income tax

Things to Do Now to Prepare for Tax Season (And Snag Last-Minute Deductions for 2025)

Tax season has a way of sneaking up on even the most organized adults. One minute you are ringing in the New Year, the next minute you are wondering why you own seven different folders labeled “tax stuff.” The good news is that a little prep right now can save you real money, real stress, and possibly a dramatic late-night receipt hunt in April.

Let’s walk through what you should do now to prepare for tax season, plus some legitimate last-minute deductions you can still take for the 2025 tax year. Knowledgeable, practical, and yes… a little witty, because taxes need all the help they can get.

Step One: Get Your Tax Life Organized (Future You Will Thank You)

Before deductions and credits, start with the basics. Organization is the least exciting step, but it is the foundation of everything else.

Do this now:

  • Gather income documents like W-2s, 1099s, and investment statements.
  • Create one digital folder and one physical folder. Label them clearly. Boring works.
  • Track major life changes, marriage, divorce, new baby, home purchase, sale, or relocation.

If you bought or sold a home, refinanced, or made improvements, pull closing statements and receipts. Housing related deductions are often missed simply because paperwork is scattered.

Pro tip: If you cannot find a document in under 30 seconds, your system needs improvement.

Step Two: Check Your Withholding Before It Is Too Late

Many people assume taxes are purely reactive. They are not.

If you had a major income change in 2024 or early 2025, you may want to review your withholding now. Adjusting it early in the year can help you avoid a surprise bill next April or reduce how much you overpay.

According to Internal Revenue Service guidance, even small withholding changes can make a meaningful difference over the course of the year.

This step is especially important if you:

  • Changed jobs
  • Started freelancing or a side business
  • Sold investments
  • Bought or sold real estate

Step Three: Last-Minute Deductions You Can Still Take for 2025

Yes, there are still smart moves you can make that count for the 2025 tax year. These are completely legal and often underused.

1. Retirement Contributions

You can still contribute to certain retirement accounts up until the tax filing deadline.

Common options include:

  • Traditional IRA contributions
  • Spousal IRA contributions if one spouse does not work

These contributions may reduce your taxable income while also helping future you retire with slightly better snacks.

2. Health Savings Account Contributions

If you have a qualifying high-deductible health plan, make sure you contribute to a Health Savings Account in 2026 - and don’t forget to use those funds!

HSAs offer a rare triple benefit:

  • Contributions may be tax deductible
  • Growth is tax deferred
  • Qualified withdrawals are tax free

That is tax efficiency with a cape.

3. Home Office Deduction (If You Actually Qualify)

If you are self-employed and use part of your home exclusively and regularly for business, this deduction may apply.

This includes:

  • A percentage of mortgage interest or rent
  • Utilities
  • Internet
  • Repairs related to the workspace

No, your couch does not count unless it is truly your office and not also where Netflix lives.

4. Energy-Efficient Home Improvements

If you installed qualifying energy-efficient upgrades, such as certain windows, insulation, or HVAC systems, you may qualify for tax credits.

Save invoices, product certifications, and installation dates. These credits can be meaningful and are often overlooked.

5. Charitable Contributions

Cash donations are the obvious one, but also consider:

  • Non-cash donations like clothing or furniture
  • Mileage driven for charitable activities
  • Appreciated assets donated directly

Just make sure you have proper documentation. The IRS enjoys paperwork almost as much as it enjoys acronyms.

Step Four: Review Housing-Related Tax Items Carefully

Real estate transactions often create tax opportunities or obligations people miss.

If you bought a home:

  • Mortgage is NOT deductible in 2025, but will be in 2026.
  • Property taxes are deductible on your federal income tax return, but only if you itemize your deductions and adhere to the total annual cap on state and local taxes (SALT). 
  • Points paid at closing may be deductible. However, the deduction is subject to specific IRS rules and depends on whether you itemize deductions on your tax return. The rules for deducting points vary depending on the purpose of the loan (purchase vs. refinance) and the property type (main home vs. second home). 

 

 

If you sold a home:

  • You may qualify for capital gains exclusions
  • Improvements can affect your cost basis
  • Timing matters more than most people realize

This is one area where guessing is expensive. Precision pays.

Step Five: Decide If You Should DIY or Call a Pro

Some tax situations are simple. Others look simple until they are not.

Consider professional help if you:

  • Own investment property
  • Are self-employed
  • Had multiple income streams
  • Bought or sold real estate
  • Want to optimize, not just file

A good tax professional does not just fill out forms. They help you think ahead so next year is easier.

Final Thoughts: A Little Planning Goes a Long Way

Preparing for tax season does not require panic, spreadsheets from the dark web, or cancelling all joy until April. It requires awareness, organization, and a few strategic moves made early.

The reward: fewer surprises, lower stress, and potentially more money staying where it belongs… with you.

If your tax situation involves a recent move, a home purchase, a sale, or plans for the year ahead, those decisions ripple into your financial picture. Getting the right guidance early makes everything smoother.

And remember, the best tax strategy is the one you actually implement.

Hi friends,

If you’re craving a little holiday magic — the kind that makes you roll the window down, turn up the Bing Crosby, and forget that you’re still in Northwest Indiana traffic — I’ve got you. I scouted the top Christmas light displays within 45 minutes of Highland so you can skip the guesswork and get straight to the sparkle.

Here are the Top 5 Holiday Light Experiences worth bundling up for:

Winter WonderLights — Merrillville, IN

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4
  • Location: 7595 E Lincoln Hwy, Merrillville, IN (about ~15–20 min drive from Highland 46321). NITDC+2Groupon+2

  • Best nights to go: Sunday–Thursday evenings (5:30–9:00 PM), Friday & Saturday (5:30–9:30 PM). On Dec 24 & 25 hours may vary (e.g. earlier closing). NITDC+1

  • Cost: ~ $30–$34 per vehicle online (subject to change) for a “General Admission Vehicle.” Groupon+1

  • Parking / Tips: It’s a drive-thru show — you view from your car, so parking isn’t complicated (just follow their entrance directions). Shows are weather dependent; check their website or social-media before heading out. Winter WonderLights+1

  • Why it’s worth it: It’s a quick, easy, weather-friendly drive-through — over half a mile of festive lights, tunnels, giant characters, and synchronized holiday music. Great if you want a stress-free, family friendly light show close to home. Winter WonderLights+1


Michigan City Festival of Lights — Washington Park, Michigan City, IN

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  • Location: Washington Park (“6 on the Lake”), Michigan City, IN 46360. Visit Michigan City La Porte+1

  • Best nights to go: The light display runs nightly — from December 6, 2025 through January 3, 2026, roughly from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Visit Michigan City La Porte+295.1 FM/AM 1420 WIMS Radio+2

  • Cost: Free admission (donations may be welcome). NITDC+1

  • Parking / Tips: Since it’s a drive-through / park-drive setup, arrive early (especially on weekends) to avoid traffic. Weeknights may be less crowded and more enjoyable. Car radios or hot cocoa make it cozy.

  • Why it’s worth it: According to local sources, it’s “the largest free drive-through light exhibit in the Midwest” — millions of bulbs, dozens of displays, and a beautiful lakeside park setting. It’s perfect for a low-cost, memorable holiday outing. PanoramaNOW Entertainment News+2Visit Michigan City La Porte+2


Christmas Tyme Lights — Harvest Tyme Family Farm

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  • Location: 17904 Grant St, Lowell, IN (about 25–30 min drive from Highland 46321). christmas.harvesttymefun.com

  • Best nights to go: Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, plus Monday Dec 22 and Tuesday Dec 23 — from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. christmas.harvesttymefun.com

  • Cost: ~ $9.99–$10.95 per person (online price). Kids under 3 are free. christmas.harvesttymefun.com

  • Parking / Tips: Parking is free. Since this is a walk-through (not drive-through), wear good shoes and dress warmly — you’ll stroll a lighted trail of more than a mile. Consider hot cocoa, marshmallows, or s’mores (they often have campfires and treats). christmas.harvesttymefun.com

  • Why it’s worth it: It’s a cozy, family-friendly walk through a magical, lighted trail — a nice contrast to drive-through displays. Campfires, cookies, character meet-ups, and peaceful walking make it ideal for a more intimate holiday evening rather than a quick drive. christmas.harvesttymefun.com


Light Up McKinley — Crown Point / Crown Point area, IN

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  • Location: 9824 McKinley St, Crown Point, IN 46307 (about ~25–35 min drive from Highland). Tacky Light Tour+1

  • Best nights to go: Typically every night through late December — check local “tacky-light” tour guides for exact dates yearly. Tacky Light Tour+1

  • Cost: Free (private home / neighborhood display) — no formal admission. Tacky Light Tour+1

  • Parking / Tips: Street-side viewing. Try to park a block or two away if the street is narrow or crowded to avoid blocking the view or traffic. Go earlier in the evening to avoid heavy traffic or blocked driveways.

  • Why it’s worth it: Sometimes the best light shows aren’t big productions — just creativity, neighborhood holiday spirit, and classic Christmas charm. Light Up McKinley is frequently listed among the “jaw-dropping” house displays in the area for its festive décor and community vibe. Tacky Light Tour+1


Bozak Family Christmas Lights — Burns Harbor, IN

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  • Location: 259 Lake Park Rd, Burns Harbor, IN 46304 (about 30–40 min drive from Highland, depending on route). Tacky Light Tour+1

  • Best nights to go: Through December / early January — neighborhood light sites often stay up all season. Tacky Light Tour+1

  • Cost: Free (private home / neighborhood display). Tacky Light Tour+1

  • Parking / Tips: Street-side viewing. Be respectful of neighbors — park so you’re not blocking driveways, and avoid loud music. As it's a residential area, go earlier in the evening to avoid congestion and ensure a good view.

  • Why it’s worth it: According to local listings, this is one of the top 10 light displays near Crown Point — a great “hidden gem” if you want a low-cost, low-stress outing with real neighborhood charm rather than a big-ticket spectacle. Tacky Light Tour+1


🔎 Quick Notes & How I Picked Them

  • I prioritized displays within roughly a 30–45 minute driving radius from Highland 46321, considering typical traffic in Northwest Indiana.

  • I included different styles of displays — drive-thru, walk-through, and neighborhood home displays — so you (or your family) can pick based on what vibe you want (easy drive, scenic walk, or casual stroll).

  • I checked 2025 availability when possible and double-checked that these are real, operational shows — not “maybe coming back” or rumors.

closing-agent-vs-title-company

Buying or selling a home is a big deal — and not just because you’re signing enough paperwork to qualify for a hand massage afterward. Behind the scenes, there’s a powerhouse working to make sure your transaction actually sticks once the ink dries: your title company.

If you’ve ever wondered what a title company really does, pull up a chair. This is one part of the real estate process you definitely want on your radar.


What Exactly Is a Title Company?

Think of a title company as the referee, detective, historian, insurance provider, money-mover, and closing-day traffic controller of the entire transaction.

Their job is to make sure the property you’re buying (or selling) has a clean past, a smooth present, and no surprises lurking in the future.


What The Title Company Does Behind the Scenes

Here’s the short list — trust me, they’re doing a lot more than you ever see at the closing table.

🔍 1. They Investigate the Property’s Past

The title company digs into public records to make sure the title is free and clear. This search can uncover:

  • Old unpaid mortgages

  • Liens or judgments

  • Boundary disputes

  • Unknown heirs or prior owners

  • Clerical errors from decades ago

Basically, they make sure nobody can come knocking saying, “Hey, that’s my property.”

🛡️ 2. They Protect You With Title Insurance

Once the research is complete, the title company issues title insurance — a one-time purchase that protects you from future legal claims or mistakes that weren’t found in the file.

It’s the kind of protection you hope you never need but will be grateful for if anything unexpected pops up later.

💼 3. They Prepare and Organize All the Closing Documents

Every sheet of paper you sign? The title company helps draft it, verify it, and coordinate it. They’re the paperwork pros keeping everything in compliance and on schedule.

💰 4. They Handle All the Money

From earnest money to loan funds to seller proceeds, the title company manages the transfer of every dollar.
They act as a neutral third party so everyone gets paid exactly what they’re owed — no drama, no confusion.

🖋️ 5. They Facilitate the Closing

On closing day, they’re the ones guiding you through every signature. They make the final exchange smooth, secure, and dare I say… surprisingly painless.

📜 6. They Record Everything With the County

Once the property transfers, the title company makes it official by recording deeds and documents with the county. You walk away legally owning (or selling) the home — no loose ends, no guesswork.


Why I Choose Barrister Title for My Clients

After years in Northwest Indiana real estate, I don’t leave something as important as title work to chance. Barrister Title is trustworthy, thorough, and incredibly client-friendly — the combo you want when your biggest asset is on the line.  HERE is my video that explains more about the role of a title company in a real estate closing.

Their process is streamlined, their communication is strong, and their attention to detail is exactly what keeps closings running smoothly.


Thinking About Buying or Selling? Let’s Make It Seamless.

A great title company is essential — and so is a great agent. If you’re planning a move in Northwest Indiana, I’ll walk you through the entire process and connect you with trusted partners like Barrister Title who keep everything on track.

Ready to get started? Call or text me anytime. Let’s make your next move the smoothest one yet.

schoops burger

If you’ve been flirting with the idea of selling in early 2026, consider this your sign from the real estate universe — delivered with a side of fries.

From now until December 31st, 2025, when you sign a listing contract with me for a Q1 2026 sale, you’ll score a YEAR’S SUPPLY of Schoop’s world-famous burgers/Highland, IN location only. That's two burgers a month for all of 2026. Value - $250!

Bragging rights? Of course.

Unlimited Calories? That’s between you and your treadmill.

Now, let’s talk about why I’m doing this besides the fact that I love a good burger incentive.

Why Q1 2026 Sellers Win

The early-year market tends to be downright magical for:

  • Empty nesters wanting a simpler layout and lower maintenance.

  • Growing families who suddenly need more square footage than their sanity will allow.

  • Anyone who wants a head start on the spring rush.

Listing in Q1 means:

  • More motivated buyers.

  • Less competition.

  • Faster timelines.

  • And yes — burgers. Lots of burgers.

Why This Promo Makes Sense

Let’s be honest. Moving is a hassle, even when it’s the right move. Sometimes you just need a little push… or a perfectly smashed Schoop’s patty with melty cheese and grilled onions whispering: “It’s time.”

This deal is unlimited, so whether it’s you, your neighbor, or your cousin who’s still complaining about their kitchen from 1998 — everyone can get in on it as long as paperwork is signed by December 31st, 2025.

How to Claim Your Burgers

Simple:

  1. Contact me.

  2. We meet, we plan, we sign.

  3. You get a $250 Schoop’s Burger credit once your home hits the market.

  4. You walk into 2026 already winning.

Ready to make a move with a delicious head start?
I’ve got the strategy. You bring the appetite.

Let’s talk.
I’ll help you list with confidence — and celebrate with a burger on me.

Screenshot
Thanksgiving dinner. Roasted turkey garnished with cranberries on a rustic style table decoraded with pumpkins, vegetables, pie, flowers and candles

If you’re anything like the rest of us, Thanksgiving has a funny way of sneaking up right when you swore you were ahead of schedule. Suddenly you’re staring at a grocery list with panic in your eyes, wondering why you didn’t buy the rolls yesterday or whether brining a turkey is a personality test.

Good news: Northwest Indiana has your back. And so do I.

Here are my top picks for grabbing those forgotten Thanksgiving essentials — the places that will keep your holiday humming along without you needing to sprint down a supermarket aisle like you’re on a game show.


🌽 For Last-Minute Produce & Fresh Veggies

Strack & Van Til – Munster, Highland, Crown Point

When in doubt, Strack’s never fails. Need celery, herbs, potatoes, or a pumpkin pie you can absolutely pretend is homemade? They’ve got it. Their produce section stays well-stocked even during the Thanksgiving rush.

Local Farmers Markets (Yes, even now!)

You can still catch fall produce at spots like Evan's Farmer's Market in Merrillvile. Fresh, local veggies always level up your dishes — and your bragging rights.


🥖 For Bakery Items You Forgot You Promised to Bring

Butterfingers Bakery – Munster, Highland, Crown Point

Dinner rolls, pies, cookies… honestly, this place is a lifesaver. Their pumpkin rolls and pecan pies disappear fast, so go early-ish.

Calumet Bakery – Lansing, IL

The classics, done right. If you need a last-minute dessert for a crowd, this is a power move.


🍗 For the Big Stuff (Turkey, Ham & All the Fixings)

Howard & Sons – Munster

If you’re the “I want quality, not chaos” type, head here for meats and specialty items. They usually still have turkeys, spiral hams, and great customer service that won’t make you want to cry into your shopping cart.

Jewel-Osco – Munster, Dyer, Crown Point

Great for grabbing whatever you forgot — gravy, stuffing mix, cranberry sauce, the emergency bottle of wine… or the second emergency bottle of wine. No judgment.


🌻 For Flowers, Centerpieces & Table Decor

Willow Blooms – Highland

Simple bouquets, elegant arrangements, or a last-minute centerpiece that makes it look like you’ve had it together all week.

Strack’s Floral Section

Surprisingly lovely options, especially if you only have 10 minutes before guests arrive.


☕ For Caffeine (Because We All Know Why You Need It)

Sip Coffee House – Highland

Swing by for a latte and grab a bag of beans to keep you fueled during the feast-prep marathon.

Smalltown Coffee Company – Crown Point

Worth the drive if you want a cozy atmosphere and pastries that magically disappear before you get home.


Final Tip: Give Yourself Grace — Everyone Forgets Something

Thanksgiving isn’t about perfection. It’s about good food, great company, and maybe burning one side of the rolls. (It’s tradition at this point.)

If you need local recommendations — grocery, contractors, or even which neighborhoods are hottest before the New Year market kicks off — I’m your girl. Just reach out!

Happy Thanksgiving, Northwest Indiana. And may your gravy be smooth and your turkey be juicy. 🦃✨

DIY repairs

Owning a home is one of life’s biggest joys — right up there with a good cup of coffee and your favorite playlist on a Saturday morning. But let’s be real: homes need care. They don’t come with a “set it and forget it” button.

Before you panic about your DIY skills (or lack thereof), I’ve got good news: you don’t need to be Chip Gaines to handle the basics. Here are 10 home repairs every homeowner should know how to do themselves — simple, satisfying, and wallet-saving.


1️⃣ Stop a Running Toilet

That constant trickling sound isn’t just annoying — it’s money going down the drain. Usually, a new flapper or a quick chain adjustment in the tank fixes it. Five minutes, one YouTube video, done.


2️⃣ Unclog a Drain

Skip the harsh chemicals. Try a plunger or a $5 drain snake first. You’ll feel like a superhero when that water finally swirls away.


3️⃣ Patch a Nail Hole

Got walls that look like they’ve been through a dart competition? A dab of spackle, a quick sand, and a touch of paint — good as new.


4️⃣ Reset a Tripped Circuit Breaker

The lights went out in one room? Don’t panic. Head to your breaker box and look for the switch that’s halfway between “on” and “off.” Flip it fully off, then back on again. Boom — power restored.


5️⃣ Change a Furnace Filter

It takes less than two minutes, costs less than a latte, and keeps your HVAC running efficiently. Set a reminder every 3 months and thank yourself later.


6️⃣ Silence a Squeaky Door

A little WD-40 (or even cooking spray in a pinch) will hush that haunted-house vibe instantly. Bonus: no more waking the whole house when you go for a midnight snack.


7️⃣ Fix a Leaky Faucet

That “drip… drip… drip…” sound isn’t background noise — it’s your water bill climbing. Usually, it’s just a worn-out washer or cartridge you can swap in under 15 minutes.


8️⃣ Clean Your Gutters

No one wants to do this one, but clogged gutters lead to water damage and foundation issues. Grab gloves, a ladder, and a trash bag — or if heights aren’t your thing, scroll down to my CTA 👇


9️⃣ Re-Caulk a Bathtub or Sink

Old caulk gets grimy and cracked. Remove the old stuff, apply a fresh bead, and smooth it out with your finger (or an ice cube). It’s like giving your bathroom a mini facelift.


🔟 Replace a Light Fixture

Turn off the breaker first (safety first, folks!). Then swap that dated “boob light” for something modern. It’s one of the easiest and most satisfying updates you can make.


💡 The Bottom Line

Homeownership isn’t just about mowing the lawn and paying the mortgage. It’s about knowing your home — how it works, what it needs, and when it’s time to call in a pro.

If DIY isn’t your thing or you’d rather keep your weekends drama-free, I’ve got you covered.
👉 Call me anytime for trusted local contractor recommendations — from plumbers to painters to that one guy who can fix anything.

You handle the living, I’ll handle the helping. 💪🏡


📞 Liz Rytel-Mudroncik
Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate Connections
🌐 relizstate.com
📱 219.670.3704

planning savings money of coins to buy a home, concept for property ladder, mortgage and real estate investment. for saving or investment for a house, growing business

Everyone wants financial freedom—but not everyone realizes it’s often hiding behind a front door. Real estate has quietly created more millionaires than the stock market, cryptocurrency, or that “sure thing” your brother-in-law pitched at Thanksgiving. And right now, Northwest Indiana is one of the smartest, most stable places to build that wealth.

Here’s why:


💰 1. Real Estate Builds True Equity, Not Just Paper Gains

Stocks go up, stocks go down, and crypto… well, let’s not go there.


When you invest in a home, you’re building something tangible—equity that grows every time you pay your mortgage, make improvements, or benefit from rising values. In Northwest Indiana, appreciation has been steady for over a decade, especially in places like Munster, St. John, Crown Point, and Schererville. You’re not just buying a property—you’re growing a financial asset.


🏡 2. Use Leverage to Multiply Your Money

Real estate is one of the only investments where the bank helps you build wealth. You put 5–20% down, and yet you control 100% of the asset. If that home appreciates by 5% a year, your return on investment can skyrocket thanks to leverage.

That’s like buying the goose and having someone else pay for most of the feed.


💸 3. Cash Flow Creates Freedom

Rental properties in Northwest Indiana are in hot demand—thanks to low inventory, new businesses, and Chicago-area renters crossing the border for affordability. A well-chosen property can produce steady monthly cash flow that builds long-term wealth and helps cover expenses. Every rent check brings you closer to financial independence.


🧾 4. Tax Advantages That Keep More in Your Pocket

Between Indiana’s lower property taxes, mortgage interest deductions, depreciation, and capital gains exclusions, real estate is practically built to help you grow wealth strategically. These benefits don’t just reduce your tax burden—they amplify your net worth year after year.


📈 5. A Built-In Hedge Against Inflation

When prices rise, so do home values and rents. Real estate naturally keeps pace with inflation, which means your money doesn’t lose purchasing power—it grows. While the cost of everything else climbs, your property is often outpacing it.


🌳 6. Wealth That Lasts Beyond You

Real estate isn’t a get-rich-quick move—it’s a get-rich-for-good move. Homes and investments here can create generational wealth, offering stability and opportunity for your children and grandchildren. You’re not just investing in property—you’re building a legacy.


🧠 7. Control and Stability in an Uncertain World

When the markets swing and tech bubbles pop, your real estate portfolio stays steady. You decide when to buy, how to improve, when to refinance, and when to sell. That level of control is something few investments can offer—and it’s exactly what keeps real estate at the top of every serious wealth builder’s playbook.


💬 The Bottom Line

If you want to build real, lasting wealth, start with real estate—and start right here in Northwest Indiana. Our market continues to outperform expectations with affordable entry points, high demand, and strong long-term potential.

Whether you’re buying your first home, upgrading to your next, or investing for passive income, I can help you turn property into profit.

📲 Let’s start building your wealth plan today.
I’m Liz, your Northwest Indiana real estate expert with Better Homes & Gardens.
👉 Call/text me at 219-670-3704 or visit www.relizstate.com to take your first step toward financial freedom through real estate.

Volunteer

Giving back doesn’t always mean writing a big check — sometimes it’s about showing up, rolling up your sleeves, and sharing a little love where it’s needed most. Here in Lake County, we’re lucky to have a strong sense of community and a lot of opportunities to make a difference.

Whether you’ve just moved to the area or have deep roots here, here are 10 creative, feel-good ways to give back that truly make an impact right here at home:


1️⃣ Adopt a Park or Trail

Love the outdoors? Channel that energy into adopting a section of the Erie Lackawanna Trail or helping maintain a local park in Munster, Highland, or Crown Point. It’s a hands-on way to beautify the area we all enjoy.

👉 Bonus: Bring the kids or grandkids. It’s a great way to teach pride of place and community service in one sunny afternoon.


2️⃣ Volunteer at an Animal Shelter

You know I’m a dog lover, so this one hits close to home. Local shelters like Humane Indiana or Lake County Animal Control are always in need of volunteers to walk dogs, clean kennels, or just give a little extra love to animals waiting for their forever homes.

🐾 Even donating old blankets, towels, or unopened pet food helps more than you’d think.


3️⃣ Support Local Food Pantries

Organizations like The Food Bank of Northwest Indiana or St. John the Evangelist’s food pantry are lifelines for local families. Consider hosting a “mini food drive” in your neighborhood or at your office.

🍎 Pro tip: Ask what they really need — often it’s not canned corn, but things like toiletries, diapers, or peanut butter.


4️⃣ Sponsor a Youth Sports Team

Help keep kids active and connected by sponsoring a local baseball, softball, or soccer team. Many youth leagues rely on community businesses and individuals to cover uniforms and field costs.

⚾ Your logo might end up on a jersey — but the real reward is seeing those smiles on the field.


5️⃣ Brighten a Senior’s Day

Many seniors in assisted living communities like Hartsfield Village or Colonial Nursing & Rehab love visitors — especially around the holidays. Bring a deck of cards, a guitar, or just good conversation.

💐 Or get your neighbors together to deliver flower bouquets or care packages on “Random Acts of Kindness Day.”


6️⃣ Shop Local and Spread the Word

Giving back can be as simple as supporting the businesses that make Lake County thrive. Visit local farmers markets, eat at family-owned restaurants, and share your favorite finds on social media.

🛍️ Word-of-mouth is the best marketing there is — and it’s free!


7️⃣ Join a Cleanup or Beautification Event

Keep an eye out for community cleanup days in Munster, Hammond, and Schererville. Whether it’s planting flowers downtown or picking up litter after a festival, every small act adds up to a cleaner, prouder community.

🌷 Don’t wait to be asked — start your own neighborhood cleanup crew!


8️⃣ Mentor a Teen or College Student

You’ve got wisdom — share it. Programs like Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Indiana and local schools are always looking for mentors to guide young people as they navigate school, careers, and life decisions.

✨ Even a one-hour conversation can change someone’s direction for good.


9️⃣ Cook a Meal for a Neighbor

It’s simple, but it’s powerful. If you know someone who’s sick, grieving, or just overwhelmed, surprise them with a homemade dinner or a fresh batch of cookies.

🥘 You’d be amazed how much comfort comes from a casserole and a kind note.


🔟 Use Your Talents for Good

Are you a baker, musician, or artist? Use your gifts to raise funds for a cause — host a mini concert, donate art for auction, or teach a free class.

🎨 The more personal it is, the more impact it makes.


❤️ Final Thought

Giving back isn’t about doing everything — it’s about doing something. One thoughtful act can ripple through the whole community.

Lake County isn’t just where we live; it’s where we belong. So find a cause that lights you up, grab a friend or two, and make a little difference together.


Thinking of moving into (or out of) our amazing Lake County community?
I’d love to help you find your perfect place to call home. 🏡
📲 Call or text me anytime — let’s make your next move a meaningful one.

outgrown home

You know that feeling when your home starts to shrink—not because the walls are closing in, but because life’s expanding around you? The toys have multiplied, the dining room’s now a part-time office, and the dog has resorted to sprinting laps around the couch for exercise.

If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Many families across Northwest Indiana are realizing it’s not just about needing more space—it’s about needing the right space.


💡 When “Making Do” Turns Into “Time to Move”

As your family grows, your needs evolve:

  • A dedicated home office that isn’t the kitchen table

  • More bedrooms (and fewer morning arguments about who gets the bathroom)

  • A backyard where birthdays and barbecues happen

  • A community that fits your next season of life

Outgrowing your space isn’t a setback—it’s a sign of progress.


📈 The Power of Your Home Equity

Here’s what many homeowners don’t realize: you might already have the key to your next home.
Home values across Northwest Indiana remain strong, and your current home’s equity can help fund your move-up with less stress than you’d expect.

The right plan can help you:

  • Use existing equity to boost your down payment

  • Time the sale and purchase to avoid double moves

  • Upgrade to a home that supports your lifestyle and long-term goals


🗺️ Your Blueprint for a Smart Move-Up

If you’ve been thinking, “maybe next year,”—don’t wait until you’re tripping over soccer cleats to make a change.
The best time to start planning is before you feel ready.

📱 DM me or text “MOVE UP” to 219-670-3704, and I’ll share a personalized Move-Up Blueprint—a step-by-step plan to help you move from “making do” to “finally home.”


🎥 Watch the Video: “Is It Time to Move Up?” CLICK HERE


About Liz Rytel-Mudroncik
Liz is a full-time Realtor with Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate serving Northwest Indiana. She helps families navigate the emotional and financial journey of buying and selling with confidence, clarity, and heart.

What Buyers and Sellers Really Want: Insights Straight from the Front Lines

bathroom

Every month, Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate takes the pulse of the market with a quick-turn Snap Poll of affiliated agents across the country. With over 300 responses in the latest survey, we’ve uncovered what’s really driving decisions on both sides of the deal. Spoiler: it’s not fresh paint or trendy décor—it’s the basics that make the biggest impact.

If you’re planning to buy or sell in Northwest Indiana, these insights are like cheat codes for today’s market. Let’s break down the top takeaways:

1. Decluttering is King
77% of agents agree: sellers who declutter and depersonalize have the best shot at winning over buyers. Buyers need to imagine themselves in your home—not get distracted by your Beanie Baby collection or wall of family photos.

2. Turnkey Homes Command Premiums
64% of buyers are willing to pay more for move-in ready homes. Why? Convenience. In a world where time is tight, buyers want to unpack boxes, not start projects.

3. Odors Are Dealbreakers
Forget granite countertops—if your house smells like last year’s litter box, buyers will bolt. Smell ranked higher than dated finishes as the ultimate showing turn-off. Neutralize, deep clean, and maybe invest in a candle or two.

4. Overpricing is the Biggest Seller Mistake
Sellers often think, “Let’s list high and see what happens.” What happens is… crickets. And then price reductions. Buyers today are too savvy. Start smart and you’ll finish strong.

5. Lifestyle Features Matter
Buyers are putting a premium on open kitchens, outdoor living spaces, and dedicated home offices. In other words, homes that match how people really live today.

Closing:
The bottom line? Whether you’re selling or buying, the little things matter. Declutter, price it right, and make your home shine in ways that connect with today’s lifestyle. Need guidance tailored to Northwest Indiana? That’s where I come in—helping you avoid the missteps and capture what buyers really want.

📲 Call me today and let’s put these insights to work for your next move.