The Value of Representation in Today’s Real Estate Market
(Content adapted with permission from Illinois REALTORS®)
The landscape of buying a home is evolving quickly. With so many moving parts, working with a trusted REALTOR® gives today’s buyers a vital edge. REALTORS® have the training, skills, and local expertise to guide clients every step of the way—offering transparency, trust, and advocacy throughout the entire homebuying journey.
Here’s how a REALTOR® supports buyers from the very first conversation to the final handshake at the closing table:
We explain representation—including legal requirements, agency agreements, and the REALTOR® Code of Ethics.
We break down how agent compensation works—who pays it and what your options are.
We educate buyers on fair housing laws—at both state and federal levels.
We connect buyers with trusted mortgage professionals—so you can qualify with confidence.
We analyze current market conditions—including inventory and price trends in your target area.
We stay focused on your goals and budget—matching you with homes that truly fit.
We monitor new listings in real time—and schedule tours quickly.
We leverage our network—tapping into off-market opportunities through colleagues, friends, and family.
We share hyper-local insight—covering neighborhoods, schools, zoning, crime statistics, and more.
We clarify additional costs—like property taxes, HOA fees, and utility expenses.
We disclose known property defects—so there are no surprises later.
We walk you through a sample contract—so you’re ready when it’s time to make an offer.
We prepare a custom market analysis—to craft a competitive and strategic offer.
We explain contingencies and protections—to keep your best interests front and center.
We guide you through inspections—including environmental issues, roof condition, and potential mold.
We negotiate repairs and credits—based on the inspection findings.
We explain insurance needs—from flood and title insurance to homeowner’s coverage.
We handle logistics with your attorney—ordering appraisals, title searches, and surveys when needed.
We review closing documents—alongside your attorney to ensure accuracy.
We advocate for you every step of the way—celebrating with you when you receive the keys to your new home.
And even after closing—we’re still here for you. Whether you have questions, need recommendations, or just want to check in, your journey with us doesn’t end at the closing table.
A REALTOR® is more than a tour guide or paperwork handler—they are your advisor, your problem-solver, and your strongest advocate. When you’re buying a home, having a seasoned professional in your corner can make all the difference.
Adapted from resources provided by Illinois REALTORS®.
We worked with Dave & Candy Goddard to purchase our home, and honestly, we couldn’t have asked for better agents. They are incredibly knowledgeable about the market and helped us understand what to look for beyond just the basics. Dave took the time to inspect each property during showings like a pro, pointing out things we wouldn’t have noticed and giving honest feedback, which we really appreciated.
Throughout the process, they were patient, responsive, and genuinely supportive. It felt like they were guiding us every step of the way, not just trying to close a deal. Their professionalism stood out, but they were also warm and approachable, which made the whole experience less stressful and more enjoyable.
They went above and beyond for us, and we’re truly grateful. If you’re looking for agents who actaully know what they are doing, Dave & Candy are it.
I've had the pleasure of knowing Candy and Dave for over 15 years, and I can confidently say they are one of the most trustworthy and knowledgeable real estate professionals I’ve ever worked with.
Most recently, they helped me with the purchase of my new home, and I couldn't be more grateful for their guidance and support throughout the entire process.
If you're looking for agents who are knowledgeable and treat you like family, I'd highly recommend Candy and Dave.
Candy and Dave were excellent. Very well prepared, full of knowledge, communication was outstanding. Would highly recommend them. They sold our home in no time & got us a higher price than what we asked!!!
Dave and Candy have been our agents for years! They have helped my husband and I buy and sell through every stage of our life. They’re always incredibly responsive and knowledgeable. When working with Dave and Candy you truly feel like they’re always looking out for your best interest. They are the only ones we will ever trust with our home buying and selling needs. Thanks again for everything you’ve always done for us Dave and Candy!
Very responsive- answered weekend calls immediately! Knowledgeable about the property, location and came prepared to answer all of questions and informed us on how to best list the property for sale. Entire process was seamless- will definitely use again! Thank you Candy & Dave!
From start to finish, Dave and Candy Goddard made selling our family’s home very easy. On our initial meeting they were able to answers all of our questions and concerns and saved us time by doing their due diligence prior to meeting us. A very professional team and highly recommend them.
Dave and Candy were very helpful and knowledgeable about the market and kept us informed of details. They went above and beyond in giving us advice to get the condo ready for sale. After being on the market for a few months, they suggested some additional improvements and the unit sold within 1 week. We appreciate their knowledge and encouragement.
Presenting a rarely available gem, this stunning top-floor 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom residence is located in one of the most sought-after buildings in the area. This unique opportunity offers penthouse-level privacy, generous living space, two heated garage spaces, and an impressive array of lifestyle amenities.
Ideally situated just two blocks from the Metra station and mere moments from Downtown Downers Grove, you’ll enjoy easy access to a vibrant community filled with restaurants, cafes, boutique shopping, and the iconic Tivoli Theatre. The location couldn’t be better!
Spanning an impressive 1,660 sq ft, this open-concept home features soaring 10-ft ceilings, elegant crown molding, recessed lighting, and beautiful hardwood flooring throughout the main living areas, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The bedrooms are adorned with new luxury vinyl tile, offering a cozy touch.
The expansive great room serves as the heart of the home, perfect for dining, lounging, and entertaining family and friends. The chef’s kitchen is a culinary delight, boasting granite countertops, abundant cabinetry with soft-close drawers, under-cabinet lighting, a stylish tile backsplash, stainless-steel appliances, and a generous breakfast bar for casual meals and conversation.
Both bathrooms are tastefully appointed with granite-topped vanities and designer fixtures, providing a touch of luxury. Your serene primary suite offers a private escape, complete with double vanities, an oversized 5′ x 3.5′ tiled walk-in shower, and a dream L-shaped walk-in closet with exceptional storage space.
This home boasts thoughtful upgrades, including solid white 2-panel doors, Pella triple-pane windows for superior sound control and energy efficiency, and Hunter Douglas Silhouette blinds for tasteful light diffusion and privacy. A true laundry room with a sink and added storage makes laundry day simple and discreet.
Step out onto your private north/east-facing 13′ x 9′ patio—a perfect spot for enjoying peaceful summer sunrises, sipping morning coffee, or indulging in a good book.
The building itself is packed with amenities designed for convenient, carefree living. Enjoy a golf putting room right outside your door for a quick practice session, a large party/gathering room for celebrations, a game room complete with ping pong and pool tables, cozy lounge areas, and an on-site fitness room to keep you active.
With two heated garage spaces and a large storage room just steps from your unit, this exceptional package is a rare find! Opportunities like this don’t come around often—experience the tranquility of top-floor living with premium finishes, enviable sound and energy performance, and a long list of amenities in a walk-to-everything location.
If you’ve been waiting for a standout home in a premier building near the train and downtown, this is the one for you! Priced at only $594,896, don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity—contact us today to schedule your private tour!
Discover Your Dream Home in Elizabeth Park! Step into this charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath townhome featuring a convenient 1-car garage and a stunning patio—perfect for your morning coffee or evening relaxation. Nestled in the highly sought-after Elizabeth Park subdivision, this meticulously maintained Avon model is ideally located on a serene dead-end street, offering the perfect blend of comfort and tranquility, all while being surrounded by nature.
As you enter, you’ll be greeted by a spacious living room adorned with a cozy brick fireplace, creating a warm ambiance for gatherings. The living space flows seamlessly to a peaceful courtyard through a sliding glass door, while the kitchen boasts another sliding glass door that invites abundant natural light, making indoor-outdoor living effortless.
Enjoy the elegance of new luxury vinyl plank flooring that runs throughout the home, perfectly complementing the beautifully updated bathroom with modern finishes. The generous primary suite features a large walk-in closet and direct access to the updated Jack and Jill bath, providing both privacy and convenience for guests.
Additional highlights include an in-unit laundry room equipped with a side-by-side washer and dryer, a utility sink, and extra storage space. Plus, your secure one-car garage offers even more room for your belongings, making everyday living a breeze.
Elizabeth Park is a community like no other, bordered by the scenic Maple Meadows Golf Club on two sides, providing an idyllic backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy the nearby Brookwood Park, featuring a playground, soccer field, and tennis courts, or take advantage of the endless walking trails at the Salt Creek Forest Preserve.
This move-in ready home perfectly combines an updated interior with a desirable community setting designed for relaxation and recreation. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity for only $249,896!
Contact Dave Candy today to schedule your private showing and make this beautiful townhome your own!
🌟 Don’t miss your chance to own this charming split-level home, featuring 3 spacious bedrooms, 2 full baths, and a rare 2.5 car garage! Meticulously cared for by its original owner, this home is ready for its next chapter.
Step inside to discover dramatic vaulted ceilings, exposed beams, and a sunlit bow window that create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The kitchen is a chef’s dream with a gas cooktop, built-in oven, and plenty of cabinetry—perfect for hosting or everyday meals! Hidden hardwood flooring beneath the carpet in the living room and bedrooms offers instant equity for savvy buyers.
The lower level features a versatile family room, full bath, laundry, and ample storage. Enjoy a beautifully landscaped, fully fenced yard and an oversized garage—ideal for car enthusiasts or extra storage.
Recent updates include a new water heater (2022) and furnace (2024) for your peace of mind. Conveniently located near parks, schools, shopping, and the expressway, this move-in ready home has solid bones and incredible potential! Act fast—this gem is listed at just $399,896! Contact Dave or Candy today for a showing! 🏡✨
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