Nov. 12, 2025

Fall Home Maintenance Checklist (Printable Download!)

fall home checklist printable download

Fall is the perfect time to prepare your home for the colder months ahead. To make it easy, our Golden Legacy Team has put together a simple, printable checklist that helps you protect your home, save energy, and maintain its value — all before winter sets in.

🖨️ Download the Printable Checklist:
[Click here to download your free Fall Home Maintenance Checklist PDF]

🏠 Exterior Care

  • Clean and repair gutters and downspouts

  • Seal gaps around windows and doors

  • Inspect and clean your roof and chimney

🌳 Yard & Garden

  • Fertilize your lawn to help it survive the winter over
  • Plant spring bulbs before the first freeze

  • Drain hoses and sprinkler systems

🔥 Indoors & Safety

  • Service your furnace and change filters

  • Check smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors

  • Clean and service your sump pump

  • Inspect and clean dryer vents

🖨️ Download the Printable Checklist:
[Click here to download your free Fall Home Maintenance Checklist PDF]

Regular home maintenance not only prevents costly repairs — it protects your home’s value and comfort through the seasons. Need trusted local pros to handle any of these tasks? Our team works with some of the best contractors in the Michiana area — reach out anytime for recommendations!

574-207-6502 | sales@goldenlegacyteam.com 

 

Posted in Lifestyle
Sept. 17, 2025

How Strategic Marketing Helped Sell a Condo Above Asking Price

tommy kraemer notre dame client review

How Tommy Turned a Condo Sale into a Bidding War

At Golden Legacy Team, our mission is to help sellers achieve the best possible results when selling their homes. One recent client review highlights how Tommy’s expertise and proactive strategy led to an incredible outcome: a condo sold for well above the asking price.

Expert Staging Advice

Before a listing goes live, presentation is key. Tommy worked closely with his clients to provide staging guidance that highlighted the condo’s best features and appealed to buyers. A well-staged home not only photographs better but also creates an emotional connection for buyers.

Fast & Effective Marketing

Timing matters. After staging, Tommy moved quickly to get professional photos taken and the listing live on the market. This speed ensured the property hit buyers’ radar at just the right moment, creating urgency and interest.

Creating Competition Among Buyers

What happened next? Multiple buyers stepped up. Thanks to Tommy’s strategy and personal network, the condo attracted four serious offers—leading to a competitive bidding war. This competition drove the final selling price significantly higher than the list price and beyond the sellers’ expectations.

The Client’s Words Say It All

“Tommy did a phenomenal job giving us great advice on how to stage our condo and moving quickly to get pictures taken and going live with the listing. He then brought four buyers to create a bidding war to get us a selling price significantly higher than what we listed for and much more than we thought we could get. We can’t say enough great things about the job Tommy did!!!”

Why This Matters for Sellers

In today’s market, simply listing a property isn’t enough. Success comes from:
✅ Smart staging advice
✅ Professional marketing and photography
✅ Creating urgency and buyer competition
✅ A trusted advisor guiding the process

Ready to Sell Your Home?

If you’re thinking about selling your condo or home near Notre Dame or South Bend, our team is here to help you maximize results. Just like Tommy’s sellers, you deserve a seamless experience and the strongest possible outcome.

 

📩 Contact Golden Legacy Team today to learn how we can help you sell with confidence.

Posted in Reviews
April 10, 2025

Golden Legacy Expands in South Bend: Your Go-To Team for Buying a Home Near Notre Dame

No photo description available.

If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a home near Notre Dame—whether for game day weekends, rental income, or just to stay close to your alma mater—there’s never been a better time to make your move.

Golden Legacy, the real estate firm built by proud Notre Dame grads, just made a major play in the South Bend market with the acquisition of ESC Property Services. We’re now your ultimate insiders when it comes to buying, selling, or investing in homes near Notre Dame.

More Than a Real Estate Team—We’re Part of the Notre Dame Family

Our team isn’t just real estate savvy—we bleed blue and gold. With six ND alumni and four current/former Notre Dame athletes on our roster, we know this community better than anyone. We understand what it means to keep your roots near campus, whether you're a Fighting Irish superfan, a proud parent, or a loyal alum looking to create your own golden legacy.

Why This Acquisition Matters for Notre Dame Homebuyers

ESC has been a trusted name in property management for over 15 years, and now their experienced staff and systems are fully integrated with Golden Legacy’s full-service real estate brokerage. That means seamless support, whether you’re buying a condo, selling your townhome, or looking for a game-day getaway.

Buying a Home Near Notre Dame? Here’s What You Get With Golden Legacy:

Local Market Experts: We know what sells, what rents, and what’s just plain overhyped.

Proven Track Record: Over 95 years of combined experience.

Hands-On Help: We walk you through every step—from financing to furnishings (yes, we’ve got hookups).

Selling Near Campus? We’ve Got You Covered

If you’re a current homeowner near Notre Dame and considering selling, there’s no better time. Demand is high and our team knows how to position your property to the right audience—especially fellow ND fans who want to come home to campus.

Your Golden Legacy Starts Here

Whether you’re looking to buy a home near Notre Dame, sell your ESC property, or explore investment opportunities in South Bend, the Golden Legacy team is ready. With deeper roots, expanded services, and the same unwavering commitment to our ND family, we’re proud to be the Real Estate team that knows what it means to BE IRISH. 

Let’s find your home near Notre Dame—together.

🔗 Tommy Kraemer, 574-276-3072
📍 Serving South Bend, Granger, Notre Dame, Eddy Street Commons, and surrounding neighborhoods
🏈 Alumni-owned. Irish-powered.

Posted in Notre Dame
April 10, 2025

From Windy City to Irish Country: One Buyer’s Seamless Move with Tommy Kraemer

Why Out-of-Town Buyers Are Calling Tommy Kraemer the Best Realtor in South Bend & Granger

Moving from a big city like Chicago to the South Bend or Granger area can feel overwhelming — especially when you’re trying to find the perfect home in a new market. But for one recent client, that transition was made seamless thanks to Tommy Kraemer, a standout agent on the Tim Murray Golden Legacy Team at Coldwell Banker Real Estate Group.

Here’s what they had to say:

“For the biggest part of our project, moving from the Chicago area to South Bend / Granger area, we could not have been more fortunate than to work with Mr. Kraemer from the Tim Murray Golden Legacy Team!! He spent all the time we needed to get us familiarized with the area... Tommy was extremely professional, polite and went above and beyond our expectations. Eventually when we sell, Mr. Kraemer will be the first call we make!!”

Why Buyers Moving from Chicago to South Bend Choose Tommy Kraemer

Tommy is known for his deep knowledge of the South Bend and Granger housing markets, his strong communication skills, and his commitment to going above and beyond for every client. Whether you’re relocating for work, looking for investment opportunities, or settling into the Notre Dame community, Tommy ensures your real estate experience is stress-free and smart from start to finish.

His clients appreciated how he:

✅ Spent time helping them get to know neighborhoods like Granger, Harter Heights, and Northshore Triangle
✅ Understood their full budget range — from renovation-ready opportunities to top-tier move-in ready homes
✅ Offered professional, patient, and honest guidance every step of the way
✅ Built a relationship they trust enough to use again when it’s time to sell

The Best Real Estate Team Near Notre Dame

The Tim Murray Golden Legacy Team isn’t just about buying and selling homes — it’s about building legacies.  With over 95 years of combined experience and deep roots in the Notre Dame community (hello, 6 alumni and 4 current/former athletes!), we bring unmatched local expertise and a people-first philosophy to everything we do.

Planning a Move to South Bend or Granger?

Whether you're moving from Chicago, Indianapolis, or beyond, our team is here to help you find your perfect place near Notre Dame — and agents like Tommy Kraemer are ready to deliver results that exceed expectations.

 

📲 Ready to make your move? Contact Tommy Kraemer today and see why so many out-of-town buyers call him the best real estate agent in South Bend and Granger.

Posted in Reviews
Feb. 26, 2025

A Seamless First-Time Homebuying Experience with Golden Legacy Partners

How Golden Legacy Partners Makes First-Time Homebuying Stress-Free

Buying a home—especially for the first time—can be overwhelming. That’s why at the Tim Murray Golden Legacy Team, we prioritize a smooth, stress-free experience for every client. One of our recent buyers shared their journey with us, highlighting the dedication and expertise of our team.

Guidance Every Step of the Way

“As first-time homebuyers, we weren’t familiar with the process, but Tommy went above and beyond to ensure we felt confident every step of the way.”

We understand that purchasing a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll make. That’s why Tommy and the Tim Murray Golden Legacy Team take the time to explain every detail, answer all questions, and provide ongoing support.

Personalized Service & Expert Support

“Tommy’s professionalism, patience, and dedication made all the difference, and it was clear that he truly cared about helping us find the right home.”

Our team’s commitment goes beyond transactions—we focus on making sure every client finds the right home. We listen, we advise, and we work tirelessly to ensure a seamless process.

A Trusted Lending Partner

“A special thank you to Ray and the finance team at Point Mortgage, whose expertise and support made the lending process seamless.”

We know that securing financing can feel like a challenge, but with trusted partners like Point Mortgage, we make sure buyers feel informed and supported throughout the entire loan process.

Why Choose the Tim Murray Golden Legacy Team?

✅ Personalized guidance from experienced real estate professionals
✅ A seamless process with clear communication every step of the way
✅ Trusted partnerships to simplify home financing
✅ A team that truly cares about your homeownership goals

Let’s Find Your Dream Home!

At Golden Legacy Partners, we’re more than just real estate agents—we’re partners in your homebuying journey. If you're considering buying a home near Notre Dame, we’d love to help make your experience just as smooth and stress-free.

tommy jonathan lever review

📩 Contact us today to start your journey to homeownership!

Posted in Reviews
Feb. 21, 2025

Pat McCullough Joins Tim Murray Golden Legacy Team – Notre Dame Real Estate Expert

Pat McCullough South Bend Realtor

We are thrilled to announce that Pat McCullough has joined the

 

Tim Murray Golden Legacy Team

at Coldwell Banker Real Estate Group!

 

With a wealth of experience in real estate and a deep understanding of the Notre Dame market, Pat brings wisdom, integrity, and a client-first approach that perfectly aligns with our team’s values.

 

Pat’s background in business, international markets, and years of real estate success make him a trusted advisor for buyers and sellers alike. His dedication to treating clients with the highest level of service has led to over $125 million in sales—an incredible testament to his expertise and commitment.

 

Please join us in welcoming Pat to the team! If you’re looking to buy, sell, or invest in the Notre Dame and South Bend market, he’s ready to help you achieve your real estate goals.

 

Pat McCullough

pmccullough@coldwellhomes.com

571-265 4146

 


 

THE TIM MURRAY GOLDEN LEGACY TEAM

35 years of experience

Consistently ranked one of Michiana's Top Producing Real Estate Teams over the past decade

Over $1 billion sold

1800+ Transactions Closed

6 ND Alumni (Lyden ‘90, Kraemer ‘20, Murray ‘79, McCullough ‘67, Taylor, ‘23, Lugg ‘21)

 

 

THE REAL ESTATE TEAM THAT KNOWS WHAT IT MEANS TO

BE IRISH

 

 




happy birthday pat mccullough

 

Please join us today in wishing Pat a very Happy Birthday! May this year bring him continued success, great adventures, and plenty of time with his beloved family.

 

Cheers to another fantastic year, Pat!

 

If you’ve had the pleasure of working with Pat, you know just how much he values relationships and community. He'd love to hear about your positive experience!

 

 

 

Posted in Our Team
Feb. 4, 2025

Celebrating Excellence: Tommy Kraemer Named 2024 Rookie of the Year!

Tommy Kraemer Golden Legacy Team rookie of the year

 

We are beyond thrilled to announce that Tommy Kraemer with the Golden Legacy Team at Coldwell Banker Real Estate Group has been named Rookie of the Year for Indiana and Southwest Michigan! This incredible honor was announced at our annual Empower event, recognizing those who have set new industry standards and demonstrated outstanding leadership throughout 2023.

"Today, we celebrate those who have brilliantly illuminated the path to success throughout 2023, showcasing exceptional leadership and setting new industry standards," said Jason Waugh, president of Coldwell Banker Affiliates. "These individuals have leveraged market data, trends, and cutting-edge technology to guide clients home and enhance real estate experiences. Their hard work and dedication are celebrated across the network, inspiring us all to reach greater heights. I'm excited to witness their continued accomplishments in the coming months!"

Tommy’s dedication, expertise, and passion for helping clients achieve their real estate dreams have truly set him apart. As a team, we are committed to continuing this legacy of excellence in 2025 and beyond, ensuring every client receives top-tier service and market expertise.

Join us in celebrating Tommy’s well-deserved recognition! 

Posted in Our Team
Feb. 4, 2025

JUST SOLD in Brennan's View– Thinking About Selling?

Just sold condo Brennan's View 1010 Corby Blvd

Another condo has SOLD near the University of Notre Dame! 

If you’ve been considering selling your condo, now is the perfect time to take action. The market is strong, and buyers are eager to secure property in this highly sought-after area.

But here’s the thing—when it comes to real estate near Notre Dame, not all agents are created equal. While other companies claim to be the experts on ND, our team is made up of six Notre Dame graduates and former athletes who truly understand what it means to LIVE IRISH. 

Why Work With Us?

We don’t just know Notre Dame—we are Notre Dame. As proud alumni, we have an insider’s perspective on the lifestyle, traditions, and value of living near campus. We know what makes these condos special and how to market them effectively to the right buyers.

With our deep roots in the Notre Dame community and proven real estate success, we help buyers and sellers live the Irish life.

What’s Your Condo Worth?

If you're thinking about selling, the first step is understanding your condo’s current value. We offer free, no-obligation market analyses to help you make an informed decision.

Contact us today to learn more about your condo’s worth and how we can help you get the best possible outcome!

57-276-3075 | tommy@goldenlegacyteam.com 

We don’t just sell Notre Dame real estate—we live it. 

Posted in Homes by the Dome
Jan. 2, 2025

Tim Murray Team Announces Merger

We are thrilled to share some exciting news with you! The Tim Murray Team is joining forces with the Golden Legacy Team at Coldwell Banker Real Estate Group. The team will be led by Tim Murray and former Notre Dame football player Tommy Kraemer.  The Golden Legacy team includes members like seasoned real estate professional Pat McCullough, Julie Lyden, Jake Taylor, and consultant Josh Lugg. This partnership combines Tim’s 34 years of experience with the energy, discipline, and dedication of the Golden Legacy Team.

Tim Murray-Golden Legacy Team at Coldwell Banker Real Estate Group

Tim Murray will continue to play a vital role in the team by stepping into a mentorship position while still serving our clients with the same dedication and passion as always.

The Golden Legacy Team brings fresh perspectives and innovative strategies that complement Tim’s proven methods, ensuring a balanced and dynamic approach to meet your real estate needs. With more team members, more expertise, and a deeper network of connections, we are positioned to offer even more extensive services and creative solutions that prioritize YOU.

As we join forces, our top priority remains the same: to provide you with the highest level of service and the best possible results. We are deeply grateful for your continued trust and support as we embark on this exciting new chapter together.

 

If you have any questions or would like to learn more about how this partnership benefits you, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We look forward to continuing to serve you with even greater resources and passion.

Posted in All Posts
July 11, 2024

Why Moving to a Smaller Home After Retirement Makes Life Easier

Why moving to a smaller home after retirement makes life easier

Retirement is a time for relaxation, adventure, and enjoying the things you love. As you imagine this exciting new chapter in your life, it’s important to think about whether your current home still fits your needs.

If it’s too big, too costly, or just not convenient anymore, downsizing might help you make the most of your retirement years. To find out if a smaller, more manageable home might be the perfect fit for your new lifestyle, ask yourself these questions:

  • Do the original reasons I bought my current house still stand, or have my needs changed since then?
  • Do I really need and want the space I have right now, or could somewhere smaller be a better fit?
  • What are my housing expenses right now, and how much do I want to try to save by downsizing?

If you answered yes to any of these, consider the benefits that come with downsizing.

The Benefits of Moving into a Smaller Home

There are many reasons why you should downsize. Here are just a few from Bankrate:No Caption Received

Your Equity Can Help Make Downsizing Possible

If those perks sound like something you’d want, you may already have what you need to make it happen. A recent article from Seniors Guide shares:

“And at a time when homeowners age 62 and older have more than $12 trillion in home equity, downsizing makes sense . . .”

If you’ve been in your house for a while, odds are you’re one of those homeowners who’s built up a considerable amount of equity. And that equity is something you can use to help you buy a home that better fits your needs today. Greg McBride, Chief Financial Analyst at Bankrate, explains:

“Downsizing can mean taking that equity when the home is sold and using it to pay cash or make a large down payment on a lower-priced home, reducing your monthly living expenses.”

When you’re ready to use all that equity to fuel your next move, your real estate agent will be your guide through every step of the process. That includes setting the right price for your current house when you sell, finding the home that best fits your evolving needs, and understanding what you can afford at today’s mortgage rate.

Bottom Line

Starting your retirement journey? Think about downsizing – it could really help. When you're ready, talk to a local real estate agent about your housing goals this year.

Posted in Buying a home