Gambino Realtors Home Guide Volume Four Issue Six

FROM OUR PRESIDENT

Jonathan R. KrauseGambino Realtors

Arecent Wall Street Journal article points out that 44.9% of homes in the US are “equity rich” which is defined as owing less than 50% of the home’s current value. This is a wonderful position in which to find oneself!

As home values continue to rise at a brisk pace, some homeowners approaching their retirement have decided to “cash out” and use their proceeds to buy a lower priced home or condo for cash. Indeed, about 1/3 of all home purchases today are cash transactions, primarily driven by the equity gained in their previous home.

Is this an opportunity for you to consider? The first step would be to see what amount of equity you have in your current home. That’s where your Gambino Realtors broker can be invaluable. Give us a call.

"Owning a home is a keystone of wealth…both financial affluence and emotional security."

- Suze Orman

9189 Pomeroy Road

Rockton

$715,950

62 acres with all the bells and whistles for hobby lovers and outdoor enthusiasts! Welcome to this three bedroom, one bath house tucked away in a rural setting. So much room for all your toys and equipment in the 50 x 30 detached garage and barn. The steel building has elevated ceilings ready to house your large equipment. This property has a lot of unique features, including the rear 40 acres with spring fed pond lies within Rock County, Wisconsin, while the house and 22 acres are located within Winnebago County, IL. The acreage in Rock County is currently being leased for crops. Please note – the 40 acres in Wisconsin is landlocked and must be purchased with the 22 acres and the home in Illinois. A lot of ground with tons of opportunity awaits your final touches and ideas!

Heather Porter

815.988.7443

3 BD | 1 BA | 1,589 SQ FT

EVALUATING YOUR WANTS AND NEEDS AS A HOMEBUYER MATTERS MORE TODAY

When it comes to buying a home, especially with today’s affordability challenges, you’ll want to be strategic. Mortgage rates impact how much it costs to borrow money for your home loan. And, to help offset the higher borrowing costs today, some homebuyers are taking a close look at their wish list and re-evaluating what features they really need in their next home to avoid overextending. As a recent NerdWallet article says:

“A pool, for example, may be nice to have, but it may not provide as much day-to-day value as a garage or a space for a home office . . .”

While that pool may be appealing, think twice on whether or not it’s really something you must have to be happy in your next home. Is getting that pool the main reason you’re moving? Probably not. It’s more likely a need for more space, a home office, or proximity to loved ones, friends, or work that’s motivating you to make a change.

So, if you’re looking to buy a home, take some time to consider what’s truly essential for you in your next house. Make a list of all the features you’ll want to see, and from there, work to break those features into categories. Here’s a great way to organize your list:

Must-Haves:

If a house doesn’t have these features, it won’t work for you and your lifestyle (examples: distance from work or loved ones, number of bedrooms/bathrooms, etc.).

Nice-To-Haves:

These are features you’d love to have but can live without. Nice-to-haves aren’t dealbreakers, but if you find a home that hits all the must-haves and some of these, it’s a contender (examples: a second home office, a garage, etc.).

Dream State:

This is where you can really think big. Again, these aren’t features you’ll need, but if you find a home in your budget that has all the must-haves, most of the nice-to-haves, and any of these, it’s a clear winner (examples: a pool, multiple walk-in closets, etc.).

Once you’ve categorized it in a way that works for you, discuss your top priorities with your real estate agent. Remember to think carefully about what’s a non-negotiable for your lifestyle and what’s a nice-to-have that’s more of an added bonus. Be sure to discuss where each feature falls with your agent. They’ll be able to help you refine the list further, coach you through the best way to stick to it, and find a home in your area that meets your top needs.

Putting together your list of necessary features for your next home might seem like a small task, but it’s a crucial planning step on your homebuying journey today. If you’re ready to find a home that fits your needs, let’s connect.

Nestled on 23 acres (+/-), this home with a partially updated floor plan offers 2,200 (+/-) square feet for entertaining. Sharp great room with walls of windows and 12 foot beamed cathedral ceiling opens to a beautiful three-season room, kitchen with island and a family room with wood burning stove. Outbuildings include a workshop and barn – hobbyists will be delighted!

This four bedroom, three bath, two and half car garage home boasts over 2,700 square feet of finished space to enjoy! Vaulted ceilings and hardwood floors in the spacious living and dining room add an open and airy feel. A gas fireplace offers a cozy space for those cooler months. The eat-in kitchen features ample cabinet space, tile flooring and stainless appliances.

1818 US Hwy 20 E | Freeport $298,000 3 BD | 1/1 BA | 2,270 SQ FT

Ginny Meyer 815.262.8082 gmeyer@GoGambino.com

3443 N. Trainer Road | Rockford $249,900 4 BD | 3 BA | 2,768 SQ FT

Mikhaele Howell 815.871.6787 mhowell@GoGambino.com

10694 Saddle Path Road

Belvidere

$499,000

Country living close to city amenities. This beautiful ranch home sits on a partially wooded five-acre lot offering lots of privacy. With three spacious bedrooms, two and a half baths, and lots of garage space, this home will surely delight.

Boasting granite countertops, stainless appliances, a Wolf oven and stovetop, the kitchen is a cooking enthusiast’s dream. Get cozy vibes with the heated floors in the kitchen, master bath, and main second floor bathroom. The large lower level rec room creates additional entertaining space. Enjoy the convenience of a workshop and storage room in the lower level. This home boasts ample outdoor living spaces, including a partial wraparound deck off the master, a paver patio with fireplace, a water feature and koi pond, an 80 x 72 pole barn, and a walk-through raised garden area with serene views.

Tony Badaluco

815.985.4190

3 BD | 2/1 BA | 3,261 SQ FT

13317 Big Stone Circle | Roscoe

Superb craftmanship and custom details combine to bring you this outstanding home. With 5,800 square feet of luxury living space, this home beautifully accommodates functionality of flex spaces. The main floor includes a stunning great room with stone fireplace, gourmet granite kitchen with walk-in pantry, and formal and informal dining spaces. A private bonus space makes the perfect playroom, library, office, or guest space. The finished walk out lower level adds a fifth bedroom and full bath, large family room and theater. Don't miss this rare opportunity to own a beauty in Roscoe.

Karl Gasbarra

815.975.4218

karl@GoGambino.com

Offering over 3,700 square feet and nestled on a quiet wooded cul-de-sac lot in the desirable Promontory Ridge Subdivision, this custom-built beauty is loaded with upgrades. Among the amenities are nine foot ceilings with walls of windows, solid six-panel doors and built-ins, granite and stainless chef's kitchen with custom cabinetry, island and walk-in pantry, hardwood and ceramic floors throughout, and a main floor laundry and half bath. Four spacious bedrooms are on the second floor, including a large Master with en-suite bath and walk-in closets. Your living space continues with a lower level rec room, theater, and full bath. There is a covered and uncovered deck and fire pit to enjoy the outdoors, rain or shine.

5912 Moosehorn Lane Rockford

$369,900

Just outside of city limits with a low tax rate of 9.53, convenient to I-90/39 commutes and a quick bike ride to majestic forest preserves. This four bedroom, three and a half bath house shines on 0.7 acres of lush landscaping. Pull into the new driveway, walk by the impeccable flower garden and lounge on the covered porch in the quiet, lowtraffic neighborhood. Enjoy your private 360 square foot deck, or shoot some baskets for morning exercise! Luxurious Brazilian hardwood enhances the living, dining, and family rooms. The kitchen has sliders to the deck and a spacious yard with open space, a garden shed, and vegetable garden. From the family room, enter the new 23x12 addition, currently used as an exercise room. A portion of the lower level has been remodeled as a rec area with egress and an attached full bath. Lots of updates!

815.505.8336

Jean Campbell

The Village of Cherry Valley awaits you! Situated on the edge of town, this multi-level home has cherry cabinets in the kitchen and hardwood floors through most of the home. A beautiful walk-in shower in the master, new flooring, and tub in the upper level bath, and an additional full bath in the lower level. Pella windows were installed new in 2012. New roof in 2014. The backyard features a beautiful paver patio with grill area to spend the rest of the summer entertaining. There is a garden shed to hold all your yard toys. Come see it before it is gone!

17170 Brick School Road | Pecatonica

$550,000

Country living with city convenience! This beautiful brick ranch in Pecatonica is situated on 10 acres, features over 4,000 square feet of quality living space. Featuring an open concept floor plan with abundant windows keeping it light and bright, volume ceilings, hardwood and ceramic throughout, and a wonderful chef's kitchen featuring granite and stainless steel with a tile backsplash. Main floor master with an en-suite bath and walk-in closet. Your living space doesn't end there! The finished walk out lower level includes a half bath and is set up to be utilized in several ways depending on your needs.

Karl Gasbarra

815.975.4218

karl@GoGambino.com

2200 Cairnwell Drive | Belvidere

Looking for a private sanctuary that feels like every day is a vacation but within minutes of all amenities? We've got it! This beautiful home is uniquely styled with a dramatic flair and quality updates throughout. The comfortable and relaxed design is married with modern touches resulting in bright, light, and airy spaces. The character and charm abound with details such as volume ceilings and skylights, wood and ceramic flooring, quality millwork and paneled doors, updated kitchen and baths, and an abundance of windows to allow views of the wooded lot. Located within minutes of all amenities and move in ready.

Karl Gasbarra

815.975.4218

karl@GoGambino.com

Welcome to this ranch with an open floor plan, three bedrooms, two and a half baths, and 1,600(+/-) square feet of living space. Spacious great room with fireplace for those cooler evenings. Kitchen with lots of cabinets, and breakfast bar. Main floor laundry for convenience. The master bedroom features a tray ceiling, en-suite, and walk-in closet. The lower level has a rec room, office, workshop, storage room with built-in storage, and partially roughed-in bath. Professionally landscaped fenced in yard.

Check out this handsome ranch just minutes from I-88 and the hustle and bustle of the burbs! Once you pull up, you will immediately be impressed by the curb appeal, and once entering the front door you will feel like you are at home! This updated home boasts a large eat-in kitchen with butcher block countertops, stainless appliances, and LVP flooring with many updates throughout the house. Fenced back yard. The lower level can be used for a rec room or home office. Truly a house worthy of calling home!

1060 Comfortcove Drive | Machesney Park

7373 Grace Drive | Roscoe

Here it is - the envy of the neighborhood! Summer days soaking up the sun and spending time with family and friends in the saltwater pool. This four bedroom, four bath house has a main floor master bedroom with en-suite, first floor laundry, a newly updated kitchen with quartz countertops, and high-end stainless steel appliances. The main level has a den/office area with French doors opening to a balcony overlooking the pool, mature trees, and professional landscaping. The impressive lower level has a wet bar and new LVP flooring with 1, 200 square feet to entertain.

815.670.4129

mfiorello@gogambino.com

Charming Dutch Colonial home in Rockford's historic Edgewater neighborhood. Hardwood floors refinished in 2022, pavilion on deck built in 2021, new roof and washer/dryer in 2018. Enjoy the family room addition for entertaining. Fully fenced and landscaped back yard with maintenance free deck, and shaded seating area. Finished basement with full bath, could be used as a teen/in-law suite. Walking distance to Sinnissippi Park, Anderson Japanese Gardens, Rockford Country Club and much more!

This brick ranch offers over 2,000 square feet of gorgeous, sun-filled living space! The spacious living room with bay window opens to a cozy family room with gas fireplace and sliders to a darling three-season porch. Amazing, large kitchen with a full complement of appliances, white cabinets, granite countertops, breakfast bar and hardwood floors. Laundry room is conveniently located on the main level. The private fenced yard is a bird lovers’ sanctuary. Lovely NE neighborhood near Brookview Elementary.

815.985.2830

bzimmerman@GoGambino.com

Rockford

6398 Torchlite Trail | Loves Park

Quality custom-built ranch! Features a partially exposed lower level with a fabulous entertaining floor plan. Nestled quietly on a wooded lot just under an acre, close to Rock Cut. An expansive walk up welcomes you into a large foyer, open concept great room with volume ceilings, walls of windows, stone hearth fireplace with custom built-ins, oversized white trim, solid panel doors, and neutral palette throughout. Kitchen boasts stainless appliances, maple cabinets, breakfast bar with additional eating area, and slider to the patio. Master bedroom with en-suite, large bay window, and huge walk-in closet. Large, fenced back yard!

Juanita

815.979.2877

jrinaldo@GoGambino.com

YUMMY

by Gambino

SHEET PAN LEMON CHICKEN & POTATOES

INGREDIENTS

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 teaspoons Greek seasoning

1 lb small new potatoes, quartered

2 tablespoons Annie’s™ organic goddess dressing

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (6 to 7 oz each)

1 tablespoon honey

4 cups fresh baby spinach

Sliced lemon, sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh oregano leaves, if desired

INSTRUCTIONS

Heat oven to 425°F. Spray 18x13-inch rimmed sheet pan with cooking spray.

In large bowl, mix oil and 1 teaspoon of the Greek seasoning. Add potatoes; toss to coat. Place potatoes skin sides down in single layer on pan. Roast 16 to 18 minutes or until just tender when pierced with knife. Remove from oven; stir.

In same large bowl, mix dressing and remaining 1 teaspoon Greek seasoning. Add chicken to mixture, and toss to coat; arrange in single layer in pan next to potatoes. Roast 20 to 25 minutes longer or until juice of chicken is clear when center of thickest part is cut (at least 165°F) and potatoes are browned and very tender.

Drizzle entire pan with honey. Add spinach to pan. Return pan to oven; roast 1 to 2 minutes longer or until spinach wilts slightly.

Top with remaining ingredients.

4114 Verde Lane | Rockford

You are invited to enjoy a little piece of heaven in your own back yard at this lovely home. The grounds are immaculate with an 11x13 inground firepit area, 11x18 deck overlooking a Koi Pond and a 7.5x21 porch that overlooks the entire back yard. There is also a potting shed that any gardener would love. This beautiful well-lit home has 10 skylights and large windows for that open feeling. There are three large bedrooms and a master suite that includes a dressing area, office, and sunken spa bath. Huge family room with bar, wiring for surround sound and French doors to patio and fenced, nature lovers' back yard.

Sandy Basel

815.494.4132

sbasel@GoGambino.com

4 BD | 3 BA | 2,302 SQ FT $315,000

Great 1,500 square foot ranch located in an area of established homes on the south side of town. Close to schools, shopping, and easy access to US 20. Spacious kitchen with cabinet accessory upgrades, eating area and an abundance of natural light. Good size master with private bath and walk-in closet. Main floor guest bath. Lower level features a rec room with gas fireplace, office, laundry room, storage room and bath. Great for entertaining and tons of storage available throughout the house.

This newly painted exterior home includes a Google Nest smart thermostat, Ring doorbell with a keyless fingerprint doorknob, updated light fixtures and appliances, which are all connected to a smart hub, which includes a French door refrigerator, five-burner stove and a high efficiency smart top load washer and gas dryer. Both bathrooms have been completely updated. The lower level is being used as a rec room but can easily be turned into a fifth bedroom with the existing egress.

SOLD

11150 Corrigan Road

Roscoe

$365,000

3 BD | 2 BA | 1,612 SQ FT

This Roscoe ranch is located on a picturesque country road, yet convenient to city amenities, and highway access. Situated on almost 5 acres, zoned Agricultural, with mature landscape, you will find a horse barn, pole barn, woodshed, hay pastures, fire pit, fenced yard and so much more! The home has hardwood floors, fully finished basement, country style eatin kitchen, two fireplaces, master bedroom, generator, and first floor laundry. The end loading two plus car garage includes extra storage space. An oversized screened porch allows for summertime relaxation, and country views. Enjoy a peaceful lifestyle with endless possibilities.

Tracy Suyko

815.289.1130

3066 Merseyshire Lane

Machesney Park

$279,900

See this large, beautiful, two-story home with over 4,200 square feet of living space just north of Rock Cut State Park. You will love the quick and easy access to I-90, shopping, and restaurants! This home features a sizable, eat-in kitchen with tons of cabinet space. A slider opens to the two-tier deck where you can enjoy the incredible sunsets. The master suite has two walk-in closets and a spacious private bath. There is a huge play/ media room between the bedrooms and a nice-sized laundry room on the second floor. The basement has a finished rec room and a bonus room to use as an office or workout room. This home has many upgrades, including beautiful sixpanel pine doors and trim, walk-in closets in all bedrooms, a new roof in 2020, and a new water heater in 2021. Please note, this photo is virtually staged.

Tony Badaluco

815.985.41.90

4 BD | 3 BA | 4,255 SQ FT

Located on a tree-lined street in a quiet neighborhood is this sharp, move-in ready, open floor plan ranch. Covered front porch to enjoy mature tree-shaded front yard. Foyer opens to spacious living room and dining room with gleaming hardwood floors and loads of big windows to capitalize on the natural light. Efficient kitchen, lots of cabinets and counter space, dining area. Welcoming three-season porch overlooking the patio and pleasant back yard. Lower level fit for entertaining! Close to I-90/39/20.

Well maintained home on peaceful cul-de-sac, loved by long time owners. Living room boasts beautiful bay window providing lovely views and abundant light. Large eat-in kitchen has tons of cabinets and features sliders to spacious deck overlooking fenced back yard. Park-like setting with trees and perennials provide privacy. Two bedrooms and a full bath complete the main floor. Stairs lead you to a cozy family room with Franklin stove and a full walkout to patio.

2432 Wyoming Drive | Rockford $178,900

4874 East Lawn Drive | Rockford $175,000

12841 Riverton Place | Winnebago

Amazing two-story home at the head of a cul-de-sac on over a half an acre. Nicely cared for grounds perched on a hill with beautiful view of rolling terrain of the countryside. Stunning great room with 16.5+ peaked ceiling. Array of windows to maximize viewing the scenery all seasons. Brick floor-to-ceiling fireplace flanked with two quarter moon windows and an eyebrow window. Pass through to the kitchen with dining area, lots of cabinets, pantry, and slider to the deck. Private master bedroom with a spacious en suite boasting double vanity sinks and a walk-in closet. Lower level is ready for one to finish as desired. Enjoy all the Westlake amenities, including a golf course, walking trail, tennis courts, and swimming pool.

Ginny Meyer

815.262.8082

gmeyer@GoGambino.com

t o s a n d s e n t i m e n t a l i t e m s .

SOLD

124 Palm Avenue Rockford

$250,000

This large, yet cozy multi-level Cape Cod is nestled on a treecovered lot, close to shopping, and local restaurants. The gorgeous fireplace and large bay window both add to the charm of the living room. Just off the living room is the dining room, and three-season porch. Kitchen features two wall ovens, gas cooktop, and eating area has built-in bench seating. The fourth bedroom is a walk-through to the master bedroom which could be used as an office, sitting area, or nursery. There are pocket doors that open to the large sleeping area in the master bedroom. The ground level rec room has its own entrance and is adjacent to the garage, and laundry room. Don't let this one get away!

Tony Badaluco

815.985.4190

4 BD | 2/1 BA | 2,972 SQ FT

126 Callaway Cove | Loves Park

$459,900

Elegant, move-in ready condo with over 4,300 square feet of style and luxury. Newer LVP floors on main level adds a touch of modern. Light and bright throughout! Eat-in, chef’s delight kitchen boasts granite, stainless appliances, and a large pantry. Expansive master suite with a huge walk-in closet and luxurious bath that makes you feel like you are living in a resort. Loft and bedroom with custom bath on the second floor. Lower level is great for entertaining with bar and eating area and fully equipped media room! Great views overlooking the pond.

Brad Zimmerman

815.985.2830

bzimmerman@GoGambino.com

11775 River Hills Parkway | Rockton

This stylish, updated condo features four bedrooms, three baths, a two car garage and full exposure! Living room with cathedral ceilings and gas fireplace with slider to private, covered deck, perfect for gatherings. The kitchen is fit with new stainless appliances and a huge breakfast bar. Master en suite has a generously sized walk-in closet. Fully exposed lower level finished with family room, fourth bedroom, and full bath.

Amazing condo boasting tons of living space! The vaulted ceilings, walls of windows, and stunning gas fireplace create modern and cozy vibes throughout. Easy access to the private patio with brick pavers from the slider. The sleek kitchen features granite countertops and a sizeable pantry. Main floor laundry with front load washer and dryer. The HOA covers roof, driveways, lawncare, and snow removal! Best of all – these condos are pet friendly!

So many updates so this condo is move-in ready! End unit first floor condo boasts two bedrooms and two baths. Freshly painted, new carpet, and new LVT in this light and bright unit are added bonuses. Spacious foyer with closet leads to open concept living, dining and kitchen area. Breakfast bar in the kitchen. Stone tile in foyer, hallway, and kitchen. Large concrete patio to enjoy the vast green space. Outdoor storage shed attached to patio and unit. Lots of newer items including mechanicals!

2202 Churchview Drive #L | Rockford $225,000

3525 St Anthony Way #1 | Machesney Park $55,000 2 BD | 1 BA | 910 SQ FT

7200 Harrison Avenue | Rockford

Call For Terms/Price

64,000 SF available for lease. Largest regional mall in North Central Illinois with over 6 million visitors per year. Second floor available with north exterior entrance and mall entrance. Restaurant space with commercial kitchen available. Signage on north, west (S. Perryville frontage) and south (facing the Streets of Rockford plaza (area). High-traffic location with strong demographics. Convenient access from S. Perryville Rd., Harrison Ave. and S. Bell School Rd. All types of uses considered immediately. Adjacent to I-90/39/20. Cherry Valley has no property tax. Strong daytime population.

Jennifer Berry

815.871.6156

jberry@GoGambino.com

Brad Benedict

815.988.4286

bbenedcit@GoGambino.com

Why You Need A True Expert in Today's Housing Market

The housing market continues to shift and change, and in a fast-moving landscape like we’re in right now, it’s more important than ever to have a trusted real estate agent on your side. Whether you’re buying your first home or selling once again, it’s mission critical to work with an expert who can guide you through each unique step of the process. The reality is, not all agents operate the same way. To truly make a powerful and confident decision as you buy or sell a home, you need a real estate expert who uses their knowledge of what’s really happening with home prices, housing supply, industry projections, and more to give you the best possible advice.

The right agent can assist you in figuring out what’s going on at the national level and in your local area. They can debunk headlines using data you can trust. Experts have in-depth knowledge of the industry and can provide context, so you know how current trends compare to the normal ebbs and flows in the housing market, historical data, and more.

Then, to make sure you have the full picture, an agent can tell you if your local area is following the national trend or if they’re seeing something different in your market. Together, you can use all that information to make the best possible decision.

After all, making a move is a potentially life-changing milestone. It should be something you feel ready for and excited about. And that’s where a trusted expert comes in.

If you want sound advice and trusted information about our local housing market, let’s connect.

A Sampling of a Few of Our Recently Sold Transactions