The Real Estate Book of Champaign-Urbana-Savoy, IL

CREATIVE LIVING TIPS INSIDE

Volume 31, Issue 4

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 RBHPSTL to 52187.

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

RealEstateBook.com

Listing Agent: Floyd Young Mossy Oak Properties 217-304-4974 Fyoung@mossyoakproperties.com www.illinoislandandlifestyle.com

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

Elegant, custom 4300 sq foot estate is ready to become your permanent paradise retreat.

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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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 J JW GX RB T X TE

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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

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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 Q MP HJ RB T X TE

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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

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.

Realty Associates Each Office Independently Owned and Operated

DianeDawson@remax.net

Diane Dawson

EXPERIENCE, SERVICE... RESULTS! 2021

CALL! (217) 373-4812

MARCH’S FEATURED LISTING:

COME TO SEE WHY EVERYONE IS “RAVING” ABOUT RAVE HOMES! ...And why all the new RAVE builds are selling so quickly! This quality built one-level ranch on an oversized lot will be completed in May...The perfect time to make your move! Split BR design, w/attractive staircase leading full bsmt. Welcoming, covered front porch, functioning dormer window, board/batten siding, craftsman pillars & stone accents create this outstanding curb appeal! Lg. Private master w/huge WIC & 2 vanities. Two bedrooms & another full bath on the opposite side. Popular layout is open from the living room w/soaring cathedral ceilings is open to the kitchen & dining area. Bright, white cabinetry w/stylish, hale navy island &10x5 walk in pantry.

Sep. laundry & mud rooms w/built in lockers between kitchen & the extra wide, 3 car garage. Add more space w/a fin. bsmt that allows for a HUGE 38x18 family rm, a 4th BR, full BA, zoom room/ office & storage. (floor plan/pricing available) Pics shown of similar home. Located in sought after Fieldstone subd. w/low taxes...Act quickly to make it your own & choose the colors, fixtures flooring & granite! Text RBHLFCX to 52187 $393,900

SOLD! FEATURED LISTINGS: Call Diane! ...Your Home Featured & SOLD! Next!

FEBRUARY

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IN 3 DAYS

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Page 4 - Get More Details At www.realestatebook.com - Vol. 31, No. 4

Serving Campus and Community Serving Campus and Community

Ask about our Rate Guarantee Program Matthew Waldrop AVP of Mortgage Matthew Waldrop Matthew Waldrop 1066383 VP NMLS# of Mortgage AVP 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 Mortgage Loan Officer 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/

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Q BH T: R TEX Vintage brick ranch home , original owner, built 1950. Inside you'll find 3 bedrooms, large living room with a huge window overlooking vista views of the backyard. You'll enjoy the huge rear yard with an oversized 2.5 car detached garage. This home offers a full basement for extra space. The location is perfect for those who enjoy schools and parks near. Priced to sell today!

Ranch styled home , built 1972 offers 3 bedrooms, entertaining sized living room and dining area, 2.5 baths, well appointed kitchen, enclosed porch overlooking rear yard. Home is ready for the new owner with freshly painted walls and newly installed floor coverings. Once you see this one, you will want to own it.

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

Please Say You Saw It In The Real Estate Book - Vol. 31, No. 4 - 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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RECENTLY REMODELED HOME still has the character and charm you expect from a 19th century home but with a modern feel.

When you enter, the main level now has an open floorplan which now allows for more natural light. The living and family room can now be utilized individually or as one large living space. With a newly stone faced fireplace, this makes for a more spacious and inviting setting. The main floor also includes a first floor bedroom, full bath, laundry closet and an updated kitchen. The kitchen has space for a large table and includes a breakfast bar with seating for 4, new cabinets, backsplash and dishwasher. Upstairs you will find a large main bedroom suite with a full bath, 2 additional bedrooms with another full bath in the hall. Updates included some newer windows, some updated electrical wiring and plumbing through most of the home, new paint, trim, light fixtures and flooring. $199,500 Max (217)493-5450 or Text RBHPSWP to 52187

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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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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

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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

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THIS COMMONS LOT is located in the growing Plum Grove subdivision. The lot is not buildable however has access to the frontage road. It is a strip in between multiple existing homes. $25,000 Max (217)493-5450 or Text RBHPSWN to 52187

On The COver CHECK OUT THIS ELEGANT COUNTRY ESTATE IN EAST CENTRAL, IL. At the end of a long driveway is this thoughtfully designed 4300 sq ft retreat that boasts 4 BDRs, 3.5 BAs, and a large 2 car attached gar. Entertaining on this property is a breeze with the pool set in a 5000+ sq ft deck adjacent to the cabana and sunroom with a built in grill. Chef’s kitchen complete with all high-end stainless appliances, a double oven, 2 dishwashers, granite countertops, and a large island. Hand carved hickory planking on the floors starts in kitchen and continues into great room that is filled with natural light by the vast amount of windows. 2 fireplaces coupled with the sunlight makes even the coldest winter day warm and bright. Working from home is ideal with the availability of high speed internet and the quiet setting. Make this estate your weekend getaway, VRBO, or permanent residence. Only 2.5 hours from Chicago and 35 minutes from Champaign. $599,000 Text RBHPSTL to 52187 FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON THIS HOME OR OTHER LISTINGS, CONTACT:

Floyd Young Mossy Oak Properties 217-304-4974 Fyoung@mossyoakproperties.com www.illinoislandandlifestyle.com The Real Estate Book is proud to announce The Real Estate Book is proud to announce The Real Estate Book is proud to announce

The Real Estate Book is proud to announce The to The Real Real Estate Estate Book Book is is proud proud to announce announce AUGMENTED REALITY AUGMENTED REALITY AUGMENTED REALITY AUGMENTED REALITY AUGMENTED REALITY WE MAKE THE PRINTED PAGE COME ALIVE! WE MAKE THE PRINTED PAGE COME ALIVE! WE MAKE THE PRINTED PAGE COME ALIVE! WE MAKE THE PRINTED PAGE COME ALIVE! THE WE PRINTED COME MAKE THE DOES WE MAKE PRINTEDITPAGE PAGE COME ALIVE! ALIVE! HOW WORK?

RealEstateBook.com LOCAL PRINT • DIRECT MAIL • WEB • SOCIAL • MOBILE

TEXT CODES...All you have to do is text the code to 52187 You will get all the information on that listing!

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

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

Tuesday, March 29, 2022

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“All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise1 any perference, limitations, or discrimination based on race, color, 18TREB013-Zappar_Digest.indd 7/6/18 3:53 PM 18TREB013-Zappar_Digest.indd 1 7/6/18 3:53 PM 1 7/6/18 religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such18TREB013-Zappar_Digest.indd preferences, limitation, for PM 18TREB013-Zappar_Digest.indd 1 or discrimination. We will not knowingly accept any advertising 7/6/18 3:53 3:53 PM 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.”

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No Appraisal fee - it’s on us* We’ll drop your rate by 0.125% APR*

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*Subject to credit approval. Private Mortgage Insurance may be required for mortgages exceeding 80% of Loan to Market value or selling price, the lesser of the two. Loan must close to waive appraisal fee. The reduced annual percentage rate of 0.125% will be applied at the time of rate lock.

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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.

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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

Spruce Up Your Laundry Room

When you’re stuck inside the house this winter with not much to do, you might be wishing that there was a home improvement project that you could complete – but what? Work on the exterior is probably not going to happen, and tasks like painting might require some windows open. But one area of your home that could probably use some sprucing up is your laundry room.

And the great thing is, many of these practical tasks can be easily knocked out this winter!

Please Say You Saw It In The Real Estate Book - Vol. 31, No. 4 - Page 11

Consider the following tips: Add a countertop.

Add shelving.

If you have a front-loading washer or dryer, you can add a countertop above them to create the look of a larger space. At the same time, you’ll have a smooth flat surface for folding your laundry or pretreating stains.

Avoid shelving that can make an already cramped laundry room feel claustrophobic. If you’re small on space, don’t add a cabinet or something that will take up even more. If you need shelving, consider the thin, wired variety. Alternatively, try hooks to hang your ironing board, or a pegboard if you need space to hang clothes. Save even more space by mounting a fold-out ironing board with an upper shelf to store your iron higher up on the wall. Just make sure the iron has room to cool down.

Set aside drying space.

Provide space for drying by installing a tension rod – just like you would use to hang a curtain or shower curtain.

When you pull clothes from the wash or dryer, place them on hangers, and hang on your rod to air dry, or prepare to put away. Once everything is dry, you can easily transfer them back to your closet. Then take down the rod and tuck it away.

You can further expand your drying space by attaching drying racks to your walls that fold out when needed.

Another potential storage option is to install pedestal drawers directly underneath your washer and dryer to place cleaning supplies, extra towels or anything that can stand to get a little warm from the dryer.

Other quick ways to spruce up your laundry room are to add storage bins or baskets for detergents, dryer sheets and the like; swap out cabinet door handles and knobs for new; and if you have a window, add new drapes. There’s lots of possibility!

COMING SOON

Melinda Helfer Designated Managing Broker

217-841-5373

107 N East St, Homer $107,000

SOLD IN 1 DAY

102 Essex Ln 3 Savoy $164,900 Ernyse Blanson 217-766-8733

COMING SOON

601 S East St Homer $144,900

Choice

Dan Gordon 217-493-5956

2919 Crossing Ct Champaign (217)

359-3131

Outstanding Agents Outstanding Results®

Bobbi Gordon 217-493-5959

Brandon Moore 217-841-7048

Rex Roy 217-781-5337

Laura Hatch 217-722-7026

Jill Hess 217-417-8177

URBANA $226,900 Duplex near downtown Urbana and the UIUC campus. 1st floor unit is handicap accessible with wheelchair lift, lovely eco friendly bamboo floors, 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, and living room has pellet stove for supplemental heat. 2nd unit is 1 bedroom with vaulted ceiling. Each unit has laundry inside the unit. 2-car garage plus extra off-street parking. Unit 1 rent is $1200 through 7/31/2023, and unit 2 is vacant.

Contact Daniel Gordon at 217-359-3131.

Text RBHNTXQ to 52187

URBANA $244,900 5 Bedroom / 2.5 Bathroom / 2585SF / 2 CAR / Fenced Yard. Well maintained and spacious brick home on cul-de-sac with fully fenced yard that offers large extended patio area with fire pit and large playset with rubber mulch. 1st Floor offers Master Suite and 2nd / 3rd bedrooms, living & family rooms, updated kitchen with island, and oversized dining area for large table. The 2nd floor offers 2 more bedrooms, updated full bathroom and access to huge walk-in attic for storage. Many updates including roof-2021, windows-2019/1st floor, HWH-2016, ceiling fans-2020, custom window blinds-2019. Shed and ample parking. Property Taxes $3487. Contact Daniel Gordon at 217-359-3131. Text RBHNZYC to 52187

URBANA $249,900 South facing 4 Bedroom / 4 Bathroom / 2.5 Car Garage with Workspace and Loft / 2 Additional Off Street Parking Spaces. Great opportunity to own this 33-year-old home across the street from Leal Elementary School and 5 blocks from UIUC Campus. 4 large Bedrooms each with a private full bathroom, large common spaces, and oversized kitchen with 2 refrigerators, many cabinets, washer/dryer, and outdoor private patio. Updated roof (2021), HVAC (2019) and more! Property is furnished and comes with stove/oven, Refrigerator, Dishwasher, Microwave, Washer, dryer, and Kitchen table. Living room and bedrooms are furnished with bed, private bath, desk & dresser. Contact Daniel Gordon at 217-359-3131. Text RBHNRWF to 52187

Choice 204 E Southline Dr Tuscola (217)

Susan Frobish 217-202-4688

Spencer Adams 217-819-7311

253-6978

PARIS 69,000 This beautiful three bedroom, one bath home is located on a corner lot. It would make a fantastic starter home or investment property. New paint, wood floors and detached one car garage. Contact Neal Wood 217-232-9665 Contact Neal Wood at 217-253-6978.

Tim Hoss 217-369-1670

Lily Hale-Partenheimer 217-253-6978

Georgine Hembrough 217-377-4130

Lydie Maole 217-904-4070

Neal Wood 217-232-9665 CHRISTMAN 89,900 This is a beautiful four bedroom, two bathroom home listed at $89,900 that is waiting on a new owner!

Two car oversize garage, a covered front porch and large side patio. Recently updated in 2021 with a new HVAC, paint throughout, vinyl flooring, new carpet in 3 bedrooms, refinished hardwood floors, new shingles on rood and gutters. Contact Neal Wood 217-232-9665 Contact Neal Wood at 217-253-6978.

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

Please Say You Saw It In The Real Estate Book - Vol. 31, No. 4 - Page 13

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? Call us

We have pre-approved buyers ready to purchase in all price ranges. We have an excellent track record and references. If you want the best real estate services in Champaign County call 217.355.1000 today - you’ll be SOLD! 1905 Robert Dr., Champaign $209,900

SOLD

Don't Be a Fool and Miss out on this Gem! 3 bedroom/2 bath brick ranch. Fireplace, basement with laundry and mechanicals plus additional finished rec room.

Screened porch to enjoy the soon to be arriving warm weather months. Fenced yard with outbuilding storage. Great HVAC systems - hot water heat and central air!

New roof. Close to parks, restaurants, and retail including Art Mart, Sun Singer and more! Easy access to U of I.Text RBHPTBG to 52187

Coming Soon!

No Fooling Around With a Toolbox! 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 308 N. Edwin, Champaign $159,900

Coming Soon! Plant Your Roots in Your Own 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

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

Page 14 - Get More Details At www.realestatebook.com - Vol. 31, No. 4

Home HOW TO GIVE YOUR

MORE CHARACTER

W

hen you look around your home and then compare it to a design magazine, you may be wondering what exactly is that unique element that makes the rooms on those pages look so appealing.

The answer? Character.

Homes whose design have character built in seem so naturally attractive, but finding the elements of character isn’t always obvious. Adding some character-building charm to your home can be done easily with some simple projects around the house.

START AT THE ENTRANCE One of the first areas to build character in your home is where it makes its first impression. Your foyer is a perfect place to add dimension and interest, because the room is small and even small changes will be noticeable.

Give the room top-to-bottom appeal by adding a unique treatment on the ceiling. Start with crown molding to define your foyer, and then fill in the ceiling area with a vibrant color that takes its cue from the entry rug. This is a terrific way to create a room that’s layered in interest from the floor to the ceiling.

GO NATURAL Natural elements bring a sense of charm to any room. A quick way to add a touch of elegance is to install marble threshold breaks. Often found in pricey hotel rooms, a marble threshold makes a simple statement that’s both natural and stylish. Use these at any transition areas, such as from the bathroom to the bedroom, or where wood changes to tile floors or carpet.

Another easy change is with a wicker or natural lighting fixture. These add all kinds of texture and character – something all designers love – and make fast decorating swaps that are inexpensive to boot. A textured rug in a natural fiber like sisal adds character and dimension.

TRIM, PLEASE Like molding in the foyer, trim can dress up any room in the house. If you have windows without trim, simple casement molding will instantly spruce them up. The same is true of bland bathroom mirrors.

Look at the many online DIY projects for trimming out bland builder bathroom mirrors. Your bathroom will look much better, and stylish. Simple trim added to flat doors and cabinet doors also adds elegance and interest quickly and inexpensively.

MIX AND MATCH MATERIALS Lots of new construction today uses salvaged brick because of the character antique bricks add to a project. A simpler way is to use faux brick panels. These can be added to a wall behind a sofa or a bed to give your space a big texture bump while building in loads of character. In the kitchen, add brick panels for a quick backsplash with interest.

Pressed tin is another terrific way to make a character-building statement.

These tin tiles are fast and easy to cut, install and can be put on the ceiling, on a backsplash or under chair rail trim for wainscot treatment with texture. ©2022 Kathryn Weber. Distributed By Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

WE FIND HOMES THAT FIT YOU 217-352-5700 | realestatechampaign.com

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Each Office Independently Owned and Operated

Julie Huisinga

Darlia Orton

THE DOS AND DON’TS OF WORKING WITH A

REAL ESTATE AGENT

By Anita Ginsburg

When planning to buy a home, you’ll probably work with a real estate agent to prepare your property to sell and to do online views and walk-throughs of new homes. A knowledgeable REALTOR® can answer questions and help you find listings of interest that fit your needs and budget.

Your agent can also point out strengths and weaknesses of various properties that you might otherwise miss.

HERE ARE TIPS TO MAKE YOUR WORKING RELATIONSHIP PRODUCTIVE AND SUCCESSFUL: Do Be Specific About What You Want Don’t Pay More Than You Can Afford Make a list of the features you’re looking for in the home you want to buy. Only view those that meet your criteria to avoid wasting your time or the agent’s. Have a clear plan of the size, style and location of properties you’re willing to look at. Keep a price range in mind and let your agent know what it is, as well as whether you’re willing to negotiate on a house you fall in love with.

Don’t Settle Even if you or your agent get tired of viewing properties that aren’t really what you’re looking for, don’t give in and agree to buy a home that you don’t want. If you’re negotiating a purchase with a buyer who refuses to fix things about the property that you feel are important, don’t be coerced into surrendering to the buyer’s terms. Issues like the settlement date, which furnishings will remain and who will repair broken areas like a leaky roof should be resolved without pressure before you sign the contract.

Do Keep Appointments Your REALTOR® may want to meet with you to go over the property specs you have in mind for purchasing a home. The agent may also want to show you some properties and walk through them with you. Make every effort to keep the appointments that you make to respect the time invested by the seller and the agent, as well as your own schedule. If you miss or postpone several appointments, the agent may take your interest less seriously.

Your agent may try to show you listings that are beyond your indicated budget. This might be done innocently if the more expensive properties have the items on your must-have list. However, don’t buy a house that you can’t afford, because you could end up suffering financially for years to come. You could even lose the home to bankruptcy if you can’t afford payments and maintenance. Be clear with your agent about what you can and can’t afford.

Do Perform Due Diligence Don’t expect the agent to have all the answers about a certain property. Find out through online research whether the home or area has a bad history. You can always ask your REALTOR® about the neighborhood, schools and local businesses, but be willing to do personal research if needed.

An agent can be an amazing resource to help you find the home of your dreams. But keep in mind, they will work more effectively when you provide detailed information about your requests and limits.

Anita Ginsburg is a freelance writer from Denver, Colo. Find her on Twitter @anitaginsburg.

This article first appeared on RISMedia’s blog, Housecall. Reprinted with permission from RISMedia. ©2020. All rights reserved.

11

PAINTING TOOLS YOU NEED

W

hen it comes to painting tools, if it sounds too good to be true, then it usually is. There’s really no substitute for quality painting tools, adequate preparation and careful work.

end of the roller. You shouldn’t be able to close that opening,” says Manfredini. “Ace and Shur-Line both make quality roller covers. Mini paint roller frames are also convenient for working around small spaces.”

“One of the easiest things to remember about paint tools is that you get what you pay for,” says Lou Manfredini, a home expert for Ace Hardware. “The biggest mistake I see homeowners make is that they buy cheap tools that don’t give them good results, or they buy cheap paint – then they end up with a poor finished product.”

Cloth dropcloths: “Sure, it’s a little more expensive to buy canvas, but if you’re going to take on a painting job, you’ll have these for the rest of your life,” says Manfredini.

“Get the 4-foot-wide runner length to use near the walls.”

Here are some of Manfredini’s favorite must-have paint products for a flawless finish.

Wall cleaner: You want to work with a clean surface, since a dirty wall could prevent the paint from adhering or cause the paint to bubble. “I like to use a classic cleaner, Spic and Span, with a little bit of water and a sponge to get any surface dirt off the walls before I paint,” says Manfredini.

Painter’s tape: While purchasing a quality painter’s tape like 3M or FrogTape is important, it’s more about how you apply it.

Once it’s on the wall, run a damp rag over the edge to create a seal. Pay attention to the release dates, or when the tape needs to come off by; it varies from 15 to 30 days.

Brushes: A 2 1/2-inch angled brush was made for painting trim and cutting in. Look for quality brands like Wooster, Purdy and Benjamin Moore.

Rollers: A standard 9-inch roller with a synthetic core and 3/8-inch nap is a classic.

“Test the core: Take your thumb and index finger and push down on each side on the

Paintbrush cleaner: It ensures that painting newbies get their quality brushes completely clean for future use.

Clear plastic bucket: It’s easier to pour paint into these containers than to work from a quart or gallon.

Roller trays: Instead of metal, buy a heavy-duty plastic tray. They’re rigid, but when you go to clean them, the latex paint doesn’t stick and comes right off.

Roller extension pole: An extendable 2-foot roller extension should work in most spaces, but keep the height of your ceiling in mind when shopping for supplies.

Sturdy ladder: A standard 6-foot aluminum or fiberglass ladder that fits your weight specifications (don’t forget that you need to add on approximately how much you’ll be carrying up it) is a good investment piece.

Touch-up tool: For quick paint touch-ups around the house, invest in the Shur-Line Touch Up Painter, available at hardware stores. “If your walls take a lot of abuse, this little gadget holds extra paint for easy touch ups,” says Manfredini.

©2022 Meredith Corporation. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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