GAMBINO REALTORS HOME GUIDE
FROM OUR PRESIDENT
Jonathan R. KrauseGambino Realtors
Gratitude for Home Ownership: A Quiet Joy Worth Celebrating
Home ownership is more than just a milestone—it’s a meaningful achievement that brings stability, pride, and a deep sense of gratitude. In a world where housing can be uncertain or out of reach for many, having a place to call your own is something to be truly thankful for.
Owning a home means having a space that reflects your values and memories. It’s where families are raised, milestones are celebrated, and quiet moments of peace are found. It represents years of hard work, planning, and often sacrifice. Each wall tells a story, each improvement reflects care, and every season lived under its roof becomes part of your life’s journey.
Beyond financial investment, home ownership fosters a sense of security and belonging. It anchors us in communities, connects us with neighbors, and gives us the freedom to create a life that feels authentically ours.
As the seasons change and life moves forward, taking a moment to be thankful for home—a shelter, a sanctuary, a place of our own—is a quiet but powerful expression of appreciation. In a world that often moves too fast, the roof over our heads is a daily reminder of how far we’ve come.
10131 Rellswood Drive
Belvidere
$899,000
3 BD | 3/1 BA | 5,488 SQ FT
Hilltop brick estate with breathtaking views and unmatched craftsmanship in Boone County! Welcome to an incredible oneowner brick estate nestled atop a wooded and private one acre hilltop lot. This exceptional home blends timeless elegance with custom design details that make it truly one-of-a-kind. The home's thoughtful open-concept layout includes both formal and informal living spaces. Expansive windows frame picturesque views in every direction. Situated in a quiet, tucked-away horseshoe subdivision, this home offers quick access to both the State Street and Riverside corridors via Olson Road, making it both private and conveniently located. For those seeking even more seclusion, additional acreage flanking each side of the property is available for purchase, offering the potential to create a truly private estate.
466 Quail Trap Road Caledonia
$945,000 Pam Cunningham
4 BD | 2 BA | 4,100 SQ FT
815.289.6323
1927 Baintree Road | Lake Summerset
$599,000
152 Castle Wynd Drive Loves Park
$565,500
4 BD | 3 BA | 3,786 SQ FT
Karl Gasbarra
815.871.1745
2724 E Stateline Road Beloit, WI
$459,993
3 BD | 1 BA | 700 SQ FT
Pat Bellinghiere
815.871.1745
4 BD | 3/1 BA | 4,000 SQ FT
Welcome to this iconic lakefront, brick colonial nestled on .71 acres in Lake Summerset. Completely redone inside with too many amenities to detail! Grand entry boasting a two-story foyer, a large formal living room with a stacked stone fireplace, a formal dining room with a contemporary black marble fireplace, an enormous kitchen boasting loads of cabinets, quartz counters, stainless steel appliances, stone subway tile backsplash, counter seating, and a large eating area. The master suite is right out of a magazine, featuring a fireplace, an ensuite with soaker tub and separate glass-walled shower, and a 500 square foot private balcony with the most amazing lake view! This home is like no other at Lake Summerset!
Kathy Heeren-Ellis
815.708.4061 kheerenellis@GoGambino.com
2909 Culver Court
Poplar Grove
$559,900
3 BD | 3/1 BA | 3,452 SQ FT
Spacious living meets outdoor paradise! This stunning two story home sits on nearly an acre of beautiful land, offering the perfect blend of comfort and style. Inside, you'll find a large family room with a cozy fireplace, generously sized bedrooms, and a beautiful kitchen with abundant cabinet space. The home also features a stylish wet bar with plenty of cabinetry-perfect for entertaining family and friends. Step outside to your very own retreat with a large inground swimming pool featuring a new liner, a sprawling deck for gatherings, and a heated and airconditioned six-car garage with radiant heat in the back section of the floor, providing all the space and comfort you could need. With its warm, inviting spaces and incredible outdoor amenities, this home is perfect for entertaining year-round!
Discover unparalleled elegance in this custom-built ranch home, where exceptional craftsmanship meets sophisticated design. Exquisite interior features include: spacious living areas with formal and informal living/dining spaces. The kitchen is a chef’s dream with custom cabinetry, center island, and breakfast bar. The primary suite has a sitting/dressing area, spa-inspired bath, and dual walk-in closets. The location offers convenient access to the State Street corridor, I-90, and amenities!
Gleaming hardwood floors extend throughout the main living space with neutral walls to provide a canvas for your personal style. The kitchen features granite countertops with ample storage and workspace. Additional space off the dining room with large windows overlooking the expansive backyard and deck with pergola. The primary suite is a sanctuary of its own with private deck, walk-in closet, ensuite bathroom. A bonus room in the lower level with a kitchenette offers endless possibilities.
9281 Auburn Road | Winnebago
Experience panoramic views on five acres with this beautifully updated former Parade of Homes property. The inviting circle drive leads to double glass doors opening into a foyer that reveals the main level. A den features a soaring ceiling and a black marble gas fireplace. The dining room flows into a spacious living room with a dramatic ceiling, massive stone gas fireplace, skylights, and access to the deck. The kitchen boasts quartz countertops, and an island with seating. The partially exposed lower level features a family room, game room with wet bar, two additional bedrooms, and a full bath. With a blacktop area for sports, plus agricultural zoning for horse owners, this home is a true find within the Winnebago School District!
326 Davis Drive | Sycamore
Welcome to 326 Davis Dr - an immaculate ranch near parks, schools, and downtown. Sun-filled main level with open living/dining, picture windows, and well-appointed kitchen with abundant cabinetry. Private primary suite, walk-in closet and en-suite bath with heated floors; two additional bedrooms and a hall full bath. The finished basement adds a large family/rec room, flex space for office or gym, a third full bath, and excellent storage. Outdoor living shines with a covered front porch, new composite deck and a paver walkway with professional front yard landscaping. Attached three stall garage and great curb appeal.
This fantastic property delivers modern amenities plus versatile living spaces creating a home for every lifestyle! Start your mornings with a cup of coffee on the welcoming front porch, and end your days with a blockbuster in the dedicated media room. Upstairs, four generously sized bedrooms provide comfort and privacy for every member of the household. Located in a quiet neighborhood with quick access to all amenities and I-90 access.
Beautifully maintained one-owner home with a two car garage and a spacious finished lower level featuring a built-in entertainment center. Updates include windows, brick driveway, shed with electric, deck expansion and backyard patio. Enjoy the remodeled kitchen with quartz countertops. The backyard, which backs up to an open field, offers a paver patio and a built-in outdoor fireplace added - perfect for gatherings. This home is a gem and move-in ready!
Meticulous brick and vinyl-sided two-story home nestled in a beautifully landscaped setting with exceptional curb appeal! The main level features gleaming hardwood floors throughout, a formal dining room perfect for entertaining, and a spacious, updated eat-in kitchen with stainless steel appliances, stylish cabinetry, and a sliding glass door leading to a brick paver patio. The four-season room provides year-round enjoyment with panoramic views of the backyard. Enjoy the convenience of a first floor laundry room and appreciate the many updates, including the roof, windows, siding, and water heater. Upstairs, you'll find four generously sized bedrooms and two full baths, offering ample space for relaxation. A must see!
5255 Deer Pointe | Rockford
WHAT A GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN REALLY MEANS FOR THE HOUSING MARKET
There’s been a lot of talk lately about how a government shutdown impacts the housing market. You might be wondering: Is it causing everything to grind to a halt? The short answer? No.
The housing market doesn’t stop. It keeps moving. Homes are still being bought and sold, contracts are still being signed, and closings are still happening. The difference is that a few parts of the process may slow down a little, but overall, the market continues to function.
Here’s What Typically Happens
Whenever the government shuts down, some federal agencies temporarily close or scale back their operations. That can cause a few hiccups in real esate, especially when it comes to processing certain types of government loans and insurance requirements:
“Applicants for FHA, VA, or USDA loans—which account for about one-quarter of all mortgage applications—may encounter significant processing delays due to agency furloughs.”Selma Hepp, Chief Economist at Cotality
“By recent estimates, more than 2,500 mortgage originations per working day are at risk of delays during a shutdown . . .” - Zillow
Flood insurance approvals may also be paused. The National Flood Insurance Program can be temporarily affected, which delays closings in flood zones.
Even with those challenges and delays, most transactions still go through. Buyers keep buying, sellers keep selling, and agents keep helping people move forward.
The Housing Market Usually Bounces Back Fast
And you can see that play out in this data. If you look back at the most recent government shutdown that began at the end of 2018 and lasted for 35 days, sales activity dipped very slightly during the closure but picked right back up once the government reopened.
Data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows existing home sales slowed for about two months, and then rebounded quickly as delayed closings worked their way through the system when the government reopened (see graph bottom right).
What’s important to note is that the slowdown you see in the orange bars on this graph wasn’t simply due to seasonality in a typical housing market cycle. The sharper, shorter drop in this case lines up exactly with the 35-day government shutdown, and then sales bounced back as soon as it ended.
What This Means for You
If you’re in the middle of buying or selling a home, don’t panic. Most deals will still move forward, even if it takes a few extra days. Jeff Ostrowski, Housing Market Analyst at Bankrate, explains:
“If you’re expecting to close in a week or a month, there could be some slight delay, but I think for most people, it’s probably going to be a blip more than a real deal killer.”
And if you’re just starting to think about buying or selling, this could actually work in your favor. Some buyers and sellers may become cautious and pause their plans during times of uncertainty, like this, and that can open a short window of opportunity.
When fewer people are active in the market, wellprepared buyers may find less competition for homes, and motivated sellers may be more willing to negotiate. These brief slowdowns often create a moment where you can make a move that would be harder once activity ramps back up.
A government shutdown can cause short-term delays for some buyers, but it doesn’t derail the housing market. The last time this happened, sales picked back up as soon as the government reopened.
If you’re unsure how this might affect your plans, or just want to make sense of what’s happening, let’s connect. Call Gambino Realtors at 815.282.2222.
811 Paris Avenue
Rockford
$398,000
3
Stunning home inside and out boasting a completely upgraded exterior with new roof, windows, siding, gutters and expansive deck! The yard is lushly landscaped for privacy, complete with a sprinkler system and south-facing garden. Everything is meticulously maintained. The kitchen features quartz countertops, a tile backsplash, and ample cabinets. The light and bright family room flows off the kitchen, creating the perfect hangout space. The second floor primary suite features a vaulted ceiling, his and hers closets and private bath with a jetted tub and separate shower. Bonus room which features hardwood floors, vaulted ceiling, bookshelves and fireplace is a perfect escape from your busy days. Or, it could be converted to an office or a luxurious primarty suite! Located near Rockford's gems: Anderson Gardens, Sinnissippi Park, Nicholas Conservatory, and the riverfront.
2116 Prairie Avenue | Beloit, WI
$339,900
Must see inside to appreciate all this home offers! This fully remodeled three bedroom and three bath splitbedroom floor plan offers a stunning master suite with vaulted ceilings, a walk-in closet, sliding patio doors to a private deck overlooking the backyard, and an ensuite bath. The formal dining room could convert back to a fourth bedroom if needed. Gorgeous kitchen with quartz counters, soft-close cabinets, and luxury vinyl plank flooring. Incredible theatre room with a 135" projection screen and surround sound included! The backyard oasis features a heated inground pool with a diving board and a pool house shed. Enjoy the two car garage and fenced yard. So many updates throughout!
6104 Blyth Road
$330,000
If you’ve been dreaming of a property where you can slow down, breathe deep, and reconnect with nature, this tri-level home on a scenic corner is just what you’ve been waiting for. Set on almost two and a half acres in a highly desirable rural neighborhood, the property features a serene pond with a waterfall, mature trees, and wide-open spaces. An oversized screened-in porch overlooks the backyard, offering the ideal spot to watch the seasons change. The home itself is solid and spacious, though it does need updates, making it an ideal canvas for those who want to design a space that reflects their own style and vision. The rewards are endless: peaceful living, room to grow, and the joy of creating a personal sanctuary surrounded by nature. Located in a low-tax district with quick access to I-90, shopping, dining, and Rock Cut State Park, this home blends tranquility with convenience.
Welcome to this well-maintained ranch in a highly desirable Loves Park neighborhood near shopping, restaurants, and so much more. This home has been lovingly cared for! A huge family room additon off the kitchen offers lots of entertaining space and leads to the three season room. The lower level boasts two finished rooms and a renovated bathroom. The backyard is fenced, has a large shed and a concrete pad with a basketball hoop, patio and a deck.
Charming ranch situated at the end of a peaceful dead-end street with open cornfield views, offering the serenity of country living with the benefit of low county taxes. Featuring three bedrooms, two full baths, partially finished basement and a spacious two and a half car garage, this property blends comfort and convenience. The fenced backyard is beautifully landscaped and offers the perfect setting for relaxing or entertaining, complete with a large deck, paver patio, and firepit.
11752 Love Road | Roscoe
Nestled in a highly desirable neighborhood on a mature wooded lot, this meticulously maintained bilevel with curb appeal is a showcase of pride of ownership. Featuring three spacious bedrooms, including a master suite with its own attached bath, this home offers comfort and privacy. The updated kitchen, complete with stainless steel appliances, flows seamlessly into the adjoining dining room, which has a sliding door leading to a covered porch-perfect for enjoying outdoor meals. The lower level features a versatile L-shaped family/rec room, complete with a second wood-burning fireplace. A patio door leads to the private backyard, making this space ideal for both relaxation and entertaining.
4724 Illinois Street Loves Park
$249,900
4 BD | 2 BA | 1,682 SQ FT
Spacious home nestled in a serene setting with a lush, meticulously landscaped backyard, patio, and mature trees creating the perfect retreat. The main level features a cozy living room and an updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances and ample cabinet space. Open dining area off the kitchen, with a side deck overlooking the backyard. There are two bedrooms on the main floor, including the primary bedroom with plenty of closet space. The full bathroom on this level is tastefully updated with modern fixtures and finishes. The lower level offers a fantastic rec room with a four-season room that provides a seamless transition to the outdoors. This level also includes a third bedroom and another updated full bathroom. Fourth bedroom currently used as an art studio, ideal for a guest room or home office. The walk-out access from the lower level makes it easy to enjoy the serene setting.
Tina Tendall / Amanda Clark 815.623.5555
815.985.1115
4 BD | 1/1 BA | 2,437 SQ FT 5607 Auburn Road
$194,900
3 BD | 2 BA | 1,302 SQ FT
Mikhaele Howell
815.871.6787
941 Oak Street
608.295.5181
3 BD | 1 BA | 1,740 SQ FT
The perfect blend of charm and functionality, this adorable ranch is a fantastic find, proving that good things really do come in small packages. With a fully finished basement and three bedrooms, the main floor features a bright and welcoming living area that flows seamlessly into the eat-in kitchen. Down the hall are three comfortable bedrooms, hall linen closet with built shelving and a full bath. Head downstairs to discover the real bonus: a fully finished basement that provides a huge amount of versatile living space, laundry hookup and more, adding convenience and functionality. And for peace of mind - enjoy the new roof recently done in 2025.
3 BD | 1/1 BA | 1,181 SQ FT Tina Tendall | Amanda Clark
Machesney Park
YUMMY
by Gambino
CARAMEL PECAN BARS BY KATHY HEEREN-ELLIS
This is my favorite bar for Thankgiving and have made it instead of a traditional pecan pie! They are the perfect size due to their sweetness and store well - but you probably won't have any leftovers! For the glaze it can be a traditional powdered sugar glaze or you can elevate it by adding dark rum!
INGREDIENTS
2/3 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups Gold Medal™ all-purpose flour
2/3 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup Betty Crocker™ corn syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
INSTRUCTIONS
Heat oven to 350°F. Line 13x9 pan with parchment paper.
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 eggs
1 cup coarsely chopped pecans
Glaze:
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
2 T half and half
For the glaze it can be a traditional powdered sugar glaze or you can elevate it by adding dark rum!
In large bowl, mix granulated sugar, butter and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Stir in flour. Press dough in bottom and 1/2 inch up sides of pan. Bake 15 to 17 minutes or until edges are light brown.
In medium bowl, beat brown sugar, corn syrup, 1 teaspoon vanilla, the salt and eggs with spoon. Stir in pecans. Pour over crust.
Bake 25 to 30 minutes or until set. Loosen edges from sides of pan while warm. Cool completely, about 1 hour.
After cooling, make powdered sugar glaze with powdered sugar and half and half. If desired add 1 teaspoon dark rum to glaze for added flavor. Cut into 9 rows by 4 rows.
7604 N 2nd Street | Machesney Park
Welcome to this stunning home, boasting fresh, modern, and comfortable updates. All you need to do is move in and start creating memories. With four bedrooms and three baths, there is room to grow, invite guests, relax, and enjoy. The open layout creates airy vibes and a perfect space for entertaining. The finished basement features a family/rec room and a fourth bedroom. A spacious corner lot with new fencing and a three-car garage offers comfort and convenience. Easy access to 173, major highways, and entertainment, creating the perfect home for even the pickiest of buyers.
11533 Beverly Lane | Belvidere
$339,900
Welcome home to this charming ranch nestled on a beautifully landscaped 0.59 acre lot with mature trees and a handy storage shed. Designed for easy, one-floor living, this open-concept home features a spacious eat-in kitchen and a family room with a fireplace-perfect for gatherings or quiet nights in. The sunny three-season porch opens to a large deck, ideal for relaxing or entertaining while enjoying the natural surroundings. The first floor primary offers convenience and comfort, while the finished lower level provides flexible living space for a playroom, home office, or media room. An attached two car garage completes this well-maintained home in a peaceful, private setting. Don't miss this one!
4549 Condon Road
Rockford
$265,000
4 BD | 3/1 BA | 2,762 SQ FT
Rural setting offers peace and quiet in Winnebago County/Stillman Valley Schools. Same owners for 40 years! Split-bedroom ranch with main-floor laundry, adding convenience. The spacious kitchen pantry makes storing goods a breeze. The two full main floor baths provide convenience when you have guests. The four season porch is a retreat and boasts a gas fireplace. The large shed with a loft area is great for hobbyists. Delightful lot with fruit trees, berry bushes, and gorgeous perennials. The bonus is the low county tax rate! The location is bar none with easy access to Bypass 20, Highway 251, Route 2, and all the city conveniences you could need, all while maintaining a serene setting. This photo is virtually staged.
815.540.2896
13246 Foxglove Lane | Winnebago
$279,900
Great room ranch on the Westlake Golf Course! Enjoy the views down the fairway from the kitchen, great room, primary, or the generous deck. The primary bedroom includes a private ensuite with a double vanity. Unique custom finishes, including a wood-beamed ceiling, a fireplace surround with an overmantel, patio door shutters, and Heirloom Seven Sisters rose bushes. Wide-open basement, ready to finish as you like. Enjoy the Westlake amenities, including the 82-acre lake, beach with volleyball, swimming pool, tennis/ pickleball courts, basketball court, three-mile paved walking path, Community Center, playground, nature area, as well as the 18-hole Lynx Golf Course. Many community events to enjoy.
Charming Cape Cod is the perfect blend of classic style and modern comfort, nestled in a peaceful neighborhood. With attractive curb appeal, manicured lawn and new and inviting landscaping, this beautifully updated home is a true oasis. Open kitchen with stainless steel appliances. Spacious patio for barbecues and get-togethers, vibrant flower beds, and a pergola, built in gas grill and multiple options for built in seating. The ideal spot to unwind after a long day or to host memorable gatherings.
Move-in ready three bedroom, one and a half bath ranch. Almost everything is new! New in 2025: roof, vinyl siding, windows, flooring, water heater, and heat pump with a/c. Remodeled kitchen with new in 2025 refrigerator, dishwasher, stove, microwave, countertops, kitchen sink, and faucet. Both bathrooms are all redone. Shed. Open concept floor plan. Great for entertaining. Located on a cul-de-sac street.
These days, you’re going to want to get your price right when you get ready to sell your house. Honestly, it’s more important than ever.
Why? While you may want to list high just to see what happens, that’s a plan that can easily backfire, and it’s going to cost you in today’s market.
And the risk isn’t just missing out on offers, it’s missing out on the move you needed to make in the first place.
The Real Pitfall of Overpricing
Many homeowners remember what their neighbor’s house sold for a few years ago, and they want to chase that same sky-high number. The problem is, that was a different market.
But here’s the good news. You still have a big advantage as a seller. According to the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), home values went up by a staggering 54% over the last five years. So, even if you compromise just a little bit on your sale price today, odds are you’ll still come out way ahead.
The challenge? Most sellers aren’t thinking about it that way. They’re stuck on what a neighbor got months or years ago – and that’s a costly mistake.
Don't Let Unrealistic Pricing Cost You Your Move
Overpricing Can Stall Your Whole Move
Here’s what happens. A seller lists too high. Buyers stay away. No offers come in. The house sits. And suddenly, that seller is facing a tough decision. Do they cut the price? Stick it out? Or give up altogether?
Unfortunately, a late price cut may not be enough. Buyers often see that as a red flag that something’s wrong with the house. That’s why some sellers are opting to just pull their listing off the market entirely.
In a recent survey from John Burns Research and Consulting (JBREC) and Keeping Current Matters (KCM) over half of agents (54%) say there are more homes being taken off the market than usual.
And the top reasons for that? According to the agents, homeowners didn’t get any offers they felt were fair. The survey from JBREC and KCM explains it like this:
“Sellers holding onto high price expectations is the leading reason they are delisting their homes.”
BrightMLS data backs this up:
“. . . sellers are delisting after having their home on the market and finding they are not getting
the price they hoped for.”
It’s more proof pricing too high does more than turn buyers away, it puts your whole move at risk. Because if no one looks at your home or makes an offer, how are you going to sell it?
The Secret To Making Your Move Happen
If you’re selling to relocate for a job, need more space for your growing family, or have to be closer to your relatives as they age, you can’t afford to get stuck. You need a pricing strategy that helps you move forward – and that starts with the right agent.
The sellers who are winning right now are the ones working with experienced local agents who know the current market and aren’t afraid to have honest conversations about price.
And it’s paying off. In the right price range and condition, homes are still selling fast, sometimes even with multiple offers.
Pricing your house for today’s market isn’t just about getting it sold. It’s about making sure your move doesn’t stall before it starts.
Let’s talk through what buyers are really paying right now in our local area, and how to price your home to match. Reach out to Gambino Realtors at 815.282.2222 to connect.
14069 Hanna Way | South Beloit
$265,000
Welcome to this updated quad-level home in the desirable Rockton/Hononegah school district! Featuring newer carpet and engineered hardwood flooring, this home is ready for you to move in. The eat-in kitchen boasts modern appliances and a slider leading to a spacious deck, overlooking a fenced backyard with a raised garden and garden shed. The lower level is an entertainer's dream, featuring a dry bar, pool table, and a cozy TV room equipped with a hutch desk. The basement includes a hobby room with cabinets and laminate flooring. The heated three-car garage adds convenience, while the included security system with cameras offers peace of mind. This charming home is ready for you—come see it today!
5825 Kirkwood Drive
Rockford
$240,000
Escape to your own private retreat in this charming three bedroom, one and a half bathroom home. You'll feel instantly at peace in the park-like backyard, boasting a stunning array of colorful flowers and mature fruit trees. Enjoy the convenience of a newly paved cement driveway and a spacious two car garage. Step inside to discover a freshly painted interior and a fully finished basement, offering plenty of space with a cozy family room and a separate rec room perfect for entertaining. Peace of mind comes with recent upgrades, including a newer roof, windows, and mechanical systems. Nestled in a quiet and friendly neighborhood, this home offers the perfect blend of comfort and tranquility.
10510 Baederwood Drive | Machesney Park
Welcome to this nicely updated home! A good-sized formal living room, separate dining room, and eat-in kitchen on the main level create ideal entertaining spaces. Upstairs, you will find three bedrooms, including a master bedroom with a private bath. On the lower level, there is a family room with a fireplace, a fourth bedroom with partial exposure, another full bath, and a large workshop/storage area. Walk out the sliding door in the kitchen to the large deck, fire pit area, and good-sized fenced yard with a storage shed. This property backs up to a vast empty lot. Tons up updates and newer mechanicals, so all you have to do is move in!
3302 Chick Charney Drive | Rockford
$229,900
Stunning country ranch on .8 acres - fully remodeled and move-in ready! The spacious layout offers the perfect blend of comfort, privacy, and modern upgrades. Inside, you'll find a large living room and a cozy family room with a fireplace-ideal for gatherings or relaxing evenings. The new custom kitchen with quartz countertops, stainless appliances, an island, and a large eating area is a showstopper. Outside, enjoy peace and serenity on your new patio, perfect for cookouts, morning coffee, or watching the sunset. The expansive backyard is big enough to host a baseball game, and there's a large shed for extra storage. Just like a newly built home with so many new and updated items, you can have peace of mind and enjoy!
131 Oak Knolls Avenue | Rockford
This beautifully updated Cape Cod offers three bedrooms, one and a half baths, and a one car garage with an attached garden shed. Step inside to find original hardwood floors, gorgeous built-ins, and a family room with a wood-beam ceiling. A separate living room features a cozy gas fireplace. The kitchen shines with granite countertops, stylish backsplash, and upgraded finishes. Enjoy convenience with a main floor laundry and peace of mind with newer siding, upgraded windows, and a new front door. Outside, the fenced backyard and professional landscaping create a private retreat. This Cape Cod blends timeless character with modern upgrades
211 Mulvain Street | Durand
Move-in ready ranch in Durand! Beautiful kitchen with maple cabinetry, roll-out shelves, a glass-tiled backsplash, and a breakfast bar. The kitchen opens into the living area, and three bedrooms are on the main floor, plus a full bath. Wood laminate floors are throughout. So much space in the finished lower level, including a family room with built-in shelves, two bonus rooms - one with a built-in dresser, a full bath, and a laundry area with storage shelves. The two and a half car detached garage is heated and features new lighting, 220 outlet for an electric vehicle, plus a unique walk-up attic, fantastic for storage! Even more storage is found in the large shed with new doors. This home has so much to offer! See it today!
Why You Don't Need to Be Afraid of Today's Mortgage Rates
Mortgage rates have been the monster under the bed for a while. Every time they tick up, people flinch and say, “Maybe I’ll wait.” But here’s the twist. Waiting for that perfect 5-point-something rate could end up haunting your wallet later.
The Magic Number
According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR):
“. . . a 30-year fixed rate mortgage of 6% would make the median-priced home affordable for about 5.5 million more households—including 1.6 million renters. If rates were to hit that magic number, it’s likely that about 10%—or 550,000—of those additional households would buy a home over the next 12 or 18 months.”
When the market hits that mortgage rate sweet spot, as expert forecasters are starting to say is more likely in 2026, the psychological shift to lower rates will kick in for more of today’s hopeful buyers. That will unleash some pent-up demand that’s been waiting on the sidelines, and the increase in activity will cause prices to rise.
And while a 5.99% rate might sound like a big win, if you’re waiting for that number to make your move, it might not actually save you as much as you think. Here’s how the math looks when you run the numbers (see chart below):
On a $400,000 mortgage, the difference between today’s rate (around 6.2%) and 5.99% is roughly $50 a month. That’s less than many people spend
on weekly coffee runs or occasional DoorDash orders. And as prices tick up with more buyers in the market, that could quickly negate any of your potential savings.
So, if you’re waiting for 5.99%, that difference might not be worth missing out on today’s opportunities, like having more homes to choose from, better negotiation leverage with today’s sellers, and fewer buyers out there looking for the same houses.
Because the reality is, those benefits start to slip away when more buyers begin to make their moves – and a rate under 6% is exactly they’re waiting for.
Why Acting Now Makes Sense
Jessica Lautz, Deputy Chief Economist and VP of Research at NAR, says:
“Over the last 5 weeks, mortgage rates have averaged 6.31%. This has provided savvy buyers a sweet spot to reexamine the home search process with more inventory, widening their choices.”
And like Matt Vernon, Head of Retail Lending at Bank of America, notes:
“Rather than waiting it out for a rate that they like better,
hopeful homebuyers should assess their personal financial situation—if the house is right for them, and the upfront and monthly payments are affordable, it could be the right chance to make a move.”
If moving at today’s rate scares you, remember, waiting doesn’t always pay off. Once rates dip below 6%, as some experts project they’ll do next year, more buyers (and higher prices) will be back.
So, don’t be afraid of today’s mortgage rates. Because if you’re ready, this might just be your chance to make your move before the market wakes up again.
6804 Redansa Drive
Rockford
$215,000
2 BD | 2 BA | 1,318 SQ FT
Experience the ease of condo living in this charming Zentz built, all brick two bedroom, two full bath residence. The spacious open concept layout features bright living and dining areas that create a welcoming atmosphere for entertaining or relaxing. The kitchen with an eating area is functional, equipped with essential appliances, offering everything you need for everyday cooking. Both bedrooms are generously sized, with the primary suite featuring double closets and a private ensuite bath. The second full bathroom is for guests. Another feature is a spacious two car garage with durable epoxy floors. Plus, the lower level awaits your personal touch - ready to be finished and transformed into the space of your dreams. Outside, you will find your own private composite deck-perfect for enjoying morning coffee or just relaxing. All this, with excellent dining, shopping, and fitness center nearby.
David Palmer
815.566.2437
two bedroom
offers
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WHAT BUYERS SAY THEY NEED MOST (AND HOW THE MARKET’S RESPONDING)
A recent survey from Bank of America asked would-be homebuyers what would help them feel better about making a move, and it’s no surprise the answers have a clear theme. They want affordability to improve, specifically prices and rates (see below right)
Here’s the good news. While the broader economy may still feel uncertain, there are signs the housing market is showing some changes in both of those areas. Let’s break it down so you know what you’re working with.
Prices Are Moderating
Over the past few years, home prices climbed fast, sometimes so fast it left many buyers feeling shut out. But today, that pace has slowed down. For comparison, from 2020 to 2021, prices rose by 20% in a 12-month period. Now? Nationally, experts are projecting single-digit increases this year – a much more normal pace.
That's a sharp contrast to the rapid growth we saw just a few short years ago. Just remember, price trends are going to vary by area. In some markets, prices will continue to rise while others will experience slight declines.
Prices aren’t crashing, but they are moderating. For buyers, the slowdown makes buying a home a bit less intimidating. It’s easier to plan your budget when home values are moving at a much slower pace.
Mortgage Rates Are Easing
At the same time, rates have come down from their recent highs. And that’s taken some pressure off would-be homebuyers. As Lisa Sturtevant, Chief Economist at Bright MLS, says:
“Slower price growth coupled with a slight drop in mortgage rates will improve affordability and create a window for some buyers to get into the market.”
Even a small drop in mortgage rates can mean a big difference in what you pay each month in your future mortgage payment. Just remember, while rates have come down a bit lately, they’re going to experience some volatility. So don’t get too caught up in the ups and downs.
The overall trend in the year ahead is that rates are expected to stay in the low
to mid-6s – which is a lot better than where they were just a few short months ago. They may even drop further, depending on where the economy goes from here.
Why This Matters
Confidence in the economy may be low, but the housing market is showing signs of adjustment. Prices are moderating, and rates have come down from their highs.
For you, that may not solve affordability challenges altogether, but it does mean conditions look a little different than they did earlier this year. And those shifts could help you re-engage as we move into next year.
Both of the top concerns for buyers are seeing some movement. Prices are moderating. Rates are easing. And both trends could stick around going into 2026.
If you’re considering a move, let’s connect walk you through what’s happening in our area – and what it means for your plans.
UPSCALE OFFICE SPACE FOR LEASE
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