2.    Keep waterproofing materials like sandbags and plastic bags in the garage or basement.

3.    Have safety-routes for a family evacuation, and go over them once a year.

4.    Keep storm drains clear of clutter and debris.

5.    If you’re driving, park and find an open, safe building, don’t attempt to drive on flooded roads.

6.    Stay informed, either by radio or television for instructions.

If your home experienced flooding or roof leaks, you’ll want to take the proper steps to clean and avoid mold growth for the sake of your health and your house. The EPA website features an overview of how to deal with this.  

Contact us at the Gracik Makinney Real Estate Group for recommendations regarding home repairs if needed, be sure you’re hiring trustworthy professionals with references.

Lastly, the stress of a disaster can take its toll!  Make sure you’re rested and don’t allow the projects that may have been brought about by the storm to overtake you.  Even a great place like Elmhurst is not immune to the occasional storm, but only a strong community like ours can weather it together and come out wiser, and more prepared.

Tom and Maria
Gracik Makinney Real Estate Group
Phone: 630-617-6014
Email: Tom@MariaandTom.com | Maria@MariaandTom.com
www.mariaandtom.com
Our Featured Properties
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JOIN US FOR AN OPEN HOUSE- Sunday, August 1st from 2-4pm!

Welcome to Elm Estates, one of Elmhurst’s best kept secrets!  Tucked away from air, road, and rail traffic, this sought after neighborhood provides for quintessential suburban living.  Within walking distance to Jackson Elementary School and Bryan Middle school, you’ll love this home.  Boasting near 1,500 square feet on the main level, and an additional 1,400 square feet in the finished basement, this deviation from the traditional MacDougall ranch exceeds your expectations for both size and amenities.  
Hardwood flooring throughout the main level, neutral decor, a cozy fireplace in the living room, and a sliding door to the backyard make for easy living.  Spacious bedrooms with new organizers in closets, and a huge lower level gives everyone in the home their own space and room to relax.  With new windows, new air conditioning, a new furnace, and new paint, you’ll be left with room in the budget for decorating and personalizing this move-in ready home to your taste!  Don’t miss the opportunity to make this great house your home in an ideal Elmhurst neighborhood.

Tom and Maria
Gracik Makinney Real Estate Group
Phone: 630-617-6014
Email: Tom@MariaandTom.com | Maria@MariaandTom.com
www.mariaandtom.com
Our Featured Properties
Follow Us on Twitter

*Midwest Real Estate Data LLC

I make no claim as to the accuracy of this data and have provided this data as a service to others.

Tom and Maria
Gracik Makinney Real Estate Group
Phone: 630-617-6014
Email: Tom@MariaandTom.com | Maria@MariaandTom.com
www.mariaandtom.com
Our Featured Properties
Follow Us on Twitter

Tom and Maria
Gracik Makinney Real Estate Group
Phone: 630-617-6014
Email: Tom@MariaandTom.com | Maria@MariaandTom.com
www.mariaandtom.com
Our Featured Properties
Follow Us on Twitter

The one you’ve been waiting for!  Impeccable inside and out, this home is picture perfect and ready for you.  Built in 2005, you’ll feel as if you’re stepping into a brand new model home.  Gleaming hardwood flooring, crown molding, fine millwork, and custom paint greet you upon entry and guide you through living room, to hallway, to dining room, setting the tone for this classic and elegant abode.  

The formal living room serves as the perfect place to greet guests and enjoy intimate conversation. A stunning kitchen complete with stainless steel appliances, double oven, center island, recessed lighting and wood cabinetry is a cook’s dream. With the kitchen opening up to a brightly lit breakfast room as well as the well appointed family room, its as if the space was made for entertaining.  A stone mantel fireplace and crown molding comes together to complete a sophisticated family room. After time spent relaxing in the family room, whisk guests away to the formal dining room. Dentil crown molding frame the ceiling’s center, two large windows let the sun shine in and a new light fixture takes center stage to create the ultimate dining experience.

Glide up the well-structured staircase to the second level to find the master bedroom suite.  Tray ceiling, crown molding, plush carpet and double doors make for a sweet escape. The master bathroom is equally as luxurious with its double vanities, marble countertops, separate shower and corner soaking tub framed by two large windows. Each remaining bedroom is well sized and offers infinite possibilities for your own special touch.

Make your way to the lower level and you’ll find where the real party starts - in the beautifully finished basement. Vast in space, with fireplace, radiant heat, recessed lighting, 5th bedroom and bathroom - there is nothing this area is missing. Wall to wall carpeting keeps the area cozy with the exception of the full wet bar area which is tiled and offers sink, wood cabinetry and a seating area. Warmer weather brings the party outside to the brick patio, surrounded by breathtaking greenery and fenced yard for your privacy. All of this beauty is set on a 205 foot deep lot in the heart of Elmhurst, with direct access to all the major arteries to Chicagoland. Simply put, this home is nothing short of perfect!

In a community like Elmhurst IL, children young and old can't help but get excited for the 4th of July. Summer is officially in full swing, backyard barbecue's are being fired up, and children are unwrapping their firecracker collections.   

If you don't quite know your plans yet, we’ve compiled a list below of all the events and happenings available in Elmhurst IL and the surrounding DuPage County.

Elmhurst Running Club's "4 On the 3rd"
Date: Saturday, July 3rd
Time: 7:15 am
4 On the 3rd Website
Lace up your running shoes and work off those burgers before the festivities begin on this 4 mile run to celebrate the 4th of July in true health nut style.

LibertyFest
Date: Saturday, July 3rd and Sunday, July 4th
Time: 12:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Place: Redmond Park, Bensenville, IL
This is an all encompassing festival of everything patriotic, filled with the perfect combination of summer activities, brought to you by the communities of Bensenville, Wood Dale and Elmhurst.

Starting off at 10 am on July 3rd is the parade that goes from the Bensenville Town Center to Redmond Park. Once at Redmond Park, fill up at the “Taste of the Towns” featuring cuisine from all three communities. There is plenty to keep the kids busy with circus performers eager to teach kids their skills, a figure skating demonstration, free public skate, a fishing derby and caricaturists. Sunday's schedule brings the John Kurtz 5K Run, free pony rides, bingo, and the Beatles tribute band, American English. Finally - what we've all been waiting for - fireworks are set off at 9:30 pm!

Patriotic Celebration
Date: Sunday, July 4th
Time: 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Place: Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd, Wheaton, IL
The parade kicks off at noon on the Cantigny Parade Field. Sack races, inflatable’s, all sorts of games, and a chance to ring the liberty bell or sign the Declaration of Independence are sure to get the kids excited. The rest of the day is filled with Patriotism - from Revolutionary War re-enactments and a performance by the Southwest Community Concert Band, to decorated strollers, bicycles and scooters.

Summer is a great time to be in DuPage County! There's so much to do that the hardest part is deciding where to start. Fourth of July is that iconic holiday that really brings the community together. It's a time to catch up with old neighbors and meet new ones. If you're looking to move to Elmhurst or DuPage County, please give us a call. It's not a question of whether you'll like it here - it's a question of how long it will take you to make the leap and take a look around at this amazing Elmhurst IL and DuPage County Area Real Estate.

Tom and Maria
Gracik Makinney Real Estate Group
Phone: 630-617-6014
Email: Tom@MariaandTom.com | Maria@MariaandTom.com
www.mariaandtom.com
Our Featured Properties
Follow Us on Twitter

The homes in Elmhurst and the surrounding DuPage County area boast some of the most beautiful landscaping in Illinois. When you live in the Chicagoland area, you know how important that window of time is when you can get outside, get your hands dirty, plant your bulbs and seeds, and watch your gardens grow. There are so many gardening aficionados in Elmhurst, that we even have an Elmhurst Garden Club.

To keep your Elmhurst garden looking its best for you and all your neighbors, here are a few tips from the Illinois Certified Nursery Professionals.

•    Mow your lawn a little taller than you may think to keep the turf healthier. A healthy turf can better withstand drought and weeds. Stay within 3-4" tall.

•    June is the time to begin fertilizing your annual flowers and roses. Roses need to be fertilized once every 30 days. Other flowers depend on the heat. The hotter it is, the less you fertilize.

•    Do not cut, tie, or destroy foliage from bulbs that have finished flowering. They are currently in the stages of making food for next year's flowers. You will want to wait until the end of June when the leaves turn brown and dry up.

•    You can still plant annuals, perennials, shrubs, and most trees. The planting season can go all the way up to the beginning of fall.

•    For water gardens, cut back on feeding your fish. When it gets really hot, try not to feed them at all. Make sure 50% or more of the surface of the water is covered with lush plant material to provide the fish shade.

•    Apply chemicals with caution! The same chemicals that kill the undesirable insects also kill the beautiful butterflies. To attract the butterflies, provide larval food plants.

After the day is said and done, pour yourself a drink, add an umbrella and fruit garnish, and admire your work. The lawn isn't just on display for the neighbors. It’s one of the best things about owning a home. A beautiful Elmhurst homeDream Home in Elmhurst with a garden to call your own, don't hesitate to call us. deserves a beautiful Elmhurst garden and lawn. If you are looking for your

Tom and Maria
Gracik Makinney Real Estate Group
Phone: 630-617-6014
Email: Tom@MariaandTom.com | Maria@MariaandTom.com
www.mariaandtom.com
Our Featured Properties
Follow Us on Twitter

*Midwest Real Estate Data LLC

I make no claim as to the accuracy of this data and have provided this data as a service to others.

SHORT SALE...GREAT STARTER TUDOR, OOZING WITH CHARACTER AND CHARM! LOVINGLY MAINTAINED WITH HARDWOOD FLOORS THROUGHOUT, NEW FURNACE AND CAC, AND HUGE INSULATED AND FINISHED 2.5 CAR DETACHED GARAGE...GREAT POTENTIAL MAN-CAVE. SUPER NEIGHBORHOOD MANY NEWER HOMES NEARBY.

We are lacing up our walking shoes, packing the caffeine, and doing everything we can to raise as much money as we can for the American Cancer Society.

That's right. We are team Koenig and Strey - the Schiller Office, Relaying for Life. And we are asking you for your help. Please click here to donate to our team.

Celebrate. Remember. Fight Back. These are the three goals of American Cancer Society's Relay for Life. For those of you who don't know, the event is a 24 hour relay, in which teams of people camp out at local high schools, parks, or fairgrounds and take turns walking around a track or path. Because cancer never sleeps, either do the Relay participants - each team must have a representative on the track at all times during the event.

The Elmhurst community will gather this June 19th-20th once again at Berens Park to honor and remember their family and friends that have been struck with cancer. Teams of cancer survivors and their families, corporations, clubs, hospitals and churches lap the Berens Park track lined with thousands of luminary bags that light up the night.

People make lifelong connections and emotions run high. Participants who may never have been touched by cancer are happy to join and learn something new, while others who have find new friends who understand their plight. It's a long night, but it's worth every minute. The funds raised help support the American Cancer Society's programs of research, education and service to patients and their families.

This is one of our favorite events because there is nothing like bringing the Elmhurst community together to one place for such a good cause. Even if you can’t participate the whole day, we encourage you to stop by and see it for yourself. It's sure to make you proud to be a part of such a giving community.

Tom and Maria
Gracik Makinney Real Estate Group
Phone: 630-617-6014
Email: Tom@MariaandTom.com | Maria@MariaandTom.com
www.mariaandtom.com
Our Featured Properties
Follow Us on Twitter

Keep the munchkins moving this summer!  Give the babysitter some time off and load up the car, DuPage County has much to offer the whole family this season. 

From infants to age 10, the Hamill Family Zoo feeds the need to get a “feel” for the animals, literally.  You won’t find ‘Do Not Tap the Glass’ signs here, as children are encouraged to interact with the live animals, build animal homes, search for animal tracks, and play all day.  Don’t worry mom, the lions and tigers are not invited to this part of zoo. 

Trying to get your too-cool-teen to participate in some family time?  Try Whirlyball in Lombard!  This fun game combines lacrosse, hockey and basketball with bumper cars in an indoor facility with sports bar, pool tables, and 17 flat screen TVs.

Dad, never let a challenge go unmet!  Show your kids what you’ve got at the Daddy Olympics, hosted by the Coral Cove Water Park in Carol Stream on Fathers Day, June 20th from noon to 5pm.  If you’re feeling victorious (or in need of redemption), Coyote Crossing is offering free Mini Golf for all fathers.

Before class is back in session, don’t miss the DuPage County Fair, July 21st-25th, with children’s attractions each day including Kid Buck’s Game Show, Buttons the Clown, Balsters Magic Show, and more.

If you don't yet live in DuPage County and are considering a relocation, contact us for more information.  Elmhurst and its surrounding cities have a lot to offer, and we'd be happy to introduce you to a community you'll truly enjoy being a part of. 

This spectacular home leaves nothing to be desired.  Built by a top rated Elmhurst custom home builder in 2004, the near new condition makes a great first impression while lasting details set this home apart from the rest. 

Stamped and stained concrete in the driveway and walkway set the bar high upon first sight,  complimenting the beautifully finished exterior of brick, stone, and stucco.  A six foot vinyl privacy fence allows peace quiet in your spacious backyard, perfectly landscaped and equipped with sprinkler system.  Brazilian cherry hardwood flooring greets you in the foyer, and continues on through the first level of the home.  An ideal floorplan situates the living room and dining room adjacent for easy entertaining.   The living room embodies comfort and elegance with large view windows, crown molding, and soft recessed lighting.

A dining room for two or ten, this versatile room accommodates holiday guests or weeknight dinners.  Chair rail and crown molding accents a recessed ceiling with chandelier and soft overhead lighting.  
 Contemporary meets classic in this incredible kitchen, ideal for any home chef.  Features include granite countertops, island with veggie sink, Dacor oven and gas cooktop with exhaust hood, Bosch dishwasher, fine wood cabinetry with under cabinet lighting, decorative tile backsplash, and a work desk.  Have casual meals at the island, in the breakfast area, or take it out back on the deck with security door entry from the kitchen.

Retreat to the family room for solace, relaxation, or entertainment. A wood burning fireplace with brick and stone surround serves as the focal point of the room, with neutral decor, ceiling fan and overhead lighting, and carpet flooring for comfort.

A dramatic second floor hallway with a skylight and custom ceiling provides a graceful introduction to the nicely laid out bedrooms.  The sophisticated master bedroom suite will feel as if you’re in your a four star resort every night, down to the wood burning fireplace and convenient dry butler with beverage fridge.  The large walk-in closet is sure to win over any shoe collector or fashion lover.  Enjoy a nice soak after a long day in your jacuzzi tub with separate shower in the master bathroom, complete with double vanity, dressing table, and plenty of storage. 

Additional bedrooms are both spacious and private, with view windows and ceiling fan lighting.  The accommodating guest bathrooms highlight neutral decor, tile flooring and a shower over tub with tile surround, as well as a convenient Jack and Jill bathroom.  
A spacious second floor laundry room offers a Bosch front loading washer and dryer, abundant cabinetry for linens and storage, as well as ample counter space for folding and ironing.

Until you’ve seen the finished basement, you haven’t seen it all.  The envy of the neighborhood, this space has been transformed into a home fitness center with acid treated and stained concrete, and combined entertainment room.  A full bathroom with glass enclosed shower is also conveniently located on this level.

Other details include an intercom system, Opus Hi-Fi surround sound, radiant heating, painted custom entry doors, security system, and insulation in all partitions and floors for peace and quiet through the home. Live comfortably in this ideal location, tucked away in the Lincoln Elementary School district, and walking distance to York Commons park and pool!

Is there anything more exciting than the first real weekend of (almost) guaranteed good weather in the Chicagoland area? The entire summer lies ahead of us - filled with plans of trips, backyard barbecues and community events. Memorial Day weekend is finally here and, you can be sure, there is no shortage of activities in and around the DuPage County and Elmhurst area. I cordially invite you to the variety of events going on this weekend. The hardest part will be choosing which one to attend…

A Nation Remembers
Where: Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, Illinois
When: Monday, May 31st at 11:30 AM
What: A patriotic program including military re-enactments, music including a special buglers’ taps presentation, and aerial flyovers. While you would normally have to be in our Nation’s capital to see the President deliver remarks, this year, President Obama, will be in town to deliver remarks to the people of Illinois. It’s no coincidence that he will also be spending a relaxing weekend with family and friends in his hometown, just like the rest of us.

The Elmhurst Memorial Day Parade
Where: Downtown Elmhurst, From 3rd Avenue to York Road
When: Monday, May 31st at 9 AM
What: Starting from Third Street, the parade will head south on York Street to Second Street, veer east along Robert Palmer Drive through the underpass and west back to York Street, south on York Street to Church Street, west on Church Street to Prospect Avenue and north on Prospect Avenue past the Veterans Memorial.
Click here for the Memorial Day Program

The 4th Annual Red, White and BBQ
Where: Westmont Park District’s Ty Warner Park in Westmont, Illinois which is in DuPage County
When: May 28-30, 2010
What: This event is jam-packed with things to do. The headline event is the BBQ competition itself. With over 50 BBQ competitors, winners will gain prizes and competition points to move forward to the next level of competition. A minimum of $8000 in cash and prizes will be awarded.  Other activities will include a carnival, food, crafts and other vendors, an entertainment tent, and an amateur BBQ contest, and a chili cook off. The event will be presented by the Westmont Lions Club and the Westmont Jaycees.

Decoration Day
Where: Forest Preserve District of DuPage County’s Kline Creek Farm
When: Sunday, May 30th, 9:00AM to 5:00PM.
What: Patriotic speeches and performances held at an 1890s living-history farm, in Winfield, Illinois.

Homecoming Celebration at St. James
Where: St. James Farm Forest Preserve, Winfield Road and Butterfield Road (Route 56), Warrenville, IL 60555
When: Saturday, May 29th 11:00AM - 5:00PM
What: Bring the family for a celebration of the heritage of a historic forest preserve featuring horse and riding demonstrations, hay-wagon and quail-cart rides, interpretive tours, a fine-art fair, children’s activities, recreation stations, live music, food and more. Admission is free. Fees for some activities.

Backyard BBQ
Where: Your House
When: All Weekend Long
What:  With all of that said and done, sometimes the best thing you can do to kick off the summer is gather together your friends and family, fire up the grill, and break in that back deck or porch for the years’ first backyard BBQ. It’s time to kick back a little and enjoy being at home.

If you’re looking for a home in Elmhurst or the DuPage County area, give us a call. We’d love to show you around. It’s already a beautiful community, but in the summer-time, Elmhurst is filled with life more than ever. It (almost) makes our job easy.

Tom and Maria
Gracik Makinney Real Estate Group
Phone: 630-617-6014
Email: Tom@MariaandTom.com | Maria@MariaandTom.com
www.mariaandtom.com
Our Featured Properties
Follow Us on Twitter

Welcome home to this fantastic two story abode in East End Elmhurst. Taken down to the foundation and rebuilt entirely four years ago, this well appointed home is like new and awaiting its new owners!

From the moment you enter, you'll notice an air of contemporary flair - from an open flexible floor plan with hardwood flooring, to the 10' ceilings and the abundance of glass throughout. There is room for every type of entertaining. A sun-lit living room, a cozy family room with gas log fireplace, and a lovely brick patio surrounded by professional landscaping for backyard barbecues. A brightly-lit open kitchen, complete with center island, stainless steel appliances and breakfast area, is sure to please the chef of the household.

The master bedroom suite is sleek and sophisticated with tray ceiling, custom built-in shelving, walk in closet and spa-like en suite bathroom featuring soaking tub and glass door shower.  For the perfect escape, the beautifully finished basement has endless possibilities. Fully carpeted, with recessed lighting and a full bathroom, it can easily be turned into a workout room, home theater or extra bedroom. On top of it all, this picture perfect home is only a mile from town and the train, and a mere block from public garden plots and east end park pool & lap lanes. What's not to love?