Blogs
Welcome to the Single Tree
Team Blog
Here you’ll find helpful tips, market updates, and local insights tailored to Illinois homeowners and future buyers. Whether you’re preparing to sell, searching for your next home, or just staying informed, our blog is here to guide you every step of the way.

East Side vs. West Side: A Tale of Two Neighborhoods in Belleville
East Side vs. West Side: A Tale of Two Neighborhoods in Belleville The Orchards & Plum Hill Estates vs. Oak Knoll & Signal Hill EAST SIDE The Orchards & Plum Hill Estates WEST SIDE Oak Knoll & Signal Hill If

The First-Time Home Buyer’s Guide to St. Clair County, IL
A step-by-step first-time home buyer’s guide for St. Clair County, IL — pre-approval, down-payment help (IHDA, VA, FHA, USDA), house hunting in Belleville, O’Fallon & the Scott AFB area, and closing.

Cost of Waiting to Buy a Home in Belleville, O’Fallon, and Mascoutah, IL
Waiting for home prices or rates to drop in St. Clair County? See exactly what 5 years of waiting has cost buyers in Belleville, O’Fallon, and Mascoutah, IL.

St. Clair County, IL Is Still the Best Deal in the St. Louis Metro — Here’s the Data
Is the St. Clair County, IL housing market still hot in May 2026? O’Fallon, Belleville, and Shiloh real estate trends, pricing data, and expert insight from Craig Ziegel at Single Tree Team under eXp Realty.

Home Seller’s Guide: Get Your St. Clair County Home Ready to Sell
Get Your Home Ready to Sell The Complete Guide to Preparing Your Home for Sale in St. Clair County, Illinois Expert tips from Single Tree Team | Real Estate Advice for Sellers Getting your home ready to sell is one

Should You Sell Before You Buy (or Vice Versa)? Here’s How to Decide
If you’re thinking about making a move, one of the biggest questions you’ll face is this: Should you sell your current home before buying your next one… or buy first and sell later? The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.