The Real Estate Ripple

Picture Perfect Sales: Why Professional Photography Pays Off for REALTORS® and Sellers - Plus Tips from the Pros!

In today’s episode, Christie and Joe dive into the world of real estate marketing with Corey Krakowski, co-founder of Vizimage Productions, LLC, a media company specializing in real estate photography, videography, and visual marketing tools.
Corey shares his expert insight on how professional photography can make or break a listing in today's digital-first real estate market. He explains that your photos are often the first — and sometimes only — chance to grab a buyer’s attention. Poor-quality images can cause even well-priced homes to be overlooked, while high-quality, professionally captured photos build trust, generate more foot traffic, and lead to faster and stronger offers.
Key Takeaways & Topics Covered:
Why Professional Photography Matters: First impressions are everything. Listings with dark, cluttered, or poorly framed images can turn off buyers before they ever schedule a showing. Professional images tell a clear story and spark emotional connections.
DIY vs. Professional Photos: Corey breaks down the difference between iPhone photos and pro shots — from lighting and color accuracy to framing and editing. He explains how professionals use high-end cameras, external lighting, and post-processing techniques to showcase a home's true potential.
Preparing a Home for Photos: REALTORS® and sellers must work together to clean, declutter, and stage the home. Corey shares what photographers look for, including turning off fans, putting down toilet seats, and creating flow in each room.
The Power of Virtual Staging: Empty homes are difficult to photograph well. Virtual staging adds warmth and imagination by digitally furnishing rooms to help buyers visualize how they could live in the space — all while being cost-effective and quick.
Timing & Turnaround:Quick turnaround is essential when delivering professional real estate photos so listings can be posted without delay. Even challenging conditions like rain or poor lighting don’t have to slow things down — blue skies can be digitally added, and trained photographers know how to work with any lighting to ensure consistent, high-quality results.
Behind-the-Scenes Moments:From clients mopping floors during a shoot to awkward moments with reluctant sellers, Corey shares a few humorous stories that highlight why preparation and professionalism matter.
Beyond Photos – Video & Social Media Content:Corey discusses how his company helps agents create short-form video content for platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. These videos keep REALTORS® top of mind and position them as professionals in their market. He also explains the benefits of listing videos, talking-head clips, and even teleprompter-assisted content sessions.
Final Thoughts:
Professional photography isn't just a luxury — it’s a necessity in today’s competitive real estate market. REALTORS® who consistently use high-quality visuals demonstrate value to their clients and elevate their personal brand. As Corey says, marketing works — and investing in great media is one of the smartest moves a REALTOR® can make.
Connect with Vizimage Productions, LLC:
Website & Booking: visimagerealestate.com
Instagram: https://www.facebook.com/Vizimage
Facebook: https://www.instagram.com/vizimage/
Phone: (815) 290-9690

Clear The Clutter: Expert Tips to Organize Your Home and Keep It That Way!

In this episode of The Real Estate Ripple, hosts Megan Wendtland and Christie Murawski, are joined by Kris Todd and Laura Cunningham from KAT Organizing & Relocation Solutions. Together, they dive into the emotional and practical sides of home organization—whether you’re staging a home to sell, helping aging loved ones transition, or just trying to reclaim your space. From 15-minute cleanups to hoarding support and senior move management, Kris and Laura share powerful, judgment-free guidance to help homeowners take control of their clutter and create more functional, peaceful environments.
Topics Covered:
The story behind KAT Organizing’s name and its family roots
Why organizing feels overwhelming—and how to overcome it
The “10-minute timer” trick for making progress every day
Creating sustainable systems for busy households
How to organize sentimental items (like kids’ schoolwork)
Key clutter zones and how to tame them (entryways, kitchen tables, stairs, etc.)
Affordable organizing tools: clear bins, duct tape, timers
Teaching kids life-long organizing habits
Organizing for real estate: prepping a home for sale without overwhelming the client
Working with hoarders: compassionate, specialized support
Senior move management and the value of NASMM accreditation
When to consider outside help—and how it can make all the difference
Kris & Laura’s Pro Tips:✅ Start small—drawers, one shelf, or 10 minutes at a time✅ Use a family calendar to manage chores and schedules✅ Declutter before a move to save time and money✅ Focus on what works for your family—not Instagram perfection✅ Celebrate small wins and build consistent routines
Where to find KAT Organizing & Relocation Solutions:    
Website: KAT Organizing & Relocation Solutions
Contact: KAT Organizing Contact
Kris Todd Email: kris@katorganizing.com
Phone: (708) 516-8418
 

Celebrating AANHPI Heritage Month with Cleo Aquino, President of the Greater Chicago Chapter of AREAA

Podcast Show Notes:
Episode Title:Celebrating AANHPI Heritage Month with Cleo Aquino of AREAA  
Episode Summary:Christy and Joe welcome Cleo Aquino, President of the Greater Chicago Chapter of the Asian Real Estate Association of America (AREAA), to discuss her personal and professional journey, the mission of AREAA, and the impact of advocacy in real estate. Cleo shares how AREAA advances sustainable homeownership, disaggregates critical data for better policymaking, and empowers first-time buyers through education. She also highlights upcoming social and fundraising events like the Dragon Boat Race and Swing for a Cause golf outing. Join us for an energizing conversation filled with community spirit, impactful initiatives, and leadership insights!
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
Cleo Aquino’s background and journey into real estate
The mission and national impact of AREAA
Key policy wins, including census data disaggregation and renters' credit programs
Why first-time homebuyer education is crucial, especially for immigrant communities
Exciting AREAA Chicago events coming in 2025
Resources Mentioned:
AREAA State of Asia Report - https://areaa.org/resource-asia-america-report
Join AREAA Chicago: Join AREAA - https://areaa.org/membership-registration
AREAA Member benefits: AREAA Member Benefits - https://areaa.org/benefits
Connect with AREAA Chicago:Email: ChicagoAREAA@gmail.comWebsite: https://areaa.org/greaterchicago
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Special Edition - Midland States Bank, Presenting Sponsor of The Three Rivers Home Expo!

In this special episode of The Real Estate Ripple, Joe and Christy sit down with Chris Marconi, a dedicated lender from Midland States Bank, the presenting sponsor of the upcoming Three Rivers Home Expo. Chris shares valuable insights on the current real estate market, tools and resources for buyers and sellers, and how Midland is supporting homeownership at every level.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
How Midland States Bank supports communities and fosters a positive internal culture.
Market trends affecting both buyers and sellers in 2025.
Details on programs like HomeReady, Home Possible, and a down payment assistance grant program through the Will County Center for Community Concerns (WC4).
Smart tips for first-time homebuyers navigating the mortgage process.
How bridge loans can help sellers transition smoothly into new homes.
What to expect at the Three Rivers Home Expo on April 26, including educational sessions, family activities, and opportunities to connect with experts.
Expo Highlights:
Breakout sessions on mortgages, home equity loans, and savings strategies
Vendor booths with home service professionals
Family-friendly activities: Home Depot projects, character visits, and more!
                           
                     
Midland States Bank                                                            Midland States Bank Mortgage Loan Officers
 
The Three Rivers Home Expo

The Home Improvement Series: The Importance of Pre-Listing Inspections with Scott Seaton of SLS Home Inspections.

The Real Estate Ripple
The Home Improvement Series: The Importance of Pre-Listing Inspections with Scott Seaton of SLS Home Improvement.
Hosts: Joe Medrano & Megan WendtlandGuest: Scott Seaton, former owner of SLS Home Inspection
Episode Summary:
Thinking about listing your home? Don’t miss this episode of The Real Estate Ripple as we sit down with longtime home inspector Scott Seaton of SLS Home Inspections. With over 6,000 inspections under his belt, Scott shares invaluable insights on what sellers (and agents) need to know before listing a property.
From structural damage hidden in attics to moldy crawl spaces, Scott breaks it all down using his famous “Cookies vs. Crumbs” analogy — helping you understand what’s a deal-breaker and what’s just a simple fix.
In This Episode:
Why pre-listing inspections can save sellers money, time, and deals
What to look for: Roof, attic, foundation, HVAC, plumbing, and more
The “cookie and crumb” approach to home issues
Common mistakes sellers make before going to market
How regular home maintenance prevents costly problems
Why even new construction should be inspected
What a pre-listing inspection typically costs and includes
Pro Tips for Sellers:
“Water always wins” — fix small leaks before they become big problems
Document your home’s condition with date-stamped photos
Don’t ignore the attic or crawl space — inspectors won’t!
🔗 Resources & Contact:
SLS Home Inspections                                    (815) 644-6271slshomeinspections.com24/7 Online Scheduling          
Thanks for Listening!
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