Debbie Krone, Realtor/LW Reedy

Turns out, I’ve been stalking houses my whole life!

Many years ago I took this quiz by one of my favorite bloggers, Julia Sweeten, of “Hooked on Houses”:
http://hookedonhouses.net/are-you-hooked/

I answered nearly every question with a resounding “Yes!” In hindsight, I realized that I have been hooked on houses for as long as I can remember.

Growing up in Elmhurst, my curfew was dusk, and it proved to be the perfect opportunity to make my way home through the older neighborhoods. Perfect, because I could see inside the houses! — after people had turned their lights on, but before they had closed the curtains.

When I started my first career (in graphic arts) at my hometown newspaper, I truly enjoyed typesetting copy for the real estate section. I’d make plans to go to an open house or two each weekend, just for fun! The internet changed all that. Checking real estate listings online became a habit, even though I was not planning on moving.

Our first house was a fixer upper. My husband and I still refer to those days as “old house college.” We’ve been in our current home in Villa Park for over 25 years, but I doubt it will ever be “finished.” Our daughters aren’t surprised when they come home to find I’ve moved all the furniture or new paint samples are taped to the dining room wall. I’m always dreaming of updates.

I’d love to put my enthusiasm for houses to work for you. Whether you’re starting out, moving up, or downsizing — I’d be honored to help you with the place you call home.

(photo: the house I was raised in.)