New Listing at 1s775 Bender Drive in West Chicago

1 s 7 7 5   B e n d e r   D r i v e  ,  W e s t   C h i c a g o

The Blackwell forest preserve surrounds this sun-drenched home. Recent renovation from the studs...everything here is new including: electric, plumbing, windows, roof, mechanics, hardwood floors floors, and much more. Over 3500 sqft of completely updated living space including a gourmet kitchen complete with Viking appliances where no expense was spared. Check out the additional detached heated garage that could double as a workshop and also includes space for the potential addition to an office above. Don't miss your chance to own this distinctive property on almost an acre of land! Email me at KatieOakes@KW.com for more information or follow this link for complete details on this property 1s775 Bender Drive .

For more information on homes listed for sale in your area please visit my website and sign up for the free property search offered to each visitor.

Selling Your Home? Don't Miss These Tips

When you are planning a move, you need all the help you can get. Here's a checklist to make sure you stay on track:

Looking to Buy or Sell your home?  Visit my website to learn more about the buying and selling process or contact me at KatieOakes@KW.com to setup a free consultation.

1.  For long-distance moves, a moving truck is a must. But even if you're just moving across town, renting a moving truck makes sense. Reserve your truck at least two weeks in advance of moving day.

2.  Pack in increments.

3.  Start early to avoid the stress of last-minute rushing. It's OK to leave a box open in case you need something you've packed. It's much easier to tape a box shut on moving day than it is to pack at the last moment.

4.  Buy sturdy boxes in a variety of sizes, as well as foam and bubble wrap to protect fragile items. You'll also need a supply of packing tape and markers.

5.  Make sure you have moving blankets and hand trucks to make the process easier.

6.  Purge before packing.

7.  It's much easier to throw away, donate, sell or give away items that you don't need than it is to pack them and move them. As a rule of thumb, if you haven't used something in the past 12 months, or if it's still packed in a box from the previous move, you can probably get rid of it.

8.  Label boxes as you pack.

9.  First, list the room that the contents belong in and, if necessary, a few details, such as "glass," "fragile" or "dishes." As you load the truck, try to keep boxes for each room grouped together.

10.  Load the heaviest items onto the truck first to create a sturdy base, then start stacking.

11.  Moving trucks are taller, wider and heavier than the passenger vehicles you are accustomed to driving. They require more distance to stop. Be careful driving your moving truck, especially after it's loaded. Be aware of low-hanging tree branches and building overhangs, and use caution when cornering. Don't forget to park only in well-lit areas, keep the rear door padlocked and lock the passenger compartment doors.

12.  Create a travel bag for moving day and keep important paperwork, credit cards, identification, a change of clothes, beverages and snacks at hand.



Source:  Chicago Tribune - Real Estate

Moving to Wheaton and Looking to Get your Family Involved?

If you are interested in moving to Wheaton please check out my website for access to homes listed for sale in the Wheaton and surrounding areas at Katie Oakes Wheaton Homes. 

If you have just recently moved to Wheaton, are considering moving to Wheaton, or if you already area a resident then you should definitely know about the advantages of the Wheaton Park District and its' community Center.  The Wheaton Park District offer tons of programs for small children all the way up to adults.  From sports to music and from childcare to hot spots for preteens the Wheaton Park District and its' Community Center has it all. 

A great way to get involved in the local community is to check out the events calendar at the Wheaton Park District Website.  Another great way to meet people within the community is to get yourself and your children signed up for the number of camps, programs, and sports teams available.  If you are interested in staying active and involved by participating in fun events and creating memories that will last a lifetime then you definitely need to visit the Wheaton Park District Website!

Wheaton Receives "Make a Difference Day CIty Award" from USA Today

The homes in a neighborhood do not make the community, its' people do.  Wheaton has been awarded national recognition for its' service oreinted reputation and dedication to helping others in need.  Interested in becoming a part of this community? Please visit my website for more information on Wheaton and Wheaton homes for sale!

Contact Information:
Public Relations Coordinator Susan Bishel, 630-260-2191

Friday, March 04, 2011

USA Weekend Magazine to Honor Wheaton for Making a Difference

WHEATON, Ill. – Many residents are drawn to Wheaton for intangible qualities – a sense of community or the spirit of giving back. Now, USA Weekend Magazine is recognizing Wheaton as a national award winner for these very qualities.

In its April 10, 2011 issue, USA Weekend Magazine will feature Wheaton as one of only three cities nationwide to receive its Make A Difference Day City Award. The award specifically honors Wheaton’s participation in Make A Difference Day on Oct. 23, 2010. For the past 20 years, communities nationwide have participated in Make A Difference Day, which is known as the “national day of doing good” for its focus on neighbors helping neighbors.

Wheaton’s Community Relations Commission challenged individuals, families, students, churches, businesses and other organizations take part in the community’s 10th annual Make A Difference Day effort, and the results were outstanding. Here are just a few of the projects that made a difference in Wheaton:

• The Chamber of Commerce Stuff a Truck Event filled two big dump trucks and several small trucks/vans with enough non-perishable food to feed more than 200 families through its food drive for the People’s Resource Center.
• Emerson, Whittier and Lincoln elementary schools supported Operation Support Our Troops IL by holding donation drives, writing letters to soldiers and collecting goods to make holiday stockings for troops overseas.
• Monroe Middle School’s Student Council visited Wynscape Rehab Center to play games and pass out treat bags to residents.
• St. Paul Lutheran Church held HIV screenings and provided educational information on HIV and AIDS.

The Community Relations Commission invites all residents who participated in Make A Difference Day to attend a congratulatory reception at 6 p.m. Monday, March 21 in the Gamon Room of City Hall, 303 W. Wesley St. The reception will precede a Wheaton City Council meeting at 7 p.m., during which the Council will formally recognize the community’s efforts.

Find Information on Schools Where You Plan to Move

For more information on the home buying or selling process please visit my website or contact me at 630-545-9860 or send me an e-mail.

Looking to buy or sell and relocate to a different area?  Familiarlize yourself with one of the most important aspects of any given location...their School District performance data.  Click HERE for instant access to information on schools throughout the state along with their graduation rate, average ACT score, money spent per student, and much more.

There has never been a better time to buy a home than right now.  With the lowest interest rates this country has seen in a generation, dipping home prices, and a vast inventory of homes from which to chose, people who are able to purchase a home should seriously consider investing in real estate.  The longer you wait to purchase a home the more chance you have for interest rates to go up which can significantly increase your monthly payments even if only increased by a half of a point.  Purchase now to take advantage of the oportunities that this buyers market is providing you with!

9 Steps to Buying a Home

To begin browsing homes in your area..for free... or for more information on the home buying process visit my website and register today!

Step 1 – Get ready to buy a homeThere are several things you need to contemplate before beginning your home search. When you begin your search, you'll probably want to form an outline of must-haves, get a feeling for what neighborhoods and school districts you'd like to live in, and begin working on your budget. A good rule to go by is that your mortgage payment should be close to a third of your net monthly income.

Step 2 – Get with a real estate agent in San Diego That's where I come in. I'd be more than happy to schedule a time to meet with you and communicate with you about why you want to buy a home and get an idea of your plans for the future. We'll talk about everything from neighborhoods, school districts in the Chicagoland area, the mortgage industry, to any other economic factors that might affect your buying decision today or in the future.

I can also help you get started on your loan. There are some very good mortgage professionals in Chicago and the outer lying suburbs, and I partner with a lot of them, so you'll be in great hands. They'll help you decide which kind of loan is best for you, as well as help you get qualified.

Step 3 – Start house-huntingAfter we meet, I'll begin looking for available homes on the market that are a good fit for you. I'll get a sneak peek of many of the homes and exclude the bad ones, and then we'll schedule appointments to tour the houses when it's convenient for you.

As we tour houses, I'll show you the good features, as well as negative ones. I'll even ask you what things you like and dislike. It's common for buyers to revise their list of must-haves as we view homes and some features become more essential than others. If that's the case, I'll search the listings once more and narrow it down to the home you've been wishing for.

Step 4 – Understand the housing market
An agent's awareness of the Chicagoland market is an essential component in your house search. And I assure you I'm informed of all the school districts and neighborhoods, and I will alert you to which neighborhoods are "hot" and require prompt action and the ones that are "cold" and allow for cautiousness.

As we view homes, I'll let you know when the seller's asking price has room for bargaining and also when I trust the house is "priced to sell." Every real estate agent will claim to truly know the market, but be mindful, and be sure to ask your agent lots of questions. If it seems like they don't know everything, just call me at (630) 545-9860 or e-mail me at KatieOakes@kw.com, and I'll be glad to answer any questions you might have. My market knowledge will help you stay a step ahead throughout the entire deal.

Step 5 – Find the house you've been waiting forI'm sure we'll find the house of your dreams in the Chicagoland area. When we do, I'll thoroughly create your purchase offer. The offer will be tailored to suit your needs, including some contingencies, such as acquiring financing, carrying out the inspection, and a clear title.
When we present your purchase offer, you'll want to present "earnest money." This is a cash deposit submitted to the home seller to secure an offer to purchase the property. The amount is often put towards the closing costs. If your offer is accepted, we should close on the property about 30 to 60 days after. This allows plenty of time for your mortgage financing.

Step 6 – Negotiate the dealMost deals don't close on the first offer. It's widely common to receive a counter offer. But don't let this discourage you. We'll consider whether or not to take the counter offer, present our own counter offer, or refuse the seller's offer and move on.

Market circumstances determine how aggressively we negotiate the deal. We'll also work within your financing constraints. And at the end of the day, we'll create a contract that is best for you.

Step 7 – Get a loan
Upon finishing the contract, you'll start working with your mortgage lender to close the loan. This shouldn't take much time at all if you're already pre-qualified, but you need to stay in close contact with your mortgage lender. And I'll handle all the property information your mortgage lender will need to close the loan.

Step 8 – Close the deal
Your lender will send you a Good Faith Estimate (GFE) detailing closing costs within three days of receiving your loan application. You'll get a Good Faith Estimate (GFE) of your closing costs from your lender within three days of getting your loan application. The estimate is based on the loan amount, and RESPA requirements require that it has to contain all closing costs and be within a tight range of accuracy. I'll analyze the estimate and let you know if everything looks all right.

Then it's time to close on your house. This will most often occur at a title company or escrow office and is often a smooth and easygoing occurrence.

Step 9 – Move in
Congratulations! Now you can move into your new home. Enjoy it. And if you need anything, just contact me at (630) 545-9860 or send me an e-mail.

Going Green 10 Ideas Under 10 Dollars

Everything Under the Kitchen Sink

• Item 1: Green Household Cleaners, Less Than $5.00/Each 
• Item 2: Biodegradable Trash Bags, Less Than $10.00/Box

Believe it or not, going green can be as simple as rethinking the way you scrub your bathroom and take out your garbage (the non-recyclable stuff, of course).
Dora, one of Frager's household products gurus, suggests Clorox's extensive Green Works line. For less than $5.00 a pop (which is much easier on the pocketbook than comparable products with fancier packaging), you can pick up Earth-friendly clean wipes or cleaners for your dishes, windows, counters, toilets and tile. The benefits? They're formulated using natural, plant-based ingredients that you can actually pronounce. They also don't come in overly-perfumed spring mist or summer valley scents, and absolutely nothing is tested on small, furry things.
While you're in the household aisle weighing the impulse to buy that suction cup dishwashing brush (it's little and red and cute!), venture over to the trash bags section for another green no-brainer. It's here that you'll find a wide array of bio bags that promise to slash landfill volume, minimize organic waste entombment and reduce overall plastic pollution. Depending on the brand, quantity and size you prefer, most of these products clear our $10.00 threshold with some loose change to spare. And, if this seems a bit on the pricey side, remember the last time a small and seemingly insignificant rip led to the complete disintegration of one of those cheap, non-green trash bags.

"V" Is for Victory (& Vidalia Onion)

• Item 3: Herb & Vegetable Plants, $3.00+/Each 
• Item 4: Solar Panel Landscape Lighting, $4.00/Light

Back in the "we can do it" days of both World Wars, victory gardens sprouted up across the country as families looked to their yards – the well-manicured focal points of so many American Dreams – to ease pressure on strained food supply systems. According to Amnity, one of the many dirty-garden-gloved employees buzzing around Frager's lush nursery, that concept is back as customers explore ways to "get off the grid" in terms of what ends up on their dinner plates. While there's no instant gratification involved (if that's what you're craving, fast forward to the lighting section below), this green project is certainly cost effective. On just two of the many veggie carts parked sporadically throughout Frager's bustling outdoor department, I spy a veritable salad bar of lettuce, eggplant, tomatoes, cabbage, zucchini, cucumbers and banana peppers – all for less than three bucks each.
And of course, once Mother Nature works her beautiful magic, you'll definitely want to have people over to witness the first time you pick something off a vine and toss it on the grill. For a mere $3.88 each, you can set the mood and accessorize your new outdoor eco-fabulousness with wireless solar panel landscape lighting.

Somebody Green the Lights

• Item 5: Compact Florescent Light Bulbs, $3.00+/Each 
• Item 6: Basic Timer, Under $10.00/Each
• Item 7: Basic Dimmer, $7.00+/Each

No green-on-a-dime guide would be complete without paying homage to the undeniable poster child of the conservation movement – the funny looking swirly light bulb. With some models starting at just $3.00, these compact florescent light (CFL) blubs generally save $30 over their lifetime, all while using 75% less energy and lasting ten times longer than their incandescent peers. The superbly helpful Henry, who has worked off and on at Frager's "forever," says that if you want proof you can see in your checking account, make the switch during warmer summer months. It's then that you'll notice how these super bulbs not only consume less, but create less…heat that is.
Regardless of your bulbs of choice (CFLs, energy-efficient incandescents or Thomas Edison originals), it never hurts you, the planet or your wallet to periodically access how you're actually using light. That inviting lamp by the door makes your entry way look like something right out of Better Homes and Gardens, but does it always need to be on? Consider a basic timer, which can easily be yours for under $10.00. How about those overhead lights? Does your house really need to be lit like a football stadium? Starting at $7.00, a basic dimmer is an easy solution to harsh overhead.

Stop the Drain

• Item 8: Leak-Detecting Color Tabs, Usually Free
• Item 9: Water-Saving Flappers, $6.00+/Each
• Item 10: Flow-Reducing Washers, $.99+/Each

Now it's time to talk toilet. First thing's first, you've got to determine whether or not any of your pots are leaky (even if you don't hear that running noise that keeps you up all night long). The amazing Henry, who transitions from lighting to plumbing with almost shocking ease, recommends the free (that's right) leak detecting color tabs that almost all hardware stores carry these days. And, if you discover that you have a problem, he suggests the water-saving flappers that actually time the filling of the toilet bowl, therefore reducing overall consumption. The best news? They come in well under budget at around $6.00. Here's to restful nights.
And don't think you're done there when it comes to green upgrades in your bathroom. Available in a variety of diameters for literally less than a buck, flow-reducing washers are a big solution in a tiny package. Not convinced? Henry will make you a believer when he explains how these handy do-dads can easily be used to create DIY low-flow faucets and showerheads, which have been proven to cut water consumption in homes by as much as 50%.

Want more detailed information on how to make your home more energy efficient and environmentally friendly? Visit my website for my information or email me at KatieOakes@kw.com!




Source:  Preservation Nation

Looking to Move to the Chicago Suburbs? Try Glen Ellyn!

Click Here to browse homes in Glen Ellyn, IL!
Glen Ellyn, Illinois, offers big city amenities with a small town feel.  The Village of Glen Ellyn is located just 23 miles west of Chicago and is one of the area’s premier suburbs. Glen Ellyn residents enjoy access to local amenities, great employment opportunities, arts and entertainment and unique retail.  And all of this comes without even leaving Glen Ellyn.

Glen Ellyn is situated around beautiful Lake Ellyn, once a renowned vacation destination. Today this scenic Village offers homes with a variety of architectural styles set among rolling woodland hills and surrounded by mature trees.

Known as the Village of Volunteers, Glen Ellyn has small-town charm and a sense of civic pride.  Many organizations, churches and volunteer groups make up the fabric of this community of 27,000 residents.

Glen Ellyn is centrally located in DuPage County. Its proximity to Chicago makes it an ideal place to get the best of both city and suburban life. Glen Ellyn has access to major highways, interstates and airports, making it easy to reach your destination no matter how far.
    
Nature lovers can enjoy Glen Ellyn’s 29 parks, the Willowbrook Wildlife Preserve, the Village Links Golf Course and access to the Illinois Prairie Path.

Those who are looking for something unique can find an appealing mix of specialty boutiques and national retail outlets right in Glen Ellyn. The pedestrian-friendly downtown is full of local shops and restaurants, while shopping along Roosevelt Road features many nationally recognized stores.

The Village of Glen Ellyn is rich in opportunity and community. If you’re looking for something special, try Glen Ellyn.

Source: GlenEllyn.org

Which Improvements Add Value to Your Home?

What follows are the "best estimates"for the most typically consistent remodeling projects we have seen across the county.  Unless otherwise noted, the maximum time between remodeling and re-sale must be 5 years; otherwise the "value-added" figures are void.

Kitchen:  The cost of a complete kitchen remodel can range anywhere from $15,000 to $20,000 and up.  The potential for value added can be from 80% to upwards of 110%.  The cost incurred includes new cabinets and countertops, re-wiring, structural changes, relocated plumbing, custom cabinetry, and top-of-the-line appliances.

Bathroom:  The cost of a bathroom remodel can cost anywhere between $7,500- $10,000.  The potential for value-added can range from 80%-115%.  The cost of a complete remodel includes new fixtures and fittings, tile floors and walls, structural changes,  and relocated plumbing.  High-end materials and fixtures raise the cost.  Adding a second bathroom can yield more than 100% resale value.

Room Addition:  Adding a room addition can set you back $30,000-$40,000 but has the potential to add 50%-110% value to your home.  Although dependent on the size of the addition itself, this addition can add a lot of value depending on the type of room added.  A family room or new master suite (including a bath) will add much more value than a private office or a fourth bedroom.

Converting an Attic, Basement, or Garage to Living Space:  The price of this type of room conversion can range anywhere from $10,000 to $15,000 and up.  The potential for value-added is about 25%-40%.  The cost assumes that there were no structural changes to the space and no new plumbing was added.  The value added on this type of project is more for a smaller house and less value added for a larger house.  The value added is also dependent on what type of space is created with the conversion (creating a bedroom or family room will provide more value-added than creating a gameroom or exercise area).

Adding a Deck:  The cost of this project can range from $5,000-$10,000 and up and has the potenial to add 40%-60% to the value of your home.  In warmer climates the better your odds of adding more value.  The size of the deck, complexity of design, and added amenities (spa, trelliswork) also influence cost and value.

Repainted Exterior:  This is a relatively cost efficient way to added some value your home assumes that the exterior was previously worn.  The price tag on this improvement ranges from $1,200-$1,500 and up.  When repainting is done immediately before putitng the house on the market it probably adds the "best profit" to selling an older home.

Interested in finding out how much your home is worth?  Check out my website and you can receive a free comparative market analysis on your home!


Source: Home Remodeling Magazine

New Listing in Glen Ellyn on Park Blvd!

2 s 4 0 3   P a r k   B l v d   G l e n   E l l y n ,   I L   6 0 1 3 7

Check out this beautiful home that is just recently listed and is now for sale.  Completely updated and renovated in 2006, this distinctive home sits on an acre of land.  For all the information on this and other properties please check out the link below!

Information on Park Blvd Listing

Great Information for New Wheaton Residents!

If you are interested in moving to Wheaton and want to browse Wheaton homes and more information please visit use the link below!

Move to Wheaton

Real Estate Transfer Tax Stamps

Before buying property in Wheaton, buyers must pay a real estate transfer tax at the rate of $2.50 for every $1,000 of property purchased. Learn more about the real estate transfer tax.

Water Service

Wheaton residents receive Lake Michigan water and are billed on a monthly basis by the City of Wheaton. New residents must complete an application for water service at City Hall, 303 W. Wesley St. Renters and commercial property owners also might need to submit a water deposit. Also, find out how to pay your water bill.

Sewer Service

The Wheaton Sanitary District or the DuPage County Public Works Department provide sewer service for Wheaton residents. Most of the City is served by the Wheaton Sanitary District, but the far southeastern portion of the City is served by DuPage County.

Garbage and Recycling Pickup

Veolia, a company contracted by the City of Wheaton, provides weekly garbage, yard waste, leaf and recycling pickup for Wheaton residents. The program requires the use of garbage/yard waste and leaf stickers that can be purchased at many local stores and at City Hall. Residents who do not want to use garbage stickers can contact Veolia at 630-587-8282 to set up a monthly service in which Veolia provides a 95-gallon toter (garbage cart) and bills customers monthly.
Recycling does not require any stickers, and recyclable materials should be placed in the blue wheeled recycling cart that Veolia provided to each household. Find out where to buy stickers and see the Garbage Collection Day Map (pdf) to learn your pickup day. Also see the garbage and recycling section for other important guidelines.

Utilities & Service Providers

To set up utility services in Wheaton, contact these local providers:
• Electricity: ComEd, 800-334-7661
• Gas: NICOR Gas, 888-642-6748
• Telephone: AT&T, 800-244-4444 or Comcast, 866-594-1234
• Cable: Comcast, 866-594-1234; several different video service providers also available

Other Important Information:

• There is no overnight parking on any City street from 2 a.m. to 6 a.m. If you wish to park on a City street during this time, you must call the Police Department at 630-260-2161 to report that you vehicle is on the street. If you do not report your vehicle, it will be ticketed.
• The City does not require an annual vehicle sticker for any vehicles.
• The City does not require dog or cat licensing, but vaccinations must be up-to-date, and you must remove your pet’s waste from any property that is not your own.
• Water bills and parking ticket payments can be paid on the first floor of City Hall, 303 W. Wesley St., or they can be placed in the white mailbox in the driveway just west of City Hall off of Wesley Street.
• Lawn watering restrictions are effective May 15 to Sept. 15. Residents with odd-numbered street addresses can water their lawns on odd-numbered days, and those with even-numbered addresses are limited to even-numbered days. Sprinkling is prohibited between noon and 6 p.m. every day. 

Taken From The City of Wheaton Website