The Real Estate Book Home & Lifestyle Guide Chicago South Suburbs 2.7

88700.29.7.000.Cover_Layout 1 7/5/17 2:58 PM Page 1

Chicago’s South Suburbs Volume 2 Issue 7

HOME & LIFESTYLE GUIDE

Tips to Design a Great

Outdoor Kitchen

See Page 8

4

Advantages of Using a Buyer’s Agent See Page 4

88700.29.7.000.MoyFull_Layout 1 7/5/17 1:59 PM Page 1

Danielle Moy Broker

(708) 466-4075

Danielle.Moy@cbexchange.com

Text MOY to 85377 to search for homes on your phone

K

Sold over 600 homes in 2013, 2014, 2015 & 2016

O

N LA W K OA

RI

RL

CH

AN

TO

D

N

PA R

PA R

K

Ranked #4 In Coldwell Banker North America For Total Units

Text P127575 to 85377 For More Info

Text P280343 to 85377 For More Info

NICE VIEWS & PRIVATE! Open Layout, Great For Entertaining. Large Kitchen w/SS Appls. 2 Car Attached Garage, Deck.

3 Beds | 2 Bath | $265,000

GREAT INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY! Living Room w/Laminate Floors. Recently Updated Kitchen w/Breakfast Bar. Large Lower Level Family Room.

3 Beds | 1.5 Bath | $121,900

GORGEOUS REMODELED RANCH! Gleaming Hardwoods. Beautiful Kitchen w/Granite & SS Appls. Finished Basement, Double Lot. 3 Beds | 3 Bath | $269,900 K PA R EY NL TI

Text P773216 to 85377 For More Info

STUNNING HISTORICAL HOME! Premium Estate w/Curb Appeal. Updated Kitchen w/Bosch Appls & Granite. Main Flr Master.

5 Beds | 2.5 Bath | $299,000

Text P660491 to 85377 For More Info

PREMIUM LOT-WATER VIEWS Gleaming Hardwood, Vaulted Ceilings. Eat-in Kitchen, Family Room w/Gas Frplc, Basement.

4 Beds | 2.5 Bath | $329,900 Under Contract IG LE DA EN GL

CH

TI

IC

NL

AG

EY

O

HE

RI

PA R

K

DG

HT

E

Text P159991 to 85377 For More Info

BRICK RANCH IN SILVER LAKE DELLS! Picturesque Lot w/Waterfall Pond. Sprawling Finished Basement w/Office/4th Bed. 3 Beds | 3 Bath | $289,900

S

O

TI

RL

NL

AN

EY

D

PA R

PA R

K

K

Text P1120261 to 85377 For More Info

Text P219413 to 85377 For More Info

Text P184455 to 85377 For More Info

STUNNING-ON A PREMIUM LOT! Huge Family Room w/Frplc. Eat-in Kitchen w/Vaulted Clng. Walking Path & Pond Views.

4 Beds | 3.5 Bath | $349,900

GREAT INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY! All Units Are Currently Rented-Full BasementSpacious Parking Lot in The Back!

6 Unit Building | $489,000

SECOND FLOOR CONDO! Open Floor Plan. Kitchen w/Breakfast Bar. Master w/Full Bath, In Unit Laundry. Balcony With Treeline Views 2 Beds | 2 Bath | $150,000

AN RL O

TI

NL

CH

EY

IC

D

AG

PA R

O

PA R

K

K

Text P127575 to 85377 For More Info

Text P201436 to 85377 For More Info

Text P1120262 to 85377 For More Info

Text P211431 to 85377 For More Info

TOWNHOME IN ODYSSEY COUNTRY CLUB! Freshly Painted Interior, 6 Panel White Doors & Trim. SS Appls & Granite. Full Basement w/Storage. Brick Paver Patio.

3 Beds | 2.5 Bath | $178,000

NEW 2ND STORY ADDITION! Updated kitchen w/granite & tile backsplash.

Full finished basement.

3 Beds | 2.5 Bath | $294,500

BEAUTIFUL RANCH STYLE TOWNHOME! Wooded Subdivision. Living Room w/Fireplace. Open Floor Plan & Kitchen w/Granite. Finished Basement w/Bath.

2 Beds | 3 Bath | $297,000

Contact Danielle to find out how much your home is worth!

.14470 S. Lagrange Road Suite 104 Orland Park, IL, 60462

ROBERT SHUTAY

88700.29.7.000.ShutayNew_Layout 1 7/5/17 2:01 PM Page 1

(708) 349-1111

Let Me Go To Work For You! robertshutay@robertshutay.com

Experience Excellence 9999 W. 143rd St. Orland Park, IL 60462

Text Shutay to 85377 to shop for homes on your phone Orland Park $409,900

Orland Park

FULL FINISHED BSMT! Impressive 2sty in great Orland Park neighborhood! 4BR/4BA, 3c gar, ktchn w/SS appls, paver brk patio, maint-free bckyrd.

Text P653876 to 85377 for photos & info

ON GOLF COURSE! Lismore model is on the 9th hole of Crystal Tree golf course, & sits 10’ above the fairway. Main lvl mstr suite & partially fin bsmnt.

Text P571177 to 85377 for photos & info

BEST OF EVERYTHING! This 4000sf like-new home has 4br, HW flrs, main level office & den, 2-sided fp, paver driveway & patio, htd bsmt & gar flrs, prof lndspd!

Text P646513 to 85377 for photos & info

Orland Park

Orland Park $719,000

Orland Park

ALL BRICK 3-STEP RANCH! 3 BDR/3.5 BA has main level laundry room, new granite counters, SS appls, hardwood flrs, FR frplc, finished bsmt w/bath.

Text P638778 to 85377 for photos & info

ORLAND PARK 6-FLAT! Large lot, 6 garages, owner occupied. LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION! Call for details

DECK OVERLOOKS POND! 4 BDR/3.5 BA, 3,000+ sf, including lower lvl. 2-sided fp and 1st fr office. 9’ ceilings on main level.

Text P507503 to 85377 for photos & info

Orland Park

Orland Park

Orland Park

Orland Park

$524,900

$399,900

$434,500

MODELS OPEN! New construction. 3 BDR, Hardwood, SS appls, granite, cath clng, fp, mstr suite, bonus rm & loft, 9ft clngs in full l/o bsmt.

Text P726044 to 85377 for photos & info

Orland Park

$182,500

MINUTES FROM SHOPPING! 3 BDR/2BA townhome w/full bsmnt, garage & woodburning frplc. Updates: Pella wndos, furnace, SS appls, newer wsher/dryer.

Text P472106 to 85377 for photos & info

Orland Park

$359,000

SERENE POND VIEW! 2/3 BDR/2.5 BA + loft. 2 story townhome in gated Crystal Tree. Hardwood flrs, French doors to family rm w/fireplace.

Text P1061067 to 85377 for photos & info

$589,900

ALL BRICK RANCH! 4BDR/5 BA. Brick paver drive, volume ceilings, finished walk-out bsmt w/kitchen, bath w/steam shower, wet bar.

Text P472110 to 85377 for photos & info

Midlothian

HIGH TRAFFIC CORRIDOR! Turn key, 6 self-serve bays, one touchless bay. Could convert to auto svc ctr, owner retiring.

Text P544248 to 85377 for photos & info

Frankfort

ON BUSY ROUTE 30! For lease - Frankfort’s best retail location. 1200sf. 9500 Lincoln Highway.

Text P460755 to 85377 for photos & info

View Video Tours at www.robertshutay.com

$750,000

$279,900

$379,900

HALF ACRE LOT! 4 BDR/3 BA has FR w/stone fp, ktchn w/Corian & SS appls, 1st fl laundry, deck w/hot tub, above grnd pool, fncd-in yrd.

Text P493441 to 85377 for photos & info

Palos Hills

$192,900

RANCH STYLE CONDO! End unit w/2 BDR, each w/full BA & large closet. Sunroom overlooks pond.

Main level laundry, LR fireplace.

Text P695652 to 85377 for photos & info

Orland Park

$335,900

MODELS OPEN! New Construction. 3 BDR, hardwood, SS appls, patio. 2nd flr lndry, master suite, 2nd br w/Jack & Jill BA, 9’ clng in bsmt.

Text P1049404 to 85377 for photos & info

88700.29.7.000.BuyersAgent_Layout 1 7/5/17 4:28 PM Page 1

4

Advantages of Using a Buyer’s Agent

By Rebecca Bradshaw

Buying a new home can be a complicated process. Despite the ease of finding multiple listings online these days, there’s still a lot to consider. Is the asking price in line with current market values? Are you confident about negotiating a deal, or know what to look for during an escrow closing? Below are four advantages of using a buyer’s agent to help you navigate the complexities of purchasing a home.

1 They are there for you.

3 They know the market.

2 They are experienced.

4 They have contacts.

Unlike a listing agent, whose job it is to represent the home seller, a buyer’s agent works for you. Not only do they take into account all of your wants and needs when finding houses for you to view, they also work with your budget and your timeline. In order to find you the best deal, they sometimes act as emotional buffers as well. If a listing agent sees that you have fallen in love with a home, they know you are more likely to consider their initial asking price, while a buyer’s agent can help you see the bigger picture, and may even find you a more reasonably priced home that you love even more.

From knowing how to spot potential problems during a walk through to understanding the ins and outs of purchase agreements and closing contracts, an experienced agent knows what to look for during every step of the home buying process, which makes protecting your interests their number one priority. They are able to advise you on everything from how to handle home inspection problems to choosing the right mortgage lender, and, most importantly, an experienced buyer’s agent will know how to negotiate on your behalf, ensuring you get the best deal possible.

Whether it’s current home values or the latest mortgage interest rates, a good buyer’s agent knows what’s going on in the local housing market, and can guide your home search accordingly. They can tell you if a house’s price point is too high, or why it may have been lowered over time, or they may even have information about upcoming listings that haven’t been made public yet.

Buyer’s agents also make it their business to know about local school districts, planned community growth, and other information that may affect where you decide to buy.

Buyer’s agents generally have access to entire networks of listing agents, giving them access to information on houses before they hit the market, or potential list price reductions. They can also recommend mortgage brokers and home inspectors. And, when it comes to local movers and home service agencies, chances are an experienced buyer’s agent knows who to contact, and who will do the job the best for the best price.

Sources: First Team, Beier Law, HGTV

To find a buyer’s agent who is right for you, research local REALTORS® through their websites or by asking for recommendations from friends and family. Since they split the commission with the listing agent, using a buyer’s agent won’t cost you anything out of pocket.

Contact One of Our Featured REALTORS® For All of Your Real Estate Needs!

Robert Miller Eleanor Nastepniak Linda Shafer ABR,CRS,GRI,SFR,SRS Sandy Majetich-Toth Carrington Real Estate Services National Advantage Real Estate Oak Leaf Realty | Frankfort Coldwell Banker The Real Estate Group 708-372-0505 815-485-0304 / 815-922-3763 815-685-9100 815-791-2215 robertmillerhomes@gmail.com elnastepniak@earthlink.net linda@lindashafer.com sandytoth09@gmail.com robertmillerhomes.com nationaladvantage.net searchdreamhome.com Text Sandy to 85377 to shop for homes on your mobile device

88700.29.7.000.Blount_Layout 1 7/5/17 3:09 PM Page 1

708-448-6100 www.BHHSBlount.com

Blount, REALTORS (708) 448-6100

®

8100 West 119th Street • Palos Park, IL

Text P500772 to 85377 for photos PALOS HILLS | Fabulous open floor plan townhome. Kitchen w/appls.

Private patio & attached garage.

2 Beds | 2 Bath | $179,900

Text P264259 to 85377 for photos PALOS PARK | Architect designed remodel project with thermal efficiency. All rooms are on the main level except the loft & 4th or bedroom. Family room opens to screened porch & deck, w/ wooded views. 3 car garage plus a 17’x17’ storage shed.

4 Beds | 2.5 Bath | $499,500

Text P739532 to 85377 for photos

Text P1112170 to 85377 for photos

Text P1058172 to 85377 for photos

ALSIP | Immaculate first floor condo.

In-unit laundry & new carpet.

Immediate occupancy.

2 Bed | 1.5 Bath | $67,900

PALOS PARK | Old Creek Rd. ranch on 2 acres. Huge fam. rm. & bed addition. 4-c gar. Adj. to Forest Preserves.

3 Beds | 3.5 Bath | $487,000

PALOS PARK | Featured in Chicago Tribune’s Dream Home Section.

Sauna, walk-in closets, 4-c garage.

5 Beds | 5 Bath | $867,000

Contract Pending

Text P1058175 to 85377 for photos

Text P532015 to 85377 for photos

Text P1058174 to 85377 for photos

ALSIP | 2 bay auto repair gar; 12-14 parking spaces; & 3 bdrm home. Live in home or rent out.

3 Bed | 1 Bath | $324,000

OAK FOREST | Move in ready.

Awaiting your ideas - Quiet area near I-57. Big kitchen.

3 Beds | 1.1 bath | $174,900

HOMEWOOD | Cute Victorian w/ detached 2 car garage. All appls, 2 fireplaces, fenced yard.

4 Beds | 2 Bath | $169,900

Text BlountRealtors To 85377 To Shop For Homes On Your Mobile Device ©2015 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway Home Services and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.

88700.29.6.000.Article2_Layout 1 7/10/17 11:35 AM Page 1

WHEN IT’S TIME TO SELL, OUR ADVERTISERS DELIVER QUALITY RESULTS

Agents that advertise in The Real Estate Book® are qualified, knowledgeable about your local area, and determined to meet your needs, making them a perfect fit to sell your home. Our advertisers understand the need to stand out from the crowd everywhere - online, in print, and especially in their local market.

We provide real estate agents with the tools necessary to be successful, and most importantly, sell your home.

So, if you’re getting ready to list, make sure The Real Estate Book® is your first stop.

88700.29.7.000.GlocklerNew_Layout 1 7/5/17 2:08 PM Page 1

Judy Glockler (708) 529-5839

website:

JGlockler.com blog: GlocklerGroup.com Judy@CBexchange.com

Award-Winning Real Estate Experience • Unmatched Marketing Special Tiered Buyer & Seller Commission

Mention This Ad For A Free Home Warranty When You Buy Or Sell With Judy! Call For Details.

$429,900

$399,900

$349,900

$299,900

BEAUTIFUL BRICK RANCH in Hidden Valley in a wooded setting. Great room w/fireplace, upgraded kitchen & full lookout basement.

3 BDR/3.5 BA

BEAUTIFUL 2 STORY! Vaulted living & dining room, large main level family room, finished basement, new deck & large fenced yard.

4 BDR/3 BA

PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION! 3 step or true ranch. Quality features thruout, formal living rm, family room w/fireplace, master suite, basement.

3 BDR/2.5 BA

NICE 3 STEP RANCH! Vaulted family rm w/ fireplace, fin. basement, large kitchen, & fenced yard w/mature trees. Great location!

3 BDR/2 BA

Looking To Build Your Dream Home?

Great Locations!

-Hunt Club Ct., Mokena | $129,900

$174,900

$250,000

$340,000-$370,000

ALL BRICK RANCH! On over a half acre lot, spacious family room, fireplace in living room & dining area. Finished basement with bar & fireplace.

3 BDR/2 BA

OWN IN BOOMING WILL COUNTY! Great exposure on Homer Glen’s Bell Road & close to interstates. Zoning is residential - great commercial potential. 3 BDR/1.5 BA

PROPOSED NEW CONSTRUCTION! 2 Story & Ranch available, gorgeous spacious layout, open kitchen, many upgrades & beautiful finishes. Contact Judy for more info on these homes.

Just Sold

By Judy!

Call Judy Today To List & Sell Your Home Quickly & For The Best Price

SOLD

• • • • • • • • •

-Pheasant Ct., Homer Glen | $125,000 -Smith Rd., Lockport | $64,900

1044 Ashley Ct #2A 1130 Brooke Ln 464 Shadow Creek Cir 3 Shadow Creek Cir 16546 Willow Walk Dr 16619 Parliament Ave 15161 Rosarie Dr 1321 Washburn Way 16031 Golfview Dr

©2017 Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act & the Equal Opportunity Act. Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. 14470 S. LaGrange Rd., Orland Park

88700.29.6.000.Article_Layout 1 7/5/17 2:49 PM Page 1

Tips to Design a Great

Outdoor Kitchen

88700.29.6.000.Article_Layout 1 7/5/17 2:53 PM Page 1

Summer is right around the corner, and if your idea of enjoying the great outdoors is relaxing on your deck with a tasty beverage while the grill heats up, you’re in good company.

In fact, an outdoor kitchen project can provide homeowners up to a 130 percent return on their initial investment, according to the National Association of the Remodeling Industry. To help you cook up plans for an outdoor kitchen that truly sizzles, backyard design expert Paul Lafrance suggests the following tips.

¹AW] KIV M^MV OM\ K][\WUQbML KIJQVM\[ NWZ \MTM^Q[QWV[ IVL MV\MZ\IQVUMV\ [a[\MU[ ITWVO _Q\P [QVS IVL OZQTT JI[M[ LM[QOVML \W PQLM XT]UJQVO IVL XZWXIVM PWWS ]X[ _PQTM IT[W XZW^QLQVO M`\ZI LZI_MZ[ º 4INZIVKM [IQL

Shine Some Light

Start From the Ground Up A show-stopping outdoor kitchen needs a quality stage that KIV [\IVL ]X \W PMI^a NWW\ \ZI‫ٻ‬K IVL M^MZaLIa SQ\KPMV UQ[haps such as dropped utensils or spilled sauces. High-perforUIVKM _WWL IT\MZVI\Q^M LMKSQVO Q[ L]ZIJTM IVL MI[a \W UIQV\IQV · R][\ I [QUXTM [WIX IVL _I\MZ KTMIVQVO KIV \ISM KIZM WN IVa KWUUWV XIZ\a NW]T ¹+WUXW[Q\M LMKSQVO Q[ I VW JZIQVMZ º 4INZIVKM [Ia[ ¹1\ LMTQ^MZ[ \PM VI\]ZIT IM[\PM\QK WN _WWL _Q\PW]\ \PM JIKS JZMISQVO IVL \QUM KWV[]UQVO ]XSMMX [W W]\LWWZ KPMN[ KIV NWK][ WV _PI\ \PMa TW^M UW[\ · XZMXIZQVO LMTQKQW][ UMIT[ IVL MV\MZ\IQVQVO O]M[\[ º

Think Beyond the Grill ?PQTM W]\LWWZ KWWSQVO WVKM UMIV\ I JI[QK OZQTT IVL I JIO WN KPIZKWIT \WLIa¼[ W]\LWWZ SQ\KPMV[ IZM UWZM MTIJWZI\M IVL MY]QXXML \PIV M^MZ NMI\]ZQVO I ZIVOM WN IXXTQIVKM[ QVKT]LQVO XZWNM[[QWVIT OZILM KWWS\WX[ ZMNZQOMZI\WZ[ [QVS[ IVL LQ[P_I[PMZ[ I[ _MTT I[ [XMKQIT\a NMI\]ZM[ TQSM JZQKS W^MV[ IVL N]TTa [\WKSML JIZ[ /ZQTT[ \WW PI^M JMMV ]XOZILML \W PIVLTM UWZM \PIV [\MIS[ IVL J]ZOMZ[ · \PQVS _PWTM \]ZSMa[ [UWSML UMI\[ IVL ZW\Q[[MZQM[ AW]Z IXXTQIVKM[ _QTT LM\MZUQVM \PM W]\LWWZ SQ\KPMV LQUMV[QWV[ [W KWV[QLMZ PW_ \PM IXXTQIVKM[ aW] _IV\ _QTT Å\ _Q\PQV aW]Z LM[QOV

Factor in Function 8TIV NWZ ILMY]I\M [\WZIOM \W MTQUQVI\M JIKS IVL NWZ\P \ZQX[ QV[QLM aW]Z PW][M .ZWU X]TT W]\ \ZI[P JQV[ \W PQLLMV QKM KPM[\[ NWZ KPQTTML LZQVS[ \PM <ZM` 7]\LWWZ 3Q\KPMV[ KWTTMK\QWV NMI\]ZM[ KIJQVM\Za \PI\ JTMVL[ QV\MZQWZ [\aTM _Q\P L]ZIJQTQ\a \W _Q\P[\IVL \PM MTMUMV\[

,W]JTM \PM \QUM [XMV\ MVRWaQVO aW]Z W]\LWWZ SQ\KPMV Ja QVstalling adequate lighting for cooking and entertaining well af\MZ []VLW_V .WZ [INM\a UMI[]ZM[ X]\ \I[S TQOP\QVO W^MZ KW]V\MZ\WX[ ][ML NWZ [TQKQVO IVL LQKQVO I[ _MTT I[ VMIZ [\W^M\WX[ IVL W\PMZ IXXTQIVKM[ \PI\ ][M PMI\ WZ ÆIUM <W [M\ IV ]VLMZ[\I\ML [WXPQ[\QKI\ML UWWL ILL IUJQMV\ TQOP\QVO _PMZM aW]Z NIUQTa and guests will wine and dine.

Create Comfort <W _MTKWUM IVL IKKWUUWLI\M aW]Z O]M[\[ aW]Z W]\LWWZ SQ\KPMV [PW]TL JM QV^Q\QVO IVL PI^M IUXTM [MI\QVO IVL JIZ IZMI[ .WZ ILLML KWUNWZ\ QV\MOZI\M QV\MZQWZ QV[XQZML IKKMV\[ TQSM LMKWZI\Q^M K][PQWV[ IVL XQTTW_[ UILM WN _MI\PMZ ZM[Q[\IV\ UI\MZQIT[ )LLQ\QWVITTa aW]Z W]\LWWZ SQ\KPMV [PW]TL QVKWZXWZI\M []‫ٻ‬KQMV\ KW]V\MZ [XIKM VW\ WVTa NWZ NWWL XZMX IVL [MZ^QVO J]\ IT[W NWZ KZMI\QVO I KWUU]VIT MV^QZWVUMV\ [W O]M[\[ KIV KPI\ with the chef.

88700.29.6.000.Article_Layout 1 7/5/17 3:05 PM Page 1

Square Footage: Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Not the Size That Counts, but How You Use It

By Matt Metcalf

88700.29.6.000.Article_Layout 1 7/5/17 3:08 PM Page 1

ne of the first focuses for most people looking for a home is square feet. How many square feet are there? How does it compare to the rest of the neighborhood and area? Does size really matter?

O

Size, of course, does have an impact. More square footage provides the opportunity to have more flexibility with design, room arrangements and features, but experience tells me it is not the most important factor for homebuyers. Square footage is a fallback and easy measure for real estate because it is one of the few easily defined, measurable and comparable characteristics in describing a home. Features like views, finishes, layout and general feeling are harder to assign an absolute value, so we tend to look to square footage first.

If people really pay attention they will see that within a neighborhood or area, there are always some homes that sell faster than average and often at a higher price. Many factors can impact this, such as view and location, but in this case we are talking about the floor plan itself. Many large builders experience an overwhelming demand for just one or two models even when they have six or more available because the feel and use of the space is so important. Many people cannot even explain why they like one floor plan more; they just like the “feel.”

Ergonomics at Home Please Ergonomics is the process of designing or arranging workplaces, products and systems so that they fit the people who use them. People look to find comfort and enjoyment in their lives and their environment, work or home, and that can have both a positive and negative impact on their wellbeing. For most of us, our home is the place we will spend the majority of our time, so having spaces that fit us and make us more comfortable is extremely important. Applying ergonomic practices to home design can and does have a positive impact on our lives.

Give the People What They Want Across the country you will find many new construction homes built in the “modern” style, which is an update from the mid-century modern designs of the 20th century. In many of the western U.S. cities, such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas and Denver, this style of home is in great demand. It is not only found in luxury real estate. Denver real estate has seen a large increase in the demand and construction of modern

luxury homes, but also modern row homes and smaller homes that fit onto older, more limited lot sizes. Many older Denver neighborhoods have experienced high demand for beautiful homes with modern spaces that are not large, but offer a luxurious feel in design.

“Great modern design makes our living spaces easier to use and occupy while simultaneously stimulating our senses positively”

What Is “Modern” Anyway?

Many architects are students and fans of the mid-century designs that emphasize simplicity, open spaces, clean sharp lines and integration with the world around you. You will find a large emphasis on building homes that take advantage of the lot for views, integration with outdoor spaces, and multiple use rooms. Large glass windows for natural light and flat roof lines are also common features of the style, and when incorporated with a good design, can make the home feel great inside and look stunning on the outside. For many modern architects, each design is a challenge to incorporate clean lines, usable spaces and natural flow of the home to make the experience of living there enjoyable.

“Modern design is meant to be functional first—to integrate function as a part of our lives and space, to simplify and declutter our physical environment—and to accomplish this in an aesthetically pleasing form.

Great modern design makes our living spaces easier to use and occupy while simultaneously stimulating our senses positively,” says Jesse Walden, architect and builder with Lucid Studio in Denver.

After many years helping people find homes that fit their personalities and lifestyles, I have noticed that it is almost always the use of the space that has a greater impact than the sheer volume of square footage. This comes in two forms: use of square footage in layout and flow, and, of course, interior design. Having a great floor plan, visually pleasing design and good flow to a home will make it a desirable and more valuable home now and in the future.

88700.29.7.000.Martin_Layout 1 7/5/17 2:28 PM Page 1

Helping You Make The Right Move!

Shorewood, IL

Doug Martin 847-804-0293 martin1142@sbcglobal.net

Text DOUGMARTIN To 85377 To Shop For Homes 24/7

MONEE

AMAZING HOME IN GORMAN FARMS! Spectacular 2 story foyer. Main level has 2 family rooms, sunroom, master bedroom & laundry w/2 washers & dryers. 2nd floor master suite with approx 23’x6’ walk-in closet with door leading to walk-in attic space. 2 garages-3 car attached & 2 car detached. Full basement.

6 Beds | 3.5 Bath | $389,900

Shorewood, IL

Sandy

Majetich -Toth 815-791-2215

sandytoth09@gmail.com Text Sandy to 85377 to shop for homes on your mobile device New Price!

Plainfield

Rented!

Joliet

Text P1087540 to 85377 to see photos

Text P1117302 to 85377 to see photos

METICULOUSLY MAINTAINED RANCH! New kitchen granite & backsplash.

New roof, gutters, facia & soffit.

3 Beds | 2 Bath | $309,900

CATHEDRAL AREA APARTMENT! 2nd floor, 1,800 sqft. All appls +washer/dryer. No pets, no smoking 2 Beds | 1 Bath | $1,400/MO

Land!

Shorewood

SOLD!

Joliet

Text P1087543 to 85377 to see photos

Text P1116344 to 85377 to see photos

LOT IN SADDLEBROOK ESTATES! Beautiful Homes Surrounding.

1/2 Acre | $54,900

METICULOUS TOWNHOME! Custom kitchen w/SS appls. Low HOA fees.

2 Beds | 1.5 Bath | $138,500

88700.29.7.000.Tumas_Layout 1 7/5/17 8:02 PM Page 1

Kim, Al & Ken

708-363-2073 www.TeamTumas.com

BUYING OR SELLING? CALL US TODAY!

Text Listing Code to 85377 For Info & Photos

8833 W 159th St Orland Hills , IL 60487

Text P162810 to 85377

Text P182727 to 85377

Text P242823 to 85377

Text P1096682 to 85377

Text P131514 to 85377

NEW LENOX Beautiful Office Condo Excellent Location 1564 SQ FT of Space Call for Preview $220,000

GREEN GARDEN Spacious 4 BDRM/4 Bath Finished Walkout Basement In Ground Pool on 1.33 Acres call $365,000 for preview.

HOMEWOOD Spacious and Bright Hardwood Floors Fenced Yard / Near Park $179,900 Move in Ready

JOLIET Nice Corner Ranch w Basement 3/4 bedrooms / 2 full baths Fenced Yard / Newer HVAC $159,900 Quiet Area

OAK FOREST 1st Floor Bright Condo Upgraded Appliaciances Freshly Painted / Newer Carpet $56,000 Move in Ready

Text P242830 to 85377

Text P242822 to 85377

Text P151534 to 85377

Text P242839 to 85377

Text P223383 to 85377

FRANKFORT Beautiful 4 BDRM / 4 BATH 3 Car Tandem Garage / Heated Finished Basement / Wet Bar LW SCHLS $407,500

MANHATTAN Open Floor Plan Duplex Hardwood Floors, Vaulted Ceilings Huge Yard w Paver Patio Immaculate $158,000

NEW LENOX Brick Ranch Home 3 BDRM, 2.1 BATHS, 2 Car Garage Finished Basement L-W Schools $259,900

FRANKFORT Spacious 2 Story Upscale Butternut Woods Heavily Wooded .7 Acre Lot 1ST Floor Master $355,000

LEMONT Spacious Custom 2 Story Gorgeous Wooded Lot Finished W/O Basement Excellent School $350,000

Call Or Text For A FREE Market Analysis Of Your Home!

Text Skorupa to 85377 to Shop for Homes From Your Phone

815-744-1000 www.CBHONIG-BELL.com

Jim Skorupa is 5 Star Professional and is Rated in the Top 3% of Agents Nationwide for Customer Satisfaction

Scenic Backyard!

Totally Remodeled!

Jim Skorupa (815)693-2970 JimSkorupa@yahoo.com

Charming With Character!

Great Home!

SOLD IN 1 DAY!

SOLD Joliet | $159,900

Text P329665 To 85377 For Info

Text P1122656 To 85377 For Info

Country Club Hills | $299,900

JOLIET | $309,900 Beautiful! Large 4-5 BDR/4 BA home in great area. Great room w/brick frplc, cathedral clngs. Kitchen w/granite, office, large basement.

JOLIET | $144,900 4 BDR/2 BA with finished basement.

New kitchen, baths, mechanical.

Living room w/frplc.

Wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t last....CALL TODAY!

Jim Will Sell Your Home Quickly & For The Best Price!

Call Today To See What Your Home Is Worth 815-693-2970

Money Maker!

Build Your Dream Home Here! Call Jim Today!

Text P240068 To 85377 For Info

ROCKDALE | $159,900 Remodeled brick 2 unit building plus single family home.

Generates 3 incomes.

2 car garage.

Text P1073395 To 85377 For Info

Text P541328 To 85377 For Info

Text P1078631 To 85377 For Info

BRAIDWOOD | $14,000 Large lot for great price.

Plans available.

JOLIET | 2.1 WOODED ACRES Beautiful Property.

Nothing Like it in the SW Suburbs

WILMINGTON | $169,900 Nature lovers dream.

12 acres on the water.

88700.29.6.000.Article_Layout 1 7/5/17 2:48 PM Page 1

HOME INSPECTIONS: ITEMS THAT AREN’T DEAL-BREAKERS

BY W H I T N E Y B E N N E T T

A

fter making an offer on a home, you’ll enter into a contract. Part of that contract should always include getting a home inspection. It is recommended that any homebuyer make an offer to purchase contingent upon a home inspection. This allows you to withdraw your offer if there are any major issues discovered during an inspection.

More than likely, the home inspector will find problems that need to be fixed before closing. Major foundation issues and significant water damage are at the top of the list of signs to walk away from.

On the other hand, there are some home defects found during an inspection that don’t have to be deal-breakers.

Many of them can be fixed, and they can be used to negotiate with the seller for a lower price point or additional help with the closing costs.

LEAD-BASED PAINT Lead-based paint was banned in 1978, but it’s still possible that you could purchase a home that contains it if it was built before the ban. The sellers should disclose this, but the home inspector may find it, as well.

If mold is found during the home inspection, have a qualified mold inspector take a look. Not all molds are toxic, but the safest way to determine if this is a deal-breaker is by hiring a mold professional.

BUG INFESTATIONS

Ultimately, it is up to you to decide how comfortable you are with purchasing a home that has lead-based paint, but it doesn’t have to be a deal-breaker. You can hire a contractor who is certified to remove lead-based paint, and the home will be completely safe.

Bug infestations can cause significant damage to the home’s structure if they aren’t exterminated quickly and efficiently.

A home inspector may find signs of an infestation during an inspection, but how do you tell if it’s truly a deal-breaker?

CONCRETE FLOOR CRACKS

The best way to know if there is pest damage to the home’s structure or foundation is to ask a qualified pest expert to do an additional inspection of the home. Someone who is a specialist will be able to tell you if the home just has a few bugs, or if you need to rescind your offer.

Cracks in a concrete basement floor may seem like a structural problem, but this is natural and not indicative of significant damage. Small cracks occur in concrete because it’s a porous substance. These cracks can be fixed at a relatively low cost, and shouldn’t be a reason for you to back out of a contract.

What is something that’s cause for concern are cracks in concrete walls, as these may or may not be associated with the structure. If the wall has moved or if the cracks have a large opening, then these would be deal-breakers.

MOLD Mold is something that no one ever wants to see in a home you put an offer on, but a little bit of mold by the shower doesn’t mean you need to back out of your offer—at least not immediately.

When problems arise during home inspections, it doesn’t always mean you have to back out of your contract. Home inspectors will often find problems outside of their scope of expertise, so always get a second opinion from a specialist before making a final decision. In many instances, these problems are opportunities to negotiate with the seller. You can request that the seller do the repairs, or ask for money to put towards repairs.

You can also ask the seller to include a home warranty on the home in the contract of sale, but it won’t repair the problems found in a home inspection contract. A home warranty is there to protect you from aging systems and appliances after you buy. Think of getting car insurance on a car that was just wrecked and then opening a claim—it wouldn’t work, because the insurance was put on after the damage happened. The same goes for a home warranty.

88700.29.7.000.Ristucci_Layout 1 7/5/17 2:22 PM Page 1

R SOLD! C708-646-6447

Do You Want To Sell Your Home?

ALL ISTUCCI FRANK RISTUCCI

Investors, Buyers, & Sellers, I offer the latest Tools & Services to assure your highest satisfaction!

925 IL RT 59 Shorewood, IL

SOLD

SOLD

HOMER GLEN | $424,000

SOLD

SOLD

JOLIET | $220,000

FRANKFORT | $245,000

PALOS HILLS | $286,500

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

BOLINGBROOK | $280,000

BOLINGBROOK | $345,000

PLAINFIELD | $265,000

PLAINFIELD | $237,000

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

ROMEOVILLE | $219,900

PLAINFIELD | $237,000

HICKORY HILLS | $222,300

PLAINFIELD | $226,000

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

PLAINFIELD | $220,000

SHOREWOOD | $399,000

BOLINGROOK | $267,000

CREST HILL | $240,500

Text Ristucci to 85377 search for listings on your mobile device

88700.29.7.000.McCatty_Layout 1 7/5/17 2:45 PM Page 1

PRSRT STD ECRWSS U.S. POSTAGE PAID EDDM RETAIL LOCAL POSTAL CUSTOMER

8331 W 145th Place, Orland Park Amazing one of a kind residence set on 1.4 acre lot with in-ground pool.

1319 Acorn St, Lemont Impressive, traditional home convenient to all of Lemontâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s amenities. Premium lot.

Mike McCatty and Associates

8244 Karli Jean Ct, Frankfort 4 new homes ready for delivery.

Open floor plan. Upscale amenities.

139 Old Creek Rd, Palos Park Stunning French Provincial home magically transports you away from everyday living.

11300 W 151st Street, Orland Park Grand gated entrance leads to this unique custom home on wooded 1.12 acres.

8041 Meadowbrook Lane, Orland Park Makeover Success! Split Level w/sub basement made truly Extraordinary! Large patio w/hot tub.

16030 Wildwood Ln, Homer Glen Solid all brick, 5 bedroom residence offers an impressiveunique floor plan Incredible views.

5 Loblolly, Lemont Magnificent 4900 SF contemporary residence set in Ruffled Feathers; a beautiful secure golf course lot.

Greystone Ridge and Parkside Square, Orland Park Quality new construction offers contemporary design for 21st century living.

15005 Hunters Way, Lockport.

This custom 2-story is anything but ordinary.

Offering relaxing retreats and peaceful pond views.

708-945-2121

Named As One Of The Top Brokers In The Country, closing over a BILLION in real estate sales since 1999

www.mccattyrealestate.com

Lincoln Lake 5570 E Bay View Dr, Morris $1,150,000 14 miles of shoreline on this private all sports lake.

Water ski, jet ski, fish. Only 45 miles SW of Chicago