Factors to consider before downsizing a home
By METRO CREATIVE
Aspiring to save money in retirement makes perfect sense. Once professionals call it a career and are no longer drawing a paycheck, cutting back on expenses can be a sound decision that ensures seniors won’t outlive their money. And housing remains a significant expense, even for retirees who own their homes and no longer have monthly mortgage payments to make. Many retirees seeking ways to save money consider downsizing their homes. According to the National Association of Retailers, 12% of people between the ages of 60 and 69 who move indicated their home was too large, and that percentage grows among movers between the ages of 70 and 78 (16%) and those who move after turning 79 (18%). Downsizing a home in retirement can seem like an ideal means to saving money after calling it a career, but individuals pondering such a move should
consider a number of variables before putting their homes up for sale.
Costs
Downsizing may help retirees lower their property tax obligations, reduce their utility bills and lower their monthly mortgage payments (for those who are still paying off a mortgage on their current homes), but that does not mean moving will not incur new expenses that render such savings moot. Expenditures like closing costs, real estate commissions, moving-related expenses, and capital gains taxes can quickly add up. In addition, retirees who currently do not pay homeowner’s association fees may be subjected to such fees when moving into a new home, and those fees can be substantial and hard to avoid. Indeed, recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau indicated that 71% of new constructions in the western and southern United States were built in communities with home-
owner’s associations. Prior to downsizing, current homeowners should calculate all of the costs related to relocating, including anticipated HOA fees, to see if downsizing is to their financial benefit.
Social benefits
Another variable that merits consideration is the impact that moving can have on seniors’ social lives. The World Health Organization reports that more than one in 10 seniors experiences loneliness, which can adversely affect their physical and mental health and potentially reduce their life expectancy. Retirees currently living in communities in which they are socially active should weigh the effects of leaving that social network behind. Retirees also can weigh the benefits of moving to 55 and over communities where they will be surrounded by people at a similar stage in life, and how living in such developments may improve their social lives.
Adjusting and adapting
Downsizing will require an adjustment period and a willingness to adapt. Retirees may have an emotional attachment to their current homes, and leaving that behind can be a difficult adjustment. Adapting to life in a new community also can be challenging, particularly if retirees are moving from areas where there are no restrictions regarding their properties to communities where homeowners’ associations must approve of any changes to properties. Moving also may require finding new health care professionals, which can be a particularly difficult adjustment for retirees who have spent years building a strong rapport with their current health care team.
Downsizing a home might be a pathway to more financial freedom for many retirees. Seniors considering such a move can consider a number of variables to determine if moving is in their best interest.
How to maximize a real estate investment
By METRO CREATIVE
Real estate has long been considered a good investment. Whether people are buying a home they intend to live in or purchasing investment properties they hope to flip or rent out, real estate tends to provide a strong return on investment.
Maximizing the investment value of a property is wise regardless of how buyers intend to use it. With that in mind, buyers can consider these strategies to make the most of a real estate investment.
• Renovate with ROI in mind. Though no room of a home in need of work should be ignored, various studies have identified the rooms buyers emphasize most when looking for a new home. Kitchens and primary suites tend to make the most lasting impressions on homebuyers, and that can offer a strong return on investment (ROI). And the good news for homeowners hoping to sell a property they currently own is that minor kitchen remodels, which require a smaller financial investment than major overhauls, offer stronger returns. According to the Cost vs. Value Report 2025 from the Journal of Light Construction, a minor kitchen remodel offers an average return of 113% compared to a 36% average return for a major upscale remodel.
• Prioritize location. Real estate investors who aren’t looking to sell but buy can maximize their investment by prioritizing location as they search for properties. Though the real estate market is ever-changing, the importance of location remains a constant. Investopedia notes that a “good” location for prospective buyers typically is near access to transportation (be it public transportation or highways that can help cut down on commute times), well-regarded schools, and community involvement. While the importance of location is a constant, Investopedia notes that a given neighborhood’s reputation can go from “good” to “bad” or vice versa. Identifying an emerging “good” neighborhood can be a tall order, but prospective real estate investors are urged to consider a range of
variables about each location in an effort to maximize their investments. Recent investment in local infrastructure and a growth in local employment opportunities are two variables that can help a given area quickly transform into a place people want to live.
• Sell at the right time. When selling a home with the intent of maximizing a real estate investment, it’s important that owners recognize certain times of year are better for sellers than others.
A 2024 report from the real estate curator ATTOM indicated that listing a property in May, February or April can yield the best returns for sellers. May is a particularly good time to sell, as the ATTOM analysis of 59 million home sales between 2011 and 2023 found that homes sold in May sold for 13.1% above market value, which was the highest of any month.
Real estate has long been considered a great investment, and various strategies can help investors bolster their returns.
the market for a doctor? From checkups to
Riverside Medical Group is here for your family—every step of the way.
The basics of molding replacement projects
By METRO CREATIVE
The right renovation project can change the look and feel of a home. Major undertakings like a kitchen remodel might be the first projects homeowners think of when considering ways to transform their home interiors, but small projects also can go a long way toward remaking spaces in a home.
The molding in a home is a small yet important feature that can affect the look and feel of interior spaces. New molding might not offer the wow factor of a kitchen redesign, but new molding still has a dramatic effect and is well worth the investment of time and effort, particularly if existing molding has begun to show signs of wear and tear.
When should molding be replaced?
Replacement may be necessary when molding is showing signs of rot or damage or when paint is peeling. Rotting molding may feel soft, while warping and swelling indicates the molding is damaged and in need of replacement. Molding that is detaching from the walls also may need to be replaced. But such a condition also can occur as a house is setting or due to seasonal fluctuations of humidity within the home. If this occurs with molding that still looks good, then re-nailing may be the best approach.
What should I know about molding before replacing it?
Molding comes in many shapes, styles and sizes. Molding helps to main-
tain cohesion in spaces throughout a home, so it’s necessary to identify the current type of molding that’s in a home if you only need to replace pieces here and there. If all of the molding must be replaced, then you may have more flexibility. Molding styles include colonial, ogee, cove, and step and double step. The height and thickness of the molding as well as which material type, such as solid wood or PVC, also may determine the right product for your home. Working with an interior designer and contractor can help homeowners who are uncertain about their existing molding make the right choice when installing a new product.
How much does molding cost?
The cost to install new molding will be determined by a number of variables unique to each home, including where the home is located, which materials homeowners choose, which molding is being replaced (i.e., crown molding, baseboard molding, or both), and how much is being replaced. The renovation experts at Angi.com estimate that the range for a crown molding replacement project is between $600 and $2,100. Angi.com notes a similar price range for a baseboard molding replacement project, which typically runs between $800 and $2,250.
Replacing fading or damaged molding can subtly but effectively transform interior spaces in a home. Homeowners are urged to work with a contractor to identify the right molding products for their homes.
• Everything new, down to the studs!
• Fantastic all brick and stone 1.5 story home in the Riverview area with very serene feel, and beautiful design that allows natural light to flow through the space creating an airy atmosphere!
• Home has 4-5 bedrooms, 2 luxurious bathrooms, with stylish colors that evoke warmth and comfort. Beautiful white modern kitchen cabinets with premium quartz countertops and brand-new stainless top of the line appliances!
• Full finished basement with beautiful durable ceramic floors, large family room, full bath, bedroom and a bonus room that can be a 5th bedroom.
• Huge bedroom on second floor, 1.5 car attached garage.
• Owner didn’t spare any money to make it so beautiful! Come see us today! Better than new construction!
• MLS# 12563881
702 S Lincoln Ave., Kankakee, IL | $244,900
815-929-9381
• Perfectly situated on 2.84 scenic acres offering both space and privacy.
• This inviting property features 3 spacious bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms, providing comfortable living for any lifestyle.
• Car enthusiasts and hobbyists will appreciate the 2+ car attached heated garage as well as an additional 2+ car detached heated garage, offering ample room for vehicles, storage, or workspace.
• 30x36 heated outbuilding with durable concrete flooring-ideal for a workshop, business use, or recreational space. Inside, enjoy year-round relaxation in the bright and airy 4-season room, perfect for taking in the surrounding views.
• Step outside to the expansive 24x21 cedar deck, complete with a full covered pavilion, built-in grill, generous counter space and cabinet storage - an entertainer’s dream for hosting gatherings in any weather.
• Major updates include fresh paint throughout, a roof, gutters, and windows that are approximately 5-7 years old. Also included is a whole house generator.
• This unique property offers the perfect blend ofcomfort, functionality, and outdoor living-don’t miss your opportunity to make it yours! MLS# 12594726
3230 N Glenn Rd., Bourbonnais, IL | $400,000
815-929-9381
in a Small Community
• All Brick, 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath home.
• Large living room/dining room combo. Great for entertaining.
• Open kitchen/family room. Island with stove top.
• Full finished carpeted basement with 2 bedrooms, extra
• kitchen area, and bathroom. Great for extra living area.
• Attached 2 car garage with basement entry and lots of storage space.
• Large back yard with nice back covered porch to watch kids play or just to sit and relax and enjoy the weather.
• Guardian Generator.
• MLS#12508769
522 N 3rd St, Cissna Park, IL | $250,000 Beautiful Home
Looking to buy or sell a home, let us open the door to your dreams! Real Estate experts throughout our community ready to help you! SecondWednesdays ofEachMonth!
Prepare a yard for evening entertaining
By METRO CREATIVE
Even when the sun goes down, the opportunity to entertain outdoors is still possible. Transforming a backyard into an evening oasis does not necessarily require major renovations, but it should involve adjusting the atmosphere to facilitate comfort and visibility. The following tips can help hosts optimize outdoor spaces for nighttime events.
Layered lighting
Lighting is the main priority when hosting at night. Lighting establishes ambiance and creates safety in the space. Hosts should avoid floodlights which can be too harsh and create a clinical feeling. Instead, melding dif-
ferent lighting options together can set the scene. String lights provide a warm, even glow that can outline the perimeter and “ceiling” of an outdoor room. Low-voltage LEDs or solar lights can make walkways more visible and call attention to changes in elevation. Accent lighting, such as small spotlights uplighting trees or architectural features, will create depth and keep the yard from feeling like an abyss beyond the patio or deck.
Create focal points
Individuals will gather around various focal points in the yard. These established zones will encourage conversation and other activities. A fire pit is a natural magnet for outdoor events. Arrange seating around
the fire pit to keep conversation flowing. An outdoor bar also is a great place for people to gather, whether it’s stocked with alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks. Mark off an area where people can mingle and dance. Set up an outdoor speaker in this area.
Outdoor comfort
Contending with bugs and weather is a natural side effect of spending time outdoors, particularly in the evening. Citronella candles can keep mosquitoes and gnats at bay. A simple electric floor fan also can be effective against mosquitoes, which are weak fliers that can’t fly against the breeze. A fire pit, propane patio heater and a basket of blankets can
help tame the chills if the temperature drops. Keeping pop-up canopies at the ready will help if rain starts to fall.
Accessibility to food and drink
Beyond the bar, having self-service stations in various spots enables guests to grab food or drink as needed instead of having to trek indoors. Make sure these spots are well-lit. Space drinks away from the food to prevent traffic jams. Invest in some covered containers that will keep food safe from ants or flying insects and trays to easily transport glassware and other items back into the house.
A yard can be a magical place to entertain at night when hosts take a few extra steps to ready the space.
Build a playroom that fits your family’s needs
By METRO CREATIVE
There’s no shortage of ways to utilize interior spaces in a home. Interior spaces have grown considerably in recent decades. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median size of a new home in 1980 was 1,595 square feet. By 2018, the median size of a newly constructed home was 2,386 square feet. Though Realtor.com data indicates the median home size started to shrink between 2015 and 2025, modern homes continue to provide lots of room to maneuver.
When confronted with ample interior space, homeowners may wonder what to do with all that extra room. Playrooms can be a great way to utilize extra space to the fullest, particularly in homes with children. Parents planning a playroom in their homes can consider these tips to ensure the space
becomes a fun room everyone can enjoy.
• Measure the space. Measuring the dimensions in a prospective playroom can erase any doubts homeowners may have regarding how much space they have to work with. Taking measurements also makes it easier to identify which furnishings, including couches and storage units, will fit comfortably into the space. Homeowners who plan to install new flooring or carpeting also will need to know the dimensions to get an accurate idea of how much that portion of the conversion project will cost.
• Keep in mind young children’s preferences to stay close. A basement playroom may work as children enter their tweens and early adolescence, but such separation from the rest of the home may compel young children to avoid the space. Elementary school children and younger kids generally like to stay
close to Mom and Dad, so a basement playroom may not be ideal for such youngsters. In such instances, converting a seldom-used formal dining room into a temporary playroom may be a better option. As children age, the basement can be utilized as a playroom with greater frequency until it becomes the lone play space in the home.
• Emphasize organization. Playrooms can quickly be overrun by toys. Though no two children are exactly the same, the professionals at Brain Balance Achievement Centers note the expected attention span of a 2-year-old is four to six minutes. A 4-year-old’s expected attention span may peak at 12 minutes, while an 8-year-old’s expected attention span is between 16 and 24 minutes. That means kids will pivot from one toy to another with frequency, which underscores the need for ample storage. Storage should be
built into the design of the space after measuring its dimensions. Avoid storage solutions that extend too high up the wall, as that’s hard for children to reach and might lead to accidents. Creative storage solutions abound online, and parents are urged to exercise due diligence to find the safest, most effective units for their children and their space.
• Make it multi-generational. Free play is important for youngsters, but kids will want Mom or Dad and even older siblings nearby even when they’re playing on their own. So it makes sense to equip the space with areas that accommodate everyone in the household. A reading chair for adults and a ping pong table and arcade game for older kids can ensure everyone gets to have fun in the playroom.
A playroom can make for a fun way to utilize extra space inside a home.
RICH HANSEN
Designated Managing Broker Licensed in Illinois and Indiana
WANT TO KNOW WHAT YOUR FARM IS WORTH? CALL ME
NEW FARMS
NEW 159.57 acres Sumner Twp
Excellent Tenant
$2,060,000
NEW 38+/- acres Cropsey PENDING
NEW 102+/- acres Sullivan Twp - $11,000/acre
NEW 3.32 Acre lot Elwood CALL
NEW 1.46 Acre Lot Elwood CALL
3.5 acres on Rt. 113 (Division St) Diamond $399,000 LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION
PEOTONE - 19.371 ACRES Frontage Peotone/ CALL Wilmington Rd SOLD
12.32 ACRES-1-57 frontage close to Ricky Rockets PENDING CALL
5 Acres Manteno - Good Location - Commercial Land CALL
7.4 ac. Industrial Dr Momence CALL
4 Ac.-Beecher Corner Lot-Development Written All Over It CALL
3.32 Acres Commercial Corner - Elwood CALL
4 Commercial lots right on Rt. 52 north of Manhattan CALL Lot 2
13.79 Acres corner of Eames and Bluff Channahon CALL
11 Acres - Rivers Plaza Channahon CALL Lot 1 ...................................................................................... $375,000
Lot 2
Lot 3
Lot 4
Lot 5
Lot 7 and 8
Lot 8 and 9
$375,000
$375,000
$375,000
$599,000
$1,595,000
$1,595,000
32 acres Manteno-Development written all over it ... CALL
NEW 114 acres +/- Martinton- Excellent Tenant
NEW 120 acres +/- Martinton - Excellent Tenant .......................................................................
$11250/ACRE
$12500/ACRE
40 acres +/- Rockville Twp SOLD FARMLAND
134 acres +/- Ganeer Twp -SOLD
200 acres +/- Otto Twp -SOLD
90 ACRES +/- LOVEJOY TWP PENDING $12,500/ACRE
50 ACRES ................................................................... PEOTNE SOLD
NEW Herscher -- Rt 115 Frontage - Commercial Lots CALL
NEW Peotone Will TWP Investor PREFERRED
160 ACRES SOLD CALL
40 acres Richton Park across from Walmart CALL 51 acres Manteno - Rt 50 Frontage- Development Potential CALL
7 commercial lots I-55 and Rt 47 -- Dwight ................... CALL
Great lot on Rt 50 in Manteno REDUCED CALL
2.82 acres corner of Rt 53 and Peotone/Wilmington Rd CALL 40.53 acres - Momence Development-93 lots plotted CALL
acres - Elwood- right on Mississippi CALL
ac+/- Development Rt 45/24 Gilman CALL
acres Manteno CALL
