GAMBINO REALTORS HOME GUIDE
FROM OUR PRESIDENT
Jonathan R. KrauseGambino Realtors
Real estate transactions are prime targets for cybercriminals because they involve large sums of money and sensitive information. There are a number of attacks attempted locally every day. Most have been thwarted, but a few have been successful. Here's how to protect yourself:
Watch out for these common scams:
- Wire Fraud: Hackers send fake emails with fraudulent wire instructions.
- Phishing Emails: These look legitimate but steal login info or install malware.
- Business Email Compromise: Criminals impersonate your agent or title company.
How to protect yourself:
- Verify Wire Instructions: Always call a trusted number to confirm any wire transfer details, never rely on email alone.
Use Strong Cyber Hygiene:
- Enable two-factor authentication.
- Use strong, unique passwords.
- Avoid public Wi-Fi for financial transactions.
Final Tip
Always slow down, double-check, and never transfer money based on email instructions alone. A quick call can save you thousands.
8133 Renee Drive South Beloit
$670,000
Nestled on a private wooded lot, this 3,988 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space captivates you with exquisite details and inviting atmosphere. The spacious great room serves as the heart of the home, featuring a striking stone fireplace that invites you to gather and unwind. For those who love to cook, the gourmet kitchen is a dream come true with granite countertops, rich wood cabinets, and hardwood floors, stainless steel appliances, and a large pantry. The main floor primary suite is a luxurious escape. It offers direct access to the back deck through sliding doors. The spa-inspired ensuite bath and generous walk-in closet add to the suite's allure. Upstairs, you'll find three oversized bedrooms. The finished lower level expands your living space with a cozy family room, a quiet library, a personal gym, flexible bonus space, and a full bath.
Karl Gasbarra 815.975.4218
1927 Baintree Road | Lake Summerset
This stunning 4,000 square foot brick residence blends elegance and comfort with breathtaking views, making it an ideal year-round retreat. Nestled on 0.71 acres, it features four bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms. The luxurious master suite includes an ensuite with soaker tub and glass-walled shower and an expansive dressing room. The fully finished 1,200 square foot lower level is perfect for guests or entertaining, featuring a wet bar, a fourth bedroom, a full bathroom, and walk-out access with lake views. Move in and create unforgettable memories in this stunning lakeside sanctuary.
12112 Laurel Lane
Caledonia
$667,500
Exceptional living with expansive views! Nestled on a sprawling 2.55acre lot, this two story masterpiece showcases an abundance of space and meticulous craftsmanship that’s sure to impress. Step into the great room with soaring ceilings and walls of windows. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's paradise, featuring granite countertops, a breakfast bar, stainless steel appliances, and an abundance of cabinetry. Retreat to the main floor master suite, with volume ceilings, private deck, a spa-like ensuite bath, and a spacious walk-in closet. Upstairs, you'll find three generously sized bedrooms, including one with its own private bath and two sharing a Jack and Jill bath. The partially exposed lower level adds over 1,300 square feet of living space, including a large family room with a dining area and wet bar. This floor also features a 5th bedroom with a walk-in closet, and a full bath. 5 BD | 4/1 BA | 4,627 SQ FT
8161 Killarney Aire Road | Roscoe
Discover your slice of paradise with this stunning, brick ranch nestled on 1.75 acres. From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel the peaceful charm of this secluded retreat. The richly paneled living room sets the tone for elegant comfort, while the gourmet kitchen has custom cabinetry, gleaming granite countertops. This home boasts three generously sized bedrooms on the main floor, including a luxurious primary bedroom with an en-suite bath that feels more like a high-end spa getaway. The fully finished walkout lower-level has a large family room, office, and an additional bedroom and full bath.
$399,900
Architect's Delight! This home is unique and interesting in every aspect. Set on a stunning 20-acre home site you will fall in love with the setting. Main floor has open great room and kitchen concept with fireplace. Off the eating area you will find a three-season porch. The dramatic soaring ceilings and architectural features will definitely impress you. The upper area is an open loft and separate office area both with views down to the main level and out over the property. The lower living area has another family room with wood stove, two large bedrooms and bath as well as another three-season room off the family room. There is also an additional outbuilding with garage and heated office space for the hobbyist. The pool is perfect for those hot summer days. The bones are there and this will be an unbelievable home and property.
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Lake Summerset Road | Lake Summerset
$640,000
Modern, one owner 2,700 square foot custom lakefront ranch. This three bedroom, two bath home is stunning from the professionally landscaped yard to the high end finishes inside. The circle drive leads to a three car garage with lots of storage. Inside the grand foyer is the hub of the home with guest bedrooms and bath, master ensuite and great room. The home has a chef grade kitchen, double sided fireplace in the great room. Entire south side of home is windows to enjoy the sun and lake views! Flat approach and short walk to gorgeous lakefront with boat lift, cantilever pier and patio areas.
This three bedroom, two full bath ranch offers a blend of comfort and functionality. The main level has a thoughtfully designed kitchen with granite countertops. Formal dining and spacious living areas, primary suite and first floor laundry. A lower level rec room is in the partially exposed lower level. Energy efficient solar panels, two+ car garage, RV parking, and a beautifully landscaped backyard with a deck complete this exceptional property.
This well-maintained 1,808 square foot tri-level home is perfectly situated on over half an acre. Inside, you'll find a spacious living and dining area featuring a cozy gas fireplace and a sliding door that leads to a large deck—perfect for relaxing or entertaining. The finished lower-level rec room offers versatile living space. A new roof (2022) and a new furnace (2020) give you peace of mind for years to come. Don’t miss the opportunity to make this move-in-ready home yours!
404 Robert Avenue
Rockford
$216,000
Charming Tudor with over 2,000 finished square feet with three bedrooms and two baths. All new carpet and LVP flooring throughout. Stucco repaired inside and out with fresh paint. Large living area with cozy fireplace, formal dining, and kitchen on the main floor. Refreshed cabinets in the kitchen with double oven and pantry cupboard. All bedrooms on the second floor with full bath. Rec room in lower level with wet bar and refrigerator. Split bath in lower level with sink and stool near stairs and shower in laundry area. Gas or electric hookups for dryer. Two car detached garage, deck, and fully fenced backyard.
Home on the water with 88 feet of Rock River frontage leading to Lake Koshkonong! Four bedrooms and three baths! Finished lower level with full bath and huge bedroom. All new roof, siding, fascia and gutters! Remodeled kitchen and baths, new light fixtures and flooring! Huge rec room with all new windows on main level that leads to a deck overlooking the water. Newer GE Profile appliances included. Main floor laundry, insulated and heated two and a half car garage and additional parking space for seven more vehicles. Private backyard backs up to a wooded area. Great fire pit and patio, shed for extra storage!
5804 Targee Trail | Roscoe
Nestled in Roscoe’s sought-after Shephard Hills Subdivision, this updated four bedroom, two and a half bath home blends modern comfort with timeless charm. Featuring hardwood floors, new kitchen appliances, and a sunlit, open layout, it’s perfect for entertaining or relaxing. Enjoy a private 0.75-acre yard with a spacious deck, just minutes from Rock Cut State Park and I-90 access. A serene retreat with room to live, host, and unwind—this is more than a home, it’s a lifestyle.
FEAR OF A RECESSION IS BACK IN THE HEADLINES
Fear of a recession is back in the headlines. And if you’re thinking about buying or selling sometime soon, that may leave you wondering if you should reconsider the timing of your move.
A recent survey by John Burns Research and Consulting (JBREC) and Keeping Current Matters (KCM) shows 68% of people are delaying plans to buy or sell due to economic uncertainty.
But it may not be for the reason you think. Not everyone is holding off because they’re worried. Some buyers are waiting because they’re hopeful. According to Realtor.com:
“In 2025Q1, 3 in 10 (29.8% of) surveyed homebuyers said a recession would make them at least somewhat more likely to purchase a home . . . This reflects a common dynamic where some buyers see a downturn as an opportunity. If the economy enters a recession, the Federal Reserve may respond by lowering interest rates to stimulate activity, potentially putting downward pressure on mortgage rates and easing affordability concerns. As a result, buyers—especially those with limited down payments—might view a recession as a more favorable time to enter the market.”
And there’s some truth to the idea that a recession could bring about lower mortgage rates. History shows mortgage rates usually drop during economic slowdowns. That’s not guaranteed – but it is a common pattern. Looking at data from the last six recessions, you can see mortgage rates fell each time (see graph top right):
But here’s what those buyers may not be considering. Many of those hopeful buyers are assuming something else will happen too – that home prices will drop. And that’s where history tells a different story.
According to data from Cotality (formerly CoreLogic), home prices went up in four of the last six recessions (see graph below right) So, while many people think that if a recession hits, home prices will fall like they did in 2008, that was an exception, not the rule. It was the only time the market saw such a steep drop in prices. And it hasn’t happened since, mainly because there’s still a long-standing inventory deficit, even as the number of homes on the market is rising.
Since prices tend to stay on whatever path they’re already on, know this: prices are still holding steady or rising in most metros, although at a much slower pace. So, a big drop isn’t likely. As Robert Frick, Corporate Economist with Navy Federal Credit Union, explains:
"Hopes that an economic slowdown will depress housing prices are wishful thinking at this point . . ."
If you’ve been waiting for a recession to make your move, it’s important to understand what really happens during one – and what likely won’t. Lower mortgage rates could be on the table. But lower home prices? That’s far less likely.
Don’t wait for a market that may never come. If you’re thinking about buying or selling, let’s connect to talk through what today’s economy really means for you – and make a smart plan that works in your favor, regardless of what the headlines say.
2072 Charnwood Court | Machesney Park
Discover your dream lifestyle in this stunning four bedroom three and a half bath home nestled on a private cul-de-sac and a secluded wooded lot! Enjoy cozy evenings by the fireplace in the spacious family room. The finished walk-out basement offers versatile space for a home theater, gym, or playroom. Step outside onto the deck, perfect for entertaining or relaxing. Car enthusiasts and those needing extra storage will appreciate the four-car tandem garage. The gentle flow of a creek on the property adds a touch of natural beauty and tranquility.
3 BD | 2/1 BA | 1,788 SQ FT
$256,500 Miguel Lobato
815.494.7905
4 BD | 2/1 BA | 2,930 SQ FT
$253,000 Amanda Clark
815.623.5555
3 BD | 1 BA | 1,447 SQ FT
815.988.5281
Three bedroom, one and a half bath ranch in great location! Step into a bright and spacious living room adorned with beautiful hardwood floors and a large picture window. Eat-in kitchen has lots of cabinets and ample counter space. Three nice-sized bedrooms with hardwood floors and a full bath complete the main level. Venture downstairs to find a large rec room with stylish plank flooring, a convenient half bath, laundry area, and plenty of storage. Enjoy relaxing or entertaining on the covered deck leading to a large fenced yard with a garden shed. One car attached garage.
Susan Ellis
815.914.7405 sellis@GoGambino.com
4306 Westridge Drive | Winnebago
Enjoy the resort lifestyle every day at Westlake Village! Lake, pool, beach, golf course, walking path, tennis/ pickleball courts and more! This versatile great room ranch includes three bedrooms and two baths. Hardwood floors, cozy fireplace, generous sized kitchen and first floor laundry. The primary bedroom has been updated. Two decks overlooking the beautiful yard! Between the decks is a brick paver patio. No neighbors behind you, just an open field and nature to enjoy! The lower level features a finished family room, bonus room, possible wine cellar, and plenty of storage space.
Beautifully updated two bedroom ranch has great curb appeal! The two bedroom one bath 1,475 square foot home offers comfort, character, and versatility. The main level features gleaming hardwood floors throughout and a bright, functional kitchen with classic ceramic tile. Downstairs, the finished lower level provides ample space to relax or entertain, complete with a spacious bonus room. This adorable home is move in ready and full of charm! Appliances in kitchen updated in 2022, water heater is brand new, and the furnace in 2015.
12323 Meadow Drive | Winnebago
$244,900
Vacation from home in Westlake Village! This well maintained three bedroom, two and a half bath ranch offers 1,326 square feet of living space with a split bedroom layout. The open floor plan features a spacious living room with soaring 12’ peaked ceiling and wood burning fireplace. The kitchen, complete with granite countertops, pantry, and sliding door that opens to a patio overlooking backyard. Main floor laundry and generous three car garage. Primary suite with an ensuite bath, and two additional bedrooms and full bath nearby. The lower level has a living space with a bar area, half bath and large window.
6409 Garrett Lane | Rockford
YUMMY
by Gambino
SOUTHWEST GRILLED CORN
PREP TIME: 15 Minutes | SERVES: 4
INGREDIENTS
4 medium ears fresh corn
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh cilantro
1 tablespoon olive or canola oil
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
1/8 teaspoon ground red pepper (cayenne)
INSTRUCTIONS
Heat gas or charcoal grill. Carefully brush grill rack with canola oil.
Place corn directly on grill over medium-high heat.
Cover grill; cook 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly browned on all sides.
Meanwhile, in small bowl, mix salt and cilantro; set aside.
In 8-inch nonstick skillet, mix 1 tablespoon oil and the cumin. Cook over medium heat about 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Stir in garlic powder and red pepper.
Brush cumin mixture over hot corn; sprinkle with cilantro-salt mixture.
1820 Juniper Lane | Loves Park
426 Reed Street | Pecatonica
The character has been preserved while updating this vintage two-story with nearly 2,000 square feet, four bedrooms, and two baths. Great room has soaring ceiling, recessed lights, and new flooring. Large lightfilled kitchen has white cabinets, stainless appliances, stone plank tile floors and shiplap ceiling. Dining area overlooks new deck and fenced backyard. There is a main floor laundry, first floor full bath, large mud room and office/bedroom space off kitchen. Two additional bedrooms complete main level. Up the open staircase is a updated full bath and fourth bedroom. Two car attached garage.
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WHY MOST SELLERS HIRE REAL ESTATE AGENTS TODAY
Selling your house without an agent as a “For Sale by Owner” (FSBO) may be something you’ve considered. But you should know that, in today’s shifting market, more homeowners are deciding that’s just not worth the risk.
According to the latest data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the number of homeowners selling without an agent has hit an all-time low. And for the small number of homeowners who do decide to sell on their own, data shows they’re still not confident they’re making a good choice.
A recent survey finds three out of every four homeowners who don’t plan to use an agent have doubts about whether that’s actually the right decision.
And here’s why. The market is changing – not in a bad way, just in a way that requires a smarter, more strategic approach. And having a real estate expert in your corner really pays off.
Here are just two of the ways an agent's expertise makes a difference.
1. Getting the Price Right in a Market That’s Evolving
One of the biggest hurdles when selling a house on your own is figuring out the right price. It’s not as simple as picking a number that sounds good or selling your house for what your neighbor’s sold for a few years back – you need to hit the bullseye for where the market is right now. Without an agent’s help, you’re more likely to miss the mark. As Zillow explains:
“Agents are pros when it comes to pricing properties and have their finger on the pulse of your local market. They understand current buying trends and can provide insight into how your home compares to others for sale nearby.”
Basically, they know what’s really selling, what buyers are willing to pay in your area, and how to position your house to sell quickly. That kind of insight can have a big impact, especially in a market that’s balancing out.
2. Handling (and Actually Understanding) the Legal Documents
There’s also a mountain of documentation when selling a house, including everything from disclosures to contracts. And a mistake can have big legal implications. This is another area where having an agent can help.
They’ve handled these documents countless times and know exactly what’s needed to keep everything on track, so you avoid delays. And now that buyers are including more contingencies again and asking for concessions, your agent will guide you through each form step by step, making sure it’s done right and documented correctly the first time.
3. Selling Your House Quickly Even in a Shifting Market
Now that the number of homes for sale has grown, homes aren’t selling at quite the same pace they were. But you can still sell quickly if you have a proven plan to help your house stand out.
Just remember, homeowners don’t have the same network or marketing tools an experienced agent does. So, if you want the process to happen fast, you’ll likely want a pro by your side.
Having the right agent and the right strategy is key in a shifting market. Let’s connect so you don’t have to take this on solo – and so you can list with confidence, knowing you’ve got expert guidance from day one. Call Gambino Realtors to get started.
6814 Kristines Way South Beloit
$365,000
Welcome to this beautifully designed three bedroom, three and a half bath townhouse-style condo, featuring an ideal blend of comfort, style, and functionality. Featuring a two car garage and a main floor primary suite, this home offers easy living. Enter into the main floor where a soaring ceiling enhances the open-concept living and dining areas. The gorgeous kitchen is complete with cherry cabinetry, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances. Just off the main living space, enjoy the tranquility of a three-season room. The lower level is built for entertaining and leisure, offering a generous family room and a dedicated media room. Outdoors, a new deck overlooks a scenic park with a charming gazebo and winding walking path.
12068 Baneberry Drive #8
Roscoe
$225,000
2 BD | 2 BA | 1,362 SQ FT
Angie Leiva
815.742.6010
$270,000
639 Queens Court Rockton
$170,000
2 BD | 2 BA | 1,343 SQ FT
Tracy Wallschlaeger
815.988.5281
1768 S Hance Drive #2 Freeport
$58,000
2 BD | 1 BA | 875 SQ FT
Lilia Mendoza
815.323.8904
2 BD | 2 BA | 1,658 SQ FT
Discover the modern style in this better-than-new, oneowner ranch condo that has been thoughtfully upgraded and is move-in ready! It has an open-concept layout with soaring ceilings and engineered hardwood flooring. The upgraded kitchen, complete with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, a pantry closet, and a custom coffee bar to jump start your mornings. Interior features fresh neutral tones, white woodwork, and timeless finishes. Two spacious bedrooms include a serene primary suite with walk-in closet and a private bath. Need a home office, creative space, or cozy den? The flexible bonus room has you covered.
Karl Gasbarra
815.975.4218
karl@GoGambino.com
4509 Squaw Valley Drive | Loves Park
Nestled on a sprawling 119.45 acres of prime agricultural land, this exceptional property presents a rare and versatile opportunity for a multitude of uses. Comprising of five separate parcels, the fertile soil is ready for your agricultural endeavors, while the existing infrastructure offers immediate functionality and immense potential. The property boasts two impressive metal buildings in excellent condition, totaling nearly 9,000 square fee of adaptable space. Each building is equipped with robust 200 amp breaker box, readily accommodating most industrial power requirements. The primary building, once the heart of research operations, has been thoughtfully maintained and operated.
ESTABLISHED BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY
