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Brunch and Meet and Greet with local Artist Arturo Reyes.  Tickets can be purchased at the QR code below. Great Art and Brunch.

Brunch and Meet and Greet Featured Local Artist Arturo Reyes

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Villa Park

Calling All Spring Lovers & Crafty Souls!The Spring Fling Artisan Market is blooming at More Brewing Co. in Villa Park, IL on...

Spring Fling Artisan Market at More Brewing

The Symphony of Oak Park & River Forest will present Timothy Higgins performing his Concerto for Trombone on Sunday, April 19,...

Trombone Treat

Mission Ready: Estate Planning Tips for Veterans

Cathy Yanda | Baird & Warner | Oak Park & River Forest

For many veterans, the home is the cornerstone of the American Dream they served to protect. But when it comes to "mission-readiness," many overlook how military benefits intersect with real estate and estate planning. Whether you used a VA loan or are looking to pass your legacy to your children, here are critical steps to ensure your plan is as disciplined as your service. 1. The "Trust" Factor with VA Loans If you bought your home with a VA-backed loan, you can generally transfer it into a Living Trust without triggering a "due-on-sale" clause, provided it remains your primary residence. This allows your family to avoid probate—the long, expensive court process of proving ownership after you pass. 2. Protect Your Tax Exemptions Illinois offers significant property tax breaks for disabled veterans. However, these don't always "travel" automatically. If you move your home into a trust, ensure your attorney includes specific language that preserves your right to the homestead and veteran tax exemptions. Also, check if these exemptions are portable for a surviving spouse. 3. Update Your Beneficiaries A common mistake is updating a Will but forgetting the beneficiary forms on life insurance (VGLI) or a Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). The Rule: A beneficiary form overrides a Will. If an old beneficiary is still listed on your policy, they will likely receive the payout regardless of what your Will says. 4. Secure Your DD214 In the military, if it isn’t in writing, it didn’t happen. Your family will need your DD214 to access almost every benefit, from burial honors to survivor pensions. Keep a digital and physical copy in a fireproof safe and ensure your executor knows the location. About the Author: Cathy Yanda is a USMC Veteran and a REALTOR® with Baird &amp; Warner in Oak Park. As a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) and Military Relocation Professional (MRP), she is dedicated to helping fellow veterans navigate the complexities of real estate and legacy planning.

Cathy Yanda | Baird & Warner | Oak Park & River...

For many veterans, the home is the cornerstone of the American Dream they served to protect. But when it comes to "mission-readiness," many...

🌱 Former Maywood resident gets 20-year sentence...

Also check out Brunch and Meet and Greet Featured Local Artist Arturo Reyes on the Maywood Patch calendar

🌱 Former Maywood resident gets 20-year sentence in machine gun case

Community Corner

🌱 Why a Joliet shooting victim was rushed to...

Coming up: Spring Fling Artisan Market at More Brewing on the Maywood Patch calendar

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Brunch and Meet and Greet Featured Local Artist Arturo Reyes

Spring Fling Artisan Market at More Brewing

Trombone Treat

Cathy Yanda | Baird & Warner | Oak Park & River Forest