That’s the story of Unit 6 at 228 Main St in Decatur. A month ago it had worn-out carpet, a kitchen with a base cabinet that was literally falling apart, and appliances that had seen better decades. Today it has a new kitchen, a new bathroom, new floors, new lighting — and someone who calls it home.

Here’s how it got there.

First, Everything Had to Go

You can’t build a good apartment on top of a bad one. So the crew started by taking Unit 6 back to the basics: carpet and old flooring pulled up, cabinets and countertops torn out, the old toilet and garbage disposal removed. The old appliances were lined up by the dumpster to wait for a scrapper.

It’s the least glamorous part of the job. It’s also the part that makes everything after it last.

The Final Push, Day by Day

With the unit cleared, painted, and prepped, the last stretch moved fast. Straight from the crew’s own notes:

Day one. Kitchen ceiling and walls painted. New cabinets set. Countertops cut to fit, right there on site. Bathroom tile floor finished. The entryway into the kitchen and the back landing were leveled so the new floor would sit flat.

Day two. Every light fixture went up. The new toilet was set. The countertops were stained — twice, for a finish that holds up. The entryway flooring was finished, the kitchen floor was carried down the back steps, and the overhead vent went in above the range. Two trash runs kept the place clean.

Day three. Trim went around the floors. Doors went back on their hinges. Outlets and plugs were finished. And the stained countertops went in for good.

A walkthrough and punch list caught the small stuff, and a last round of baseboards, grout, caulk, and new door knobs closed it out.

What’s New in Unit 6

In the kitchen

• New cabinets and custom-cut, hand-stained countertops
• New oven, refrigerator, and dishwasher
• New faucet, sink strainer, and plumbing underneath
• Overhead vent above the range

In the bathroom

• New tile floor
• New toilet and faucet
• Fresh grout and caulk

Throughout

• New flooring and underlayment, front to back
• New light fixtures and a ceiling fan
• New outlets, cover plates, and updated breakers
• New smoke/fire alarms
• Patched drywall and fresh paint on walls and ceilings
• New baseboards, quarter round, and door knobs
• A leveled, refinished back landing and stairway

Why We Do It This Way

Unit 6 isn’t the only thing happening on this stretch of Main Street, either. A few doors down, the commercial spaces at 240 & 242 Main St are ready for their next businesses. New neighbors upstairs, new storefronts at street level — that’s how a block comes back.

Missed Out on Unit 6?

It’s taken, but it won’t be the last one. Browse what’s open on our Houses page, or send us an inquiry with your bedrooms, budget, move-in date, and pets — and we’ll tell you when the next freshly updated home is ready.

The post Inside the Unit 6 Renovation at 228 Main St appeared first on Quality Home Locator.

Property Highlights:

1. Spacious Layout:

Step inside and be greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. This home features a generous floor plan with 2 bedrooms and 1 bathrooms, providing ample space for family gatherings and entertaining guests.

2. Kitchen:

The heart of the home is undoubtedly the kitchen! Enjoy preparing meals in this well-appointed space, complete with .

3. Comfortable Living Areas:

The cozy living room offers a perfect spot to unwind after a long day, while the [mention any additional rooms, like a dining room or family room] provides versatile space for all your lifestyle needs.

4. Outdoor Oasis:

Step outside to discover your very own backyard retreat! The spacious yard is ideal for outdoor entertaining, gardening, or simply enjoying a peaceful evening under the stars.

5. Convenient Location:

Located in a friendly neighborhood, this home is just minutes away from local parks, schools, shopping centers, and dining options. You’ll appreciate the convenience of everything Decatur has to offer!

Why Decatur?

Decatur is known for its rich history, vibrant community, and a wide range of recreational activities. With its central location, residents have easy access to nearby cities while enjoying the warmth of small-town living.

Homes like this do not stay on the market for long! If you’re ready to make 2610 S Franklin St your new home, give us a call today to schedule a showing.

Experience comfort, convenience, and charm in one amazing package! We can’t wait for you to start your next chapter in this beautiful residence.

Contact Quality Home Locator at +1 800-967-0846 or quality@qualityhomelocator.com for more information!

Your dream home is just a visit away!

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1. Furniture:

– Bed frame and mattress: Make sure to check the size requirements for your rented space.
– Desk and chair: A comfortable workspace is essential for studying.
– Bookshelf: Keep your textbooks and study materials organized.

2. Electronics:

– Laptop: Your most important tool for college assignments.
– Phone charger: Don’t forget this essential item to stay connected.
– Power strip: With limited outlets in most rental spaces, a power strip will come in handy.
– Headphones: A good pair of headphones can help you concentrate in a noisy environment.

3. School Supplies:

– Pens, pencils, highlighters: Stock up on writing essentials.
– Notebooks and folders: Stay organized with a separate notebook for each subject.
– Calculator: Make sure to have a reliable calculator for math and science courses.

4. Organizational Supplies:

– Desk organizer: Keep your pens, pencils, and other supplies in one place.
– Planner: Stay on top of assignments and deadlines with a planner.
– Bulletin board: Use it to display important reminders and notes.

5. Kitchenware:

– Essential for storing and preparing food in your rented space.
– Dishes, utensils, and cookware: Stock up on the basics for meal preparation.
– Food storage containers: Keep leftovers fresh and organized.

6. Bathroom Essentials:

– Towels and washcloths: Have a few sets on hand for regular use.
– Toiletries: Shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, and other personal care items.

By following this ultimate college back-to-school renting checklist, you can ensure that you have all the necessary items for a comfortable and organized living space. As you prepare for the upcoming school year, make a list of these essential items and start stocking up on them before your move-in day. With the right supplies in hand, you’ll be ready to tackle your college courses with confidence and ease.

The post The Ultimate College Back to School Renting Checklist appeared first on Quality Home Locator.

Inside:

1. Declutter and donate:

Fall is a great time to go through your closets, drawers, and cabinets and get rid of items you no longer need or use. Consider donating gently used clothing, toys, and household items to a local charity or shelter.

2. Deep clean carpets and floors:

Before you start spending more time indoors, give your carpets and floors a thorough cleaning. Vacuum carpets and area rugs, mop hard floors, and steam clean carpets to remove built-up dirt and grime.

3. Clean windows and window treatments:

As the sunlight begins to decrease, make sure you’re still getting as much natural light as possible by cleaning your windows inside and out. Don’t forget to clean your window treatments as well, such as curtains and blinds, to remove dust and allergens.

4. Dust and sanitize high-touch surfaces:

With flu season approaching, it’s important to keep high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and countertops clean and sanitized. Use a disinfectant spray or wipes to kill germs and prevent the spread of illness.

Outside:

1. Clean gutters and downspouts:

As leaves begin to fall, it’s important to keep your gutters and downspouts clear of debris to prevent water damage to your home. Use a ladder and gloves to remove leaves and other buildup from gutters and downspouts.

2. Pressure wash siding and driveways:

Fall is a great time to give the exterior of your home a facelift by pressure washing siding, decks, driveways, and sidewalks. This will remove dirt, mold, and mildew that can accumulate over the summer months.

3. Trim trees and bushes:

Before winter arrives, trim back any overgrown trees and bushes that could potentially damage your home or property during a storm. This will also improve the overall appearance of your outdoor space.

4. Store outdoor furniture and equipment:

As the weather starts to cool down, it’s time to store outdoor furniture, cushions, and equipment like grills and lawnmowers in a safe and dry place. This will help prolong the life of your outdoor items and prevent damage from the elements.

By following these fall cleaning tips both inside and outside your home, you’ll be able to enjoy the season ahead in a clean and organized space. Happy cleaning!

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Start with a Budget:

Before you start searching for rental properties, it’s important to set a budget. Consider all of your expenses, including rent, utilities, groceries, and transportation costs. Make sure to factor in any extra costs, such as security deposits or application fees. Limiting your budget to a realistic amount will help you narrow down your options and avoid any financial strain.

Research the Area:

When looking for a rental property, it’s essential to research the neighborhood and surrounding area. Consider factors like safety, access to public transportation, proximity to campus, and the availability of amenities such as grocery stores, restaurants, and parks. Visiting the area in person and talking to current residents can give you a better sense of what it would be like to live there.

Know Your Rights as a Tenant:

As a renter, it’s crucial to understand your rights and responsibilities. Familiarize yourself with your state’s landlord-tenant laws and read through your lease agreement carefully before signing. Make sure you know who to contact in case of maintenance issues, how to handle security deposits, and what the process is for renewing or terminating your lease.

Inspect the Property:

Before moving in, thoroughly inspect the rental property for any existing damages or maintenance issues. Take note of any problems and make sure they are addressed by the landlord before signing the lease. Document the condition of the property with photos or videos to avoid any disputes over the security deposit when you move out.

Consider Roommates:

If you’re looking to reduce costs and enjoy living with others, consider finding roommates to share the rental expenses. Make sure to choose roommates who share similar lifestyle preferences and have a clear agreement in place regarding rent, utilities, chores, and other household responsibilities.

Renting your first college apartment can be an exciting experience, but it’s essential to approach it with caution and careful planning. By following these tips and being proactive, you can make the most out of your renting experience and create a comfortable home away from home during your college years. Good luck with your apartment search!

To get in touch with Quality Home Locator, visit our Facebook or find our contact information on our website.

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Living in a rental property can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it can also come with its own set of challenges. From managing your budget to dealing with household repairs, there are a lot of factors to consider when living in a rental property. To help you make the most of your time in your rental property, here is a ultimate guide to student living:

Budgeting:

One of the first things you should do when moving into a rental property is to create a budget. This will help you keep track of your expenses and ensure that you are able to pay your rent and utilities on time. Make sure to factor in costs such as groceries, transportation, and discretionary spending so you can avoid any financial stress.

Communication with your landlord:

It is important to establish a good line of communication with your landlord from the start. If you have any concerns or issues with the property, make sure to address them with your landlord in a timely manner. This will help to ensure a positive relationship and a smooth living experience. To get ahold of Quality Home Locator you can call 1 800-967-0846, email quality@qualityhomelocator.com or direct message us on Facebook!

Household maintenance:

As a tenant, you are responsible for maintaining the property and keeping it in good condition. This includes basic tasks such as cleaning, taking out the trash, and reporting any maintenance issues to your landlord. Keeping the property in good shape will not only make your living experience more enjoyable, but it will also help you secure your security deposit when you move out.

Personal safety:

Living on your own for the first time can be an exciting experience, but it is important to prioritize your personal safety. Make sure to lock your doors and windows, especially when you are not home. Additionally, consider investing in a renter’s insurance policy to protect your belongings in case of theft or damage.

Roommate dynamics:

If you are living with roommates, it is important to establish clear expectations and boundaries from the start. Make sure to communicate openly and respectfully with your roommates to resolve any conflicts that may arise. Remember that everyone has different living habits, so it is important to be flexible and understanding.

Overall, living in a rental property can be a rewarding experience as a student. By following these tips and staying organized, you can navigate life in your rental property with ease. Enjoy this exciting time in your life and make the most of your student living experience! To see what options Quality Home Locator has for student housing, reach out to team either on Facebook or our website.

The post Your Ultimate Guide to Student Living: Navigating Life in Our Rental Properties appeared first on Quality Home Locator.

1. Add personal touches:

One of the easiest ways to make your rental feel like home is to bring in items that are meaningful to you. This could be family photos, artwork, or mementos from your travels. Display these items throughout your home to give it a personal touch and make it feel more inviting.

2. Invest in quality furniture and home decor:

While it may be tempting to buy cheap and temporary furniture for your rental, investing in quality pieces can make a big difference in how your home feels. Look for furniture that is comfortable, functional, and fits your style. You can also add throw pillows, blankets, and rugs to add warmth and personality to your space.

3. Paint or wallpaper:

Many rentals have bland white walls that can feel cold and impersonal. If your landlord allows it, consider painting an accent wall or adding wallpaper to bring some color and texture to your space. Even a pop of color can make a big difference in how your home feels.

4. Bring in plants:

Adding plants to your home can help to bring in a sense of nature and tranquility. Whether you have a green thumb or not, there are many low-maintenance plants that are easy to care for and can brighten up your space. Consider adding a mix of succulents, ferns, and hanging plants to add life to your home.

5. Create a cozy nook:

Having a designated cozy nook where you can relax and unwind can make your rental feel more like home. This could be a reading corner with a comfortable chair and a good book, or a cozy window seat with throw pillows and blankets. Make sure to add soft lighting and a few personal touches to make it feel inviting.

6. Keep it clean and organized:

A cluttered and disorganized space can make it hard to feel at home. Take the time to declutter regularly and organize your belongings in a way that makes sense for your lifestyle. Invest in storage solutions like baskets, bins, and shelves to keep your space tidy and functional.

Overall, making your rental feel like home is all about creating a space that reflects your personality and style. With a little effort and creativity, you can transform your rental into a cozy and welcoming living space that feels like your own. At Quality Home Locator we want out tenants to feel like they are at home. To get in touch with us, visit our Facebook or find our contact information on our website.

The post Tips for Making Your Rental Feel Like Home appeared first on Quality Home Locator.

1. Secure outdoor items:

Before a storm arrives, make sure to secure any outdoor furniture, decorations, or equipment that could become projectiles in strong winds. Bring outdoor items inside or tie them down to prevent damage to your property and neighboring homes.

2. Create an emergency kit:

Put together an emergency kit with essential supplies such as non-perishable food, water, flashlights, batteries, first aid supplies, and important documents. Keep the kit in a designated, easily accessible area of your home in case of power outages or other emergencies.

3. Stay informed:

Stay informed about weather updates and evacuation orders by listening to local news, radio, or official sources. Follow any instructions from local authorities and be prepared to evacuate if necessary. Make sure your family has a communication plan in place in case you are separated during the storm.

For more content like this, follow Quality Home Locator on Facebook. You will find new listings and day-to-day content.

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1. Friday Night Street Fest:

Every Friday night from June to August, downtown Decatur comes alive with the Friday Night Street Fest. This event features live music, food vendors, and a beer garden, creating the perfect setting for a fun and laid-back evening with friends and family.

2. Macon County Fair:

Running for over 100 years, the Macon County Fair is a beloved tradition in Decatur. This annual event features carnival rides, livestock shows, live entertainment, and plenty of delicious fair food. It’s a great opportunity to experience the community spirit of Decatur and celebrate the agricultural heritage of the region.

3. Lakeshore Golf Course Summer Series:

Golf enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Lakeshore Golf Course Summer Series, a series of golf tournaments held throughout the summer months. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to improve your skills, these tournaments offer a fun and competitive atmosphere for golfers of all levels.

4. Decatur Arts Council Outdoor Arts Fair:

If you’re a fan of art and creativity, be sure to check out the Decatur Arts Council Outdoor Arts Fair. This event showcases the work of local and regional artists, offering a wide range of arts and crafts for sale. It’s a great opportunity to support local artists and add some unique pieces to your collection.

5. Red, White, and Blue Days:

Celebrate Independence Day in style at Decatur’s Red, White, and Blue Days event. This family-friendly festival features a parade, live music, a fireworks display, and plenty of patriotic activities for everyone to enjoy. It’s a great way to come together with the community and honor the nation’s founding.

With so many upcoming summer events on the horizon, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the summer in Decatur, Illinois. Whether you’re a music lover, foodie, sports enthusiast, or art aficionado, there’s something for everyone to explore and experience in this vibrant city. Be sure to mark your calendars and make the most of the summer season in Decatur! Any questions for us at Quality Home Locator? Check us out on Facebook and the rest of our website for updates!

The post Upcoming Summer Events in Decatur, IL appeared first on Quality Home Locator.

1. Make a plan:

Before you start cleaning, take some time to make a plan of what areas of your home you want to tackle first. It can be overwhelming to try and clean your entire house all at once, so breaking it down into smaller tasks can help make the process more manageable.

2. Declutter:

One of the most important steps in spring cleaning is decluttering your home. Go through each room and get rid of items that you no longer need or use. This can help free up space and make your home feel more organized. Consider donating or selling items that are in good condition but no longer serve a purpose for you.

3. Clean top to bottom:

Start cleaning from the top of each room and work your way down. This way, any dust or dirt that falls to the floor can be cleaned up last. Don’t forget to dust ceiling fans, window sills, and light fixtures.

4. Use natural cleaners:

Many store-bought cleaning products contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful to your health and the environment. Consider using natural cleaners like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice instead. They are just as effective at cleaning and are safer for your family.

5. Don’t forget about the small details:

While it’s important to clean the main areas of your home, don’t forget about the small details like baseboards, door handles, and light switches. These areas can often be overlooked but can collect a lot of dust and grime.

6. Get the whole family involved:

Spring cleaning doesn’t have to be a solo task. Get the whole family involved and make it a fun and productive activity. Assign tasks to each family member and work together to get your home sparkling clean.

Spring cleaning can be a daunting task, but with these 6 necessary tips and tricks, you can make the process easier and more enjoyable. Happy cleaning!

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