Pekin, IL

As we make our way from the snowy season to the beloved rainy season, I am reminded that rain means mud. So when you are out and about touring your dream home, be courteous. Take off your shoes and leave them at the door. Remember you are but a guest in the home until you actually purchase it, so keep the mess to a minimum. Since you are going to be taking your shoes off on a regular basis throughout the day, no holes in the socks and make sure they're clean, again out of courtesy and to save yourself some embarrassment.

Herget Bank announced today that there is first time home buyer grant money available. It is $4000 to help buy your home. You must bring a minimium of $750 to the table. To qualify as a first time home buyer, you can not have owned a home in the last 3 years. The grant money also has an income qualification. If you would like more information on this program call me at 309-208-7748 or email me at GrantMoney@WeSellPekin.com or contact Sheila Walker, loan originator at Herget Bank email SWalker@Herget.com or call her office number at 309-347-0271 This money will go fast so call us today and Good Luck with your new home!

Please always remember dear buyer when you are touring a new construction home that is under construction that it is just that. Construction can be dirty, dust everywhere, they did recently dig a hole in the ground so there may be a bit of extra dirt here and there and if it has rained recently, that dirt has most assuredly turned to my friend mud. That being said, wearing your Sunday best may not be your best decision. If ever an occasion called for dressing casual this is it. Happy hunting!

I have heard about the 3 P's for a year now, they are Put up a sign, Putin the MLS and Pray. but I believe there is a fourth P - Put in the Newspaper.

If over 80% of home buyers are stat ring their search for their new home on the Internet, why do we insist on advertising Real estate in the newspaper? Many of the buyers who I have successfully help find homes started their searches in places like Trulia, Zillow, Realtor.com or any of the other real Estate web site. Yes, I have even got clients who have found me here at Activerain.

These site are easy to use, and in many cases they are free.

If you are thinking of putting your home on the market in this area and want to learn more about marketing your home on the Internet, come see us at http://www.WeSellPekin.com or http://www.TonyBrust.com see what an e-PRO can do to help you with your Real Estate needs.

Now there is a phrase I am hearing all of the time! I start working with a client and the next thing I know, they are calling me telling me about the advice they are getting from friends, family, neighbors, gas station attendants, etc....... Ok maybe not the gas station guy! The point is, as soon as you start looking to buy or sell your home, it seems everyone you know is an expert in the field.

I know that they are only doing this because they care about the other person and want to give them their advice. They mean no harm, but the fact is they are not the experts in the field. Many agents work long and hard to keep up with market trends and local statistics. Family and friends know what they hear on the news.

I called a client just the other day after she sent me a text about family advising her on her real estate need. I ask her "How many of the people close to are now EXPERTS in Real Estate now that you are looking to buy a home?" She laughed out load and told me she couldn't believe the number!

Friends and family mean well, heck even the gas station guy means well, but your agent will give you the best advice......Provided you did your homework and picked the right agent!