Paulina Partida Illinois Realtor

06/19/2023

Friend or foe? What does the HOA mean to you as a homeowner?

Homeowners associations provoke strong emotions. Depending on who you ask, they are viewed as either the neighborhood’s protector of home values or, in some cases, a small group of residents who take community rule enforcement to the extreme. What is an HOA and why do they exist? Simply put, an HO...

06/18/2023

Wishing all the great Dads out there a Happy Father's Day!

06/17/2023

Should you buy a bigger home to accommodate guests? Here's how to decide on the right-sized home with tips for handling the overflow when company comes calling.

When buying a house, how much importance should you put on size when it comes to hosting out-of-town family and friends? Here are some things to think about before investing in extra guest rooms and bathrooms. Season of life. Are you still raising children or are you empty nesters? If the kids are g...

06/16/2023

You’ve signed a contract on the sale of your home, then a higher bid comes in. What can a seller legally do?

Congratulations, you’ve gotten a contract on your house! But wait, someone else makes an even better offer. Can you accept it? Once you sign a contract and earnest money has been paid by the buyer, an enforceable contract is in place. You cannot break it without penalties. The buyer can sue for en...

06/14/2023

Enhancing your home’s curb appeal doesn’t have to break the bank. Check out these seven ways to add sizzle on a budget.

Creating a first impression doesn’t just apply to people, it applies to your house if you have it listed for sale. How can you make it shine affordably so that when buyers drive up, they love the look? Fresh paint adds an inexpensive facelift to any home, even if you just do touch up. Be […]

06/12/2023

Want to know the secret to creating a home you love? Use this article to help you discover your personal preferences for a dream decor.

If your new home is a blank canvas and you aren’t sure how to decorate, or you have rooms that you don’t like and no idea how to fix them, you may need some help identifying your design style. Before you do anything else, it’s crucial to know what kind of style you prefer. Use […]

06/10/2023

When it comes to measuring a home, hire a pro. Why you shouldn’t skimp on an appraiser.

Since square footage is directly related to the price of a home, it’s no wonder that buyers zero in on it. But just how accurate is the number advertised by a seller or real estate company? You might be surprised. Figuring out the exact square footage of a house can be tricky — a job […]

06/09/2023

Moving with children is difficult. Here are four ways to reduce their anxiety and manage yours at the same time.

Pulling up stakes and moving is stressful. Add kids to the mix, and your stress levels may be off the charts. Look at it from a child’s point of view. You’re asking them to leave their home, their schools and their friends. Pave the way for an easy transition by following these four tips. Prepar...

06/07/2023

Protect yourself and your family from an invisible killer - Here’s why carbon monoxide detectors should be an essential part of every home.

Similar to smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors are an essential warning device in every home — perhaps even more so. While sleeping residents might be awakened by the smell of smoke and take action, carbon monoxide is odorless and can disable and kill without warning. Odorless and invisible. C...

06/05/2023

To sod or to seed? It’s really a question of time and money. Let’s review the available options.

If you’re looking to spruce up your lawn, should you have sod brought in, or should you seed? One is a faster route, but the other is less expensive. Let’s compare each method and you’ll be on your way to achieving that green, green grass of home. Let’s prep. First, the existing soil needs t...

06/03/2023

Once you find the perfect house, be just as diligent seeking out the right mortgage. Keep reading - it could save you thousands.

It’s important to shop for the perfect place to call home, but don’t forget to shop around for the best financing, too. The quality of the terms of your mortgage can mean a difference of tens of thousands of dollars over the life of the loan. Here are a few tips on finding the best […]

06/02/2023

There’s a bidding war on your house. Should you grab the highest price and celebrate? Maybe not. Here’s how to choose the actual best offer.

Most home sellers can only dream of a bidding war on their houses. But in a brisk market, sellers with an attractive home in a great location can find themselves entertaining multiple offers. Is the highest offer always the best offer? Not so fast. Do your homework. At the very start, meet with your...