Have you prepared to relocate to Monroe and St Clair County?

Lakeshore Dr Columbia, Illinois

You’ve considered relocating to Columbia, one of America’s Best Cities to buy a home. When purchasing your home, preparation is essential. HGTV’s FrontDoor has several tips for a successful relocation. Learn about your destination city. View report cards of the education system Find Higher learning locations Find the major employers in the … [Read more...]

Home inspections protect home buyers

Sterritt Run, Waterloo, Illinois-Frank Lloyd Wright Inspired home with a Heated Indoor Pool w/ Remote Windows

Buying a home is exciting. You can also gain knowledge from the experience. Did you know that home inspectors generally do not test for asbestos, radon gas, lead paint, toxic mold, or pest control? According to the American Inspectors Directory, specific licenses are required for these inspections. A home inspector can give you valuable information about … [Read more...]

In the year 2011, buying is better than renting

Country Lane, Columbia, Illinois-3 Bedroom, 4 Bath 1.5 story home on 2.6 acres

In January of 2011, CNN Money posted an article predicting that buying would outweigh renting by the middle of 2011.  It stated that when the “price to rent ratio” is below 15, purchasing a home is a general rule of thumb. In the area surrounding Columbia, IL, the “price to rent ratio” was 14.04 in January 2011. In May of 2011, the New York Times … [Read more...]

Summer is nearly over, but Monroe County fun is not over

Oktoberfest Big Beer

The Waterloo Homecoming, the Immaculate Conception Picnic, and the Oktoberfest are all free Monroe County events. These events are set to entertain you and provide you with playful activities. Your age does not matter. If you want to participate in the festivities, pay close attention to these dates. In fact, place them in your calendar or your smart … [Read more...]

Columbia, IL listed as a CNN Money city with affordable homes

2821 Overview Dr., Columbia, Illinois

Only two days ago, CNN noted 25 U.S. cities “where homes are affordable.” Columbia, IL is one of those 25 cities. If you’ve never heard of Columbia, IL, it is located along the Mississippi River just minutes from the Missouri state line. Columbia residents commute 15 minutes to St Louis to work, although Columbia is not shy of employers like Budnick … [Read more...]