Illinois Valley Homes
A NewsTribune Publication | September 17, 2025
MLS #12452040 - $1,619,550
FEATURED PROPERTY
This 143.96 +/- acre property in Bureau County, just south of Rt 6, presents an excellent opportunity for farmers and investors. With convenient access via a hardtop road, it boasts a tillable PI of 122.4 across 119 acres, plus an additional 16.74 acres enrolled in CRP. It is located near Wyanet, IL, and o ers easy access to grain markets, cooperatives, and major transportation routes like I-80 and Rt 6. Perfect for expanding farming operations or enhancing an investment portfolio, this land o ers the ideal size, productivity, and a ordability combination. Open tenancy begins in 2026, with a paved road providing easy equipment access- a rare nd for farmers, ROI-focused investors, 1031 exchange buyers, and longterm agriculture investors.
See listing on page 2
Are heat pumps worth it?
14651 1200 Street E
Wyanet, IL 61379
This 143.96 +/- acre property in Bureau County, just south of Rt 6, presents an excellent opportunity for farmers and investors. With convenient access via a hardtop road, it boasts a tillable PI of 122.4 across 119 acres, plus an additional 16.74 acres enrolled in CRP. It is located near Wyanet, IL, and o ers easy access to grain markets, cooperatives, and major transportation routes like I-80 and Rt 6. Perfect for expanding farming operations or enhancing an investment portfolio, this land o ers the ideal size, productivity, and a ordability combination. Open tenancy begins in 2026, with a paved road providing easy equipment access- a rare find for farmers, ROI-focused investors, 1031 exchange buyers, and long-term agriculture investors.
$1,619,550
Henry Wyanet
902 Western Ave Henry, IL 61537
Great potential for continued ministry or repurposing as
or potential redevelopment opportunities.
$74,900
Are heat pumps worth it? Debunking 6 common heat pump misconceptions
(BPT) - Heating and cooling often make up the bulk of utility bills - and the right HVAC system can make a world of difference in both energy bills and home comfort. Recently, heat pumps have become a trending topic in the news for their ability to address both of these needs by providing sustainable home comfort while simultaneously lowering utility bills. But can they really do both?
To answer that question, it’s important to first understand how a heat pump works. When the thermostat temperature is raised and heat is needed, the system pulls heat energy from the ambient air outside the home to heat the home. When air conditioning is desired, it does the opposite, removing heat from inside the
home and expelling it to make the home cooler.
Because heat energy is moved around rather than being produced directly, heat pumps can provide more sustainable - and more efficient fuel source alternatives. In addition, recent advancements have made heat pumps far more efficient and more reliable than ever before - even in colder climates. As a result, both federal and local agencies are offering money-saving incentives to help more homeowners switch to heat pumps making it an ideal time to invest in a new heat pump.
But even with these benefits, there are still a lot of myths about how heat pumps work. We’re debunking some of the top heat pump misconceptions.
MYTH 1: HEAT PUMPS WON’T WORK IN COLD CLIMATES
Fact: Today’s heat pumps can provide efficient heating in colder climates than ever before
In the past, some older heat pumps could struggle to heat a space efficiently when outdoor temperatures were espe-
cially cold. However, today’s heat pumps are engineered to function as the primary heating source in almost all geographic regions, even when temperatures drop below freezing.
The key to providing sufficient heat capacity in especially cold climates is the compressor - the part of a heat pump that moves heat through the system. In the
past, heat pumps typically relied on single-speed compressors that functioned like an on/off switch, making it harder for the system to cope with extreme swings in temperature. Today’s more advanced heat pumps leverage variable-speed compressor technology to make incremental adjustments that keep pace with changing temperature more efficiently and more accurately. In addition, many heat pumps rated for cold-climate use now feature vapor injection technology, which further boosts cold-weather heating performance.
MYTH 2:
HEAT PUMPS DON’T REALLY SAVE MONEY
Fact: 90% of homeowners can reduce their utility bills with a heat pump
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that almost all homeowners can expect to see cost savings by switching to an energy-efficient electric heat pump. Today’s heat pump offerings are wide-ranging and can meet
the unique needs of almost any home, comfort level, or budget. Innovations in energy efficiency mean less electricity is used to cut costs in most homes. For example, the newly launched YORK® HH8 Side-Discharge Heat Pump can precisely match a home’s changing comfort needs while reducing homeowners’ energy bills by up to 50% compared to less efficient HVAC systems.
MYTH 3:
HEAT PUMPS ARE NOISY
Fact: Many heat pumps are as quiet as a dishwasher
No one wants to hear excessive noise coming from their HVAC system. Premium heat pumps combine insulated cabinets and low-sound fan designs to deliver whisper-quiet performance when operating in both heating and AC modes.
MYTH 4:
TEMPERATURES WILL BE INCONSISTENT
Fact: Heat pumps seamlessly
move between heating and cooling for consistent comfort
We all want to feel comfortable in our homes. Variable-speed heat pumps automatically move between heating and cooling modes throughout operation to maintain precise temperature and humidity levels. These seamless adjustments provide unmatched home comfort while helping to maximize energy efficiency, especially when compared to single-phase heat pumps that simply turn on and off and provide inconsistent inside temperatures.
MYTH 5:
HEAT PUMPS REQUIRE A LOT OF SPACE
Fact: New compact designs are 30% smaller than traditional equipment
Innovative, new heat pump designs like the YORK® HH8 Side-Discharge Heat Pump offer top-tier efficiency and variable-speed performance in a compact size. The side-discharge design allows the heat pump to be stacked, placed
under raised decks, or installed in zero-lot-line neighborhoods.
MYTH 6:
INSTALLING A NEW HEAT PUMP IS EXPENSIVE
Fact: A wide range of rebates and incentives are available now
A historic number of savings programs are available to help offset the cost of installing a high-efficiency home heat pump. Through a combination of immediate discounts, tax rebates, and utility and manufacturers’ offers, some qualifying homeowners can offset 100% of the cost of installing a heat pump. Additionally, some manufacturers offer simplified financing options with fixed monthly payments to make the investment more manageable.
Learn more about today’s heat pump innovations and cost-saving programs from YORK ®: https://www.york. com/residential-equipment/ heating-and-cooling/split-system-heat-pumps.
Why hiring a painter is the right choice
Few home improvements can change the look of a room faster and more affordably than a painting makeover. In fact, homeowners often turn to paint before they make any other renovations. Home Light, a real estate technology company, says painting a home’s interior can net a return on investment as high as 107 percent.
Although painting is a project that can be tackled by do-it-yourselfers, there are various advantages to calling in a professional to handle painting projects. Here is a look at some of the benefits to working with a professional painter.
CUT DOWN ON THE JOB TIME
A professional painter can reduce the project timeline. Painters have the skill set and experience to complete a project in a timely manner. This means the job will be streamlined from preparation to clean-up.
PAY ATTENTION TO DETAILS
Professional painters are likely to do a job that is nearly flawless, especially after homeowners exercise their due diligence and vet painters carefully. Professionals will pay attention to the small details that less experienced painters wouldn’t think about.
REDUCE YOUR WORKLOAD
Painting can be a time-consuming job, and most of it occurs even before you pick up a brush. It can take hours to prep walls, patch holes, remove moldings, and apply painter’s tape. Homeowners who do not have much time
are better off leaving trusting the project to a professional.
PAINTERS ALREADY HAVE EQUIPMENT
Do-it-yourselfers may need to buy new tools before beginning the job. This means brushes, rollers, tape, tarps, trays, and much more. Unless you plan to paint multiple times, this can make stocking up a considerable investment. Professionals already have all the right gear and tools of the trade.
LASTING RESULTS
Professional painters understand which products will produce the desired results, depending on the wear and tear of the space. Paints are not all created equal, and certain walls, floors and trim may require unique priming and preparation that novices are not familiar with. Professional painters can help ensure durability and save homeowners from having to do the job again in a few months or years.
A SAFER EXPERIENCE
Painting can be a challenging job when it involves painting hard-to-reach spaces and/ or climbing and balancing on tall ladders. Homeowners are not at risk of injury when hiring a professional painter. In addition, professional painters should be licensed and insured. This means if an injury or incident occurs, the homeowner will not be on the hook for the cost.
A fresh coat of paint can produce amazing results. Leaving the work to a professional can ensure a job is done correctly and beautifully and completed on time. HI254741
Peru - Cute and affordable 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath home, charming front porch, lovely large backyard #12450396 $129,500
LaSalle - Move in ready 3 bedroom, 1 bath open floor plan home, unfinished basement, 1 car garage. #12438214 $149,000
Spring Valley - Adorable 1 bedroom, 1 bath home on spacious fully fenced yard with gated alley access. #12433597 $89,900
Peru - Located near park 3 bedroom, 2 bath brick ranch home, over-sized 1 car attached garage. #12453406 $229,000
Peru - Neat 3 bedroom, 2 bath ranch home, finished basement, vinyl fenced backyard, 1 car garage. #12442808 $225,000
Peru - Custom built, spacious 3 bedroom, 2 bath all brick ranch home, private backyard, shed, 1 car garage. #12437450 $249,900
Varna - Stunning 5 bedroom, 3.5 bath home with seasonal lake view, heated 4 car garage, dog fence. #12425815 $400,000
Ottawa - Charming 2 bedroom, 2 bath home, full unfinished basement, large 1 car garage, quiet setting. #12449062 $79,500
LaSalle - Charming 2 story, 3 bedroom, 1.5 bath home on corner lot with large yard, 1 car garage, carport. #12440502 $149,500
Peru - Charming 3 bedroom, 2 bath Victorian style home, large backyard with storage shed. #12437042 $169,900
LaSalle - Gorgeous 3 bedroom, 2 bath well planned open concept brick ranch home, 4 car garage. #12425436 $450,000
Putnam - Lovely Lake Thunderbird living -4 bedroom, 1 bath home, main level laundry, 2 car garage. #12191710 $184,900
Peru - Nestled on desirable corner lot this lovely 2 story, 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath home full of modern updates. #12440344$235,000
Spring Valley - Spacious 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath home, partially finished basement, oversized 2 car garage. #12435585 $164,900
Valley - Move in ready 2 bedroom, 2.5 bath home full of charm, main level laundry, 4 car garage. #12424014 $215,000
Utica - Furnished 2 bedroom, 2 bath townhouse, open floor plan, main level laundry, peaceful living. #12189829 $154,999
Jaime Bazydlo Janet Benvenutti
Wendy Fulmer
Laura Butterfield
Robin Guerrero
Kelli Geinosky
Judd Heess
Todd Gensler
Spring
Tonica - Affordable 3 bedroom, 1 bath home situated on quiet corner lot, 1 and 2 car garages.
#12417293 $64,900
Mendota - Fully rented, spacious 2 unit apartment building, each unit features 1,275 sq ft living space.
#12402086 $155,000
Spring Valley - Lovely 3 bedroom, 2 bath home with attached 2+ car garage on wooded 8+ acres.
#12332636 $449,000
RESIDENTIAL LISTINGS
Hennepin - Riverfront 4 bedroom, 2 bath home, 2 car garage, upper and lower decks, nicely landscaped. #12408257 $329,000
LaSalle - Incredible value 3 bedroom, 1 bath home, main level laundry, fully fenced lot.
#12390498 $77,500
LaMoille - Great 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath home on large fenced lot, main level laundry, shed.
#12303754 $120,000
Oglesby - Charming 3 bedroom, 3 bath home with quality finishes throughout, 2 car garage. #12405378 $299,000
LaSalle - Brand New 2 bedroom, 2 bath mobile home located in well maintained, quiet friendly park.
#12369227 $94,900
Spring Valley - Cozy 2 bedroom, 1 bath home, sunny front deck, covered patio, 1 car garage.
#12302340 $167,900
Mendota - Former church with 1,596 sq ft of space, potential for residential 2 unit, full basement. #12403022 $85,000
LaSalle - Complete remodeled 2 bedroom, 2 bath home, new plank flooring throughout. #12343225 $110,000
LaSalle - Spacious 2 bedroom, 1 bath home with welcoming front porch, deck, 1 car garage.
#12261782 $125,000
Barb Kuzma Bonnie Lester
Garry Schroeder Marcelo Soto Vincent Jessen
Lacey Monterastelli Lilli Orlandi
Chris Hopps
VERMILIONVUE SUBDIVISION
Bob Huber
Carol Wlodarchak
TJ Templeton Amber Witek
Karen Zermeno Heidi Huber
Tom Guttilla
Get the timelesslook of an Italian grotto in your home
(BPT) - Have you ever walked through a rustic, stone piazza in Italy - or dreamed of it - and wished you could bring a little of that look into your own home? You can. It’s a new design trend, using weathered stone and brick, which are normally associated with outdoor spaces, in your interior designs, creating warmth, timeless beauty and even a bit of drama in your home.
But stone and brick are heavy, oftentimes requiring structural reinforcements when using them in design. The solution? Manufactured stone veneer, or MSV. Its lightweight composition simplifies installation without the need for those additional structural reinforcements. Simply put, it’s easier to use and gives the same look, feel and warmth.
What is MSV? It’s a concrete mixture that is hand-colored with iron oxide pigments and cast in flexible molds taken from natural stone or
traditional brick. Use it for focal points like exterior entrances, interior foyers, mudrooms, fireplaces, walls or kitchen backsplashes.
MSV innovations like those from Westlake Royal Building Products help bring timeless architectural features like archways, fireplaces and textured accent walls into homes. You can use it outside, too, to bring character to patios and outdoor entertaining areas. Stone and brick veneer integrates well with a variety of other materials, adding an organic component that enhances both interiors and exteriors.
Here are some ways to add the timeless look of stone, brick and wood to your interior designs.
Ancient inspiration. Infuse your home with Italian amoré! Turn your family room into an Italian grotto or your bathroom into an elegant spa with LoreioBrick, by Eldorado Stone. This linear brick veneer was inspired by ancient
Roman architecture and lends a timeless air to the space. Pair it with beamed ceilings, wrought-iron fixtures and candles and you’ve got a modern bathroom with its roots in antiquity. Imagine earthy tones and neutral colors, blending classical and modern design.
The warmth of wood. Transform your den or family room into a contemporary lodge with Rivenwood, also by Eldorado Stone. Inspired
by slender lengths of saw-cut barnwood, it’s rustic modern, with authentic wood details like nails, breaks and knots. It lends the feel of wide, open spaces, luxury ranch life and relaxing in front of the fire at the end of a long ride through the countryside.
A mosaic of color. Country Ledgestone by Cultured Stone is ideal for creating a textural mosaic around a fireplace or on an accent wall. Think “or-
