2004 was a spectacular year for Wiseman-Hughes. Terri Kotaska, Director of Sales for Wiseman-Hughes, lead her team to victory in 2004 by selling nearly 500 homes — no small feat in this competitive market. The training and knowledge of new and existing products, construction techniques, and the assortment of financing options available make the job of selling new homes even more challenging. So even if you are an experienced new home purchaser or someone who's thinking about buying a new home — we've got your answers right here — direct from the pro's!

When should I put my house on the market? A.    You are in the driver's seat here. Naturally, when you buy your home, we'll give you an estimated time frame when it will be completed. And, we always suggest you get your home listed as soon as your mortgage is approved. You and a qualified real estate agent should meet early on to discuss your neighborhood market and how quickly homes in your area sell. If you are in a hot area, you may want to take advantage of this and get your home listed and sold right away to get the best price. Temporary rental housing is typically available in the Chicago area and can give you time to be assured your home is sold and you have the funds you need to close on your new dream home. If you need any assistance at all, a Wiseman- Hughes sales professional direct you to the appropriate professional that can assist you in financing and selling your new home. How much do I need to put down? A.    That can vary depending upon how much cash you have available and how much mortgage payment you can afford. The rule of thumb: you'll need to put enough down so your monthly mortgage payment is less than 36% of your gross take home pay, including any car loans or credit card debt. But keep in mind, there are many creative financing alternatives that can help you to attain the home of your dreams. If you have a healthy salary and little debt, you may only need five percent down. Keep in mind that anything less than 20% down may require private mortgage insurance in some case. A Wiseman Hughes preferred lender can easily work with you to find the best financing program for your family. How do I choose from so many home sites? A.    It can be a bit daunting to select a home site, especially at the beginning of a new community when there's so much to choose. Some homeowners look for that specific and unique location: privacy, size, view, cul-de-sac, water feature, or even all of the above with a lookout or walkout basement! The additional costs in selecting a premium home site will enhance your lifestyle. So place a value on what is important to you in terms of needs—green thumb? Large yard for a play set? Southern exposure for light? Lookout or Walkout for when the basement is finished? Remember the old adage, Location, Location, Location–the value of our premium lots can make your dream home happen! There are so many options, how do I know which to choose? A.    Options, now that's the fun part of buying a new home. Before you select the options for your new home, do some research to discover what you like best. Browse through decorating magazines; tear out pages of rooms that make you feel good. Then, compare your style to places such as Pier I, Pottery Barn, Crate & Barrel, Restoration Hardware or Ralph Lauren. What style suits your character? Next, what kinds of colors are you drawn to, softer shades, earth tones or bold hues? You may also want to consider the future return on adding the option to your home. Upgraded kitchens and baths typically bring the best dollars at resale time. Lastly, bring these ideas along with samples of your favorite fabrics, window treatments, paint colors and swatches to your design appointment with our interior design professionals. Then, let Wiseman-Hughes "Make Home Happen!" How do I choose a builder when they all seem alike to me? A.    Be certain to research a builder's credibility and financial stability before you buy. Ask friends, current homeowners and the Better Business Bureau. And, be sure to check out a builder's warranty before you buy. It is not wise to take for granted that the builder will be there for you after the sale. Also, ask the builder what is covered under their warranty program. Reputable builders will cover workmanship, parts and labor for one to two years and the structural integrity of your home for ten years. Wiseman-Hughes has been a family-owned business for nearly 50 years. We know taking care of you is our most important job. But don't just take our word on it. Over 94% of our buyers would refer us! So, drive through any Wiseman-Hughes community, new or old, knock on a few doors and see for yourself how we "Make Home Happen" for hundreds of families just like yours everyday.