
St. Louis Real Estate News & Resources
NEWS
Welcome to the Your Dreams 2 Realty News Hub—where real estate meets real life. We share helpful homeownership tips, local market insights, and updates that matter to renters, buyers, and owners in East St. Louis. Check back twice a month for fresh content created just for our community.
May 22, 2025
Flooring 101 – Vinyl, Tile, or Laminate? What’s Right for Your Home
By
Carl Hendricks

Choosing the right flooring can be overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re renovating your personal home or preparing a property for tenants, here’s a simple breakdown of the top three flooring types we install—and when to use each.
1. Vinyl Plank Flooring: Durable and Affordable
Vinyl plank is a top choice for rental properties. It’s water-resistant, scratch-resistant, and comes in a variety of stylish finishes.
➡ We install high-quality vinyl plank that looks great and lasts, even with high traffic.
2. Ceramic Tile: Best for Kitchens and Bathrooms
Tile is easy to clean and resistant to moisture, making it perfect for wet areas. It adds a polished look and holds up well over time.
➡ Our expert tile installation gives your space a clean, modern feel that renters and buyers love.
3. Laminate Flooring: A Stylish Step Up
Laminate gives you the appearance of hardwood without the cost. It’s a great middle-ground option for living rooms, bedrooms, or hallways.
➡ Ask us about installing laminate for a budget-friendly yet upscale look.
Not sure which flooring fits your home best? Your Dreams 2 Realty will walk you through the options and handle the full install. Contact us today for a free quote!
May 8, 2025
5 Winter Home Fixes Before They Become Expensive Repairs
By
Carl Hendricks

Winter weather can be tough on homes—and small issues now can turn into costly disasters later. Whether you’re living in your property or renting it out, these five simple fixes will protect your investment and keep things cozy all season long.
1. Seal Up Drafty Windows and Doors
If you feel a chill near your windows or under the door, it’s not your imagination. Drafts mean your heat is escaping—and your energy bills are climbing.
➡ Your Dreams 2 Realty offers window and door replacements that improve insulation and reduce heating costs.
2. Insulate Your Pipes
Frozen pipes can burst and cause thousands in water damage. If you have exposed pipes in basements or crawl spaces, wrapping them with insulation is a must.
➡ Let us help winter-proof your plumbing before freezing temps arrive.
3. Check Your Roof and Gutters
Leaves and ice can clog gutters, leading to leaks and foundation problems. A quick inspection now can save you from water damage later.
➡ Ask about our seasonal home checkups for proactive protection.
4. Test Your Heating System
Don’t wait until the first freeze to find out your furnace is on the fritz. Make sure your HVAC system is clean, safe, and working efficiently.
➡ We coordinate with trusted HVAC partners to ensure your system is ready for the cold.
5. Repair Cracks in Walls or Ceilings
Cold air can sneak in through damaged drywall. If you notice cracks, gaps, or soft spots, it's time to repair and repaint.
➡ We offer fast, clean drywall and painting services to refresh your space and seal out the cold.
Don't let winter catch you off guard. Contact Your Dreams 2 Realty to schedule your seasonal home maintenance check today!
May 3, 2025
5 Signs It’s Time to Renovate Your Rental Property (And How to Get It Done on a Budget)
By
Carl Hendricks

Owning a rental property is an investment—but if it looks stuck in 1993, it might be costing you tenants and money. Whether you’re renting through Section 8 or on the open market, here are five clear signs it’s time to give your space a facelift—plus, how Your Dreams 2 Realty can help you do it without breaking the bank.
1. Peeling Paint or Stained Walls
Dull, chipped, or stained walls can turn tenants away before they even finish the tour. A quick coat of paint—inside or out—can instantly modernize your property.
➡ We offer full drywall repair and painting services with clean, polished finishes that make your space move-in ready.
2. Outdated Fixtures or Flooring
Shiny brass doorknobs and linoleum floors are telltale signs of a home that hasn’t been updated in decades. Swapping fixtures and installing new vinyl plank or tile adds instant appeal.
➡ Our team can install durable, stylish flooring and tile that stands up to tenant wear and tear.
3. Old Electrical or Plumbing Issues
That leaky faucet or flickering light might seem small—but to renters, it says "neglect." These issues can also lead to bigger safety problems down the line.
➡ We’re licensed and equipped to handle plumbing and electrical upgrades that meet today’s standards.
4. Lack of Central Air
In the Midwest, central air isn’t a luxury—it’s a must. If your rental doesn’t have it, tenants will notice.
➡ We can retrofit central air solutions and make sure your property meets comfort expectations.
5. A Poor First Impression
Curb appeal matters. If the doors, windows, or even the porch look worn, it could cost you applications.
➡ From new door installations to window replacements, we help you make a solid first impression that invites renters in.
If your property is showing its age, now’s the time to give it new life. Let Your Dreams 2 Realty help you renovate smart—without blowing your budget. Contact us today to schedule your property walkthrough.
May 1, 2025
What to Expect When You Hire a Local Renovation Crew
By
Carl Hendricks

Hiring a renovation crew can feel overwhelming—especially if you've had a bad experience before. At Your Dreams 2 Realty, we do things differently. Here’s what to expect when you work with a team that’s rooted in your community and committed to your home’s success.
1. We Show Up On Time—and Stick to the Plan
No vague timelines. No ghosting. You’ll get clear communication, realistic deadlines, and progress updates throughout the project.
2. Local Means We Know Your Neighborhood
We’re not a big-box crew from three cities over. We understand East St. Louis homes, materials, weather conditions, and community needs.
3. Full-Service, One Team
Instead of juggling multiple contractors, you get one reliable team for electrical, plumbing, painting, drywall, and more—all in one place.
4. Respect for You and Your Space
Whether it’s a renovation or a quick repair, we clean up after ourselves and treat your home like it’s our own.
5. Results That Last
We don’t believe in quick fixes that fall apart in six months. Everything we do is built to add long-term value and comfort.
Ready to get started? Let’s talk about your next project. Your Dreams 2 Realty makes home improvement simple, honest, and done right.