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Greetings, Kankakee County neighbors! Lisa Sanford here, your go-to real estate expert from Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Speckman Realty. As we bid farewell to October, it's time to reflect on not only the picturesque fall scenery and community events but also the latest developments in our local real estate market and business landscape. So, grab a cup of warm apple cider and join me as we dive into the exciting happenings in Kankakee County.


Real Estate Insights from the Association of Realtors:
In the latest edition of the Association of Realtors' monthly newsletter, some fascinating figures shed light on the state of our local real estate market. October saw a robust demand for homes in Kankakee County, with a notable increase in both home sales and median home prices. The market continues to be competitive, making it an opportune time for sellers to list their homes and for buyers to explore the diverse housing options our community has to offer.
The median sales price in Bourbonnais has reached $257,500, indicating a 1% increase since October 2022 when it was $255,000. The average market time is 35 days, and the average price per square foot has risen to $148, reflecting a 5% increase from last year's figure of $141. As of the end of October, only 25 homes were actively listed, signifying a 28.6% decrease from October 2022. The inventory supply has decreased by 16.7% from last year, resulting in just a 1-month supply available.
First-time homebuyers, in particular, found Kankakee County appealing due to the affordability of properties compared to neighboring areas. The availability of various financing options, coupled with interest rates going down, contributed to the steady growth in the number of new homeowners in our community.
At Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Speckman Realty, we take pride in being part of this dynamic real estate landscape. Our team is dedicated to helping you navigate the market, whether you're looking to buy, sell, or invest in real estate.


Business Boom in Kankakee County:
Beyond the residential scene, Kankakee County continues to thrive economically, thanks to the concerted efforts of the Economic Alliance. The month of October witnessed significant strides in the local business sector, with several new enterprises choosing our community as their home.
The Economic Alliance's ongoing initiatives to attract businesses to the area have proven successful, fostering a diverse and vibrant economic landscape. With a mix of retail establishments, technology startups, and service providers, Kankakee County is becoming an increasingly appealing destination for both entrepreneurs and consumers.
Moreover, the collaboration between local businesses and community organizations was evident in the various events and initiatives throughout the month. From small business spotlights to networking events, the sense of community and support for local enterprises was palpable.
As your real estate advocate, I want to emphasize the symbiotic relationship between a thriving business community and a robust real estate market. The growth of businesses in Kankakee County not only enhances our local economy but also contributes to the overall appeal of the area, making it an attractive destination for prospective homebuyers.


Community Events in November:
In the spirit of keeping you well-informed, here are a few noteworthy community events in November:


Small Business Saturday at Moon Cookie Gallery 11/25: Join us for our annual Small Business Saturday celebration! This year's theme is "Whimsical Winter Woodland" and our artists are busy creating special handmade gifts! Here are a few of the fun things happening that day: Goodie bags (first 50 customers),Sales and promos, Raffle baskets, Prizes throughout the day ...and more! 9:00 am - 2:00 pm. Moon Cookie Gallery 187 S Schuyler | Kankakee, IL 60901 | https://www.visitkankakeecounty.com/event?EventID=2779


Friendsgiving on the Farm 11/18: Holiday soirees are best hosted on the farm. Returning for its eighth year, Friendsgiving on the Farm. We celebrate the closing of the season with an abundant feast in our barn. Enjoy the farm’s twist on Thanksgiving Dinner and participate in a gathering of grateful hearts and rich friendships. Participate in the lighting of Locavore’s Christmas Tree! Adult $99. 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm. Locavore Farm 11588 N 17500 E Rd | Grant Park, IL 60940 | https://www.visitkankakeecounty.com/event?EventID=2775


Holiday Market 11/24-11/25: Please join us for our third annual vendor fair! Support local small businesses inside of our heated facility over Thanksgiving weekend. In addition to 150 unique vendors, Sunrise will be selling house-made winter greenery arrangements, bundles of live cut greenery, as well as poinsettias, holiday ornaments, holiday décor, and so much more! PS: Don’t worry about going hungry! There will be multiple delicious food trucks and coffee purveyors to satisfy your appetites! Be sure to follow our #ShopSmallHolidayMarket Facebook page for Vendor Spotlights. 8:00am-3:00pm. Woldhuis Farms Sunrise Greenhouse 10300 E 9000N Rd | Grant Park, IL 60940 | (815) 465-6310 https://www.visitkankakeecounty.com/event?EventID=2782

As we transition into November, I encourage you to explore the diverse opportunities our community offers. If you're considering a move, whether for residential or business purposes, I'm here to guide you through the process. At Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Speckman Realty, we're not just selling homes; we're helping you become a part of the fabric of Kankakee County.

Wishing you a Happy Thanksgiving!  May you enjoy making wonderful memories with family and friends!

Hello there, Kankakee County residents and potential newcomers! I'm Lisa Sanford, your friendly local real estate agent from Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Speckman Realty. As we bid farewell to October and welcome the crisp autumn days, I'm excited to share some of the fantastic happenings in our beloved Kankakee County this past month. One particular highlight that I'm thrilled to mention is Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Speckman Realty's triumphant win at the annual Scarecrow Competition held at Perry Farm. But there's so much more to discover about our vibrant community, so let's dive in!

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Speckman Realty Wins the Scarecrow Competition:

First and foremost, let's celebrate our victory at the Perry Farm Scarecrow Competition! Our talented team worked tirelessly to create an eye-catching and whimsical scarecrow display that captured the essence of autumn and the spirit of our community. We were honored to take home the top prize, and it's a testament to the creativity, dedication, and teamwork that define our agency. We're incredibly proud to serve Kankakee County, and this win only reinforces our commitment to this wonderful community. 

Fall Foliage Spectacle:

October brought the stunning transformation of our local landscapes as the leaves transitioned to their beautiful autumn hues. Take a drive through Kankakee River State Park, Aroma Park, or Momence, and you'll be treated to a breathtaking display of reds, yellows, and oranges. The serene beauty of our county during the fall season is simply unrivaled.

Harvest Festivals and Fun:

Autumn in Kankakee County also means a multitude of exciting events and festivals. Throughout October, residents and visitors alike had the opportunity to indulge in delicious food, enjoy live music, and partake in a variety of seasonal activities. The Bourbonnais Friendship Festival, Bradley's Pumpkin Fest, and Manteno Oktoberfest were just a few of the lively events that kept our community spirit alive and well.

Haunted Happenings:

For those who seek a little thrill during the Halloween season, Kankakee County did not disappoint. Many local haunts and spooky attractions opened their doors to brave souls ready to be scared. Whether it was a visit to the Asylum Haunted House in Kankakee or a hayride through Haunted Trails in Momence, there were plenty of opportunities for some hair-raising fun.

Community Support:

October is also a time when our community comes together to support various charitable causes. Food drives, charity runs, and fundraisers were in abundance, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to helping those in need.

Real Estate in Kankakee County:

As your local real estate expert, I want to remind you that fall is an excellent time to consider buying or selling a home in Kankakee County. With the real estate market in our area remaining competitive, it's essential to have a knowledgeable and dedicated real estate team on your side. If you're thinking about making a move, don't hesitate to reach out to Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Speckman Realty. We're here to help you navigate the local housing market, find your dream home, or sell your property.

October in Kankakee County was nothing short of amazing. From the scarecrow competition victory at Perry Farm to the dazzling fall foliage, festive events, and community support, our county showcased its vibrant spirit and strong sense of community. If you're considering a move to Kankakee County or are a proud resident looking to make a change, remember that I'm here to assist with all your real estate needs. Let's work together to make your real estate dreams a reality.

Wishing you a fantastic November, and until next time, stay connected and stay proud to be a part of Kankakee County! Contact Lisa Sanford today

The changing colors of leaves, the crispness in the air, and the aroma of pumpkin spice everywhere signal the coming of fall. While these season favorites have their own charm, the real estate market also experiences unique shifts during this period.

Let's dive into fall real estate market dynamics and discover why autumn can be an opportune season for both buying and selling homes.

🏡 Looking to buy your dream home? Here are the 5 most important steps to take for a successful home purchase! 🌟

1️⃣ Define your needs and budget: Start by identifying your must-haves, such as location, size, and amenities. Set a realistic budget that considers your financial situation and future plans. 

2️⃣ Get pre-approved for a mortgage: Before you start house hunting, obtain a pre-approval from a reputable lender. This step will give you a clear understanding of your borrowing capacity, allowing you to focus on homes within your price range. It also demonstrates to sellers that you're a serious buyer.

3️⃣ Engage a trusted real estate agent: Partnering with an experienced real estate agent can be invaluable. They have extensive market knowledge, access to listings, and negotiation skills to help you find the perfect home. Make sure to choose an agent who understands your preferences and has a strong track record.

4️⃣ Thoroughly inspect properties: Once you've found a potential home, conduct a comprehensive inspection. Hire a professional inspector to assess the property's condition, including structural elements, electrical systems, plumbing, and more. This step ensures you're aware of any potential issues and can make informed decisions.

5️⃣ Review and negotiate the contract: Before finalizing the purchase, carefully review the contract terms and conditions. Seek legal advice if necessary to ensure you understand all clauses and obligations. Negotiate any necessary changes with the seller to ensure a fair agreement that protects your interests.

🔑 By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared and confident in your home-buying journey. Happy house hunting! 🏠💫 #HomeBuyingTips #DreamHome #RealEstateGoals