Edwardsville and Glen Carbon Real Estate Chat: January 2009

Open SATURDAY ~*~ 1 - 3 ESIC Subdivision ~*~

Kristina Pratt | Coldwell Banker Brown Realtors | 618-917-0775
944 University, Edwardsville, IL
Over 20 photos at JustDuckyHomes.com
3BR/2.5BA Single Family House
offered at $189,500
Year Built 1985
Sq Footage 2,100
Bedrooms 3
Bathrooms 2 full, 1 partial
Floors 1
Parking Unspecified
Lot Size 7,490 sqft
HOA/Maint $0 per month

DESCRIPTION

View more photos at our website JustDuckyHomes.com

Search over 3,000 MLS listings and sign up for our personal retriever service to get new listings as soon as they hit the market! BuyMadisonCounty.com

Welcome to comfortable and inviting living in the popular Esic subdivision. This full brick ranch sits on a corner lot with extensive landscaping. A large patio in the backyard will be perfect for spring entertaining.

Inside, you'll find a unique and functional floor plan. The three bedrooms, formal dining room and living room are easily made private by closing the glass French doors that lead to the kitchen and family room. The kitchen is a gourmet delight with new counter tops, and all appliances stay including a newer convection oven.

Downstairs, the nicely finished basement completes this home. The bonus room has surround sound and attached full bathroom.

This neighborhood has it all. Close to YMCA, schools, MCT transportation, shopping, dining, SIUE, I-270 and bike trails.

Call, text or e-mail today to treat yourself to a private showing.

see additional photos below
PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C Central heat Family room
Living room Bonus/Rec room Dining room
Dishwasher Refrigerator Stove/Oven
Microwave Attic Basement
Balcony, Deck, or Patio

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

OPEN HOUSE - Come by Saturday 1/31 from 1 - 3

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:
Kristina Pratt
Coldwell Banker Brown Realtors
618-917-0775
For sale by agent/broker

powered by postlets Equal Opportunity Housing
Posted: Jan 29, 2009, 2:46pm PST

About the Author:  Kristina Pratt is a REALTOR® with Goshen Realty Group at RE/MAX Preferred Partners in Edwardsville, Illinois. She and Nancy Milton help their customers buy and sell homes and investment properties in St. Louis' Illinois suburbs of Madison and St. Clair counties with special emphasis on the communities of Edwardsville, Glen Carbon, Maryville, Collinsville and Troy. For more information, visit their web site at http://www.GoshenRealtyGroup.com or e-mail Kristina@GoshenRealtyGroup.com

5015 Castlegate Lane - $198,000

Kristina Pratt | Coldwell Banker Brown Realtors | 618-917-0775
5015 Castlegate, Godfrey, IL
Carefree Living Can Be Yours
2BR/1.5BA Townhouse
offered at $198,000
Year Built 2005
Sq Footage 2,256
Bedrooms 2
Bathrooms 1 full, 1 partial
Floors 1
Parking 2 Car garage
Lot Size Unspecified
HOA/Maint $0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Enjoy carefree living in this gorgeous and spacious ranch, surrounded by beautiful, lush landscaping. A vaulted great
room is open to the kitchen and dining area and leads to a private patio. The elegant Master Suite includes dual closets
and separate tub and shower. The nicely finished lower level is huge, with high ceilings, a dry bar, storage space and
rough-in for a third bath. Room sizes approximate.

View more photos at our website JustDuckyHomes.com

Search over 3,000 MLS listings and sign up for our personal retriever service toget new listings as soon as they hit the market!
BuyMadisonCounty.com

see additional photos below
PROPERTY FEATURES

High/Vaulted ceiling Walk-in closet Living room
Basement Laundry area - inside Balcony, Deck, or Patio
Yard

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

dry bar in basement

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:
Kristina Pratt
Coldwell Banker Brown Realtors
618-917-0775
For sale by agent/broker

powered by postlets Equal Opportunity Housing
Posted: Jan 19, 2009, 9:30pm PST

About the Author:  Kristina Pratt is a REALTOR® with Goshen Realty Group at RE/MAX Preferred Partners in Edwardsville, Illinois. She and Nancy Milton help their customers buy and sell homes and investment properties in St. Louis' Illinois suburbs of Madison and St. Clair counties with special emphasis on the communities of Edwardsville, Glen Carbon, Maryville, Collinsville and Troy. For more information, visit their web site at http://www.GoshenRealtyGroup.com or e-mail Kristina@GoshenRealtyGroup.com

OPEN TODAY 1 - 3 - $109,000

Kristina Pratt | Coldwell Banker Brown Realtors | 618-917-0775
228 S Chestnut, Collinsville, IL
New Price
3BR/1BA Single Family House
offered at $109,900
Year Built 1900
Sq Footage 1,465
Bedrooms 3
Bathrooms 1 full, 0 partial
Floors 2
Parking 1 Car garage
Lot Size Unspecified
HOA/Maint $0 per month

DESCRIPTION

View more photos at our website JustDuckyHomes.com

Search over 3,000 MLS listings and sign up for our personal retriever service to get new listings as soon as they hit the market!
BuyMadisonCounty.com

Welcome to your new home in the heart of Collinsville. It's ready and waiting for you to move right in. A warm, neutral color palette creates a tasteful and inviting interior. The spacious family room opens to a formal dining room, complete with built-in storage and chair rail. A large eat-in kitchen is just a few steps away featuring ample cabinets and counter space. Upstairs, you'll enjoy the privacy of three bedrooms set away from the common living areas. Outside, a semi-private backyard is fully fenced, and a covered patio is perfect for entertaining. A covered front porch, meticulous landscaping and a one car garage round out the amenities in this well-cared for home.

see additional photos below
PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C Central heat High/Vaulted ceiling
Living room Dining room Dishwasher
Refrigerator Stove/Oven Basement
Laundry area - inside Balcony, Deck, or Patio Yard

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

OPEN TODAY 1 - 3 / SUNDAY 1/18

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:
Kristina Pratt
Coldwell Banker Brown Realtors
618-917-0775
For sale by agent/broker

powered by postlets Equal Opportunity Housing
Posted: Jan 18, 2009, 8:27am PST

About the Author:  Kristina Pratt is a REALTOR® with Goshen Realty Group at RE/MAX Preferred Partners in Edwardsville, Illinois. She and Nancy Milton help their customers buy and sell homes and investment properties in St. Louis' Illinois suburbs of Madison and St. Clair counties with special emphasis on the communities of Edwardsville, Glen Carbon, Maryville, Collinsville and Troy. For more information, visit their web site at http://www.GoshenRealtyGroup.com or e-mail Kristina@GoshenRealtyGroup.com

OPEN SUNDAY 1 - 3 - Absolutely Adorable

Kristina Pratt | Coldwell Banker Brown Realtors | 618-917-0775
228 S Chestnut, Collinsville, IL
New Price
3BR/1BA Single Family House
offered at $109,900
Year Built 1900
Sq Footage 1,465
Bedrooms 3
Bathrooms 1 full, 0 partial
Floors 2
Parking 1 Car garage
Lot Size Unspecified
HOA/Maint $0 per month

DESCRIPTION

View more photos at our website JustDuckyHomes.com

Search over 3,000 MLS listings and sign up for our personal retriever service to get new listings as soon as they hit the market!
BuyMadisonCounty.com

Welcome to your new home in the heart of Collinsville. It's ready and waiting for you to move right in. A warm, neutral color palette creates a tasteful and inviting interior. The spacious family room opens to a formal dining room, complete with built-in storage and chair rail. A large eat-in kitchen is just a few steps away featuring ample cabinets and counter space. Upstairs, you'll enjoy the privacy of three bedrooms set away from the common living areas. Outside, a semi-private backyard is fully fenced, and a covered patio is perfect for entertaining. A covered front porch, meticulous landscaping and a one car garage round out the amenities in this well-cared for home.

see additional photos below
PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C Central heat High/Vaulted ceiling
Living room Dining room Dishwasher
Refrigerator Stove/Oven Basement
Laundry area - inside Balcony, Deck, or Patio Yard

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:
Kristina Pratt
Coldwell Banker Brown Realtors
618-917-0775
For sale by agent/broker

powered by postlets Equal Opportunity Housing
Posted: Dec 27, 2008, 3:23pm PST

About the Author:  Kristina Pratt is a REALTOR® with Goshen Realty Group at RE/MAX Preferred Partners in Edwardsville, Illinois. She and Nancy Milton help their customers buy and sell homes and investment properties in St. Louis' Illinois suburbs of Madison and St. Clair counties with special emphasis on the communities of Edwardsville, Glen Carbon, Maryville, Collinsville and Troy. For more information, visit their web site at http://www.GoshenRealtyGroup.com or e-mail Kristina@GoshenRealtyGroup.com

944 University - Edwardsville - Slide Show $189,500



This full brick ranch sits on a corner lot with extensive landscaping. A large patio in the backyard will be perfect for spring entertaining.

Inside, you’ll find a unique and functional floor plan. The three bedrooms, formal dining room and living room are easily made private by closing the glass French doors that lead to the kitchen and family room. The kitchen is a gourmet delight with new counter tops, and all appliances stay including a newer convection oven. Downstairs, the nicely finished basement completes this home. The bonus room has surround sound and attached full bathroom.

This neighborhood has it all. Close to YMCA, schools, MCT transportation, shopping, dining, SIUE, I-270 and bike trails

About the Author:  Kristina Pratt is a REALTOR® with Goshen Realty Group at RE/MAX Preferred Partners in Edwardsville, Illinois. She and Nancy Milton help their customers buy and sell homes and investment properties in St. Louis' Illinois suburbs of Madison and St. Clair counties with special emphasis on the communities of Edwardsville, Glen Carbon, Maryville, Collinsville and Troy. For more information, visit their web site at http://www.GoshenRealtyGroup.com or e-mail Kristina@GoshenRealtyGroup.com

New Listing - Popular Esic Subdivision - Under $200k!

Kristina Pratt | Coldwell Banker Brown Realtors | 618-917-0775
944 University, Edwardsville, IL
Over 20 photos at JustDuckyHomes.com
3BR/2.5BA Single Family House
offered at $189,500
Year Built 1985
Sq Footage 2,100
Bedrooms 3
Bathrooms 2 full, 1 partial
Floors 1
Parking Unspecified
Lot Size 7,490 sqft
HOA/Maint $0 per month

DESCRIPTION

View more photos at our website JustDuckyHomes.com

Search over 3,000 MLS listings and sign up for our personal retriever service to get new listings as soon as they hit the market! BuyMadisonCounty.com

Welcome to comfortable and inviting living in the popular Esic subdivision. This full brick ranch sits on a corner lot with extensive landscaping. A large patio in the backyard will be perfect for spring entertaining.

Inside, you'll find a unique and functional floor plan. The three bedrooms, formal dining room and living room are easily made private by closing the glass French doors that lead to the kitchen and family room. The kitchen is a gourmet delight with new counter tops, and all appliances stay including a newer convection oven.

Downstairs, the nicely finished basement completes this home. The bonus room has surround sound and attached full bathroom.

This neighborhood has it all. Close to YMCA, schools, MCT transportation, shopping, dining, SIUE, I-270 and bike trails.

Call, text or e-mail today to treat yourself to a private showing.

see additional photos below
PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C Central heat Family room
Living room Bonus/Rec room Dining room
Dishwasher Refrigerator Stove/Oven
Microwave Attic Basement
Balcony, Deck, or Patio

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:
Kristina Pratt
Coldwell Banker Brown Realtors
618-917-0775
For sale by agent/broker

powered by postlets Equal Opportunity Housing
Posted: Jan 14, 2009, 10:59am PST

About the Author:  Kristina Pratt is a REALTOR® with Goshen Realty Group at RE/MAX Preferred Partners in Edwardsville, Illinois. She and Nancy Milton help their customers buy and sell homes and investment properties in St. Louis' Illinois suburbs of Madison and St. Clair counties with special emphasis on the communities of Edwardsville, Glen Carbon, Maryville, Collinsville and Troy. For more information, visit their web site at http://www.GoshenRealtyGroup.com or e-mail Kristina@GoshenRealtyGroup.com

Winter Delights at Pere Marquette State Park

Via Nancy Milton, REALTOR/GRI, JustDuckyHomes.com (Coldwell Banker Brown Realtors in St.Louis' Illinois suburbs):

Pere Marquette LodgeA visit to Pere Marquette State Park along the Illinois River is another great winter activity in our part of Southwestern Illinois. 

Named after the French Jesuit missionary -- Pere Jacques Marquette who traveled down the Mississippi with mapmaker Louis Joliet in 1673 to look for a passage to the Pacific Ocean -- the lodge was built as part of the government's Civilian Conservation Corps projects in the 1930s.

Its massive wooden beams and gorgeous native stonework are a delight for lodge design lovers.

Surrounding the structure are 8,000 acres of beautiful, forested land rolling with hiking trails and a driving route that climbs high over the lodge.

Pere Marquette Lodge Chess GameYou can visit for the day or stay overnight in the lodge's hotel rooms or in one of 22 individual cabins. (If you're planning a weekend visit, make reservations early.)

Hearty types can stay in the campground. (Just so you know, my idea of camping is a hotel without room service, so I can't attest to the quality of the grounds. However, I have it on good authority that the camp area is both lovely and clean.)

The lodge offers a grand Sunday Brunch or meals off the menu throughout the week. 

A massive stone fireplace is the focal point of the lobby and a huge chess set invites visitors to stage a battle of wits on the lodge's stone floor. 

Illinois River SunsetThose looking for modern amenities will enjoy the lodge's pool or a variety of board games offered for free in the lobby. A stone patio faces the Illinois River. Bundle up and it's a wonderful place to watch a vibrant winter sunset like the one on this page.

To get to Pere Marquette, head north from Alton along the Great River Road. Continue through historic Elsah and Grafton. North of Grafton, the Illinois River joins the Mississippi and flows in front of the lodge's rolling lawn.

Whatever you choose to do with your free time this winter, I hope you'll take time to get out and enjoy this beautiful region.

Winter can be unexpectedly beautiful in Illinois.

About the Author:  Kristina Pratt is a REALTOR® with Goshen Realty Group at RE/MAX Preferred Partners in Edwardsville, Illinois. She and Nancy Milton help their customers buy and sell homes and investment properties in St. Louis' Illinois suburbs of Madison and St. Clair counties with special emphasis on the communities of Edwardsville, Glen Carbon, Maryville, Collinsville and Troy. For more information, visit their web site at http://www.GoshenRealtyGroup.com or e-mail Kristina@GoshenRealtyGroup.com

A Sweet Deal That's Just In Time For Valentine's Day! OPEN TODAY 1 - 3

Kristina Pratt | Coldwell Banker Brown Realtors | 618-917-0775
228 Lake Hillcrest, Glen Carbon, IL
Best Location In Glen Carbon
3BR/1.5BA Single Family House
offered at $149,900
Year Built 1987
Sq Footage 1,437
Bedrooms 3
Bathrooms 1 full, 1 partial
Floors 2
Parking 2 Car garage
Lot Size Unspecified
HOA/Maint $0 per month

DESCRIPTION

OPEN SUNDAY 1/11 from 1 - 3!

View more photos at our website JustDuckyHomes.com

Search over 3,000 MLS listings and sign up for our personal retriever service to get new listings as soon as they hit the market!
BuyMadisonCounty.com

OPEN SUNDAY JANUARY 11th from 1 - 3

Here's your chance to live in the best location in Glen Carbon. This beautifully decorated home is move-in ready. Enjoy the big backyard and deck. Cars and toys will fit easily into this home's big 2 car garage. Neutral paint and carpet. Great counter and cabinet space in kitchen. Square footage from tax records minus garage space. Room sizes approximate.

see additional photos below
PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C Central heat Hardwood floor
Family room Living room Basement
Balcony, Deck, or Patio Yard

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

OPEN SUNDAY 1/11 from 1 - 3!

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:
Kristina Pratt
Coldwell Banker Brown Realtors
618-917-0775
For sale by agent/broker

powered by postlets Equal Opportunity Housing
Posted: Jan 11, 2009, 9:39am PST

About the Author:  Kristina Pratt is a REALTOR® with Goshen Realty Group at RE/MAX Preferred Partners in Edwardsville, Illinois. She and Nancy Milton help their customers buy and sell homes and investment properties in St. Louis' Illinois suburbs of Madison and St. Clair counties with special emphasis on the communities of Edwardsville, Glen Carbon, Maryville, Collinsville and Troy. For more information, visit their web site at http://www.GoshenRealtyGroup.com or e-mail Kristina@GoshenRealtyGroup.com

Reversing Our Reputation - Remember The Golden Rule

A few months ago, I wrote a post titled "The Reputation Of Realtors - A Small Attempt At Reversing It"

The short version of it is...

I answered the phone in the office on a whim one morning and the woman on the other end asked for an agent that she worked with in the past.  She said they were considering buying a second home, and some things happened personally that prevented them from doing it at that time. 

I wasn't sure if the agent used to be with us, but I was pretty sure she worked for another brokerage.  When I told her she wasn't with our company, I offered to check the MLS for the agent's number.  I gave her the number of the agent, and the woman was shocked that I acted in the manner I did.  She couldn't believe I gave her the number of my competition in such a tough market.  I explained to her that if the other agent put in her time and talent to help them find a home, she deserved a chance at their business.  I told her that I hoped another agent would do the same for me.

So, here's the update...

Much to my surprise, a few weeks later she called me.  She told me about how the other agent didn't return her call.  We set up a time to look at a few homes that met their needs.  One Saturday morning, and four showings later - we had an accepted contract.  Closing took place last month, and they couldn't be happier.  At closing we were actually told "You're the best we've ever worked with.  You guys know how to get business done."

I know the market is hard right now - buyers are hard to come by.  Don't let your desperation for a sale compromise your beliefs.  If you hold true to your standards, the business will come.

About the Author:  Kristina Pratt is a REALTOR® with Goshen Realty Group at RE/MAX Preferred Partners in Edwardsville, Illinois. She and Nancy Milton help their customers buy and sell homes and investment properties in St. Louis' Illinois suburbs of Madison and St. Clair counties with special emphasis on the communities of Edwardsville, Glen Carbon, Maryville, Collinsville and Troy. For more information, visit their web site at http://www.GoshenRealtyGroup.com or e-mail Kristina@GoshenRealtyGroup.com

Historic Edwardsville - Damsel In Distress Needs A Quick Rescue!

Kristina Pratt | Coldwell Banker Brown Realtors | 618-917-0775
412 E Schwarz, Edwardsville, IL
Amazing Rehab Potential
5BR/2BA Single Family House
offered at $89,000
Year Built 1880
Sq Footage 2,426
Bedrooms 5
Bathrooms 2 full, 0 partial
Floors 3
Parking Unspecified
Lot Size Unspecified
HOA/Maint $0 per month

DESCRIPTION

There is a lot of potential here! Home could be gutted and completely re-done to return it to its former grandeur. The upstairs features its own entrance from the back of the house, separate meters and could be used for a separate living area. This one is perfect for either a rehab project or the rare opportunity to own a 3/4 acre lot in the heart of Edwardsville.

View more photos at our website JustDuckyHomes.com

Search over 3,000 MLS listings and sign up for our personal retriever service to get new listings as soon as they hit the market!
BuyMadisonCounty.com

see additional photos below
PROPERTY FEATURES

Hardwood floor Living room Basement

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:
Kristina Pratt
Coldwell Banker Brown Realtors
618-917-0775
For sale by agent/broker

powered by postlets Equal Opportunity Housing
Posted: Dec 27, 2008, 3:26pm PST

About the Author:  Kristina Pratt is a REALTOR® with Goshen Realty Group at RE/MAX Preferred Partners in Edwardsville, Illinois. She and Nancy Milton help their customers buy and sell homes and investment properties in St. Louis' Illinois suburbs of Madison and St. Clair counties with special emphasis on the communities of Edwardsville, Glen Carbon, Maryville, Collinsville and Troy. For more information, visit their web site at http://www.GoshenRealtyGroup.com or e-mail Kristina@GoshenRealtyGroup.com