Sarah Sells It

Sarah Sells It Who doesn't love talking about real estate? Whether you're buying, selling, or just want to know and keep current with market trends, this is for you!

Broker/Agent Re/Max Ultimate Professionals

One thing new homeowners don’t always think to ask before moving in:Does the yard have drainage issues after heavy rain?...
06/05/2026

One thing new homeowners don’t always think to ask before moving in:

Does the yard have drainage issues after heavy rain? 🌧️🏡

A good home inspector should help catch signs of drainage concerns before closing, but it’s still smart to know what to look for yourself. Water problems are not always obvious on a sunny, showing day, and poor drainage can lead to soggy yards, basement moisture, foundation concerns, and expensive repairs later.

Before you move forward, pay attention to:

• Low spots in the yard where water may collect
• Downspouts that drain too close to the foundation
• Gutters that overflow or appear poorly maintained
• Soil sloping toward the home instead of away from it
• Water stains on basement walls or floors
• Musty smells inside the basement or crawl space
• Standing water near patios, walkways, or landscaping
• Neighboring yards that slope toward the property

A beautiful yard is great.
A yard that drains properly? Even better.

Buying a home is exciting, but knowing what to look for can help you avoid surprises after closing.

You moved in… now what? 🏡One of the best things you can do after getting settled is introduce yourself to the neighbors ...
06/04/2026

You moved in… now what? 🏡

One of the best things you can do after getting settled is introduce yourself to the neighbors and ask the questions Google usually can’t answer.

A few good ones to start with:

🗑️ What day is trash and recycling pickup?
🔧 Who do you recommend for lawn care, plumbing, HVAC, or handyman work?
🏘️ Are there any HOA rules or “quirks” I should know about?
🌧️ Does the street or yard have any drainage issues during heavy rain?
🚗 Where do people usually park when guests come over?
🍕 What are the best local restaurants, coffee spots, parks, and hidden gems?

Neighbors can be one of your best resources when learning the rhythm of a new area. A quick conversation can save you time, stress, and a few surprises.

New home, new neighborhood, new connections. That’s part of making a house feel like home. ✨

Thinking about making a move? Let’s find a home and a neighborhood that fits your lifestyle.

🏡 Trust vs. Will: What Happens to Your Home?Many homeowners assume a will is all they need to pass their home to their l...
06/02/2026

🏡 Trust vs. Will: What Happens to Your Home?

Many homeowners assume a will is all they need to pass their home to their loved ones. But there is an important difference between having a will and placing your home into a trust.

📜 A Will
A will explains who should receive your assets after you pass away. However, your home may still need to go through probate court before ownership can be transferred. Probate can take time, create additional expenses, and make certain information part of the public record.

🏠 A Trust
When a home is placed into a properly prepared living trust, ownership can typically transfer according to your wishes without going through the traditional probate process. This often makes things simpler and less stressful for family members during an already difficult time.

Have you reviewed your estate plan recently? Your home may be one of your largest assets, and making sure it’s protected could save your loved ones significant time and headaches in the future.

📞 Thinking about your next move, downsizing, or planning for the future? Let’s connect and discuss how your real estate decisions today can support your long-term goals.

06/01/2026

📢 ♥️ YOUR LOCAL GUIDE IS HERE 📢♥️

June is the perfect month to get out, explore, and support local. 🌿🛍️

This month’s local guide is all about farmers' markets around the area — from fresh produce and flowers to handmade goods, baked treats, and the kind of small-town charm that makes our communities feel like home.

As a local realtor, I always love sharing more than just homes. I love sharing the places, events, and little seasonal gems that make living here so special.

Whether you’re grabbing fresh ingredients for the week, taking the family for a weekend stroll, or just looking for something simple and fun to do, these local farmers' markets are worth checking out!

Save this post so you can refer back to it, and send it to someone who loves supporting local!

Thinking about making a move this summer? Reach out — I’d love to help you find a home in a community you’ll love.

Check comments for files you may want to save!

Sarah Toso
RE/MAX Ultimate Professionals
📲 815-603-7493 | [email protected]

05/29/2026

🚨 NEW LISTING & OPEN HOUSE💫

$360,000
546 Tewksbury Circle
Oswego, IL 60543

Join us Sunday, May 31st, from 12 pm - 2 pm for a tour of this beautifully maintained 4-bedroom duplex in Oswego’s desirable ✨Windcrest Green Subdivision. ✨

This home is filled with standout features, including soaring vaulted ceilings, large windows, hardwood floors, a see-through two-story fireplace, a chef’s kitchen with granite countertops and custom cabinetry, and a stunning first-floor primary suite with a remodeled bath.

Enjoy outdoor living on the brand-new oversized Trex deck, plus a finished walk-out basement with built-ins, a beverage fridge, and direct patio access — perfect for relaxing or entertaining.

Located near Historic Downtown Oswego, Fox Bend Golf Course, parks, trails, schools, dining, shopping, and year-round community events, this home offers comfort, convenience, and lifestyle all in one.

Hope to see you Sunday! 🏡

SARAH TOSO
REALTOR®, SRES®, CNHS, LHC
RE/MAX Ultimate Professionals
📲 815.603.7493
SarahSellsIt.com
Go with the one who sells it....
👉 Sarah Sells It!
Illinois #2 Ranked REALTOR®

Should you keep appliance manuals, paint colors, warranties, and contractor receipts after buying a home?Absolutely. 🏡📁I...
05/28/2026

Should you keep appliance manuals, paint colors, warranties, and contractor receipts after buying a home?
Absolutely. 🏡📁

It may not feel important on move-in day, but those little details can save you time, money, and stress later.

Keep a simple home folder or digital file with:

🔧 Appliance manuals
🎨 Paint colors and finishes
🧾 Contractor receipts
🛠 Warranty information
🏠 Inspection reports
📞 Trusted service contacts

Why does it matter? Because when something needs to be repaired, replaced, touched up, or verified, you will not be scrambling to remember what brand, color, company, or warranty you used.

A well-organized homeowner is a less-stressed homeowner. And when it comes time to sell, having these records can also show buyers that the home has been cared for.

A small habit is a big homeowner win. ✨

💵🏡 Thinking about buying a home with cash in Will County? It definitely has some advantages… but it’s not always as simp...
05/28/2026

💵🏡 Thinking about buying a home with cash in Will County? It definitely has some advantages… but it’s not always as simple as “cash is king.”

In areas like Plainfield, New Lenox, Shorewood, and parts of Naperville where well-priced homes can still move quickly, cash buyers often stand out because sellers love fewer delays and less financing risk.

A cash offer can sometimes mean:

✔️ Faster closings
✔️ Stronger negotiating power
✔️ Less stress during the transaction
✔️ Potential savings on lender-related fees

But here’s the part people don’t talk about enough 👇

Just because you can pay cash doesn’t always mean you should. Some buyers are better off keeping part of their money accessible for renovations, emergencies, furniture, taxes, or even future investments instead of tying it all into the house.

In today’s Will County market, strategy matters more than flashy offers. Sometimes a strong financed offer with solid terms can compete just as well.

The smartest move is understanding your long-term financial comfort level — not just trying to “win” the house. 🏠✨



Thinking about buying a home “as-is”? 🏡🔎It can be a smart move, but only when you know exactly what you’re walking into....
05/26/2026

Thinking about buying a home “as-is”? 🏡🔎
It can be a smart move, but only when you know exactly what you’re walking into.

An “as-is” home usually means the seller is not planning to make repairs or offer credits for issues found later. That does not mean you skip your homework. In fact, this is where due diligence matters even more.

Before getting emotionally attached to the price tag, pay close attention to the big-ticket items:

🏚️ Roof condition
⚡ Electrical systems
🚿 Plumbing issues
🌡️ HVAC age and function
🪵 Foundation or structural concerns
💧 Water damage, mold, or moisture problems
🐜 Termite or pest damage

Sometimes, an “as-is” home can give buyers a chance to get into a neighborhood they love or create a home with their own style. But the savings upfront can disappear quickly if repairs are bigger than expected.

My advice? Don’t just look at the pretty potential. Look at the numbers, inspections, repair costs, loan requirements, and your comfort level with risk.

A good deal is only a good deal when it still makes sense after the inspection. 😉

Thinking about buying a fixer-upper or as-is property? Let’s make sure you know what to watch for before you sign.

Expressing my deepest gratitude to the brave men and women who sacrificed their lives in service to our country. Thank y...
05/25/2026

Expressing my deepest gratitude to the brave men and women who sacrificed their lives in service to our country. Thank you for your courage and commitment. Your sacrifices have made it possible for me to enjoy the freedoms I hold dear.

May our time today be filled with connection and meaningful moments that remind us of the true value of freedom!

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