Mallory Emig Realtor at The Veliz-Vice Team of Century 21 Advantage

08/20/2026

Today was an extra special closing day with two of my favorite clients, my grandparents🤍

This one definitely wasn’t the easiest journey. There were plenty of twists, setbacks, and moments where it felt like we were right back at square one, but we kept going. After a whole lot of patience, persistence, and teamwork, we finally made it to the closing table!

It’s always such a gift to get to help family through such a big chapter, and I’m especially happy to officially have these two in the neighborhood. 🏡🤎

Congratulations, Nana & Papa!!

08/06/2026

The price has dropped on this charming brick-front ranch! Looking for room to breathe without giving up a cozy single-level layout? This 3-bedroom home gives you the best of both worlds with a bright living room, a functional kitchen, and a privacy-fenced Double Lot that gives kids and pets plenty of room to roam. 🐕

This home solves the problem of finding a manageable ranch layout paired with a remarkably large yard. How would you use an extra-large yard like this? Drop your thoughts in the comments! 👇

08/06/2026

Who's ready for a Realtor Happy Hour? 🍻

Join us on **Thursday, August 6, from 4:00–7:00 PM** at **1013 Waymaker Ln, Waterloo** for an afternoon of networking, appetizers, drinks, and great company.

Come tour Silver Creek Crossing, meet the builder, reconnect with fellow REALTORS®, and enter for attendance prize drawings throughout the evening.

Bring a colleague, stay as long as you'd like, and let's make it a great afternoon!

📍 1013 Waymaker Ln, Waterloo, IL
🗓 Thursday, August 6
⏰ 4:00–7:00 PM

07/31/2026

One of the biggest misconceptions I hear is:

“I don’t think I can afford a home.”

The truth is, affordability isn’t determined by just one number.

A lender looks at the full picture, including your income, debt, credit, and employment history, to help determine what loan programs you may qualify for and what monthly payment fits your budget.

It’s also important to remember that your housing costs go beyond your mortgage. Property taxes, homeowners insurance, utilities, and ongoing maintenance are all part of homeownership and should be factored into your budget.

The goal isn’t to buy the most expensive home you can qualify for. It’s to buy a home that allows you to comfortably afford your monthly payment while still having room in your budget for coffee runs, vacations, hobbies, savings, and life’s unexpected expenses.

If you’re thinking about buying your first home but don’t know where to start, that’s okay. I’d be happy to answer your questions, connect you with a great lender, and help you understand your options!

📲 (618) 530-9068

07/30/2026

Have you checked out The Vacay Shop yet? ✈️🌎

If not, now’s the time! If you have any holiday travel plans coming up, get your trip booked before it’s too late. This travel expert makes planning easy and FUN!

Specializing in Virgin Voyages, Sandals, Secrets, All-Inclusive Resorts, Viking, Celebrity, Holland, Avalon, river & ocean cruises, Mexico, Alaska & more

Couples, Families, Girls Trips, Groups

Virgin Voyages Gold Tier First Mate & Mexico Specialist

07/19/2026

Future REALTOR® in training! 🏡

After a successful open house today, there was still a little work left to do. Luckily, I had the best little assistant by my side helping with all the follow-up. 🤍

He’s still working on his contract-writing skills, but he’s already mastered client smiles. 😉

If you’re thinking about buying or selling, you know who to call… just don’t be surprised if my behind-the-scenes assistant joins the team. 🤪

📲 (618) 530-9068

07/18/2026

🏡 I’m hosting an Open House this Sunday!

Join me at 1615 Route 156 in Waterloo from 1–3 PM to tour this one-of-a-kind property on 1.44 private acres!

This charming 3-bedroom cottage features a peaceful creek, a 30’ × 18’ inground pool, a finished basement with a built-in bar, and incredible garage space—perfect for anyone looking for privacy without sacrificing convenience.

I’d love to show you around! Stop by, say hi, and take a look—you might just find your next home.

📍1615 Route 156, Waterloo, IL
🗓️ Sunday | 1:00–3:00 PM

Questions? Call or text me at (618) 530-9068.

07/15/2026

Think your credit score isn’t high enough to buy a home? You might be surprised! 🏡

One of the biggest myths I hear is that you need a perfect credit score to become a homeowner. The truth is, there isn’t one magic number! It depends on the loan program and your overall financial picture.

Here’s a general idea:
✔️ FHA: 580+
✔️ Conventional: 620+
✔️ USDA: Often 640+
✔️ VA: No official minimum (many lenders look for around 620+)

Keep in mind, your income, debt-to-income ratio, employment history, and the type of loan you’re using are just as important as your credit score.

If you’ve been putting off buying because you assumed your credit wasn’t good enough, let’s chat! I can connect you with a trusted local lender who can review your options and help you create a plan if you’re not quite ready yet.

📲 Message me anytime with your homebuying questions!

(Loan guidelines may vary by lender. Information provided is for general educational purposes.)

07/14/2026

🏡 Real Estate Fact of the Day

Did you know that 12.1 million U.S. renters spend more than 50% of their income on housing costs?

When so much of your income goes toward rent, it can make saving for a down payment or other financial goals feel out of reach. While homeownership isn’t the right fit for everyone, there are loan programs and down payment assistance options that may make buying more achievable than you think.

If you’ve been wondering whether buying a home could be an option for you, I’d be happy to answer your questions and help you explore your options—no pressure!

📊 Source: Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University.

📲 (618) 530-9068
📧 [email protected]