18 Tips for Living in your home while it's for sale!

It's one of the largest and most expensive assets most of us will ever own. It's where we lay our head down at night, the place we make memories and call home. Selling it can be one of the most overwhelming and stressful experiences you may ever go through. So here are 18 tips for living in your home while it's for sale to help you through the process:

1. Yes, make the beds every day!
2. If you smoke, don't do it in the house! And if you've smoked in the house it would pay to have a restoration company come try to treat it or consider having it completely painted to rid the smell.
3. Dishes up. :)
4. Keep closets and storage areas organized, the larger they appear the better!
5. Keep it smelling nice. If you cook something strange, air it out!
6. Keep the temperature comfortable and season appropriate.
7. Fresh flowers inside and out are always a nice touch.
8. Keep your refrigerator clean and organized in case they look.
9. Keep your trash cans emptied.
10. Keep the floors vacuumed.
11. Keep the yard tidy.
12. Leave whenever possible and take pets with you; it makes the buyers feel more at ease. You want them to take the time to appreciate your home, right?
13. Don't talk to the other agent or buyer directly more than you have to. You hired your agent for a reason, so let them do their job.
14. Be prepared for lights to be left on, doors left unlocked, and heaven knows what else I've had happen over the years. It's not often but it's also not the exception to the rule unfortunately these things happen sometimes.
15. Wait patiently for feedback from your agent. Sometimes it takes a few days to hear back from the other agent and the buyer.
16. Be as patient as you can throughout the process and try not to blame your Realtor if it doesn't sell right away. If you chose the right agent, they have no reason in the world not to do everything they can to get your home sold as soon as possible and for that matter, for as much money as possible. They don't get paid unless and until you get paid.
17. Remove any really valuable items. Consider taking them to a safety deposit box or storage unit just to be safe.
18. Breathe. When it's meant to sell, that right buyer will come along. :)

100 W Lindsay Dr ROUND LAKE BEACH, IL 60073

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/A88DDC/100-W-Lindsay-Dr-ROUND-LAKE-BEACH-IL-09404880

Nice split level home with 3 bedrooms, hardwood floors in family room, and eat-in kitchen. Beautiful fenced yard with large deck. Updated mechanicals: Water Heater (2014), Furnace (2011), A/C (2011), some new windows (2014), Roof (2009), and Sump Pump (2013). Large 2.5 car garage. Great bones and mechanicals updated. Across from wetland. Nice views. Priced to sell.

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 1

Square feet: 1,372

Price: $145,000

For more information about this property, please contact Jamie Hering at 847-345-2668 or Jamie@StarHomeTeam.com. You can also text 4039646 to 67299.

See more listings at: www.realtorjamie.com

MLS ID: 09404880

http://www.facebook.com/heringhomes

3309 Gallop Ct GRAYSLAKE, IL 60030

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/MLPURR/3309-Gallop-Ct-GRAYSLAKE-IL-09399288

What a gorgeous Saddlebrook Farms home! With bamboo hardwood floors, wide hallways, and an oversized heated 2.5 car garage, this beautiful and spacious home is ready for new owners to enjoy all Saddlebrook offers! With french doors, the roomy master bedroom has an additional den and an attached master bathroom and walk-in closet. The second bedroom is spacious and is freshly painted. The kitchen is HUGE with an island and overlooks the dining room. The house keeps going with a family room with a sliding patio door to the air conditioned three-season room with gas hook up! The large living room has sliding patio doors to an enclosed deck overlooking a natural berm. All windows have Hunter Douglas top down bottom up cellular shades. Patio and enclosed deck have been stained with transferable warranty. Great location and meticulously maintained! HOA fee includes taxes, lawn cutting, snow removal, exercise facilities, water, and garbage.

Bedrooms: 2

Bathrooms: 2

Square feet: 1,882

Price: $152,000

For more information about this property, please contact Jamie Hering at 847-345-2668 or Jamie@StarHomeTeam.com. You can also text 4026842 to 67299.

See more listings at: www.realtorjamie.com

MLS ID: 09399288

http://www.facebook.com/heringhomes

1150 Weeping Willow Ln LIBERTYVILLE, IL 60048

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/FLVLNN/1150-Weeping-Willow-Ln-LIBERTYVILLE-IL-09395370

HONEY, STOP THE CAR!!! QUAD LEVEL ready for new owners! It's so much bigger than it looks! Enjoy the hardwood floors on the main and lower level complete with a woodburning fireplace and custom built-ins HUGE laundry/mud room has desirable direct access to the garage. And then there's the Finished Basement w/ berber carpet in the sub level that is perfect for office, playroom, or mancave! Spacious kitchen has center island and Maple cabinets with roomy bay window. 3 bedrooms upstairs with a gigantic 4th room on the upper level. This great bonus room could easily be a master bedroom or additional playroom. Enjoy the new AC (2016), water heater (2016), stainless steel appliances, and newer windows. Located on a perfectly quiet cul-del-sac with your choices of award-winning Vernon Hills or Libertyville High School.

Bedrooms: 4

Bathrooms: 2

Square feet: 2,600

Price: $398,000

For more information about this property, please contact Jamie Hering at 847-345-2668 or Jamie@StarHomeTeam.com. You can also text 4016881 to 67299.

See more listings at: www.realtorjamie.com

MLS ID: 09395370

http://www.facebook.com/heringhomes

422 W Savoy Dr ROUND LAKE, IL 60073

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/H457U4/422-W-Savoy-Dr-ROUND-LAKE-IL-09390871

See this home today and move in before the holidays! No more dreaming, this home can be yours! This home features 4 bedrooms, 2.1 baths, and a completely updated kitchen. With updated flooring, stainless steel appliances, and granite countertops, you'll love cooking in the kitchen while chatting with your guests in the breakfast area and den! Second level feature laundry room, master bedroom with two closets and master bath, and 3 additional bedrooms including the huge bonus room (or fourth bedroom). Bring your decorating ideas to the unfinished basement with bathroom rough-in. New water heater, sump pump, and heat exchanger.

Bedrooms: 4

Bathrooms: 2

Square feet: 1,785

Price: $210,000

For more information about this property, please contact Jamie Hering at 847-345-2668 or Jamie@StarHomeTeam.com. You can also text 4004118 to 67299.

See more listings at: www.realtorjamie.com

MLS ID: 09390871

http://www.facebook.com/heringhomes

97 Bay View Ln GRAYSLAKE, IL 60030

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/ANXFFV/97-Bay-View-Ln-GRAYSLAKE-IL-09381042

Wonderfully updated home in Chesapeake Farms with over 2400 sq. feet of living space. New is the keyword! NEW: High Efficiency furnace, A/C, Roof, Water Heater, Sump Pump, Windows, Paint, Carpet, and Flooring. There's 3 generous sized bedrooms upstairs including a master ensuite. Plus the 3rd full bath in the finished basement makes it perfect for the mancave, play room, or for a great home office. Two new slider doors allow access to the updated patio overlooking a nicely sized backyard with mature trees. The eat-in kitchen overlooking the family room is perfect for entertaining. This home has been meticulously maintained and is ready for new owners to enjoy all Grayslake has to offer!

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 4

Square feet: 1,660

Price: $224,900

For more information about this property, please contact Jamie Hering at 847-345-2668 or Jamie@StarHomeTeam.com. You can also text 3985206 to 67299.

See more listings at: www.realtorjamie.com

MLS ID: 09381042

http://www.facebook.com/heringhomes

1150 Weeping Willow Ln LIBERTYVILLE, IL 60048

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/B3AJF2/1150-Weeping-Willow-Ln-LIBERTYVILLE-IL-09378291

HONEY, STOP THE CAR!!! QUAD LEVEL ready for new owners! It's so much bigger than it looks! Enjoy the hardwood floors on the main and lower level complete with a woodburning fireplace and custom built-ins HUGE laundry/mud room has desirable direct access to the garage. Finished Basement w/ berber carpet in the sub level is perfect for office, playroom, or mancave! Spacious kitchen has center island and Maple cabinets with roomy bay window. 3 bedrooms upstairs with a gigantic 4th room on the upper level. This great bonus room could easily be a master bedroom. Enjoy the new AC (2016), water heater (2016), stainless steel appliances, and newer windows. Located on a perfectly quiet cul-del-sac with your choices of award-winning Vernon Hills or Libertyville High School.

Bedrooms: 4

Bathrooms: 3

Square feet: 1,790

Price: $398,000

For more information about this property, please contact Jamie Hering at 847-345-2668 or Jamie@StarHomeTeam.com. You can also text 3975818 to 67299.

See more listings at: www.realtorjamie.com

MLS ID: 09378291

http://www.facebook.com/heringhomes

1306 Ascot Ct GRAYSLAKE, IL 60030

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/X56VBQ/1306-Ascot-Ct-GRAYSLAKE-IL-09365862

Welcome Home to Saddlebrook Farms! This Mustang Models offers 2 bedrooms each with its own attached bathroom. The spacious kitchen with plenty of countertops and cabinets overlooks the dining room and large living room. There's plenty of storage too! Each bedroom has a walk in closet and the 1.5 car garage offers additional storage space. Priced to sell plus a $1200 flooring credit! Amazing lot no back neighbors and huge side yards! Saddlebrook HOA includes leasehold property taxes, lawn cutting, snow removal, exercise facility, water, and garbage! Come see why Saddlebrook residents love it here!

Bedrooms: 2

Bathrooms: 2

Square feet: 1,320

Price: $95,000

For more information about this property, please contact Jamie Hering at 847-345-2668 or Jamie@StarHomeTeam.com. You can also text 3942174 to 67299.

See more listings at: www.realtorjamie.com

MLS ID: 09365862

http://www.facebook.com/heringhomes

Lake County Trick or Treat Hours

It’s that time of year; the seasons are changing and with them come thoughts of the upcoming holidays, family get-togethers, and planning for a new year. Those who are on the fence about whether or not now is the right time to buy don’t have to look much further to find four great reasons to consider buying a home now, instead of waiting.

1. Prices Will Continue to Rise

CoreLogic’s latest Home Price Index reports that home prices have appreciated by 6% over the last 12 months. The same report predicts that prices will continue to increase at a rate of 5.4% over the next year. The Home Price Expectation Survey polls a distinguished panel of over 100 economists, investment strategists, and housing market analysts. Their most recent report projects home values to appreciate by more than 3.5% a year for the next 5 years.
The bottom in home prices has come and gone. Home values will continue to appreciate for years. Waiting no longer makes sense.

2. Mortgage Interest Rates Remain at Historic Lows

Freddie Mac’s Primary Mortgage Market Survey shows that interest rates for a 30-year mortgage have remained at or below 3.5% for 13 consecutive weeks. The Mortgage Bankers Association, Freddie Mac & the National Association of Realtors are in unison, projecting that rates will increase by this time next year.
Any increase in rates will impact YOUR monthly mortgage payment. A year from now, the percentage of your income that you spend on housing will increase substantially if you choose to wait.

3. Either Way You Are Paying a Mortgage

Everyone should realize that, unless you are living with your parents rent-free, you are paying a mortgage - either your mortgage or your landlord’s. As a paper from the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University explains:
“Households must consume housing whether they own or rent. Not even accounting for more favorable tax treatment of owning, homeowners pay debt service to pay down their own principal while households that rent pay down the principal of a landlord plus a rate of return. That’s yet another reason owning often does—as Americans intuit—end up making more financial sense than renting.”

4. It’s Time to Move on with Your Life

The ‘cost’ of a home is determined by two major components: the price of the home and the current mortgage rate. It appears that both are on the rise.
But what if they weren’t? Would you wait?
Look at the actual reason you are buying and decide whether it is worth waiting. Whether you want to have a great place for your children to grow up, you want your family to be safer or you just want to have control over renovations, maybe now is the time to buy.

If the right thing for you and your family is to purchase a home this year, buying sooner rather than later could lead to substantial savings.

950 Fox Chase Dr ROUND LAKE BEACH, IL 60073

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/ZLYM4B/950-Fox-Chase-Dr-ROUND-LAKE-BEACH-IL-09345739

Look no further this is a beautiful turnkey home complete with fresh neutral paint, a remodeled master bathroom, new carpeting, and one of the biggest yards in the subdivision. The downstairs boasts newer laminate flooring and a traditional floorplan with a living room, dining room, breakfast area, powder room, and family room with vaulted ceilings. Upstairs there's three generous sized bedrooms and a beautiful remodeled bathroom. The backyard has a wrap around, freshly stained deck with a massive side yard. And so many thing have been updated! Furnace (2013), A/C (2011), Roof (2016), Dishwasher (2015), Washing Machine (2015) plus paint and carpet! Why rent when you could own? It's just like owning a single family home since there's no HOA fee. It won't last long! Lake Villa K-8. Grayslake North HS.

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 2

Square feet: 1,560

Price: $153,900

For more information about this property, please contact Jamie Hering at 847-345-2668 or Jamie@StarHomeTeam.com. You can also text 3901551 to 67299.

See more listings at: http://jamiehering.betteragents.com

MLS ID: 09345739

923 Tylerton Cir GRAYSLAKE, IL 60030

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/FJ99JG/923-Tylerton-Cir-GRAYSLAKE-IL-09319976

Amazing waterfront house in Chesapeake Farms! Popular Abbey model backs up to the lake and only has a neighbor on one side. Fantastic lot close to bike paths, pond, and Metra. All BRAND NEW stainless steel appliances! Hardwood floors just refinished and rooms painted. Everything has been recently replaced in the last few years: NEWER furnace, water heater, roof. Top of the line washer/dryer. First floor has hardwood floors, open floor plan, two story foyer, and slider to the patio overlooking pond. Patio comes with external speakers. 3 bedrooms upstairs. Master bedroom has vaulted ceilings and master bath with soaker tub and dual sinks. Basement is nicely finished with an additional room! What a great house! ALSO FOR SALE.

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 2.00

Square feet: 1,808

Price: $2,000

For more information about this property, please contact Jamie Hering at 847-345-2668 or Jamie@StarHomeTeam.com. You can also text 3834031 to 67299.

See more listings at: http://jamiehering.betteragents.com

MLS ID: 09319976

3104 W Newcastle Ct WAUKEGAN, IL 60087

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/BVELNV

Welcome Home! Walking into this large two story home, you immediately notice the updated floors, vaulted ceilings, and fabulous floor plan! On the first floor, there's a spacious living room and dining room with sliders out to the backyard. The kitchen has plenty of cabinets and nice breakfast bar. The family room is huge with stately brick fireplace and another slider to the backyard. The first floor laundry has been converted to an office and would make a great mudroom! Upstairs, there's 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, and a loft! The finished basement is HUGE with 3 freshly painted areas. There's a 4th bedroom in the basement which would make a great guestroom! The house has new windows, roof, and siding and is ready for new owners on one of the best streets in Waukegan!

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 2.00

Square feet: 1,956

Price: $189,900

For more information about this property, please contact Jamie Hering at 847-345-2668 or Jamie@StarHomeTeam.com. You can also text 3759511 to 67299.

See more listings at: http://jamiehering.betteragents.com

MLS ID: 09289733

923 Tylerton Cir GRAYSLAKE, IL 60030

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/ZZFAUS

Amazing waterfront house in Chesapeake Farms! Popular Abbey model backs up to the lake and only has a neighbor on one side. Fantastic lot close to bike paths, pond, and Metra. All BRAND NEW stainless steel appliances! Everything has been recently replaced in the last few years: NEWER furnace, water heater, roof. Top of the line washer/dryer. First floor has hardwood floors, open floor plan, two story foyer, and slider to the patio overlooking pond. Patio comes with external speakers. 3 bedrooms upstairs. Master bedroom has vaulted ceilings and master bath with soaker tub and dual sinks. Basement is nicely finished with an additional room! What a great house!

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 2.00

Square feet: 1,808

Price: $250,000

For more information about this property, please contact Jamie Hering at 847-345-2668 or Jamie@StarHomeTeam.com. You can also text 3754295 to 67299.

See more listings at: http://jamiehering.betteragents.com

MLS ID: 09286866

321 Dogwood Terr BUFFALO GROVE, IL 60089

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/KZVXA2

Great townhome in desirable Stevenson school district. Hardwood floors throughout first floor. Comfortable den is perfect for crafts or as a tv room. Kitchen with lots of cabinets updated in the last few years. Nice sized dining room connects to spacious living room with slider door to private patio. Upstairs there's two spacious bedrooms and two full baths. Large walk in closets! Basement is partially finished with bonus room and laundry room. Bring your ideas! Just a short walk to the pond and parks! Machinate free living with private entrance and plenty of guest parking! Awesome location!

Bedrooms: 2

Bathrooms: 2.00

Square feet: 1,569

Price: $240,000

For more information about this property, please contact Jamie Hering at 847-345-2668 or Jamie@StarHomeTeam.com. You can also text 3738762 to 67299.

See more listings at: http://jamiehering.betteragents.com

MLS ID: 09266115

1891 Maplewood Ct GRAYSLAKE, IL 60030

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/AQH9SB

Beautiful townhouse with an end unit location! Wooded setting next to the golf course. The open floor plan features vaulted ceilings & wood flooring on the main level. Two living room skylights for an abundance of natural sunlight. Big kitchen opens to DR with french door to deck. Finished walkout basement w/large family rm. Grayslake schools with Prairieview grade school. Dogs considered case by case basis with additional pet deposit. NO CATS. Available July 1.

Bedrooms: 2

Bathrooms: 2.00

Square feet: 1,032

Price: $1,550

For more information about this property, please contact Jamie Hering at 847-345-2668 or Jamie@StarHomeTeam.com. You can also text 3706399 to 67299.

See more listings at: http://jamiehering.betteragents.com

MLS ID: 09264799

1310 E Miner St ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL 60004

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/3QEPEZ

WELCOME HOME! AMAZING remodeled home in desirable Arlington Heights neighborhood. Spacious main floor has vaulted ceilings, hardwood floors, and a completely remodeled kitchen with gorgeous custom cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, and quartz countertops. New, large windows overlook the spacious backyard with detached 2.5 car garage and play area. Custom built-ins in the living room and entry way are pinterest-approved! Upstairs, you'll find three bedrooms and an updated bathroom. The lower level has a large family room, bonus den/laundry room, and a full second updated bathroom. Other updates include a newer roof, blown-in insulation, NEW windows, NEW A/C, NEW furnace, 200 amp service, NEW garage door, NEW patio and side doors with an amazing location close to downtown Arlington Heights. This one won't last long!

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 2.00

Square feet: 1,134

Price: $375,000

For more information about this property, please contact Jamie Hering at 847-345-2668 or Jamie@StarHomeTeam.com. You can also text 3682634 to 67299.

See more listings at: http://jamiehering.betteragents.com

MLS ID: 09251426

22 Manor Rd LAKE ZURICH, IL 60047

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/FD9FA7

Absolutely stunning raised ranch in fantastic location with desirable LZ schools. Hardwood floors throughout, awesome great room addition, and fabulous kitchen! Kitchen is nicely updated with new floors, countertops, and cabinets. Both bathrooms are completely remodeled with high end finishes and custom tile work. Dining Room is being used as a coffee bar, but is large enough for a table and buffet. Family room has wood burning stove with Soapstone and keeps the house warm and gas bills low! Upstairs there's three bedrooms with hardwood floors. Downstairs there's a large family room and fourth bedroom. Make sure to check out the full bathroom behind the hidden bookshelf door! This house is unlike any other!

Bedrooms: 4

Bathrooms: 2.00

Square feet: 1,800

Price: $305,000

For more information about this property, please contact Jamie Hering at 847-345-2668 or Jamie@StarHomeTeam.com. You can also text 3637942 to 67299.

See more listings at: http://jamiehering.betteragents.com

MLS ID: 09239004

1310 E Miner St ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL 60004

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/5AV3SY

WELCOME HOME! AMAZING rehab in desirable Arlington Heights neighborhood. Spacious main floor has vaulted ceilings, hardwood floors, and a completely remodeled kitchen with gorgeous custom cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, and quartz countertops. New, large windows overlook the spacious backyard with detached 2.5 car garage and play area. Custom built-ins in the living room and entry way are pinterest-approved! Upstairs, you'll find three bedrooms and an updated bathroom. The lower level has a large family room, bonus den/laundry room, and a full second updated bathroom. Other updates include a newer roof, blown-in insulation, NEW windows, NEW A/C, NEW furnace, 200 amp service, NEW garage door, NEW patio and side doors with an amazing location close to downtown Arlington Heights. This one won't last long!

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 2.00

Square feet: 1,134

Price: $375,000

For more information about this property, please contact Jamie Hering at 847-345-2668 or Jamie@StarHomeTeam.com. You can also text 3634774 to 67299.

See more listings at: http://jamiehering.betteragents.com

MLS ID: 09237920

333 W Treehouse Ln ROUND LAKE, IL 60073

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/RBFCMU

Largest Treehouse model and end unit in a fabulous location. Freshly painted throughout with brand new laminate wood floors in the living room. Spacious eat-in kitchen boasts NEW kitchen appliances and plenty of room for a table and a home office. Master suite has vaulted ceiling, master bath, a walk-in closet and an additional closet. Two more freshly painted bedrooms upstairs have generous closets with a second full bathroom! The downstairs walk-out basement/family room with laminate wood floors is perfect for a large TV room or a playroom. The HEATED oversized two car insulated garage has room for all your toys. New Blower Motor on Furnace. Spacious Front and Back decks perfect for summer grilling! Move right in and see why Treehouse residents LOVE their neighborhood! Investors- Units can be rented out

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 2.00

Square feet: 1,700

Price: $117,715

For more information about this property, please contact Jamie Hering at 847-345-2668 or Jamie@StarHomeTeam.com. You can also text 3622823 to 67299.

See more listings at: http://jamiehering.betteragents.com

MLS ID: 09233225

15 N High Point Rd ROUND LAKE, IL 60073

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/BZ69LM

Custom log cabin home on nearly one acre! Exterior meticulously maintained all logs freshly stained, fascia repainted, and new landscaping. Walking in the front door, family room has new lam. wood floors, vaulted ceilings with exposed log beams, & huge fieldstone fireplace. Generous dining room and kitchen island provides more seating. Updated kitchen boasts newer stainless steel appliances, updated lit pantry, and butler's pantry. First floor bedroom is perfect for an office, den, or MIL suite with full bath. Upstairs, there's a loft perfect for reading and three bedrooms. One of two master bedrooms has walk-in closet and full bath. Second master bedroom has beautiful vaulted ceilings with exposed log beams and dual closets with additional storage. Two full baths upstairs. Heated garage has built-in work bench and cabinetry. HUGE driveway and shed allows for plenty of room for your toys! New pool in back has fencing and is open for the summer! Come see this home today!

Bedrooms: 4

Bathrooms: 3.00

Square feet: 1,902

Price: $220,000

For more information about this property, please contact Jamie Hering at 847-345-2668 or Jamie@StarHomeTeam.com. You can also text 3612549 to 67299.

See more listings at: http://jamiehering.betteragents.com

MLS ID: 09228847

923 Tylerton Cir GRAYSLAKE, IL 60030

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/5AN8U3

Amazing waterfront house in Chesapeake Farms! Popular Abbey model backs up to the lake and only has a neighbor on one side. Fantastic lot close to bike paths, pond, and Metra. All BRAND NEW stainless steel appliances! Everything has been recently replaced in the last few years: NEWER furnace, water heater, roof. Top of the line washer/dryer. First floor has hardwood floors, open floor plan, two story foyer, and slider to the patio overlooking pond. 3 bedrooms upstairs. Master bedroom has vaulted ceilings and master bath with soaker tub and dual sinks. Basement is nicely finished with an additional room! What a great house!

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 2.00

Square feet: 1,808

Price: $255,000

For more information about this property, please contact Jamie Hering at 847-345-2668 or Jamie@StarHomeTeam.com. You can also text 3579129 to 67299.

See more listings at: http://jamiehering.betteragents.com

MLS ID: 09217015

25059 W Crabtree Ln INGLESIDE, IL 60041

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/GJUQSA

Absolutely awesome rehabbed home sitting on one acre of land! This is like your dream pinterest project! Entire house has NEW windows. NEW Mudroom with custom shelving and bench! NEW shiplap wall in the breakfast room. Kitchen is updated with NEW custom tile backsplash, NEW appliances (including double oven), NEW countertops, updated cabinets, and awesome hardwood floors. Dining Room has hardwood floors and sliders to patio. Living room and Family room have NEW carpeting and fresh paint with custom built-ins and built in desk. New ceiling fans and fresh paint make this home move-in ready! Absolutely gorgeous perennial gardens! Gavin School District and a highly desirably neighborhood!

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 2.00

Square feet: 1,700

Price: $232,000

For more information about this property, please contact Jamie Hering at 847-345-2668 or Jamie@StarHomeTeam.com. You can also text 3555377 to 67299.

See more listings at: http://jamiehering.betteragents.com

MLS ID: 09208540

496 Nuthatch Way LINDENHURST, IL 60046

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/J5AN88

BRAND NEW HARDWOOD FLOORS ON THE FIRST FLOOR! Plus $3000 closing cost credit! Buy now and reduce taxes for next year. NEW A/C in 2015, NEW Furnace and Water Heater in 2012. Family room has bump-out for additional room and a stone gas fireplace! Sunroom provides lots of additional room and beautifully flows from the kitchen with 42 cabinets, an island, and plenty of room for a table. 1st first floor den can be a 5th bedroom with its convenient first floor full bathroom! Front and back staircases lead to four generously sized bedrooms upstairs and a loft. Huge master bedroom with master bath with dual sinks and soaker tub. The enormous unfinished basement is plumbed for a bath and awaits your finishing touches. Award-winning Millburn schools.

Bedrooms: 4

Bathrooms: 3.00

Square feet: 3,598

Price: $319,000

For more information about this property, please contact Jamie Hering at 847-345-2668 or Jamie@StarHomeTeam.com. You can also text 3549788 to 67299.

See more listings at: http://jamiehering.betteragents.com

MLS ID: 09206082

32455 N Bacon Rd GRAYSLAKE, IL 60030

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/85YHTF

Excellent commercial development on 18+ acres. Neighbors to the north (see MLS: 09176997 and 09176999 ) are also selling. Village of Round Lake has been actively involved in the planning. Tear down and build brand new near shopping, schools, major roadways. Great potential with 53 N expansion. 18+ acres with additional potential. Zoned Agricultural.

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 2.00

Square feet: 1,600

Price: $1,850,000

For more information about this property, please contact Jamie Hering at 847-345-2668 or Jamie@StarHomeTeam.com. You can also text 3470825 to 67299.

See more listings at: http://jamiehering.betteragents.com

MLS ID: 09177003

32525 N Bacon Rd GRAYSLAKE, IL 60030

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/B7DAZU

Excellent commercial development on 5 acres. Neighbors to the north and south (see MLS: 09176999 and 09177003 ) are also selling. Village of Round Lake has been actively involved in the planning. Tear down and build brand new near shopping, schools, major roadways. Great potential with 53 N expansion. Sold as is.

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 2.00

Square feet: 1,904

Price: $500,000

For more information about this property, please contact Jamie Hering at 847-345-2668 or Jamie@StarHomeTeam.com. You can also text 3470818 to 67299.

See more listings at: http://jamiehering.betteragents.com

MLS ID: 09176997

23957 W Il Route 120 GRAYSLAKE, IL 60030

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/AKRAUZ

Amazing opportunity with Rt. 120 frontage! Both neighbors to the south are also for sale (see MLS: 09176997 and 09177003). Village of Round Lake is on board with commercial development and have been actively involved in the planning. Tear down and build brand new near shopping, schools, major roadways. Great potential with 53 N expansion. Five acres with additional potential.

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 2.00

Square feet: 2,150

Price: $500,000

For more information about this property, please contact Jamie Hering at 847-345-2668 or Jamie@StarHomeTeam.com. You can also text 3470805 to 67299.

See more listings at: http://jamiehering.betteragents.com

MLS ID: 09176999

333 W Treehouse Lane Round Lake, IL 60073

Property Site: http://tour.circlepix.com/home/ZWWWJX

Best home in Treehouse! UPDATED end unit in a fabulous location updated with fresh neutral paint and brand new laminate floors in the living room. Spacious eat-in kitchen boasts new kitchen appliances and plenty of room for a table and a home office. Master suite has vaulted ceiling, master bath, a walk-in closet and an additional closet. Two more freshly painted bedrooms upstairs have generous closets with a second full bathroom! The downstairs walk-out basement/family room with laminate floors is perfect for a TV or a playroom. The HEATED two car insulated garage has room for all your toys. New Blower Motor on Furnace. Spacious Front and Back decks-- perfect for summer grilling! Move right in and see why Treehouse residents LOVE their neighborhood!

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 0.00

Price: $118,900

For more information about this property, please contact Jamie Hering at 847-345-2668 or Jamie@StarHomeTeam.com. You can also text 3389888 to 67299.

See more listings at: http://jamiehering.betteragents.com

MLS ID: 09158423

Welcome to the Jungle: Meadowview's Art Show

Meadowview School in Grayslake held its annual art show yesterday and it was amazing.  Art teacher Kelly Griffin does a great job and this year's theme was adorable!  I loved the different art mediums!  My kids were so excited to show off their work and they loved the scavenger hunt! Here's a few highlights! 

Looking for a home in Grayslake?  Give me a call!  I know this market better than anyone else!  I have new listings coming on every week!  

Jamie

847.345.2668

Chesapeake Farms- coming to life!

It doesn't beat this. Sitting here studying for my realtor license renewal test and I'm watching the blue herons fly by and fish for their next meal.  It's a glorious day in the ponds of Chesapeake Farms.  There was lots of action this weekend on the pond with some neighbors taking out their new kayaks and kids breaking out their fishing poles!  I have a new listing coming on that backs to the pond!   Sneak peek will be coming soon!  I heard you'll have an awesome neighbor!

Lightning in a Bottle-- finding the perfect home when it's right in front of you!

I often say finding the right home for a buyer is like capturing lighting in a bottle-- easier than it sounds, but sometimes things just fall into place. Sometimes I show a client 20 homes and sometimes I show them 2 or 3.

Such was the case for today's closings.  My friend T emailed me and said she was looking for a home in Madrona Village which is an area of Round Lake that is zoned for Grayslake schools.  What she didn't know is that I had a brand new listing coming on the market in Madrona Village that was everything she was looking for! Being a great Realtor, I showed her everything available in Madrona Village (which was three homes since homes move so fast there), and she loved my newest listing the best except it wasn't even on the market yet!

So, I listed it, we wrote up an offer, and since the sellers had already made an offer on another home in Madrona Village, they were able to fulfill their home sale contingency!  We closed today and I'm so excited for all the new memories both these families are going to make in their new homes!

Looking to buy or sell around Grayslake, Round Lake, Gurnee, or Madrona Village (or anywhere else in Lake County)?  Give me a call!

Jamie Hering, Realtor
Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate
847.345.2668
jamie@starhometeam.com
www.realtorjamie.com

D46 Named Best Communities for Music Education

CCSD 46 has been recognized as one of the best communities for music education in the country by the NAMM Foundation! Only 476 school districts nationwide were honored with this designation - only 7 others in the state of Illinois! This award recognizes the commitment of our administration, teachers and parents who believe in music education and are working to ensure that it is part of a complete education for all children. The NAMM Foundation is a nonprofit organization supported in part by the National Association of Music Merchants.

As a mom (and former band geek myself) whose daughter plays clarinet at Frederick Intermediate School, I see first hand how amazing the D46 program is.  Way to go D46!

Check out the complete list here: https://www.nammfoundation.org/articles/2016-best-communities-music-education-districts?roi=echo4-33895494108-83269072-f699d49afaf71250dd05b318c02cea8f&

Want to be part of the Grayslake Community?  Call me and I'll find you a great home!

Jamie Hering, Realtor
Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate
847.345.2668
jamie@starhometeam.com
www.realtorjamie.com

My Newest Listing!

Thought You'd be Interested

Here's my newest listing! Click on the link for more info!   Let's go see it! 

Paneling done right... the midwest version of Shiplap.

On a listing appointment today, I can across a great example of gorgeous paneling!  The homeowners have been working to paint the solid oak paneling that covers various rooms in the house.  Their daughter's room looks like a page out of Pottery Barn with the paneling painted a flat gray and the other walls in a light pink.   But it was the small powder room that caught my eye!

Traditional Midwest Paneling

Up here in northern Illinois, we don't have much in terms of "Shiplap."  If you don't know what Shiplap is, then you probably don't watch Chip and Joanna Gaines on HGTV's Fixer Upper.  Shiplap is pine paneling that was often used in barns and historic homes -- and often covered with plaster.  When Joanna finds it hiding behind plaster, it's like the gates of heaven open up because you know she's going to do something amazing with it.  Up here in the midwest, we have wood paneling without the drool worthy title of Shiplap. 

And sometimes the paneling is knotty pine which is not awesome if you are going for a contemporary feel in the house.

Who wouldn't want to pee in here?  It has wood paneling without looking like a sauna!

But here is an amazing example of what paneling looks like when it's done beautifully!  The homeowners said it took time to sand it, paint it, and then distress it, but wow!  Imagine how cute the rest of the house is!

I love how gorgeous it looks! The other walls are a light bluish gray and compliment the floors and our midwest "shiplap" amazingly well!   This cute and very handy couple took a bathroom that probably looked a bit dated with the darker oak paneling and completely changed the feel of it!

So, if you have paneling and know that removing it is going to be more work than you can handle, then paint it!


Do you have a great do it yourself project?  I'd love to feature it!  And as always, if you are looking to buy or sell in Lake County, Illinois, Just Ask Jamie!


Jamie Hering
847.345.2668
jamie@starhometeam.com
www.realtorjamie.com

What Do You Really Do Anyway?

The other day one of my clients posted on facebook that her car wouldn't start.  Since it was brutally cold that day, she had to walk to her substitute teaching job and was thankful they gave her a ride home!

However, that didn't solve her problem of having a car with a dead battery.  So, I gave her a call and my husband and I shoveled out her driveway, and jumped her car!

Do you know that the bare minimum a Realtor has to complete when he/she takes your listing is to:

• Accept delivery of and present to the clients offers and counteroffers to buy, sell, or lease.
• Assist the client in developing, communicating, negotiating, and presenting offers, counteroffers, and notices until a lease or real estate contract is signed and all contingencies are satisfied or waived.
• Answer the client's questions relating to offers, counteroffers, notices, and contingencies.

As a Realtor, I have a punch list of over 100 things I need to complete when taking a new listing.  Hiring a stager, taking and editing photos, posting the property to Zillow, Trulia, Homes, etc., marketing on facebook, putting in a yard sign, hosting open houses, printing flyers, arranging for the showing service to make the appointments for your home, contacting all the Realtors who show your home before and after, etc.   Heck-- I've shoveled walkways, salted sidewalks, and jumped cars.  I'm in the service industry and I am not a Realtor where you see me in the beginning to sign the paperwork and then never again. 

Plus, I do a ton of work behind the scenes for my clients, but I am never too busy to take a clients' phone calls or text messages.   I'm a firm believer in offering top notch customer service... and I think that shows every step of the way!  According to the Real Estate License Act, all I have to do is the three bullet points up above!  We both know that is the bare minimum and none of that is going to help MARKET your home.

I'm in a unique position with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate where I can use the PinPoint Marketing (provided by the Meredith Magazine database) to reach the potential clients who are looking to buy!  It's something only BHGRE Realtors have access to and it's one of the many technological tools we use to market your home. 

Looking to buy or sell in Lake County?  Give me a call!

Jamie Hering
Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate
847.345.2668
jamie@starhometeam.com
www.realtorjamie.com