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

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Oak Park Conservatory
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Oak Park Conservatory

Located in historic Oak Park, Illinois, the Oak Park Conservatory is a treasured landmark and one of the community’s top three historical sites. Free and open to the public, the Conservatory offers visitors a lush escape into nature with three distinct indoor showrooms — the Mediterranean Room, Tropical Room, and Desert Room — each showcasing a diverse collection of plants from around the world.

Outside, the urban gardens continue the experience with native Illinois landscapes featured in the Elsie Jacobsen Discovery Garden and Rubinstein Garden. Sweeps of prairie grasses and native blooms welcome you at the entrance, inviting you to slow down and explore this hidden oasis in the heart of the village.

Owned and operated by the Park District of Oak Park, the Conservatory provides year-round opportunities to connect with nature through programs, events, and community initiatives.

Highlights include:

• Seasonal Events: Enjoy festive gatherings throughout the year such as the Candlelight Walk, Shamrock Scavenger Hunt, and Halloween Fright at Night.

• Plant & Garden Markets: Shop a variety of seasonal plant sales, including the Winter Seed Sale, Valentine’s Market, Spring Plant Sale, Perennial Pollinator Sale, Succulent & Cacti Sale, Fall Mum & Bulb Sale, and Winter Greens Market.

• Private Event Rentals: Celebrate life’s milestones surrounded by natural beauty. The Conservatory is available for weddings, showers, graduations, birthday parties, memorial services, and other special occasions.

• Educational Programs: Participate in a variety of hands-on programs for all ages — from adult gardening workshops to free early childhood nature programs that inspire young explorers.

Whether you’re a lifelong plant lover or simply seeking a moment of calm, the Oak Park Conservatory offers a space to reconnect with nature, beauty, and community — right in your own backyard.

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British International School of Chicago, South Loop
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British International School of Chicago, South Loop

Our school is dedicated to shaping a generation of successful, creative, and resilient global citizens. Our inclusive community and personalized international curriculum combine the best of both worlds, giving our Preschool, Primary, Middle School and High School students a truly global outlook rooted in Chicago’s rich heritage.

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