Illinois Valley Homes 052020

Illinois Valley Homes A NewsTribune Publication | May 20, 2020

MLS # 10698419 - 1020 Timber Ridge Road, Princeton - $329,000 FEATURED PROPERTY

Here is your forever home! Stunning 4-5 BR, 4 Bath home on 2.39 acres with finished basement and oversized heated 2-car attached garage with hot & cold water & floor drain. Enjoy summer on the 20’x40’ tri-level deck overlooking the expansive back yard and timber. You’re sure to see an abundance of wildlife. Between the garage and kitchen is a main floor laundry. The updated kitchen boasts all stainless steel appliances and a delightful breakfast bar. The dining area has a stunning picture window looking out on the deck and backyard acreage. The whole home had new high efficiency and UV protected windows in 2017. The openness of the Living Room w/beautiful wood burning FP with gas start and the adjoining Family Room easily allows large gatherings, plus easy access to the deck. Four bedrooms, two of which are MBR Suites, complete the main level. Come see today or view the virtual tour!

See listing on page 5

Hottest kitchen trends from KBIS 2020 PAGE 2

Buying or selling a home during a pandemic?

Here’s what you need to know

Now’s a great time to unlock the smart home you never knew you had

PAGE 10

PAGE 28

Hottest kitchen trends from KBIS 2020 (BPT) - Today’s home chefs want - and expect - more from their kitchens than ever before. To optimize their culinary and entertaining skills, they seek exciting new ways to push the boundaries of what they can do at home.

These forward-thinking cooks also aim to prepare meals efficiently, using the best hightech advances available. In fact, a new study conducted

by The Research Institute for Cooking & Kitchen Intelligence reveals that kitchen designers have seen increased demand for dual-fuel appliances in the past year and that convection and induction cooking are on the rise.

kitchen, you’re exploring: What can make this easier?

What can make this more fun? What can make me a better cook? Appliances are certainly a part of that.”

Top appliance makers are bringing elements of professional-quality kitchens into the home, with some now catering to a new generation of forward-thinking home chefs known as “Technicureans.”

SOUS VIDE COOKING Once limited to professional chefs, sous-vide is a cooking technique that utilizes precise temperature control to deliver consistent, restaurant-quality results.

Sous-vide has been the Kitchen innovations on go-to method in some of the display at North America’s premier kitchen design show, world’s best restaurants for years, and for good reason: the 2020 Kitchen & Bath Init brings food to the precise dustry Show, offer a window temperature chefs look for on the latest technology to help home chefs achieve their and delivers perfect doneness, edge-to-edge, every time culinary dreams. for a variety of foods like steak, chicken, fish and more.

As best-selling cookbook author, educator and host of Luxury kitchen appliance the “True to Food” film sebrands are bringing sous-vide ries, Mark Bittman observes, to home chefs. For example, “The more people cook, the Signature Kitchen Suite offers more interested people become in their kitchens. When the industry’s first pro-ranges with built-in sous-vide right you’re interested in your 2 May/June 2020 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication

on your cooktop - in addition to induction and gas - culinary game-changers for today’s foodies. With these 48- and 36-inch dual-fuel pro ranges and even new rangetops with built-in sous-vide, more individuals can bring restaurant-quality results to their home kitchens.

CUTTING-EDGE FOOD STORAGE OPTIONS The best chefs start with the freshest ingredients.

That’s where the importance of food storage comes in.

Don’t want cool air escaping while finding what you want in the fridge? With InstaView technology from LG, knock twice on the glass panel to see inside before opening.

You can also store frequently used items in an adjustable bin; the Door-inDoor design lets you keep cold air in while quickly selecting them.

MIXOLOGY MASTERED Whether you love crafting cocktails or just want unique ice options, the InstaView Refrigerator with Craft Ice is the first to create automatically

large, slow-melting spherical ice, without the hassle of molds. At two inches in diameter, Craft Ice enables you to keep your drink at the perfect temperature without watering it down. You can also choose cubed or crushed ice.

Its new water dispensers also accommodate just about any size glass or bottle. Use the Measured Fill feature to dispense exact amounts of filtered water (4, 8, 16 or 32 ounces).

SMART TECHNOLOGY A top trend seen in many KBIS 2020 kitchen appliances, including dishwashers, refrigerators and ovens, is more precision in terms of automation, plus connectivity to consumers.

Top appliances today use the latest technology to calculate the exact amounts needed for each task, whether that means specific detergent amounts, humidity or temperature controls.

Thanks to Wi-Fi connectivity, many manufacturers make it possible for you to control and monitor your smart appliances from any-

where, using your virtual assistant or phone.

SINK INNOVATIONS Kitchen designers also showcased innovations to help home cooks clean up and access water quickly and easily. The Best of KBIS 2020 includes everything from the latest in pull-out or pulldown faucets, faucets that respond to voice commands, advanced water filtration systems and sinks that double as work stations.

OUTDOOR COOKING OPTIONS Another trend celebrated at KBIS 2020 is the elevation of the outdoor grill. Certainly not your father’s grill, the latest models for outdoor cooking are not only elegant and sturdy in construction, but also allow for cooking at different levels, with the ability to vary the distance between the food and the heat source.

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We’re here when you need us!

Call Team Noble Today!

Beth Mulcahy 815-866-3630

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4463 US Hwy 6, Sheffield MLS # 10656470 $80,000

130 North Main Street, Princeton MLS # 09745235 $200,000

902 North Main St., Princeton MLS # 09774472 $110,000

308 North Main St., Princeton MLS # 10621541 $90,000

#3 & #4 Century Drive, Princeton MLS # 09764803 $100,000/each

616 E Marion Ct., Princeton MLS # 10635242 $106,500

#8 & #9 Century Drive, Princeton MLS # 09764756 $300,000

505 East Church Street, Tiskilwa MLS # 10163209 $40,000

2567 Shaw Rd., West Brooklyn MLS # 10528341 $341,000

304 South Euclid Avenue, Princeton MLS # 10487997 $135,000

209 East Pine Street, Manlius MLS # 10608223 $78,000

452 East Lincoln St., Princeton MLS # 10267016 $69,000

225 East Farnham St, Sheffield MLS # 10565205 $119,000

115 Walnut Street, Tiskilwa MLS # 10367955 $83,500

000 Honeysuckle Rd., Earlville MLS # 10614051 $42,000

106 S. Taylor St., Cherry MLS # 10564895 $50,000

104 North Main St., Princeton MLS # 10487668 $112,000

804 West Hudson St. Princeton MLS # 10383031 $447,661

210 South Arch Street, Wyanet MLS # 10622850 $44,500

0 Rockyford Rd., Amboy MLS # 10601841 $60,000

Landmark Realty of Illinois, LLC 1221 North Main Street • Princeton, IL 4 May/June 2020 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication

at Team Noble – Landmark Realty

Featured Home 223 Park Avenue West, Princeton MLS # 10505367 $460,000

A Home of Distinction. The owner has spared no expense in 2018-2019 to return this home to its previous grandeur.

Located near Court House Circle, with 3 full floors + full usable basement, this 4-5 BR, 3.5 bath home with 4345 sq.ft. exudes elegance from its gorgeous hardwood floors to its marble bathrooms. A new kitchen w/granite counter tops & stainless steel appliances is cleverly designed w/corner seating. A grand dining room complete w/butler’s pantry is available for larger parties or enjoy the adjoining intimate breakfast area. Completing the main floor are a huge living room w/deck, a parlor w/beautiful marble fireplace, & a long entry hall complete w/2nd marble fireplace. Upstairs are 4 large bedrooms, and 3 full marble baths are great for overnight guests. AND there’s a finished 3rd floor, too!!

Featured Home 11561 IL Hwy 26, Princeton MLS # 10552197 $495,000

Amazing 33.68 acre(mol) property with pond, timber, deer, and turkeys – a hunter’s dream! Add to this a stunning 4 BR, 2.5 Bath 3034 square foot home built in 2001 with beautiful views. Anderson windows were used throughout the home and new hardwood flooring was installed on the first level in 2019. A first floor master bedroom suite has a huge master bath and a walk-in closet. The home is set up with a WINK Smart Home system and a stereo sound system throughout most rooms. Great location just off Rt. 26 and only a few minutes from I-180. Put all this together and you have the perfect property!!

Featured Home 677 Rockyford Road, Amboy MLS # 10601816 $345,000

AVAILABLE FOR SHOWINGS! Gorgeous 4-5 bedroom home nestled into a beautiful, wooded 5 acre parcel! Stunning hickory flooring, stone fire-place, pantry, bonus room, walk-in closet, additional garage and many more features.

Kitchen provides plenty of room for table space and has a large island. Hickory cabinets with crown molding, a double oven, smooth top cooktop, and new backsplash complete the beautiful kitchen. 750 square foot attached 2-car garage is insulated and has 7 ft. doors. Additional 22x24 garage. Check out this amazing property! An adjoining 5 acre parcel is also available.

Featured Home 1020 Timber Ridge Rd, Princeton, IL MLS # 10698419 $329,000 Here is your forever home! Stunning 4-5 BR, 4 Bath home on 2.39 acres with finished basement and oversized, heated 2-car attached garage. Enjoy the 20’x40’ tri-level deck overlooking the expansive back yard. The updated kitchen boasts all SS appliances and a breakfast bar. The open Living Room w/wood burning FP with gas start and adjoining Family Room allow large gatherings and easy access to the deck. Four bedrooms, two of which are MBR Suites and a laundry room complete the main level. But wait, there’s another mostly finished level with a large rec room, a play room/hobby room, a Bonus room with adjoining bath, and a storage/workout room.

Special Features of the home include: Dual HVAC systems, Dual HWHs, Whole Home Nutone Vacuum system, and new paint throughout most of the main level. Updates within four years include: New carpeting, New windows, New and/or refinished hardwood, New HWH, New Furnace & AC, New Well Pressure Tank. Come see today or view the virtual tour!

Landmark Realty of Illinois , LLC 1221 North Main Street • Princeton, IL

at Team Noble – Landmark Realty

A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | May/June 2020 5

Painting like a pro at home (BPT) - Nothing transforms a home quite like a fresh coat of paint. In fact, painting your own house is one of the smartest and easiest DIY upgrades a homeowner can accomplish, especially as they find themselves spending more time at home. With 71% of homeowners undertaking improvement or renovation projects that include paint, according to an iProperty Management Study, here are surefire tips to ensure you are painting like a pro.

Clean your canvas Paint adheres better to a smooth, clean surface. While living room walls may only need a dry dusting, kitchens and bathrooms, where dirt, grease, oil or mildew can build up, need extra attention. Wash surfaces with soap and water, rinse well and allow to dry completely. For bathrooms, remove mold and mildew by applying a solution of one part bleach to three parts water and allow the solution to sit for 20 minutes.

Then scrub mold and mildew

1

with a soft-bristle brush, rinse the surface and allow it to dry.

Be sure to wear safety glasses and rubber gloves when working with this bleach and water solution. For surfaces that are particularly grimy, spray with Rust-Oleum® Original Krud Kutter Cleaner & Degreaser, wipe off with a clean cloth and allow to dry.

a job that professional look.

Start by removing any loose or cracked caulking from windows, doors and trim, and apply a fresh bead of sealant for a smooth, sealed surface.

DAP ALEX FLEX Premium Molding & Trim Sealant is paintable in just 30 minutes, saving time and resulting in a seamless, more professional finish. Next, use painter’s tape to protect windowsills, molding, baseboards, door hinges and the ceiling perimeter, taking your time to ensure that all areas are properly covered.

Ensure a smooth surface - Now that the surface is dry, smooth down any uneven or rough surfaces with a bit of fine-grit sandFill in imperfections paper. Another pro - Now it’s time to tip is to shine a bright tackle the main surlight at a low angle across the face. Cracks, holes and surface to spot any problem dents will mar the finareas. After you have sanded ished project, so apply or scraped the area, wipe it spackling to fill in these down with a damp cloth to reareas. Open a conmove any dust or residue and tainer of pre-mixed spackling allow to dry. compound and apply a small Don’t forget the amount over the damage with details - Anyone can a flexible putty knife. Spread paint over a wide, the compound over the hole smooth surface, but it’s or crack in a smooth, downthe attention to detail ward motion. Overfill slightly around windows and and sand smooth using finedoors that truly gives grit sandpaper.

Need to tackle a larger

2

4

3

6 May/June 2020 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication

drywall repair? Reach for DAP® FAST DRY Premium Spackling. This professional-grade spackling compound is uniquely formulated to provide strength and durability while drying fast. Depending on the size of the repair, it can be painted in as little as 15 minutes.

Paint with precision Make the job go easier and faster by having a variety of brushes and rollers on hand.

Rollers are great for covering large, wide surfaces, but for a professional look around edges and corners, you’ll need smaller brushes for the right amount of detailed work.

Allow the first coat of paint to completely dry, and then apply a second coat to ensure smooth, even coverage. Once the second coat is dry, carefully pull up any painter’s tape and voila! Your space is transformed!

5

For more information on DAP products for your next DIY project, visit DAP.com.

2011 Rock Street, Suite A • Peru, IL 61354 • 815-223-3875 January 2018 Mark Janko

Larry Bianchi 815-228-3826

Mark Janko, Managing Broker

Barb Bryant 815-252-3036

John Carls 815-252-4456J

Penny Decker 815-228-7877

Ron Dose 815-830-1191

Adam Finley 815-830-4422

Andrea Greenwalt 815-878-1488

Your Local Residential, Commercial, Land, Farms & Property Management Team 2009 Main St., Peru $139,900

4BD/ 1BA

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304 W. St. Paul St. Spring Valley $67,000

2BD/ 1BA

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3BD/ 4BA

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162 E. 3rd St., Depue $35,000

2BD/ 1BA

#10589852

126 N. 8th St., Hennepin $69,600

213 S. Oak St., Wenona $63,000

2BD/ 1BA

4BD/ 2BA

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1627 1st St., Peru $140,000

3BD/ 2BA

#10589723

Lot 5, Block 46 St. Hennepin $11,500

Lot 80 X 160

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299 Lake Thunderbird Dr. Putnam $196,000

2BD/ 2BA

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#10535851

1051 Creve Coeur St., LaSalle $124,000

3BD/ 1BA, 2HB #10660603 1915 Rock St., Peru $30,000

Handiman Special #10611329 35 N. Metcalf Ave., Amboy $25,907

3BD/ 1.5BA

#10592110

117 Ash St., Tonica $85,000

2BD/ 1BA

#10653562

2706 Marquette Rd., Peru $145,000

3BD/ 2BA

#10700567

1204 Chicago St., Mendota $120,000

3BD/ 1.5BA

#10382954

1224 Plain St., Peru $49,000

3BD/ 1BA

#10670078

A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | May/June 2020 7

2011 Rock Street, Suite A • Peru, IL 61354 • 815-223-3875 January 2018 Mark Janko

Larry Bianchi 815-228-3826

Mark Janko, Managing Broker

Barb Bryant 815-252-3036

John Carls 815-252-4456J

Penny Decker 815-228-7877

Ron Dose 815-830-1191

Adam Finley 815-830-4422

Andrea Greenwalt 815-878-1488

Your Local Residential, Commercial, Land, Farms & Property Management Team 2009 Main St., Peru $139,900

4BD/ 1BA

#10639396

304 W. St. Paul St. Spring Valley $67,000

2BD/ 1BA

#10699683

2643 N IL Rte 178, Utica Bldg 14, Unit 4 $165,000

3BD/ 4BA

#10677218

162 E. 3rd St., Depue $35,000

2BD/ 1BA

#10589852

126 N. 8th St., Hennepin $69,600

213 S. Oak St., Wenona $63,000

2BD/ 1BA

4BD/ 2BA

#10673720

1627 1st St., Peru $140,000

3BD/ 2BA

#10589723

Lot 5, Block 46 St. Hennepin $11,500

Lot 80 X 160

#10494944

299 Lake Thunderbird Dr. Putnam $196,000

2BD/ 2BA

#10644581

8 May/June 2020 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication

#10535851

1051 Creve Coeur St., LaSalle $124,000

3BD/ 1BA, 2HB #10660603 1915 Rock St., Peru $30,000

Handiman Special #10611329 35 N. Metcalf Ave., Amboy $25,907

3BD/ 1.5BA

#10592110

117 Ash St., Tonica $85,000

2BD/ 1BA

#10653562

2706 Marquette Rd., Peru $145,000

3BD/ 2BA

#10700567

1204 Chicago St., Mendota $120,000

3BD/ 1.5BA

#10382954

1224 Plain St., Peru $49,000

3BD/ 1BA

#10670078

SE HABLA ESPANOL

Royce Mignone 815-252-9997

Martha Moscosa 815-993-0804

780 Opal St., Marseilles $95,000

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Lot 4 Arrowhead Dr., North Utica $65,000

1.67 Acres

#10660367

Lot 9 Arrowhead Dr., North Utica $53,500

1.37 Acres

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Pat Olsen 815-910-5983

Brian Phillips 630-800-8622

236 Wright St., LaSalle $71,999

4BD/ 2BA

#10621022

Lot 5 Arrowhead Dr., North Utica $72,000

1.85 Acres

#10660317

Lot 10 Arrowhead Dr., North Utica $57,500

1.47 Acres

#10660301

Christine & Jerry Schweickert 815-488-2990

Theresa Washkowiak

815-481-4663

Kathy Zidow 815-488-4874

Lot 5 Church St., Peru $72,000

Lot

#10115658

Lot 6 Arrowhead Dr., North Utica $62,00

1.61 Acres

#10660366

Lot 11 Arrowhead Dr., North Utica $70,500

1.80 Acres

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3BD/ 2BA

#

Lot 7 Arrowhead Dr., North Utica $59,000

1.51 Acres

#10660312

Lot 12 Ann Marie Dr., North Utica $85,000

2.19 Acres

#10660279

A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | May/June 2020 9

Buying or selling a home during a pandemic?

Here’s what you need to know (BPT) - While the COVID19 pandemic has delayed real estate transactions across the country, some still need to buy or sell their homes.

It’s critical to understand the pandemic’s impacts on real estate, from simply touring a home to the ability to close transactions.

“Realtors® across the country have implemented a range of innovative and secure solutions to comply with social distancing directives while still enabling people to buy and sell homes,” said NAR President Vince Malta, broker at Malta & Co., Inc., in San Francisco, Calif. “In these difficult times, Realtors® are also more than just service providers. They are engaged community members, committed to building and enhancing the neighborhoods they serve, from checking in on neigh-

bors and friends to offering guidance to their clients.”

As home buyers and sellers adjust to these extraordinary circumstances, the National Association of Realtors® offers advice on how to navigate this new temporary real estate reality.

WHAT BUYERS NEED TO KNOW HOME TOURS WILL LOOK A LITTLE DIFFERENT Where in-person showings are still offered, potential buyers can expect quicker tours and may be asked to take extra precautions such as removing shoes, using hand sanitizer and avoiding touching anything in the home.

Many sellers have offered virtual tours of their homes through pre-recorded videos or live video streams. In fact,

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO.

according to a recent NAR survey on the pandemic’s impact on real estate, three in five Realtors® said they are guiding buyers through virtual home tours. Buyers that decide to go on a virtual tour should ask their Realtor® questions about things that are more difficult to experience and understand through video, such as size

(e.g., height of the ceilings or dimensions of rooms) or materials, including the flooring or countertops.

INTEREST RATES ARE LOW Interest rates are at historic lows; however, that could change given the fluidity and uncertainty surrounding COVID-19. As more people file for unemployment, mort-

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10 May/June 2020 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication

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is adapting to the sudden and unforeseen transition of operating in a nearly contact-free environment. Those terminating a lease should leave some wiggle room, even an extra month or two, between moving out of a rental and into a new home in case of an unexpected delay. Hiring moving crews may prove challenging, so buyers should give them as much notice ahead of their move as possible.

gage lenders may tighten lending standards, subsequently driving rates up. Or delayed demand could push rates further down. Potential buyers can prepare for home ownership by understanding their budget, building a good credit history, and getting prequalified for a mortgage.

Some lenders even allow borrowers to lock in interest rates for limited periods of time - with now being a great time because of the low interest rates.

WHAT SELLERS NEED TO KNOW Sellers face potential challenges, too. Keep an eye out for any expected delays either in the transaction process, such as the ability to get paperwork signed or having appraisers or inspectors onsite due to social distancing rules.

DON’T EXPECT A DISCOUNT Nationally, home prices are holding steady, with the majority of home prices the same or higher from one year ago, according to NAR. At the same time, new home listings are down as sellers delay listing their homes.

Serious buyers should submit competitive offers, and their Realtors® will advise them on exactly what that looks like for their respective markets.

USE TECH TOOLS TO HELP MARKET AND SHOW YOUR HOME At a time when in-person showings may be inadvisable, and even prohibited, there are many digital tools available to continue marketing EXPECT DELAYS and showing your home. A The entire industry - from Realtor® can help coordinate lenders to Realtors® to home inspectors to title companies - three-dimensional interactive

property scans, virtual tours (either pre-recorded or live), on-demand open houses and virtual staging to showcase your property. If sellers do receive an offer on their home, their Realtor® has the ability to present it to them virtually as well.

TAKE STEPS TO PROTECT YOURSELF Buyers have purchased properties “sight unseen” for a variety of reasons long before this pandemic. However, most buyers do not have experience purchasing a property without physically visiting it. Therefore, sellers may want to include language in the purchase agreement that ensures the buyer acknowledges that they are responsible for personal verification, walkthroughs and professional inspections to confirm that the property meets their needs.

BUYERS ARE STILL SEARCHING Just because fewer buyers are touring homes in person doesn’t mean they’ve stopped searching for homes. Many are stuck at home, so you

We SERVICE What We Sell

can bet they’re browsing online more now than ever.

Sellers should think twice before they drop their price as nearly three in four Realtors® say sellers have not lowered prices to attract buyers during the pandemic. As potential buyers increasingly browse homes online, having attractive and accurate photos and videos is even more important. Sellers may want to consider using this extra time at home to make updates around their home and take fresh pictures for those starting their search online.

MORE ADVICE FOR BUYERS AND SELLERS As the situation continues to evolve, NAR encourages buyers and sellers to follow CDC guidelines to protect their health and safety. NAR also developed the infographic below with additional advice on how to get the most value out of working with a Realtor®. For more information and resources on buying or selling a home visit www.houselogic.com, and to find a local Realtor® visit www.realtor.com.

Home weet Home

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A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | May/June 2020 11

Landmark Realty of Illinois LLC 1221 North Main Street Princeton • Illinois • 61356 • 815-875-1221 illinoisvalleyhomeshow.com

913 W. Farnham – PRINCETON $95,000 - Remodeled 2 BR – 1 Bath #10684264

109 North Memorial – OHIO $39,000 – 5-6 Unit Apt Bldg.

With Drive Thru Portico #10079617

142 S. Main – WALNUT $55,000 – Built 1998 Pole Building – 2800 sq. ft. #10686258

204 East Elm Place – PRINCETON $130,000 – Victorian Home!

4 BR – 1 Bath #10524653

702 West Hudson – PRINCETON $200,000 – Built 2008 3 BR + 2 (basement) – 2 Baths #10559954

305 South Main – SHEFFIELD $130,000 – Step Free Home!

4 BR – 2 Baths #10261856

123 North Linn - PRINCETON $97,500 – Impeccably Updated 3 BR – 2 Baths #10570719

2567 Shaw Road – WEST BROOKLYN $341,000 – 33 Acres Rolling hills & Woodlands #10528341

237 North Homer – PRINCETON $49,900 – Hardwood Floors 2 BR – 1 Bath #10691610

116 North Main – PRINCETON $74,500 - Screened Back Porch 2 BR – 1 Bath #10694653

9468 East Street – TISKILWA Indian Hills Golf Course for Sale $440,000 - Call for information #10546144

223 Park Avenue West – PRINCETON $460,000 – Pristinely Restored 4 BR – 3 Baths #10505367

0 – 1725 East Street – TISKILWA $35,000 – Lot with Outbuilding Features drilled well. #10556575

419 North Main – PRINCETON $85,000 Updated Kitchen.

3 BR – 1 Bath #10689226

20256 N. 2470 Avenue – KASBEER $65,000 Top to Bottom Remodel 2 BR – 1 Bath #10693062

0 Railroad Avenue – PRINCETON $30,000 - .86 acre lot Just on the Edge of Princeton #10461089

106 South Taylor – CHERRY $60,000 – Spacious Kitchen 3 BR – 1 Bath #10564895

535 Elm Place – PRINCETON Office Units for Rent Broker Owned – Call for info. #10583680

11561 IL. Hwy 26 – PRINCETON $495,000 - 33.68 Acres Home-Pond-Timber & Wildlife #10552197

215 South Lincoln Avenue – LADD $80,500 – 12’x22’ LR W/ FP 3 BR – 1 Bath #10581073

305 Public Street – TISKILWA $79,900 – 22’ x 9’ Screen Porch 4 BR – 2 Baths #10595265

804 West Hudson – PRINCETON $447,661 – 15.49 Acres (Zoned Residential R-1) #10383031

505 East Church – TISKILWA $40,000 – Corner Lot! 2 BR – 1 Bath #10163209

218 South Mason – SHEFFIELD $45,000 – 2013 Exterior Work 3 BR – 1 Bath #10400687

66 Timberline Dr. – PUTNAM Lake T-Bird Lot for Sale Lot w/ electric & water #10536056

12 May/June 2020 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication

815-223-1088 815 223 1088

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Peru – Spacious 4-bedroom, 2.5 baths home with fireplace. #10694801 $199,900

Jaimie Bazydlo

Janet Benvenutti

Spring Valley – Lovely 3-bedroom ranch home, attached garage. #10694205 $124,900

Henry – Turn key ready 5-bedroom, Wenona – Charming 3-bedroom home with oversized garage.

3-bath ranch home on corner lot. #10692908 $189,500 #10692469 $46,500

Wendy Fulmer

Ashley Gonzales

Oglesby – Charming 3-bedroom, 1.5 story home on corner lot. #10694109 $118,000

Robin Guerrero

Linda Hamer

Spring Valley – Move in ready in this 4-bedroom home, 1-car garage. #10693605 $125,000

Varna – Nice 3-bedroom, 1.5 baths Spring Valley – Remodeled 3-bedroom home with hardwood floors. brick home with 4-car garage. #10692374 $99,900 #10691557 $132,500

Ottawa – Spacious 5-bedroom, 3.5 baths home, 2-car garage. #10686419 $220,000

LaSalle – New 3-bedroom, 2.5 baths spacious ranch home. #10690407 $339,00

LaSalle – Nice 2-bedroom brick ranch home with eat-in kitchen. #10688676 $124,900

Lostant – Spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bath ranch home on large lot. #10683529 $119,000

Utica – Adorable 2-bedroom home in Peru – Lovely 4-bedroom, 2-bath Henry – Move in ready in this country home on 5 acres. desirable location 2-bedroom stucco home. $319,900 #10675862 #10681046 $145,000 #10677845 $65,000

LaRose – Very nice updated 2-bedroom home #10672061 $56,000

Spring Valley – Affordable 2-bedroom LaSalle – Lovely 4-bedroom, 3-bath Cherry – Well maintained 4-bedroom, brick home with open living room. home with 2-car garage.

3-bath home on quiet street. $128,000 #10666978 #10671873 $59,900 #10668892 $219,900

McNabb – Affordable 3-bedroom ranch home, 1+ car garage. #10684212 $110,900

A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | May/June 2020 13

815-223-1088

coldwellbankertoday.com

Cherise Haymaker

Chris Hopps

Vincent Jessen

Barb Kuzma

Bonnie Lester

David Postula

Henry – Ranch 3-bedroom home across from grade school. #10662644 $125,000

Wenona – Well maintained 3-bedroom, McNabb – Spacious, move in ready Cherry – Potential in this 3-bedroom, 3-bedroom home on large lot.

2-bath home on large lot.

1.5 baths home on 4 lots. $99,900 #10648448 #10660967 $104,900 #10649652 $49,900

Peru – Great 3-bedroom, 2-bath brick home with fireplace. #10640565 $132,900

Peru – Gorgeous, quality built, spacious Hennepin – Gorgeous & well LaSalle – Affordable 3-bedroom mobile maintained 4-bedroom, 2.5 baths brick home with large living room.

4-bedroom, 2.5 baths home. #10639107 $314,900 home. #10634640 $16,800 #10635555 $398,000

Oglesby – Newly remodeled 2-bedoom, Oglesby – Spacious 6-bedroom, 2-bath Henry – Beautifully renovated 5-bedroom, Princeton – Beautifully kept 3-bedroom, 3-bath home with 3-car garage.

1-bath bungalow. home with 3-car garage.

2-bath mobile home with fireplace. $159,000 #10626283 #10633974 $129,500 #10632717 $129,900 #10631134 $57,500

LaSalle – Custom 4-bedroom, 4-bath dream home with gourmet kitchen. #10622824 $550,000

Spring Valley – Lovely 3-bedroom custom built home on 1.75 acres. #10619879 $475,000

Peru - Grand 5-bedroom bungalow with newer eat-in kitchen.

10615849 $119,900

Spring Valley – Nice quality built Peru – Cozy 1-bedroom home, Henry – Grand location for this 3-bedroom ranch home on .72 acre lot. abundance of cabinets & closets.

1-bedroom home with great river view. $45,500 #10589473 #10597562 $279,000 #10594813 $25,000

14 May/June 2020 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication

LaSalle – Immaculate 3-4 bedrooms, Ottawa – Completely renovated 2.5 baths home in excellent condition. 3-bedroom home, 2-car garage. #10619753 $152,000 #10616478 $164,900

815-223-1088

coldwellbankertoday.com

Jane Stash

TJ Templeton

Bob VanDrimmelen

Amber Witek

Carol Wlodarchak

Karen Yade

Karen Zermeno

Granville – Unique double A-frame Tiskilwa – Updated 4-bedroom, 2-story home with 3 bedrooms on 10.43 acres. home with porch on .83 acres. #10560806 $389,500 #10556584 $139,900

Peru – Priced to sell 3-bedroom, 2-bath spacious home. #10570016 $89,900

Peru – Lovely 3-bedroom, 2.5 baths home with cathedral ceiling. #10565505 $269,000

Hennepin – Lovely 4-bedroom, 2.5 baths home on 9.5 acres. #10549199 $289,500

LaSalle – Neat & clean 2-bedroom, LaSalle – Neat 2-bedroom home with Ladd – Well cared for 2-bedroom home spacious living room.

1-bath home with back porch. with new furnace. $52,000 #10522064 #10541221 $62,900 #10531272 $69,900

Spring Valley – Spacious 3-bedroom brick & cedar home on 5.85 acres. #10521511 $149,900

Peru – Well maintained 2-bedroom Wenona – Potential in this 4-bedroom home on 2 lots. home on corner lot, 2-car garage. $112,000 #10519522 $67,000 #10514735

Oglesby – Recently rehabbed 2-bedroom home with newer roof. #10497076 $46,500

Mendota – Home with 4 bedrooms, Dalzell – Good investment, 3 units, Henry – Cute 1-2 bedroom home on corner lot with fenced yard.

2-car garage in great neighborhood.

6-bedroom building with carport. $55,000 #10490776 $135,000 #10474516 $79,900 #10462366

LaSalle – Open floor plan 2-story, 4-bedroom, 2.5 baths home with fireplace. #10459683 $265,000

Utica – Lovely 4-bedroom, 3-bath ranch in golf course neighborhood. #10330069 $255,000

Henry – Cute bungalow home with 2 bedrooms & 1 bath. #10249435 $21,000

Putnam – Lovely 3-bedroom, 3-bath lake front home with sunny deck. #10451183 $265,900

Putnam – Spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bath home on 2 scenic corner lots. #10416952 $175,000

A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | May/June 2020 15

Make it your own

Value-boosting improvements new homeowners make to enhance spaces (BPT) - Buying a home is an exciting time. Once you purchase a property, you want to make it your own. Whether it’s a 100-year-old beauty or a fresh new build, there are improvements you can make that not only personalize the space, but add instant value to your real estate investment.

PROJECT 1: UPDATE THE GARAGE DOOR Garage doors take up a lot of visual real estate on the exterior of a home, meaning they dramatically impact curb appeal. Because you never get a second chance to make a first impression, bland designs, old styles and damaged doors detract from a home’s appearance and overall value.

has a midrange cost but an impressive ROI. According to Remodeling Magazine’s 2020 Cost vs. Value report, the average national job cost of a garage door replacement is $3,695, with an impressive 94.5% cost recouped at resale.

When choosing a garage door, select one you like that matches the home’s design.

For example, carriage-house garage doors have a rustic look that work well with American Craftsman style homes. Contemporary garage doors with clean lines work well with mid-century modern homes. Raised panel garage doors are popular and work with many types of homes.

where no conventional plumb- unfinished spaces are tricky, PROJECT 2: ADD A BATHROOM ing exists in your home? Base- but there is one way to add Wish there was a bathroom ments, attics, garages and a bathroom without busting Updating a garage door

You have a beautiful home Make sure it is fully protected. Replacement Cost Coverage from COUNTRY Financial® helps replace your house and belongings at today’s prices. Get full protection today.

Give us a call to learn more.

Perry May

Matt Hostetter

726 First St.

108 S. McCoy St.

Financial Representative

LaSalle

815-223-2100

Financial Representative

Granville

815-339-6136

Auto, Home, and Commercial policies issued by COUNTRY Mutual Insurance Company®, COUNTRY Casualty Insurance Company®, or COUNTRY Preferred Insurance Company®, Bloomington, IL. Life insurance policies issued by COUNTRY Life Insurance Company® and COUNTRY Investors Life Assurance Company®, Bloomington, IL. Fixed Annuities issued by COUNTRY Investors Life Assurance Company®, Bloomington, IL. SM-LA1773572

16 May/June 2020 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication

SM-LA1774801

through concrete or sacrificing the structural integrity of a home: above-floor plumbing such as macerating toilets and drain pumps from Saniflo.

the home by $20,000. Learn more about adding a bathroom anywhere you want without the traditional cost at go.saniflo.com.

This was the case for David Pirain of NextHome PPM Realty, who wanted to add a half bath to a home he was flipping in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The primary challenge: Sewage access was above grade and 40 feet away from the basement, which is situated about six feet below the sewer line. Installing conventional plumbing was impossible without installing a large sewage ejector system that would require breaking concrete to dig a pit to hold the system, which he estimated would cost $9,000. He decided above-floor plumbing options would be an effective alternative at a much lower cost. He spent $1,100 for the Sanibest Pro grinder system, whose one-horsepower pump can discharge up to 25 vertical feet and up to 150 horizontal feet to a soil stack or septic tank. Pirain now estimates that adding a basement bathroom increased the value of

PROJECT 3: REVITALIZE CEILINGS Dingy, cracked ceilings are eyesores that date a property and can make it look older than it is. By updating your ceiling, you not only improve the appearance, but you also increase the home’s overall value. If there are chips and cracks, it’s important to repair these issues before applying any paint. Once repaired, vacuum cobwebs and remove dust to ensure that fresh coat of ceiling paint adheres properly.

Don’t like the style of ceiling you have? Many homeowners are opting to replace popcorn texture ceilings with flat or knock-down styles.

While a ceiling is a personal preference, updating it to a more modern option may command a higher price at resale. If the ceiling has never been painted, you may be able to remove the popcorn tex-

ture yourself; otherwise, hiring a professional should get the job done quickly. Keep in mind, popcorn textures and other ceilings applied before 1979 may have asbestos, so you’ll want to get it tested before removal.

ENHANCE THE VALUE AND ENJOY THE RESULTS

As you look at different properties, you imagine yourself in each house, enjoying the space and making memories. Even when you find “the one,” there are things you want to update. By making these improvements, you will personalize the space, instantly enhance the value and have a property you enjoy.

Home is where your story begins Buying a home is likely one of the most important purchases you’ll make and can be the beginning of a lifetime of memories. That’s why choosing a lender — and the right home mortgage consultant — is as important as choosing your mortgage.

Contact me to get started.

Geoff VeZain

CS5218

Home Mortgage Consultant Phone: 815-433-3715 Cell: 815-258-7772 geoff.vezain@wellsfargo.com NMLSR ID 413494

SM-LA1773570

Information is accurate as of date of printing and is subject to change without notice. Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. © 2017 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. NMLSR ID 399801.

REV 3/18 108192-4 - 03/20 SM-LA1773577

A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | May/June 2020 17

Go for the green!

Go for79 the green! $

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The 2020 Starved Rock Country Discount Golf Card entitles the golfer whose name appears on the card with one (1) round of golf with FREE CART for only $20.00 at each of the 18 listed courses utilizing the below guidelines and rules: The 2020 Starved Rock Country Discount Golf Card entitles the golfer whose name appears on the card with one (1) • Each cardholder must pay mandatory $20.00 green fee round golf with tee FREE CART only $20.00 at each of the 18 listed courses utilizing the below guidelines and rules: • Mustofschedule times for for each course prior to playing •• Discount Golf Card to be by signature Each cardholder must payused mandatory $20.00player greenonly fee • Course play cannot be split between individuals or days •• Must schedule tee times toforcall each course to playing Players are encouraged ahead for prior any special course rules, i.e. dress code. Use excludes special events tournaments.

• and Discount Golf Card to be used by signature player only • Lost or stolen cards cannot be replaced.

•• Good Coursethrough play cannot be split between individuals or days 12/31/2020

• Players are encouraged to call ahead for any special course rules, i.e. dress code. Use excludes special events

• Mendota Golf Club (18) • Senica’s Oak Ridge Golf Club (18) and tournaments.

• Earlville Golf Club (9) • Kewanee Dunes Golf Club (18) • Lost or replaced.

• Fairways Golfstolen Coursecards (18) cannot•be Spring Creek Golf Course (18) • Dwight Country Club (18) • Good through 12/31/2020 • Hidden Lake Golf Club (18+) • Anderson Fields Golf Course (9) • Edgewood Park Golf Club (18) • The Eastwood Golf Course (18) • Shady Oaks Country Club (9+) •• Dayton Ridge Golf Club (9) •• Indian Oaks Country Club (18) • Pine Hills Golf Club (18) • Chapel Hill Golf Course (18) •• Prairie Lakes Golf Course (9) •• Wyaton Hills Golf Course (9+)

Mendota Golf Club (18) Earlville Golf Club (9) • Fairways Golf Course (18) • Dwight Country Club (18) • Anderson Fields Golf Course (9) • The Eastwood Golf Course (18) • Dayton Ridge Golf Club (9) • Pine Hills Golf Club (18) • Prairie Lakes Golf Course (9)

Area’s Leader in Mako.

Family Orthopedic Center

Sue Heider, Mark Witek CFP, Steven Witek-CFP, Kristy Pytel and Amy Noy

130Street 3rd Street · LaSalle 130 3rd · LaSalle www.DrGergovich.com www.DrGergovich.com (815) (815) 223-0647 223-0647

130Street 3rd Street · LaSalle 130 3rd · LaSalle WE’RE ALWAYS HEAR FOR YOU! www.DrGergovich.com www.DrGergovich.com Hammers Hearing Care Center (815) 223-0647 With(815) over 223-0647 90 years of experience and 4 locations LASALLE, MENDOTA, OTTAWA, PRINCETON 815-224-2445 • 800-937-2609 • hammershearing.com

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LASALLE, MENDOTA, OTTAWA, PRINCETON 815-224-2445 • 800-937-2609 • hammershearing.com

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Peru 4141 Venture Dr. 815-223-6714 $250,000

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Registered Representatives with and Securities and Advisory Services offered through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor.

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appointment today!

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newstrib.com & at the NewsTribune 426 2nd St. La Salle, IL

The Illinois Valley’s First Provider for Mako Knee and Hip Replacements using Robotic-Arm Assisted Technology.

Senica’s Oak Ridge Golf Club (18) Area’s Leader in Mako.

Kewanee Dunes Golf Club (18) The Illinois Valley’s First ProviderPaul for Perona, MD Call and make an Mako Knee and Hip Replacements using • Spring Creek Golf Course (18) appointment today!

Robotic-Arm • Hidden Lake Golf Club (18+) (815) 663-8009 Assisted • Edgewood Park Golf Club (18) Technology.

• Shady Oaks Country Club (9+) • Indian Oaks Country Club (18) • Chapel Hill Golf Course (18) • Wyaton Hills Golf Course (9+) Paul Perona, MD Call and make an Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon

Sue Heider, Mark Witek CFP, Steven Witek-CFP, Kristy Pytel and Amy Noy

Now available at Now available newstrib.com & atatthe

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18 May/June 2020 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication

613 1st Street, LaSalle

815.223.1795

Starved Rock Golf • 325 Clark St • Utica Sports Boss Golf • 2950 Kane Rd • Leland Gary Hammers BC-HIS

Doug Suarez HIS

Tricia Mudge HIS

Rod Bloomquist HIS

Tim Hammers HIS

Move-In Ready 4-bedroom/2-bath featuring beautiful hardwood floors, SS appliances, freshly painted!

Near schools & shopping!

1825 Shooting Park Rd., Peru Dawn Farneti, Broker 815.343.1900

$57,000 - Affordable 2-bdrm/2bath 324 Cedar St., Cedar Point MLS# 10657921 Gene Azarskis, Broker 815.252.0307

West Route 6, Peru

Nicely Maintained - New Roof!

3-bedroom on 1/2 acre lot w/extra 2.5 car garage, & fenced yard 2618 E. 488th Rd., Oglesby MLS 10683644 Dawn Farneti, Broker 815.343.1900

3-Unit Investment Property!

Appliances & 1-Car Garage 101 E. First St., Spring Valley Gene Azarskis, Broker 815.252.0307

www.MalooleyDahmRealty.com

815.224.9400

A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | May/June 2020 19

20 May/June 2020 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication

ON THE MARKET

9 ENTERPRISE DRIVE, LA SALLE MLS 10639556 $169,000 CHRISTINE DAHM, BROKER 815.303.4622

427 W. DAKOTA ST., SPRING VALLEY MLS 1055546 $100,000 GENE AZARSKIS, BROKER 815.252.0307

412 W MAIN ST - MCNABB MLS 10688292 $135,000 GENE AZARSKIS, BROKER 815.252.0307

West Route 6, Peru www.MalooleyDahmRealty.com 815.224.9400 A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | May/June 2020 21

Beautiful One of a Kind Stone House! $189,000 Stately & historic 3700 SF on private 2.5 Acres 6-bedrms/3-baths 15598 3440 East St., Spring Valley MLS 10548822 Beverly Malooley, Managing Broker 815.488.5159

West Route 6, Peru, IL www.MalooleyDahmRealty.com 815.224.9400

Amazing 4-Bedroom Home $95,000 Dimmick School District 106 N. 1st Street, Cherry MLS 10704084 Gene Azarskis, Broker 815.252.0307

Investment Opportunity! $149,000, Historic Downtown La Salle 541 First Street, La Salle MLS 10564556 Christine Dahm, Broker 815.303.4622

SM-LA1777604

22 May/June 2020 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication

12+Acre Building Site $69,500 Rolling hills,& timber! Enjoy privacy & recreation! Easy access to I-80 Route 29 & East Street, DePue MLS 10702456 Gene Azarskis, Broker 815.252.0307

Starved Rock Realty

620 N. Division St. St Utica

(815) 667-9990 667 9990

www.starvedrockrealty.net www starvedrockrealty net

PUT THE STARVED ROCK REALTY TEAM TO WORK FOR YOU! Dee Barrera Broker/Owner

(815) 252-9696

Alice Green Broker

(815) 488-9712

Johanna Arkels Broker

(815) 252-8026

Larla Grandadam

Denisse Perez

(815) 883-1353

(815) 326-8513

Broker

Broker

130 Mill Street, Utica, IL MLS # 10687630 Cash in on the average 2.5 Million annual visitors to Starved Rock Area & the local residents by owning the only Grocery store in Historic Downtown Utica. Currently a grocery with available space for deli and butcher shop. Wonderful Walk-in freezer & walk-in refrigerator that opens to many refrigerated display cases. Nearly 4000 sq ft of commercial space right in the heart of town. Pleasantly updated with a long history of serving local businesses & residents & also tourists. Currently Rented. A great opportunity for a steady rental income or to run your own business. Limited only by your imagination. Currently has a liquor license.

$199,900

Offered by Dee Barrera

130 Gary Street - Leonore, IL MLS # 10576460

Quaint 3 BR, 1 BA on the edge of town..well taken care of with a 2 car detached garage. Nice size back yard - this home has a lot of potential - investment or make it your home!

Great country living!

$64,000

Offered by Dee Barrera

21 Oak Ridge Drive, LaSalle, IL MLS # 10691966

RARE FIND - This lot is adjacent to Oak Ridge Golf Course and has a stream running through it. Engineering due diligence has been completed. A fabulous piece of property to build your dream home and walk to the course! Minutes from Starved Rock State Park, Matthiessen and Buffalo Rock Parks. ~~~ Don’t just change your address - change your lifestyle!~~~ $5000 landscaping allowance upon a successful closing.

$65,000

Offered by Dee Barrera

510 Church Street, Peru, IL MLS # 10600262

3BR/2.5BA brick home with main level laundry is ready and waiting for you to move in to. Eat in kitchen has ample oak cabinetry with SS appliances. Large living room has plenty of space to be divided into an office area as well. Brick exterior with spacious open porch. Furnace & CA are 7 yrs old. Newer gutters. Many upgrades. Freshly painted interior. All wood blinds remain. ** Home Warranty included**

Offered by Dee Barrera

$99,900 A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | May/June 2020 23

Bringing the indoors out: 2020 outdoor living trends

(BPT) - 2020 outdoor living trends are all about enjoying your backyard alfresco - but with the comfort and ease you expect from your indoor spaces. Today’s outdoor spaces are transforming into

an extension of the home.

The current outdoor design also takes into account the look and feel of your entire home, including the interior and exterior, building materials and surroundings.

CONNECTING WITH NATURE: BIOPHILIC DESIGN Biophilic design is achieved when natural elements are incorporated into the space, helping people feel connected to the natural environment.

Make YourDream Home a Reality

It creates a calm, tranquil space and reduces stress. Biophilia makes sense for indoor urban environments needing to bring the outdoors in, but how does it work when you’re already outside?

Your Window of Opportunity Awaits You at Maze.

Opportunities do not come around every day. Now is the perfect time to replace your windows and doors with Marvin.

NMLS# 759336 Mortgage Loan Officer 815-220-2288

SM-LA1774294

myhtnb.com

24 May/June 2020 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication

SM-LA1775372

Missy Clancy

Joe Salz

Outside Sales

Since

1848

815-223-1742 • M-F 7:30-4:30 • Sat 8:00-Noon

Along Peru’s Historic Riverfront - at 1100 Water Street • www.mazelumber.com

Biophilic design for outdoor spaces means integrating natural elements with constructed elements to create a harmonious space.

A plant wall or raised garden bed can integrate greenery and pops of color with the built elements of your outdoor space. It also means using natural materials, like wood and stone, to complement the surrounding environment.

Create greener, more sustainable spaces to celebrate the environment, which can help encourage pollinators, grow healthy food and forge a cohesive outdoor space.

You can also use materials such as Belgard’s permeable pavers, which allow water to drain through the surface, replenishing the soil and aquifers beneath your path, walkway or driveway.

MORE THAN JUST A GRILL Today’s homeowners want much more than a grill in the backyard. With aspirations to cook and entertain guests outdoors with everything the best outdoor kitchen can offer, the possibilities are endless - from grills to cooktops and ovens or even a wine cooler and an outdoor bar.

Homeowners also have many options when it comes to the design and price point of their outdoor kitchen.

Some may lean toward a grill island, adding prep and storage space to their grilling

station, while others might create a full-on outdoor kitchen with a grill, smoker, refrigerator, sink, seating area and more.

Either way, homeowners can get a feel for exactly what their space will look like before breaking ground through Belgard’s design resources.

The Belgard Design Studio takes a simple sketch, some dimensions and a couple of photos and turns it, using design software, into 3D animations and virtual reality experiences to give homeowners a sense of the finished product in their backyard.

SLEEK, MODERN DESIGN While it may seem contrary to the more organic approach of biophilic design, the contemporary trend toward sleek, modular furniture can enhance your outdoor space.

Modular, sectional pieces with clean lines and streamlined design can be arranged and re-arranged to accommodate any natural elements you want to incorporate in your space, or to handle different numbers of guests when entertaining.

The minimalist approach to furnishings also allows the natural elements around you to take center stage.

MULTIFUNCTIONAL SPACES Whether your home is in an urban area with limited green space, or you want to

optimize your outdoor living, get creative:  Add vertical planters  Hang hammocks for lounging  Create built-in seating  Build raised garden beds Here’s where some of that modular seating can come in handy, too. Some urban homes make good use of their front porches and yards, instead, which invites more neighborhood engagement and a feeling of community.

ENTERTAINING BOTH NIGHT AND DAY Regardless of the time of day - or year - you and your family can relax comfortably in your outdoor sanctuary, thanks to modern technology and the latest outdoor instal-

lations:  LED lighting is installed in a variety of ways. You can install strips of light and/or spotlights, even using multiple colors, to add flair at night.  In the harsh sunlight, large umbrellas and movable shade walls or screens can keep your space cool and more comfortable.  For cooler climates, an outdoor fireplace provides heat and light for cozy evenings in the yard.

Whether you have a straightforward vision for a patio or dream of elaborate outdoor living spaces, these ideas can help you create your oasis. For more information on how you can upgrade your outdoor space, visit Belgard.com.

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A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | May/June 2020 25

Come See Us for ALL Your Real Estate Needs!

LORI ERBES, GRI Owner/Managing Broker 30 years experience

www.Erbes-Realty.com

815-535-6295

Residential •Agricultural • Commercial • Recreation Properties

415 ST FRANCIS DR, DIXON $4,900

Wooded lot in Lost Lake. Great place to build your dream home!

Private Lake subdivision with 88 acre stocked lakes, 2 beaches, rec center, 18 hole public golf course, multiple parks, and plenty of other outdoor activities. Active HOA Call for a showing today

711&713 & 715 MISSISSIPPI DR, DIXON $23,000

Wooded lot on a corner in Lost Lake. Great place to build your dream home! Short walk to the lake. 3 lots with taxes each of $131.88 and total of all 3 $398.58 Private Lake subdivision with 88 acre stocked lakes, 2 beaches, rec center, 18 hole public golf course, multiple parks, and plenty of other outdoor activities. Active HOA Call for a showing today

501 W MAIN ST, SUBLETTE $69,999

This spacious home is in town but the back yard has that country feeling. Features include a 2 story home with 4 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, large eat in kitchen, dining room, large living room, main floor laundry and bedroom, full basement, wrap around porch, walk up attic to where the furnace for the second level is located and a separate furnace for the main level in the basement. Back yard has a one car garage. Call today for a showing.

707 MISSISSIPPI DR, DIXON $4,900

Wooded lot on in Lost Lake. Great place to build your dream home! Short walk to the lake. Private Lake subdivision with 88 acre stocked lakes, 2 beaches, rec center, 18 hole public golf course, multiple parks, and plenty of other outdoor activities. Active HOA Call for a showing today

25 W MILTON ST, AMBOY $29,000

Build your dream home on these 4 lots with another lot available on Commercial to build a u shaped drive to the Milton St lots. Garage located on one lot. * Same lot owner for the lot on Commercial 02-15-22-179-010 $4,950 * Buy all 5. Call today for a showing! This includes for all 5 lots!

125 N GALENA ST, TISKILWA $72,800

Charming home with many updates! You must see inside to appreciate! Pride of ownership shines throughout! Features includes 3 bedroom, 2 baths, spacious kitchen with stove, dishwasher, open dining room/living room with hardwood floors, washer/dryer, dehumidifier, use able basement with plenty of room for storage and workshop area, front porch to sit on and enjoy, 2 car detached garage, and large back yard for entertaining. Seller added white rock gravel to driveway. Walking distance to downtown and park. Call Realtor for more details and showing. Realtor related to Sellers!

lorierbes@gmail.com

15 30, SUBLETTE $12,000

Beautiful lot with driveway and gravel pad, extended utilities, shed, firepit, 2 room addition’s for more enjoyment, common ground to the rear, close to comfort station and main gate. Must be a with a realtor to view. Owner is responsible for association fees, water and sewer. Not a homestead!

331 S COMMERCIAL AVE, AMBOY $67,500

Ranch style home on large lot. Great starter home or a home to down size too!

This cozy home has 2 bedrooms with newer carpet, kitchen has newer flooring, all appliances stay, newer central air and water heater, fenced in yard and shed.

Call today for a showing! ~Contigent upon seller finding a home of their choice

164 PENKINS RD, SUBLETTE $185,000

Looking for the Country, look no further! Pull up to the circle drive to this spacious 4 bedroom, (possible 5th bedroom converted to kitchen that can be a bedroom again) 3 bath, ranch style home is situated on 3.09 Ac. Live in one side and Inlaw quarters on other, 2 kitchens, All electric home, living room with wood burning fire place, family room, (extra LP furnace in garage if you decide to change heat) all appliances, whole house fan, outside buildings, 2 water hydrants, back deck overlooking property and a small pond. Electric fence around property and behind buildings. This home is ready for you to move into! Call today for a showing.

WOODHAVEN LAKES LISTINGS

10/222 WOODHAVEN, SUBLETTZ $65,900

Beautiful view of Bass Lake! Nicely landscaped lot with a 1988 Trophy Park Model with a new roof, new flooring and new ceiling fan, all furniture and appliances, central air/heat, skirting, Room addition has new roof, new tile flooring, built in bar, new c-fan, wall heater and 2 window a/c units, 400 sq ft deck with part having a roof over it, latex on side of deck for privacy, grill and bar on deck, patio furniture, storage under deck, 16 ft Jon boat w trolling motor and trailer, kayak, canoe, LP tank, fire pit. Picture yourself sitting and fishing from this lot. Amazing view. Call for a showing today! Woodhaven Lakes is a gated recreational facility and not a Homestead. To view listing you must be accompanied by a Real Estate Broker. Property Owners are responsible for yearly assessments!

1574 WOODHAVEN LAKES SUBLETTE $5,500

Nice sewered, level, wooded lot with common ground to the rear. Comfort station near by. Must see! Call today. Property owner is responsible for yearly assessments. This is not a homestead property. Gated facility must have property owner pass or be accompanied by a Real Estate Broker.

Sec 19, Lot 89 ..........................PENDING $7,000 Sec 10, Lot 106 ........................................$8,500 Sec 29, Lot 307 ........................................$9,999 Sec 13, Lot 118 ......................................$15,000 Sec 3, Lot 198 ........................................$15,000 Sec 28, Lot 84/85 .................................. $17,500 Sec 19, Lot 57 ........................................$18,000 Sec 1, Lot 125 ........................................$19,000 Sec 14, Lots 61-62..................................$19,900 Sec 18, Lot 64........................................$19,900 Sec 6, Lot 20&21 ..........................SOLD $22,900 Sec 28, Lot 28........................................$23,500 Sec 12, Lot 24 ........................................$24,500 Sec 15, Lot 92 ........................................$24,900 Sec 8, Lot 140........................................$25,000 Sec 9, Lots 118/119 ...............................$27,000

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26 May/June 2020 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication

Sec 5, Lot 130 ........................................$30,000 Sec 5, Lot 483 E .....................................$35,000 Sec 13, Lot 88 ........................................$35,000 Sec 10, Lot 192 ......................................$39,900 Sec 5, Lot 459 ....................................... $40,000 Sec 19, Lot 88 ....................................... $44,900 Sec 3, Lot 199 ........................................$45,000 Sec 19, Lot 90 ....................................... $46,900 Sec 6, Lot Lot 163&4 ..............................$52,500 Sec 22, Lot 152 ......................................$55,000 Sec 5, Lot 460 ........................................$55,000 Sec 29, Lot 22 E .....................................$55,900 Sec 16, Lot 144 ......................................$58,900 Sec 24. Lot 108 ......................................$59,000 Sec 16, Lot 209 ......................................$62,500 Sec 10, Lot 222 ......................................$65,900

Mortgage relief during COVID-19: Here’s what you need to know (BPT) - In these unprecedented times, when many families are facing physical, emotional and financial hardships, a common question is, “How do I keep up with my mortgage when I’m not working?”

A home is a family’s most important asset. But now it’s more than that: It’s where they are hunkering down and staying safe. That’s why there is a plan for customers to delay monthly payments if they need help. into your account, fill out a short form and enroll in the There are a lot of mortgage payment assistance program. terms and provisions on TV You’ll avoid waiting on hold and in newspapers related to - a process that is lengthier the impact of COVID-19, and right now given the thousands in some cases, there is con- of customers calling with flicting information. Here are questions. We will email or some common questions and send you a letter to confirm answers from Mark O’Dono- that you’re in the program. van, CEO, Chase Home Lend- Don’t worry if you don’t get it ing, to help guide you. immediately. It may take a few days, but the payment delays WHAT’S PAYMENT start right away.

ASSISTANCE OR FORBEARANCE? CAN I JUST STOP PAYING That means you won’t be WITHOUT TELLING THE BANK? expected to make a payment That’s not a good idea. By for a period of time. For ex- signing up, you’ll get full acample, you can start with cess to all the program benefits three months and you won’t - including delayed payments, be charged a late fee, once no late fees and no negative you tell us you need help and reporting to the credit bureaus sign up. We’ll contact you for payments due during the during the three-month pe- forbearance period. riod to make sure you’re doing OK, and we won’t report the WHAT IF I CAN STILL PAY? missed payments that come Then you should. Keep due during the forbearance making your mortgage payperiod to the credit agencies. ments on time if you can. And Before the period ends, we’ll know that the program is for be in touch to discuss when customers who are suffering you expect you’ll be able to financial hardship resulting start paying again and how from COVID-19, so help is to handle the missed pay- still available if your circumments. If you can’t make up stances change as a result of the missed payments at the COVID-19. There are also point that you resume making programs to help customers your regular payments, we can who suffer financial hardships likely defer them to the end of for other reasons, including the mortgage term. natural disasters.

HOW DO I RAISE MY HAND? At Chase, you can request help without waiting to speak to an agent. Simply start here: www.chase.com/mortgageassistance. You’ll be able to log

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THE PAYMENT ASSISTANCE PERIOD ENDS? The national payment assistance program was created to provide immediate help to

customers navigating this very uncertain time. If you’re still not able to afford your mortgage at the end of the initial three months, you can request delaying payments for additional months at the end of the forbearance period. Many customers who can resume making their full payment after the assistance period can

defer missed payments to the end of the mortgage. We’ll check in with you near the end of the assistance period to help you understand your options.

While there is so much uncertainty right now, we want to be here for you to help. Stay safe and healthy.

Financing your dreams is a phone call away.

Lisa Jo Mertel (815)343-8924

Think Mortgage Think Mertel Think OSB for financing opportunities

NMLS# 224854

Purchase • Refinance • Construction • VA • FHA Rehab • First Time Home Buyers • 100% Financing

Ottawa Savings Bank 119 Joliet Street, LaSalle, IL 61301 815-433-2525 SM-LA1773574

A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | May/June 2020 27

Now’s a great time to unlock the smart home you never knew you had - here’s how

(BPT) - With everyone hunkering down, many of us are thinking about how to maximize what’s already in our homes. What many don’t know is that the benefits and efficiencies of a smart home might already be at their fingertips. With a little research and time spent with your appliances and technology, you can start enjoying the convenience of the smart home features you never knew you had - with added benefits like tips and alerts that will help you take care of your appliances to avoid service issues.

of your TVs, speakers and appliances to determine if your items have smart capabilities.

If they do, you can easily locate online instructions for setup and user-friendly tutorials on how to use them to their full advantage. Have you recently purchased a premium new TV or appliance? If you have, there’s a good chance that it’s smart-enabled.

2. START EXPLORING YOUR SMART APP After selecting a smart-enabled appliance or TV that you’d like to focus on, download the accompanying smart app to your smartphone or 1. REACQUAINT YOURSELF tablet. Many brands have one WITH YOUR TECH Start online by doing a central app for their applisearch of the make and model ances and electronics to make

this even easier. For example, 3. GET NOTIFICATIONS LG’s is called ThinQ. A cen- DIRECTLY TO YOUR PHONE tral app is the easiest way to Apps like ThinQ allow keep yourself organized. you to track the status of appliances like your Wi-Fi-

Surround Yourself with Privacy, Security & Beauty!!

We offer a variety of premium fencing solutions to meet your needs.

Over 40 years of experience. FREE ESTIMATES!

Call today: 815-672-5840 *Fencing *Gazebos *Steps *Sheds & More SM-LA1776072

28 May/June 2020 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication

Located 2 miles north of Walmart on Rt. 23 • Streator, IL

enabled washing machine.

Download unique wash cycles on the ThinQ app like the Waterproof cycle, which washes waterproof material like mattress covers and rain jackets. Through the app you can receive notifications to your phone when cycles are completed, and start and stop your machine. If you have a ThinQ-enabled LG TV, you can even receive these notifications directly on the screen - making sure you don’t miss any binge-worthy television.

4. AVOID SERVICE CALLS You may be surprised just how advanced some of these features get; LG now offers customer support technology that alerts smart appliance owners to potential problems before they occur, which is more important than ever these days. For example, if you used too much detergent in an LG washing machine, “Proactive Customer Care” will send you an alert followed by specific care instructions to fix the problem. It can even tell you if your dryer vent needs cleaning or your fridge is not cooling properly, providing

guidance for how to take the Amazon Alexa. Some smart right action to avoid a prob- TVs like those from LG have both built in. This feature lets lem. you use voice commands to control your enabled appli5. HANDS-FREE IS CAREFREE Most smart appliances and ances or devices so you don’t devices can be connected to have to lift a finger! the Google Assistant and/or

If you recently bought a new appliance or TV, your home may be smarter than you thought. Interested in learning more about what smart appliances and smart TVs have to offer? Visit LG.com and take a look around.

We Keep It Local Excellent Rates • Quick Local Decisions • Personalized Service • Individual Attention

Cory Biers Senior Vice President, Loans Mendota 815.539.3834 NMLS #477892

Susan Tondi Mortgage Originator Princeton 815.872.0002 NMLS #688553

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Ashley Rzasa Mortgage Originator Streator 815.673.4381 NMLS #1900504

Chris Holdenrid Vice President, Mortgage Loans Mendota 815.539.3834 NMLS #461073

Alan Brizgis Community President McNabb 815.882.2146 NMLS #477887

Robert (Bob) Suarez Community President Peru 815.224.4484 NMLS #477891

Tara Stefanich Mortgage Originator Ottawa 815.433.3727 NMLS #688620

firststatebank.biz A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | May/June 2020 29

Featured Properties www.gonetrealtyandland.com

131 Cleveland Circle, Granville, IL 61236 | MLS# 10695217

530 Minnesota Street, Spring Valley, IL 61362 | MLS# 10704374

Gonet Realty & Land Co. | Granville, IL 61326 SM-LA1775285

30 May/June 2020 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication

Finding you the perfect property for generations to come.

Angie Heckman, Broker 309-312-0180 Angie.Heckman@yahoo.com

Mike Gonet, Managing Broker 815-481-2411 Mike_Gonet@hotmail.com

Beth Coleman, Broker 815-252-2713

SoldbyBethColeman@gmail.com

We believe in providing our constant attention throughout the entire transaction.

We believe in representing our clients with honesty and integrity.

We believe in a lasting relationship after the closing table.

Gonet Realty & Land Co. | Granville, IL 61326 www.gonetrealtyandland.com A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | May/June 2020 31

THE

PROPERTY MERCHANTS COMPANY Professional Realtors

The Property Merchants Company 815-872-0080 thepropertymerchants.com

Todd Massey, Managing Broker: 815-872-0080

Thomas Hall

Broker • 815-878-8508 thomashallrealtor@gmail.com

Donna Milliron

Broker • 815-915-6710 grannyofpm2000@yahoo.com

Vicki Smith

Broker • 815-876-7461 vlsteach@yahoo.com

Bill Lane

Broker • 815-878-2584 bill.lane@thepropertymerchants.com

Come See Us at our New Location - 512 S. Main, Princeton, IL 3 Bedroom / 1 Bath 210 S. Adams St., Sheffield, IL 61361 MLS#: 10609629

List Price: $89,900 Tom Hall

Multi-use, 14+ acre Commercial Property 1661 N. Main St., Princeton, IL 61356 MLS# 10344521

List Price: $1,375,000 Tom Hall

Vacant Lot right off Interstate 2210 N. Main St., Princeton, IL 61356 MLS#: 09181725

Wooded 19 acre parcel borders Hennepin Canal Parkway 10186 1890 E. St., Tiskilwa, IL 61368

Tom Hall

Tom Hall

MLS#: 09014760

List Price: $325,000

List Price: $110,000

Office Rental 338 E. Backbone Rd., Princeton, IL 61356

2 Bed / 2 Bath 114 S. 1st Street Princeton IL 61356 MLS#: 10645465

MLS#: 09725455

Rental:

$11.11/sq ft per year Tom Hall

New Construction Rental 1210 N Main St., Unit B Princeton, IL 61356

MLS#: 10377624 Base Rental Price: $800/month Vicki Smith SM-LA1773594

32 May/June 2020 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication

List Price: $87,500 Vicki Smith

1.29 Acres or 7 acres N. Main St. Frontage MLS#: 10472585 or 10472548

List Price: $375,000 or $395,000 Todd Massey