saw multiple offers and sold in as little as 14 days.

Opportunity #3: Your Equity Has Grown by Record Amounts

The home price appreciation the market saw over the past few years has likely given your equity (and your net worth) a considerable boost. Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at realtor.com, explains:

“Home owners trying to decide if now is the time to list their home for sale are still in a good position in many markets across the country as a decade of rising home prices gives them a substantial equity cushion . . .”

If you’ve been holding off on selling because you’re worried about how rising prices will impact your next home search, rest assured your equity can help. It may be just what you need to cover a large portion (if not all) of the down payment on your next home.

If you’re thinking about selling your house this season, let’s connect so you have the expert insights you need to make the best possible move today. Call Gambino Realtors at 815.282.2222.

Formal living room with possible eating area. Large kitchen recently updated. Newer floors in kitchen and family room plus hardwoods in bedrooms. Lower level rec room and additional room. Great location!

Mikhaele Howell | 815.871.6787

Located on a quiet street close to everything with lower level rec room, office and two large bonus rooms. Master en suite with walk-in closet. Roof, gutters, siding three years. Solar panels two years. New water heater.

Michelle Dollak | 815.988.4363

Open floor plan. Great room with vaulted ceiling and gas fireplace. Private fenced back yard. All appliances stay. Main floor laundry. Rockton tax rate. Located in the Rockton/Hononegah Schools District.

Karen Barbagallo |

Unique opportunity here with this quality built, roomy ranch situated on 2.7 acre lot in a stellar location. Home is a step back in time with so much potential. Outside is a dream full of possibilities.

Team Lunde

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, and a large garage.

Chrissy Dawson

On a large lot with green space. Living room has wood laminate floor. Kitchen and dining area has sliders leading to deck. Finished lower level has rec room, bonus room and full bath. Nice sized three car garage.

Angie Leiva

This one-owner, custom-built ranch in the gated community of Candlewick Lake is waiting for someone to call it home! Step in the front door, and you are greeted by high cathedral ceilings, a wood-burning fireplace, and an open-concept kitchen. The back yard boasts a large stone patio overlooking the well-maintained yard that backs up to a wooded lot. Maintenance-free siding, sixpanel doors, new roof, oversized two-car garage, large patio, newer windows, and convenient first floor laundry. Enjoy the Candlewick Lake life with amenities including an outdoor pool, rec center, basketball and tennis courts, fitness center, lake, playgrounds, park, dog park, and golf course.

This rustic log home nestled in heavily wooded acres exudes privacy and seclusion, creating a great getaway! Listen to the birds sing and watch deer pass through as this property is a nature lover's paradise. Most of the main level is exposed logs. Impressive great room 29x21 with 14' peaked wood ceiling, skylight, and loads of windows to capture picturesque views and allow light to stream in. 16x12 tiled kitchen with island and tons of cabinets is part of the great

room. In addition, the main floor has a spacious primary bedroom, full bath, and an open staircase to the lower level. There is a 20.7x14.3 rec room, office, computer room, bath, laundry, and shop. Could put ingressegress window to improve functionality.

The lower level has supplemental heaters. Attached two car garage and outbuilding. Close to recreational activities, the Pecatonica River, Prairie Path, and numerous forest preserves.

YUMMY

DUTCH APPLE PIE

Presented by Kathy Heeren-Ellis

Nothing says fall like a delicious apple pie! This apple pie has a traditional crumb topping. Stop at a local orchard and get some fresh apples!

INGREDIENTS

Crust

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/3 cup plus 1 tablespoon shortening

2 to 3 tablespoons cold water

Filling

8 cups sliced cored peeled apples

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Topping

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup all-purpose flour 2/3 cup packed brown sugar

1 tablespoon granulated sugar

INSTRUCTIONS

In medium bowl, mix 1 cup flour and the salt. Cut in shortening, using pastry blender (or pulling 2 table knives through ingredients in opposite directions), until particles are size of small peas. Sprinkle with cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, tossing with fork until all flour is moistened. Gather pastry into a ball. Shape into flattened round on lightly floured surface.

Heat oven to 400°F. On surface sprinkled with flour, using floured rolling pin, roll pastry dough into circle 2 inches larger than 9-inch pie plate. Fold pastry into fourths; place in pie plate. Unfold and ease into plate, pressing firmly against bottom and side and being careful not to stretch pastry, which will cause it to shrink when baked. Trim overhanging edge of pastry 1 inch from rim of pie plate. Fold and roll pastry under, even with plate; flute as desired.

In large bowl, toss Filling ingredients. Pour into pie plate, mounding apples toward center.

In medium bowl, use pastry blender or fingers to mix butter, 1 cup flour and the brown sugar until a crumb forms. Sprinkle evenly over top of pie. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon granulated sugar on top.

Bake 45 to 55 minutes or until pie crust and crumb topping are deep golden brown and filling begins to bubble. Transfer to cooling rack to cool.

Stunning, raised ranch with four bedrooms, two and a half baths, a huge kitchen, and a great room, all on the main level. Large, open kitchen and eating area with island, new cabinets, appliances, and quartz tops, all open to a large great room for relaxation space. Lovely primary suite with a custom shower. All new hall bath with double vanity and modern finishes. A huge lower level includes a family room and half bath. The large, private lot is an excellent space for outdoor activities. This is a mustsee home with new windows on the main level, new central air, and all new flooring. Located within proximity to lots of shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Beautiful brick ranch tucked away on a lot with mature trees and lush lawn. Spacious eat-in kitchen with large windows overlooking the deck and back yard. Updates in the main and master bath were done in 2016. Enjoy a cup of coffee or tea in the beautiful enclosed porch throughout the seasons. The lower level offers more square feet for entertaining and storage. The large back yard welcomes you to relax or play, while the deck invites you to relish a great meal with family and friends. The owners have completed many updates, including a new furnace in 2021, central air in 2019, house roof in 2015, blacktop drive in 2014, sun porch roof in 2020, and so much more. This home is move-in ready in a quiet location. 2,279

Winnebago

Charming one-owner ranch in the Village of Winnebago near schools, walking paths, and a sports park. This three bedroom, one and a half bath home has an efficient layout and tons of storage space! The covered front porch welcomes you and your guests. One of the bedrooms is a perfect place for an office or a den with French doors. The oversized kitchen is an ideal gathering space. So many possibilities for updating this large kitchen space! Newer laminate flooring in living areas. New carpet and fresh paint in bedrooms. Half bath off the master bedroom for convenience. The massive deck overlooks the oversized lot boasting mature trees and a truly tranquil setting. The attached two car garage is nice and spacious. Make this your home and enjoy the small town living in Winnebago for cheaper than you can rent! 815.708.4061

This gorgeous home offers a large eatin kitchen with granite countertops, timeless backsplash, and stainless appliances. The incredible great room offers a fireplace and vaulted ceilings. The dining room is perfect for all your entertaining needs. There are three spacious bedrooms, including a master with a dual sink in the bath and a walk-in closet. The lower level offers a ton of space with the rec room, egress window, and bar area. There is a full bath and an office, making working from home a breeze. Enjoy the partially covered twotiered deck overlooking top-notch landscaping and the open land in the back. Updates include a new roof in 2017, a dishwasher, a furnace, central air, and new flooring on the main level except for the kitchen, all done in 2021. Make this beautiful home yours today!

The one you have been waiting for is an impeccably maintained, all brick, early mid-century bungalow in the heart of Rockford! As you enter the foyer, you will are greeted with pristine hardwood floors, a wood fireplace, a sunroom in which you will spend many hours soaking up the sun, and a formal dining room. The kitchen and bath have been completely remodeled with granite countertops, oak cabinets, and new stainless appliances. The park-like back yard has plenty of privacy, a stone patio, and is wired 220 for your future hot tub! This house has a dual tank water softener, tankless water heater, energy efficient dual paned argon filled vinyl windows, 12X3 master walk-in closet, a deep one car garage for extra toys, and on street parking. A second bathroom can be added in the basement. Minutes from Nicholas Conservatory, Anderson Gardens, and the revitalized downtown district. 815.670.4129 1,676

Getting Your House Ready to Sell? Work With an Agent for Expert Advice

In a market that’s shifting as fast as it is today, many homeowners wonder what, if anything, needs to be renovated before they sell their house. That’s where a trusted real estate professional comes in. They can help you think through today’s market conditions and how they impact what you should – and shouldn’t –do before selling your house.

Here are some considerations a professional will guide you through.

What You Need To Know About Your Local Market

Since the supply of homes for sale has increased so much this year, today’s buyers have more options than they had last year. That may mean you’re not able to ignore some of those repairs or cosmetic updates you could have skipped in previous months. As a recent article from realtor.com says:

“To stand out in the market, sellers should make their home

attractive to buyers, which usually means some selective updates.”

The key word here is selective. Since it’s still a sellers’ market, focusing on a few key areas may be enough to make your house stand out from other options. And since inventory is still low overall, it’s also possible buyers may be willing to handle the renovations themselves once they move in.

It all depends on buyer demand and the available inventory in your local area.

For advice on what’s happening in your market and what to do to make your house show well, lean on a professional.

Not All Renovation Projects Are Equal

In addition to making sure your house makes a good first impression, you’ll also want to consider the return on your investment (ROI) for any renovations. According to the

2022 Remodeling Impact Report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), here are the projects that could net you the best return when you sell your house (see visual below).

Again, your real estate advisor is your best resource. When your agent comes to your house for a walk-thru and consultation, they’ll use their expertise to offer any insight into what you may need to repair, replace, or refinish. They also know what other sellers are doing before listing their homes and how buyers are reacting to those upgrades to help steer you in the right direction. As Dr. Jessica Lautz, Vice President of Demographics and Behavioral Insights for NAR, explains:

“This year, the winner was hardwood flooring. Hardwood floor refinishing and putting in new wood flooring had the most significant value, . . .”

How To Draw Buyer Attention to the Upgrades You’ve Made

For any projects you’ve already completed or for those you plan to do

before listing, make sure your real estate professional knows. They’re not just an advisor to help you decide where to focus your efforts, they’re also skilled at highlighting any upgrades in your listing.

That way, potential buyers know about the features that may help sell them on the house.

No matter what, contact a local real estate professional for expert advice on what work needs to be done and how to make it as appealing as possible to future buyers. Every home is different, so a conversation with your agent is missioncritical to make sure you make the right moves when selling this season.

In today’s shifting market, it’s important to spend your time and money wisely when you’re getting ready to move. Let’s connect to find out where to focus your efforts before you sell. Call Gambino Realtors at 815.282.2222.

Over 2,400 square feet on one level with three bedrooms and two full baths in Winnebago Schools! The large foyer with an open staircase leading to a partially exposed lower level makes an impression. Formal dining room, living room/den with fireplace, eat-in kitchen with bayed seating area and breakfast bar, plus a massive family room with loads of windows and soaring ceilings. Access the covered front porch or your twotiered deck from the family room. The master bedroom is spacious, with a walk-in closet and private bath. Additional bedrooms are generous sized and share a full hall bath. This home has many big ticket updates, including replacement windows, new roof, gutters and gutter guards 2020, and a maintenance-free composite deck and porch. Air, furnace, and water heater have also been updated. The lower level has great expansion possibilities with a wall of windows and rough-in for third bath. This home exudes privacy with its tree-lined yard on nearly one acre. Heeren-Ellis

This beautiful Roscoe rambler provides convenience with a country flair. A stunning, open concept that features the kitchen of your dreams welcomes you and your guests to gather around the huge granite island. 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 fall evenings. This home has so much to offer the new owner.