Beverly Ruminski

1. Get Pre-Approved Early Before you start house hunting, talk to a lender and get pre-approved. This gives you a clear idea of your budget and shows sellers you're a serious buyer. 2. Know What You Want (and Need) Make a list of must-haves vs. nice-to-haves. Think about location, size, layout, schools, commute, and future plans. 3. Work with a Trusted Agent A knowledgeable real estate agent (like you!) can guide buyers through the process, negotiate on their behalf, and help avoid costly mistakes. 4. Don’t Skip the Inspection Even if the home looks perfect, a professional inspection can uncover hidden issues. It’s a small investment that can save thousands. 5. Be Ready to Act Fast In competitive markets, homes can go quickly. Be prepared to make a strong offer when you find the right one. 6. Think Long-Term Consider resale value, neighborhood trends, and how long you plan to stay. A home is both a place to live and a financial investment. 7. Stick to Your Budget It’s easy to fall in love with a home that stretches your finances. Stay within your comfort zone to avoid stress later.

Price It Right from the Start Overpricing can scare off buyers and lead to longer time on the market. A competitive, well-researched price attracts more interest and can even spark multiple offers. 2. Boost Curb Appeal First impressions matter. Simple updates like fresh landscaping, a clean entryway, and a new welcome mat can make a big difference. 3. Declutter and Depersonalize Buyers need to envision themselves in the space. Remove personal items, excess furniture, and anything that distracts from the home’s features. 4. Make Minor Repairs Fix leaky faucets, squeaky doors, chipped paint, or cracked tiles. Small issues can make buyers worry about bigger hidden problems. 5. Stage for Success Staging helps highlight your home’s strengths and makes rooms feel more spacious and inviting. Even rearranging furniture can help. 6. Be Flexible with Showings The more accessible your home is to potential buyers, the faster it can sell. Try to accommodate showings, even on short notice. 7. Work with a Skilled Agent A knowledgeable real estate professional (like you!) can market the home effectively, negotiate offers, and guide the seller through every step of the process.

Over the past 25+ years as a full-time real estate professional licensed in Illinois, I’ve had the privilege of working with a wide variety of clients, including: First-Time Homebuyers Guiding them through every step of the process—from financing to closing—with patience, education, and support. Sellers in Transition Including those who are downsizing, upsizing, or relocating for work, family, or lifestyle changes. Distressed Sellers Assisting homeowners facing financial hardship, including short sales and pre-foreclosures, with compassion and strategic solutions. Real Estate Investors Supporting rehabbers, flippers, and buy-and-hold investors in identifying profitable opportunities and navigating transactions efficiently. Move-Up Buyers Helping growing families sell their current home and purchase a new one that better fits their evolving needs. Out-of-Town Clients Coordinating remote transactions and providing local expertise for those relocating to or from the southwest suburbs of Illinois.

One recent transaction that stands out involved a young couple purchasing their very first home in the southwest suburbs. They were nervous but excited, and like many first-time buyers, they had a lot of questions. From the beginning, I made it a priority to educate them on each step—financing, inspections, negotiations, and closing—so they felt confident and informed throughout the process. We faced a competitive market, but after a few showings and some strategic planning, we found a home that checked all their boxes. I helped them craft a strong offer, and we were thrilled when it was accepted. The closing went smoothly, and seeing the joy on their faces when they got the keys made all the hard work worth it. What made this transaction special wasn’t just the sale—it was the relationship we built. They’ve since referred friends and family, and I’m proud to be their go-to real estate resource.

My journey into real estate began on a very personal note—when my sisters and I listed our father’s home for sale. I worked closely with the listing agent throughout the process, and it opened my eyes to how impactful and meaningful this work can be. I discovered a genuine passion for helping people and a deep interest in homes, neighborhoods, and the way real estate shapes lives and communities. That experience sparked something in me. What started as a career move quickly became a calling. I earned my license in Illinois and committed to real estate full-time, focusing on the southwest suburbs. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of helping clients in all kinds of situations—from first-time buyers to families selling cherished homes—and every transaction has deepened my commitment to providing exceptional service with care, integrity, and results.

In addition to over 25 years of full-time real estate experience, I hold the Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®) designation—an advanced certification that demonstrates my commitment to serving buyers at the highest level. This training has equipped me with specialized knowledge and tools to: Advocate effectively for buyers in competitive markets Navigate complex transactions with confidence Provide expert guidance on financing, inspections, and negotiations Deliver a smoother, more informed home-buying experience Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, my ABR® certification ensures you have a skilled, knowledgeable advocate by your side every step of the way.