The Real Estate Book of Champaign-Urbana-Savoy, IL Volume 31, Issue 3

CREATIVE LIVING TIPS INSIDE

Volume 31, Issue 3

Including: Arcola, Bement, Fisher, Mahomet, Monticello, Paxton, Philo, Rantoul, St. Joseph, Tolono, Tuscola, Villa Grove and Nearby Communities

CHAMPAIGN-URBANA-SAVOY, IL

Get more photos and details from your phone. Text RBGPTKR to 52187.

TO ADVERTISE, CONTACT: Todd Thorstenson at 217-778-9052 or Todd@volomail.net

RealEstateBook.com

Request FREE MAGAZINES online, or call 800-841-3401

Listing Agent: Diane Dawson RE/MAX Realty Associates 217-373-4812 dianedawson@remax.net Gorgeous! 8000sqft 6BR/9BA LAKEFRONT Home on 1 ACRE lot in Oak Creek Subd. Mahomet See page 8 for details.

GET ZAPPAR ZAP THE CODE

Realty Associates Each Office Independently Owned and Operated.

Call 217-352-5700

Text Madeline to 52187 for all your real estate needs!

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3905 LIBERTY CIRCLE, CHAMPAIGN ~ $307,000 Ranch with a finished basement is ready for you to move in!

Great kitchen with large center island - perfect place for a quick snack. Dining area opens to covered patio. 3 BDRs on main floor and an additional BDR, bath and family room in basement.

Granite throughout. Energy Star Home w "Smart Construction" 6" exterior walls, Upgraded Energy Star Appliances Ready for you to call home! MLS:11149439 Text RBHJMPQ to 52187 R HF FZ RB T X TE

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2002 MAX RUN DRIVE, CHAMPAIGN ~ $395,000 Beautifully kept 1 story, built '19, in "Like New" condition! Foyer opens to formal LVR w/Cathedral ceiling & stone FPL w/gas logs.

KIT has eating bar, granite c-tops, tiled backsplash, & upscale SS apps. Master adjoins a well-planned full BA plus walk-in closet.

Nicely finished bsmnt w/kitchenette area plus room for TV, pool table, etc. 4th bdr w/egress window, plus 3rd full bath. 3-car garage & more! MLS:10911715 Text RBFZHFR to 52187

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2402 BROOKENS CIRCLE, URBANA ~ $284,900 Spacious two story in the Yankee Ridge Grade School area.

Formal Living and Dining Rooms and kitchen island. Family room has a corner fireplace, and opens to a 2nd Family Room area. Second story has four Bedrooms, all with new hardwood floors. All new Anderson windows installed recently, and new window treatment added in 2021. This is a house you "must see to appreciate!!" MLS:11146391 Text RBGXJWJ to 52187 H WT GM RB T X TE

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D L O S

2211 VAWTER STREET, URBANA ~ $197,500 Spacious two story, located on a quiet street, not far from Yankee Ridge Elementary School - 4 nicely sized BDRs with good closet space, 2.5 baths, partially finished basement, deeper two car garage, situated on a larger lot.

Spacious living room will hold lots of furniture. Formal dining room with beautiful chandelier, will easily seat several people. MLS:11040911 Text RBGMWTH to 52187

I can’t thank Madeline Hoeft and her administrative assistant Anissa Slater enough. My siblings and I were confronted with the task of selling our late parents’ house, which was run-down and filled with forty years’ worth of belingings. To add to our difficulties, all of us live out-of-state. Madeline immediately took charge. She referred us to professionals who could help us, including estate salespeople, housecleaners, painters, handymen, landscapers and roofers. She scheduled the professionals and met them at the property.

In the end, the house was sparkling, and we got a great offer. Anissa was very efficient in providing the paperwork and helpfully explained the process.

Throughout, both Madeline and Anissa were upbeat and supportive. I am so grateful, and I recommend Madeline very, very higly.

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Denise Zindars NMLS# 580824 CALL ME TODAY OR VISIT CALL ME TODAY OR 217-363-4160 PNC.COM/HOMEHQ TO VISIT LEARN MORE. PNC.COM/HOMEHQ TO LEARN MORE.

Denise Zindars

Denise Zindars Elana Elana Hassell NMLS#Hassell 580824 NMLS# 580824 NMLS# 1622953 217-363-4160 NMLS# 1622953 217-363-4160 217-363-4190

217-363-4190

Jean Crowley

Elana Hassell NMLS# 1690887 Kristina Huisinga 217-363-4170 NMLS# 1622953 NMLS# 867099 217-363-4190

217-363-4103 Elana Hassell

NMLS# 1622953 217-363-4190

Welcome home.

Owning a home is a big deal, but getting your loan shouldn’t be.

We offer competitive rates and an easy-to-complete loan process that gets you the money you need.

Give me a call or quick email to get started.

Mike Sturdyvin Senior Mortgage Loan Originator msturdyvin@first-online.com 217.351.6620 217.369.8500 NMLS # 657960

800.511.0045 first-online.bank

First Financial Bank

Member FDIC Equal Housing Lender NMLS# 401915

Judy Fejes

Please Say You Saw It In The Real Estate Book - Vol. 31, No. 3 - Page 5

Sally Fejes

Broker, GRI, ABR

(217) 621-8003 judy@judyfejes.com

T eam

Broker

www.jfejes.coldwellhomes.com

(217) 552-0767

sfejes@coldwellhomes.com Each Office Independently Owned & Operated

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Text JUDY for a showing today at 217-621-8003!

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713 N. 1800 EAST ROAD, MILFORD COMING SOON! Introducing Amber Oaks, an Elegant Country estate situated on 68 acres of premium land. Home has 14,000 sq feet of grand living space w/ a guest house on property with 2 master suites. Great for a getaway home, Airbnb, Wedding Venue! Right in between Champaign and Chicago!

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4411 TROSTSHIRE CIRCLE, CHAMPAIGN $1,175,000 Stunning custom built in desired Trails at Brittany. 5 BDRs + office. Spacious eat in kitchen. Amazing 2 story foyer. Beautiful 1st flr master w/2 way FP & 2nd master in day light basement! 2 tiered deck.

Text RBHGVJG to 52187

1605 SANDCHERRY COURT, CHAMPAIGN COMING SOON! Wanting a 1 Story home w/basement w/wet bar & family/rec area? 3 BDR, 3 full BA, 3 car gar. Formal & casual dining areas. 2000 sq ft on main level Primary BDR has 2 walk-in closets 4th BDR framed in basement Text RBHJRXR to 52187

Dreams d o n ’ t wa i t

Let us Help you Achieve your Financial Goals with a Mortgage Loan

Apply Online BANKPROSPECT.COM

Contact Ellen Reinhart (217) 352.0077 NMLS 671824

*Subject to approval

Fieldstone Subdivision has home building lots available starting at $49,900 CALL JUDY FEJES TO FIND OUT MORE!

(217) 621-8003

MEET OUR MORTGAGE LENDING TEAM Longview Bank has been deeply rooted in your community for several years.

Longview Bank offers a multitude of products and services to meet all your financial needs.

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ST. JOSEPH

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Michelle Barkley

George Nichols

Brad Krall

Dan Wright

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NMLS # 712287

NMLS #663099

217-837-2404

217-469-8866

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217-832-8179

#1 Home Mortgage Services

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Longview Bank Newman 2481 E. US Highway 36 • Newman Phone: 217-837-2404

Longview Bank St. Joseph 220 E. Grand • St. Joseph Phone: 217-469-8866

Longview Bank Villa Grove 6 E. Harrison • Villa Grove Phone: 217-832-8179

www.longviewbank.com

30%

Please Say You Saw It In The Real Estate Book - Vol. 31, No. 3 - Page 7

Max McComb REALTOR®, GRI, CDPE RE/MAX Realty Associates

217-373-4878 maxmccomb@remax.net maxmccomb.com

Each Office Independently Owned & Operated

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THIS 3 BEDROOM 2 1/2 BATH RANCH is located on a Cul-De-Sac, features a sunken living room with vaulted ceilings and fireplace. The backyard is fenced and includes great entertainment possibilities including a deck, pool, patio and pergola. The home is close to shopping and Meadowbrook park. $189,900 Max (217) 493-5450 or Text RBHNGXC to 52187

WELL MAINTAINED UPSTAIRS CONDO 2 bedrooms, 1 full bath, laundry hookups and 2 designated parking spaces. The living room has a cathedral ceiling to give you a more spacious and inviting living area along with a fireplace for those cooler nights. The Dining room is off the kitchen and leads to your private balcony and storage area. Located of the bus line and close to Parkland College, multiple parks and walking paths. All exterior maintenance, lawn care, trash and snow removal are included in your monthly condo fees so you can sit back and relax. $81,500 Max (217) 493-5450 or Text RBHNGXF to 52187

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MANY UPDATES in this 2 bedroom ranch home, a spacious living room, eat-in kitchen, a 2 car detached garage with a fenced-in backyard. The seller installed new flooring, a new vanity in the bathroom, new electrical panel and sewer line. $87,500 Max (217) 493-5450 or Text RBHNGXH to 52187

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RECENTLY REMODELED 3 bed, 1 bath ranch home has a spacious living room, an eat-in kitchen and a 2.5 car garage with one overhead door. Updates include a new electrical panel, new roof and some updated wiring. $96,000 Max (217)493-5450 or Text RBHNGXJ to 52187 XG

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3 BEDROOM, 1 BATH RANCH HOME is located within walking distance to shopping, gas, food, bowling and is a few blocks from interstate access. This home has many recent updates in 2021 including a new tear off roof, electrical panel, windows, flooring and bath tub surround. You first enter into an open living room with a dining area off the kitchen. The kitchen has great cabinet storage options and leads to the spacious family room which gives you a large bonus space $79,900 Max (217)493-5450 or Text RBHNGXD to 52187

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ALL BRICK RANCH with 3 bedrooms, covered carport and sits on a corner lot. A new roof, stainless steel appliances and new floors were installed in 2014 $85,400 Max (217)493-5450 or Text RBHNGXG to 52187

On The COver EXCEPTIONAL LAKEFRONT HOME, in Mahomet on a beautiful full acre lot! ~300K invested to renovate & update w/ stunning selections, current colors & décor. 9 baths, 6 bedrooms, 5 car gar. 4 fireplaces & 2 staircases & a huge screened in porch. Walls of windows across the entire back for great lake views! Fabulous, flowing layout w/wide open living spaces, soaring ceilings & acres of hardwood. Living room with cathedral ceilings, anchored by floor to ceiling brick fireplace flanked by built ins.

Enormous family rm w/vaulted & beamed ceiling. Spectacular chef’s kitchen. Private first flr. master is the perfect retreat w/breathtaking lake views , direct access the back & a luxurious, spa like bath w/ a tiled shower & soaker tub. Full, finished bsmt has lg. media room w/ledgestone fireplace, full bath, wet bar w/cabinetry & home gym. Tremendous Property!

$1,135,000 Text RBGPTKR to 52187 FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON THIS HOME OR OTHER LISTINGS, CONTACT:

Realty Associates

Diane Dawson

(217) 373-4812 dianedawson@remax.net

STAND OUT & GET RESULTS with Multimedia Marketing Packages for Real Estate Professionals

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Todd Thorstenson

Contact any of the top real estate professionals

LOCAL PRINT • DIRECT MAIL • WEB • SOCIAL • MOBILE

Phone: 217-778-9052 Email: Todd@volomail.net

13 issues per year distributed to over 700 points NEXT ISSUE SUBMISSION DEADLINE IS:

Tuesday, March 1, 2022

advertised in this issue

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“All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise any perference, limitations, or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preferences, limitation, or discrimination. We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hearby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.”

Please Say You Saw It In The Real Estate Book - Vol. 31, No. 3 - Page 9

Start the New Year in your new home!

New Year. New Beginnings.

New Home.

Diane Sullivan

VP, Mortgage Lender NMLS# 421698 1251 Woodfield Drive Savoy, IL dsullivan@firstmid.com

Visit us online and click on

to start the process!

Look for First Mid in these communities: Champaign | Urbana | Savoy Mahomet | Monticello Rantoul | Tuscola

NMLS #411170

firstmid.com

HOW TO FIND A HOME IN A

SELLER’S MARKET In a seller’s market, there are more buyers looking for a home than there are houses available. That means sellers may have an advantage, since multiple buyers may be interested in purchasing their home. If you’re looking to buy a house in a seller’s market, it’s important to know what to expect and to be prepared so you can avoid common pitfalls.

Get Pre-Approved Before you start shopping for a house, you should get pre-approved for a mortgage. That means you will submit your financial information and supporting documents to a lender, and it will review them to decide how much you can afford to pay for a house. Being pre-approved will demonstrate to a seller that you are in a good financial position, can afford a house and will be able to move forward quickly.

The amount a lender pre-approves you for is not necessarily the amount you should spend. The lender may not consider all your monthly expenses, such as childcare, or other costs of homeownership, such as property taxes, private mortgage insurance, homeowners insurance, maintenance and repairs. Assess your overall financial circumstances to figure out how much you can comfortably afford to spend for monthly mortgage payments.

Please Say You Saw It In The Real Estate Book - Vol. 31, No. 3 - Page 11

Make a Competitive and Realistic Offer You want to get a home at a good price, but in a seller’s market, you may be competing with one or more other buyers who are interested in the same house. To have a better chance at becoming the new owner, you need to present a competitive offer right off the bat. If you try to start negotiations by submitting a low bid, you may not get a chance to negotiate at all because the seller may simply choose a buyer who made a higher offer.

Don’t make an initial offer for the maximum amount you can afford. In a seller’s market, bidding wars are common. You may find that because competition is fierce, the only way to win a bidding war is to offer more than the list price. That doesn’t mean you should go over your budget—it means you should focus on homes with asking prices below the amount you can afford so you will have room to negotiate. If another buyer submits a bid that is higher than what you can afford, be prepared to walk away and look for another house that’s a better fit for your budget.

Get Help From a Knowledgeable Real Estate Agent An experienced real estate agent who is familiar with the local market can guide you through the process of looking for a new home. An agent can help you decide how much to offer so you can hopefully get the house you want at a competitive price without being outbid by another buyer. If you can’t find a home with the features you want in your price range, your agent may recommend that you consider another neighborhood or city with lower home prices.

Reprinted with permission from RISMedia. ©2021. All rights reserved.

Call today 217-355-1000 8 Main Street Champaign, IL We Build Our Reputation on

GET ZAPPAR ZAP THE CODE

debbyauble@gmail.com • Visit online at champaign-urbanaauble.REALTOR

Spring Into Action

Thinking about SELLING and/or BUYING?

Call us

We have an excellent track record and references. If you want the best real estate services available in Champaign County call 217.355.1000 today - you’ll be SOLD!

Coming Soon!

Dance a Jig! You've found the perfect new home with this freshly updated ranch with full basement sited on a double lot. You'll admire the attention to detail you'll find.Hardwood floors, 1 full bath, 1 half bath off master bedroom, and additional shower in basement.

1.5 car deep garage. Dining area has full view door that leads to deck and patio overlooking the lot filled with mature trees and plantings.

Text RBHMBBQ to 52187

2110 Tamarack Ct., Champaign $184,900

SOLD You've Found a Four Leaf Clover ! Flexible living space with 4 bedrooms and 2 full baths. Major component upgrades including siding, windows, roof, HVAC systems - see attached inspection report- combine with quality aesthetic upgrades making this offering a number 1 choice for any buyer and a rarity in today's market.

Oversized 2 car garage adds storage without giving up space for vehicles, tools, and recreation equipment. Pre-inspected for peace of mind.Text RBHGCTL to 52187

308 N. Edwin, Champaign $159,900

You Won't Need a Pot of Gold to buy this vintage home. Inviting front porch with swing. 3 bedroom, 2 bath bungalow. Natural woodwork. Updated kitchen and mechanicals. Add your finishing touches to make this your perfect new home. Close to several parks.Text RBGDQNY to 52187

Prime Downtown Champaign Development Property

As Rare as Leaping Leprechauns! Prime Development property in downtown Champaign. Located in a TIF District! The Seed House consists of 2 parcels that are adjoining at 502 N. Hickory and 36 E. Washington, Champaign. The combined lot footprint is 60' x 133'. Zoned for mix use commercial and residential. It would make for an amazing space for any use. This is the last vintage, stand alone property - not adjoining any other structures - in Downtown Champaign. Total of 8840 sq. ft. Currently 2nd floor is owner-occupied loft. $899,900 Text RBCYQBL to 52187

Melinda Helfer Designated Managing Broker

217-841-5373

COMING SOON 102 Essex Lane, Savoy 205 W California, Urbana

Ernyse Blanson 217-766-8733

308 W California, Urbana

Choice

Dan Gordon 217-493-5956

2919 Crossing Ct Champaign (217)

359-3131

Outstanding Agents Outstanding Results®

Bobbi Gordon 217-493-5959

Georgine Hembrough 217-377-4130

Jill Hess 217-417-8177

CHAMPAIGN $310,000 Retail business with 2 apartments above...Parking in back via alley Contact Brandon Susan Frobish at Moore 217-202-4688. Text RBFLWVF to 52187 217-841-7048

URBANA $74,900 3 Bedroom ranch with addition and attached garage.

Property backs up to green area behind Prairie School (no rear neighbors!) Contact Bobbi Gordon at 217-493-5959.

Rex Roy 217-781-5337

Choice URBANA $249,900 Contact Tim Jr. at 217-351-7653.

Text RBHKKYB to 52187

Laura Hatch 217-722-7026

URBANA $70,350 Some TLC would make this an affordable 2BR/1BA/2CAR condo in a great Urbana location convenient to I74, County Fairgrounds, shopping, restaurants and on the bus line for UIUC. Attached garage and private patio. Monthly Condo fee of $120 covers common insurance, exterior maintenance, lawn care and snow removal. New roof 2021. Selling AS/IS. Contact Daniel Gordon at 217-359-3131.

Text RBHMRJR to 52187

Spencer Adams 217-819-7311

204 E Southline Dr Tuscola (217)

253-6978

Tim Hoss 217-369-1670 TUSCOLA $161,500 TUSCOLA $161,500 This three bedroom, one and a half bathroom home is 1,707 square feet. It includes multiple outdoor seating options, a one-car garage, and a heated Lily shed. Contact Neal Wood at Hale-Partenheimer 217-253-6978. Text RBHLXVQ to 52187 217-253-6978

Susan Frobish 217-202-4688

Lydie Maole 217-904-4070

Neal Wood 217-232-9665 RIDGE FARM $189,000 RIDGE FARM $189,000 This is a well established bar and grill and is perfect for anyone wanting to own their own business! The venue features a banquet hall, outdoor seating area, and gaming options. The Ridge is located directly on Route 1--15 miles south of Danville; and convenient enough to service Eastern Illinois and Western Indiana. Contact Neal Wood at 217-253-6978.

CHRISMAN $179,000 This is a one of a kind. Residential or multi-family. Roof less than 10 years old. Newer boiler heat and water heater. Amazing charm and appeal.

3BD/1BA, kitchen, family and dining on 2nd floor. Family room, living area, office, dining and 1/2 bath on 1st level. This home goes on forever. 3car garage with another 28x12 added to it. 4 total parking spaces wrap around porch. Contact Neal Wood at 217-253-6978. Text RBGCXPD to 52187

Cody Coile 217-294-2741

Page 14 - Get More Details At www.realestatebook.com - Vol. 31, No. 3

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A HANDY GU G U IDE TO GUIDE START ING A HOME R EEMODEL MODEL RE Apprehension and inexperience keep many homeowners from pursuing renovation projects that would make their homes more functional, enjoyable and comfortable. Getting your hands dirty on the front end with some planning and preparation is the best blueprint for a successful home remodeling project. It will make the dirty work on the back end and the actual remodel a much easier process So whether you’re remodeling your home to sell it, or for your own enjoyment, start your remodel on the right track by considering these tips from Gary White with JCPenney Home Services.

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START WITH A PLAN

Although it may sound obvious, the first step really is to decide what you hope to accomplish with your renovation. At the least, begin to outline rough ideas to discuss with an expert.

Reaching out to contractors before you’ve determined a basic idea for your project can waste time and money. Spend time listing the must-have features, as well as some nice-tohaves if the budget allows. Also, think about the overall functionality, design and layout. If you get overwhelmed or need ideas, don’t hesitate to turn to online showrooms or magazines for inspiration. Once you create your plan, you’ll be ready to get the ball rolling on everything else.

SET A BUDGET

If the sky is the limit, skip ahead, but if you’re like most homeowners, money matters, and so does setting and sticking to a budget. Have a clear idea of what you can afford to invest in your renovation before you get started, and if necessary, research the financing options available to you. Look for financing that provides deferred interest or low monthly payments to help manage the project cost. Setting a clear budget can help keep your contractors accountable and it goes a long way toward ensuring you can enjoy your finished project without regret or having to make sacrifices down the line.

DRAW UP THE PLANS

To help set your plan in motion, there are numerous online tools you can utilize to simplify each step of the process including design, budgeting and more. If you’re planning a home remodel, a comprehensive resource, like JCPenney Home Services, offers a one-stop-shop for bathroom remodeling, countertops, custom window treatments, flooring, heating and cooling, water heaters and whole-home water treatment.

INVOLVE A PROFESSIONAL

Unless you have the time and skills, you’ll want a licensed and insured contractor to lead the project when you’re ready to get your renovation in motion. It can be wise to solicit multiple bids, not only to ensure you get the best value, but also to find someone whose work, style and experience is most in-line with the needs of your project. After all, this person will be a big part of your life during a fairly stressful time period. Always check references and reviews and verify the contractor’s standing with local associations such as the BBB.

GET READY FOR WORK

Remember that you’ll need to create a work environment that is safe for your contractors and protects your valuable possessions.

Establish a clear path to the project space for easy access and removal of debris. Furniture, appliances, room furnishings, valuables and breakable items should be removed from both the path to the work site and the work site itself. If your renovation project will involve an essential room, such as the kitchen or a bathroom, make alternate arrangements, such as creating a makeshift kitchen with the bare necessities, in another part of the house.

By following these tips, setting a plan, making a budget and finding a trusted contractor, you’ll be able to put worry aside and proceed with your successful home remodel. Here’s wishing you the best of luck on your remodeling project!

Serving Campus and Community Serving Campus and Community

Ask about our Rate Guarantee Program Matthew Waldrop AVP of Mortgage Matthew Waldrop Matthew Waldrop NMLS# 1066383 VP AVP of Mortgage of Mortgage NMLS# 1066383 NMLS# 1066383 217-278-7761 matthew.waldrop@ 217-722-0482 217-278-7761 uoficreditunion.org matthew.waldrop@ matthew.waldrop@ uoficreditunion.org uoficreditunion.org

Jenna Howe Mortgage Loan Officer Phil Dykstra Jenna Howe NMLS# 914296 Officer Mortgage Loan Officer NMLS# 914296 1466105 NMLS# 217-278-6870 jenna.howe@ 217-202-9236 217-278-6870 uoficreditunion.org phil.dykstra@ jenna.howe@ uoficreditunion.org uoficreditunion.org

Phil Dykstra Mortgage Loan Officer Garvin Gerdes Phil Dykstra NMLS# 1466105 Mortgage Officer Mortgage LoanLoan Officer NMLS# 2107094 NMLS# 1466105 217-239-3483 phil.dykstra@ 217-480-6794 217-239-3483 uoficreditunion.org garvin.gerdes@ phil.dykstra@ uoficreditunion.org uoficreditunion.org

Whether you’re buying for the first time, moving up, or downsizing, we can help!

Whether you’re buying for the first time, moving up, or downsizing, we can help!

uoficreditunion.org/loans/mortgages/ www.uoficreditunion.org uoficreditunion.org/loans/mortgages/

YOU LIVE HERE. WE LEND HERE.

Mitch Wilson

Anne Potter

217.872.7562 217.859.6123

217.872.7582 217.649.8248

mitch.wilson @hickorypointbank.com

anne.potter @hickorypointbank.com

Loan Originator Identifier: 1718980 Loan Origination Company Identifier: 433956

Loan Originator Identifier: 2041257 Loan Origination Company Identifier: 433956

Investing in the Champaign area one home at a time.

202 W. Park Avenue Champaign, IL 61820

HICKORYPOINTBANK.COM

BOOST YOUR CURB APPEAL

BY PAINTING YOUR EXTERIOR When you put your home on the market, one of the best ways to pump up interest in your home is to boost its curb appeal. While installing a new mailbox or keeping the lawn well-manicured are great for maintenance, nothing boosts curb appeal quite like a fresh coat of paint on your home’s exterior.

Please Say You Saw It In The Real Estate Book - Vol. 31, No. 3 - Page 19

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ummer and early fall are a great time to pull the trigger on repainting your home. Ideally, you want warm, dry days. While there’s always a chance of thunderstorms in the summer, a simple check of the weekly forecast will alleviate any risk there.

Summer is also a good time because there aren’t big temperature fluctuations from day to night. If you’ve got perfect temperatures during the day, but then a big drop after the sun goes down, the paint will react and won’t cure properly.

Once you choose your painter, the next step is to start choosing your colors.

First, choose the main body color of your home. This color is what most of your home will be painted, and it will set the tone for the rest of the home. Normally, you would choose something neutral like white, cream, gray, etc. If you have a change in material, such as an entry feature or second roofline, or any other secondary main material feature, include a second main color to complement the first.

Then, choose a complementary accent color that will highlight smaller details, such as doors and shutters. For example, if you paint your home an off-white color, such as cream, choose a blue hue such as navy or a red hue like burgundy to complement it. Finally, tie everything together with a trim color around the windows and eaves.

If you’re not ready for an entire exterior paint job, you can still give your house a facelift with some practical touch-ups on accent pieces. Fresh, bright paint on the front door, stair rails, balconies, shutters or window sashes can vastly improve the look of your house. Plus, it’s easy to change the color on these smaller details every year or two so you can constantly update and boost that curb appeal.

If you’re putting your house on the market, look into a fresh coat of paint or doing some touch ups. It’ll go a long way towards a great first impression when it comes time to show your home.

Ready to Look for Your First Home?

Some Tips to Get You on Your Way You’re finally ready to make the leap from renting into home ownership, which is a very exciting time. But, hey, let’s face it—it can also be overwhelming, and even a little scary. But don’t worry, with the right preparation, you’ll be ready to take the home search head-on and find the perfect home for you.

Here are some helpful ways to prepare yourself for your first house hunt: Take a class.

There are many first-time homebuyer education courses available, many of which are offered online. They provide potential homebuyers with detailed information, advice and budgeting tips on how to purchase a home. And upon completion, some provide a homebuyer certificate, which may allow consumers loan products that might otherwise be out of their grasp.

Save, save, save. And then save some more.

Prospective homebuyers need to save as much as possible toward the purchase price of the house and closing costs.

Though minimum down payments start around 5 percent, the greater the down payment the more favorable the borrowing terms.

If you can purchase a home with at least 20 percent down, you probably will save even more because you won’t need to buy private mortgage insurance (PMI).

Find an agent.

First-timers should ask around or look online to find a trusted real estate agent. An agent’s job is to know how much properties are worth, facilitate the sale process and bring an offer to the seller’s agent—and help guide you along the way.

Research your mortgage options.

There are a lot of mortgage options out there, each with their individual pros and cons. If you’ re having trouble saving up for a larger down payment, check out: x Conventional mortgages that conform to standards set by governmentsponsored entities Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac., which require as little as 3 percent down. x Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loans, which permit down payments as low as 3.5 percent. x Veteran Affairs (VA) loans, which sometimes require no down payment at all.

Shopping around for your mortgage can lead to real savings. Saving even a quarter of a point in interest saves thousands of dollars over the life of a loan.

now that you know How to prepare, it’s time to get out there and start hunting for your first home!

Realty Associates Each Office Independently Owned and Operated

DianeDawson@remax.net

FEBRUARY’S FEATURED LISTING:

ARCHITECTURAL MASTERPIECE...IN MAHOMET! Located in the Prestigious Creek Subd. This completely updated, LAKEFRONT home sits on a scenic 1-ACRE lot! Exceptional, impressive home, but with a warm, welcoming & comfortable feel. Custom built by Sun-built & designed w/walls of windows to maximize the lake views. Owners have totally transformed this home, investing over 300K to renovate & update. Stunning selections in current colors & décor, this home could easily be featured in Better Homes and Gardens! Fabulous, flowing layout w/a soaring 2-story entry & generously sized, wide open living spaces. ~8500 sqft w/9 BA/ 6 BR, 4 fireplaces. Formal living rm has cathedral ceilings & flr-to-ceiling, brick fireplace. Spacious & spectacular chef’s kitchen w/breakfast bar & huge table area. Gorgeous, gleaming granite & quartz counter tops & marble backsplash. Abundance of high end cabinetry & professional grade appliances: Sub Zero refrigerator, upscale 6-burner Wolf cook top & built in

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Diane Dawson

EXPERIENCE, SERVICE... RESULTS!

CALL! (217) 373-4812

double ovens. Private, first-floor master suite offers the perfect retreat w/beautiful lake views & direct access to the back. Sumptuous spa like bath has a walk in Kohler digital shower, dbl vanities, heated tile floors & a 6K free standing soaker tub. Enormous family rm w/vaulted & beamed ceiling. Upstairs has a open rec area & 4 big bedrooms, all w/direct bath access. Bonus rm above garage w/full bath, & sep.staircase, perfect to work from home. Full, finished bsmt has an gigantic media rm w/ledgestone fireplace, wet bar, full bath & bonus rm/currently being used as an home gym. Acres of natural hardwood, New plumbing/light fixtures, wi-fi thermostats, & integrated sound system. Oversized 5 car garage, whole house generator, 2 decks, stone patio & screen porch. Fantastic opportunity to own & enjoy this wonderful property, providing gracious accommodations, amazing amenities & breathtaking views!

Text RBGPTKR to 52187

$1,135,000

Call Diane! ...Your Home Featured & SOLD! Next!

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- broker

(217) 819-4899 Email: SOLD@bradcoats.com

RACT CONT ING PEND $335,000 Newer Mahomet ranch with Finished Basement in ‘Country-Ridge’ by the Neighborhood Park!

Don’t miss out on this quality Signature-built ranch just listed in popular Country Ridge close to the neighborhood park. Just a few years old, wonderful open kitchen, split-bedroom design for a private master suite, covered porch with patio & newly fenced yard, fully finished basement w/family room, game room, 4th bedroom, full bath & huge storage/shop area plus a rare 3-car garage.... Priced right! Call Brad today before this nice off-season buy is history! (217) 819-4899

RACT CONT ING PEND $750,000 One-of-a-Kind Mahomet scenic acreage-property!

Mahomet’s Woodfield-West. 3 connected land parcels w/2 ½ wooded acres w/2 creeks, scenery & wildlife! As you walk off your backyard into the deep woods. Remodeled & updated w/floor-plan opened up & newly finished daylight basement overlooking the scenic private backyard & forest. 1st-floor master. Over 4,000 fin sq ft. Matching new 3-car garage w/huge walk-up attic and w/attached lg 2-car garage.

Agent owned properties. Enjoy the peaceful serenity of your own private grounds with beauty in every season change.

RACT T N O C ING PEND $25,000 Investors Look!

What a deal... Drive a little & get a lot more! Tenants in place, 3-bed fully functional house near the park. Low price for the sharp/able/cash buyer, all your Realtor today!

$110,000 Nice affordable ranch home in Mahomet!

Do not miss out on this one…. 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, corner lot, 1.5-car garage plus an over-sized garden shed, ‘Country-Chic’ updated large kitchen, new wood floors, cozy fireplace w/stone surround, corner lot & more. Legendary Mahomet schools & parks. Priced for a quick & clean-cut sale to qualified buyers.

Do call today, before this nice home is history!

$169,800 Champaign Ranch Coming-Soon!

This is the one! Nice 1-level 3bed/2Full bath home, popular Parkland-Ridge, eatin-kitchen, cool corner fireplace, rare 2.5car garage w/workshop. Sale includes all new roof shingles scheduled to be installed too! Priced right for an advanced sale to qualified buyers for spring/early summer closing. Great home - Great buy!

$160,000 Mahomet remodeled ranch w/4-car garage plus separate workshop!

Very nice updated home, remodeled kitchen, covered front porch w/new stone façade, nice layout, clean as can be, attached lg 2-car garage plus a huge newer workshop building/garage on the other side of this big corner lot perfect for your toys, shop or business equipment w/separate access off the main road. Very close to Lake of the Woods Park & trails too… Wow, a whole lot of property for the money!

Your RE/MAX broker for over 20 years... Dedicated to Successful Results for You