The “FLIP” started months ago, in fact a few years ago when I became a licensed Realtor. I had a desire to take a house that was in terrible condition and see if I could transform it into a home someone would be thrilled to live in.
So here is the journey of one such house; the “FLIP” at 1316 Carol Lane in Naperville, IL.
Exterior view showing the overgrown bushes and lack of curb appeal.
I started this journey by spending countless hours in front of my computer screen scouring the MLS records and looking at hundreds of homes. To be successful in this real estate market, you must do your homework. It is an unforgiving market and mistakes will not be erased by rising home prices like we had a few years ago.
The first choice I had was which community was I going to to purchase my “FLIP” in. I chose Naperville for a number of reasons.
The first is the fact the city continues to rank very high in the MONEY magazine of great places to live. This helps given the number of transferees we have moving to the area they are inclined to chose Naperville as their home.
Second is the schools. People move to Naperville for the schools. There are two school districts in Naperville: District 203 and District 204.
Bushes grow up and if not maintained can over power your curb appeal
There are other reasons as well, such as the outstanding parks and libraries and the downtown Riverwalk to name just a few. When people are unsure or frightened, there tends to be a “flight to quality” so to speak and I felt given this real estate market, Naperville has a much better chance to sell than some of the surrounding communities.
So in summary, one of the oldest truisms in real estate is LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION and Naperville fits this one to a “t”. Next, the insides of this foreclosured home is revealed.
About Russ
Whether you are buying or selling your home, my goal is to get you the best price, in the shortest amount of time, and with the least inconvenience for you.
* Superior customer service is having your phone calls returned promptly, keeping you informed on what is happening with your home, and being on time for appointments.
My clients say it so much better than I: “Your referral of the home inspector was appreciated as well. Most of all you had time for us. You returned phone calls promptly and kept your appointments with us as well.” Jeff and Rafia R., Naperville
* I am recognized as a “Certified Real Estate Negotiator” in addition to my years as a CPA ensuring you get the best price possible.
For buyers, I am very knowledgeable about all types of financing and mortgages; from the conventional to the exotic making loan qualification easier for you. And I offer buyers Exclusive Preview, giving you a heads up on homes before they get posted on the MLS. Working knowledge of foreclosures and short sales as well.
For sellers, my Award Winning 14 point Marketing Plan BLOWS away my competition! I offer proven marketing strategies to get you the results you are looking for in today’s challenging market. Plus, the absolute best Internet presence you will find anywhere.
In addition, you will benefit greatly from my exclusive Salability Checklist which focuses our attention like a laser on what we need to do to get your home sold.
My professional staging and inventory knowledge assist both my buyer and seller clients by saving them time and money.
Investors appreciate having a professional Realtor that understands financing, taxes and how to get your deal closed.
Lastly, as a past member of the Illinois CPA Society, I know the value of ethics.
I am a full time professional Realtor serving real estate buyers ,sellers and investors in the Fox Valley and western suburbs including Naperville, Aurora, Plainfield, Bolingbrook, Lisle, Woodridge, Oswego, St. Charles, Geneva and others.
