OTT_Starved Rock Country Homes_041120

Count ry HOMES April 2020

FREE

STARVED ROCK ®

®

INSIDE: Custom home-buying tips for first timers - page 6 5 hottest building trends- page 11 Outdoor projects that add value - page 12 AND MORE!

RENTAL

A publication of

1045 Marquette, LaSalle IL 1

Listing by Starved Rock Realty See more listings on pages 7 Saturday, April 11, 2020

THE

Times

The Times - Starved Rock Country HOMES

Scan the QR code with your smartphone camera to learn more & access our online interactive home construction lending guide.

All loans are subject to credit and underwriting approval. Other fees and restrictions may apply.

Mobile carrier fees may apply.

2

Saturday, April 11, 2020

The Times - Starved Rock Country HOMES

TARA STEFANICH

Mortgage Originator 815.433.3727 Ottawa tstefanich@firststatebank.biz NMLS#688620

ASHLEY RZASA

Mortgage Originator 815.673.4381 Streator arzasa@firststatebank.biz NMLS #1900504

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS REAL ESTATE ReMax County.......................................................................................................... 8-9 Starved Rock Realty....................................................................................................7

FINANCIAL & MORTGAGE AFFILIATES Eureka Savings Bank.....................................................................................................5 Financial Plus Credit Union...................................................................................... 5 First Federal Of Ottawa............................................................................................2 First State Bank...............................................................................................................3 SOCU..................................................................................................................................4 Streator Home Savings Bank.................................................................................. 6 Wells Fargo Home Mortgage..............................................................................13

LOCAL PRODUCTS & SERVICES Danchris Nursery - Contractor’s Grouping..............................................15 Diversified Sheet Metal - Contractor’s Grouping..................................15

Quality Cleaning...........................................................................................................13 Turk Furniture................................................................................................................16

All real estate advertising in this publication is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968 it illegal to advertise “any preferences, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex or national origin or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.”

This publication will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on any equal opportunity basis.

The Times - Starved Rock Country HOMES

Saturday, April 11, 2020

3

A guide to buying and setting up a bird bath Warm weather means more opportunities to spend time outdoors while at home. Whether your favorite form of outdoor recreation includes sitting on the patio reading or digging in the garden, there’s a good chance that you will be sharing the space with local wildlife. Optimizing opportunities to view and interact with backyard wildlife can make the great outdoors even more enjoyable.

The Cornell Lab of Ornithology indicates that there are around 2,059 bird species on the continent of North America. Red-winged blackbirds, yellow-rumped warblers, American robins, and chipping sparrows are among the most commonly seen birds in North America.

Making a backyard hospitable to birds can increase the

4

Saturday, April 11, 2020

The Times - Starved Rock Country HOMES

chances for sightings and hearing their sweet songs. Installing a bird bath can be a step in the right direction.

Bird baths can make yards more attractive to birds. Birds require a supply of fresh, clean water for drinking and bathing. By setting up a bath, homeowners can attract not only seedloving birds, but those that don’t eat seeds and wouldn’t normally congregate around feeders, indicates All About Birds. Experts surmise that birds may bathe to maintain their feathers.

Not all bird baths are constructed the in the same fashion. Many bird baths sold in stores are better suited for decoration than for serving as functional baths.

There are four general types of bird

bath: standing pedestal, hanging bath, deck-mounted, and ground-level. In general, the lower a bird bath is to the ground, the more likely birds are to use it. Most natural sources of water birds use are on or near the ground. Therefore, ground-level bird baths may be the best investments.

It is important to keep the water in a bird bath shallow (around two inches of water or less). This enables birds to splash around safely and wade in.

Birds do not want to slide around, so a material that is coated and slippery, like glazed ceramic or glass, may not be too popular. Rough stone or a bird bath modified with pea gravel or rocks can give birds steady footing.

Place the bird bath in the shade if possible to ensure the water is cool and fresh. Locate it by a tree so the birds can hop up to a branch and preen afterwards.

All About Birds also says that a bird bath is more attractive if it has a dripping or moving water feature, as this is often irresistible to birds.

Another way to ensure the bath will be used is to keep it clean and maintained.

Change the water every day or two. Rinse off the bath to remove droppings, bugs and other debris.

Once birds learn there is a comfortable bath nearby, they may be more apt to visit a yard and may even become frequent guests.

WHEN IT COMES TO CHECKING EUREKA SAVINGS BANK HAS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE.

CHOOSE FROM

✓ Regular Checking ✓ NOW Checking ✓ Super NOW Checking Call or stop by to enjoy these great benefits: • No Per Check Fee • Online and Mobile Banking debit

EUREKA’S

NEW DEBIT CARD

Wireless enabled to allow contactless tap-to-pay transactions.

Quick and easy use wherever you go.

101 N. Columbia Ave., Oglesby 815-883-3354 2959 Peoria St., Peru 815-223-9400

250 Marquette St., LaSalle 815-223-0700 1300 13th Ave., Mendota 815-539-5656

*disclaimer text needed here.

The Times - Starved Rock Country HOMES

Saturday, April 11, 2020

5

Custom home-buying tips for first timers (MS) — Even considering being able to design your own custom home is an exciting prospect. Whether you’re ready to take the plunge or just exploring your options, here are tips to keep in mind.

Know what you’re signing up for. Building a custom home is a significant undertaking and a major life decision. It’s a big commitment in terms of time, money and energy.

While this shouldn’t scare you away from your dream home, it’s important to know what you’re getting into.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed with the kids or busy caring for an ailing parent, it may be best to start this later.

STREATOR HOME SAVINGS BANK

Unpacking Can Be a Hassle...

Getting a Mortgage Loan Should Not Edward A. Mollo

ed.mollo@streatorhome.com NMLS #433934

Streator Home Savings Bank 132 S. Monroe St. Streator, IL 61364 815-673-5566 www.streatorhome.com

NMLS #421604 Member

FDIC

Nicholas D. McFadden

nick.mcfadden@streatorhome.com NMLS #433932

Hire the right professionals. You may be a DIY pro, but this isn’t a project you want to take on yourself, even partly. Key professionals you’ll need to work with include an architect, plumber, electrician and more.

Consider also working with a designer who can help with the interiors to make sure the space is as functional as it is beautiful. Do your research to find quality pros — this isn’t the time to skimp on labor.

Think about furniture layout early. While it may seem a bit premature to start decorating your living room before the foundation is laid, knowing how you’ll want to use and lay out each room can help you during the building and design process. For example, you can save time and money down the line when you know from the get-go you’ll want a window seat and two large couches to face the fireplace.

Know where to save and spend. Costs can quickly add up, so it’s important for you to decide early on what matters most to you, and what’s worth investing in. You can always upgrade your flooring or cabinetry, but you can never change the foundation. Build your home to last longer and perform better with innovative building materials like insulated custom forms (ICFs) from Nudura. This alternative to wood framing can withstand fire and high winds and provides superior insulation, leading to significant savings on your energy bills year after year.

Prepare for the unexpected. Building a new home is a process, and you can minimize stress by embracing that it will be unpredictable and can change throughout the journey.

Plan for things like weather delays and higher costs. The unexpected can also lead to positive changes in your plans.

For example, you might come across a new flooring material that’s more eco-friendly, or a smart home automation system might hit the market and you’ll want to integrate it into the design. Be flexible.

Find more information about building your new home with insulated concrete forms at nudura.com.

SM-CL1767602

6

Saturday, April 11, 2020

The Times - Starved Rock Country HOMES

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

RENTALS, RENTALS, RENTALS 1045 Marquette St - Unit 1 MLS # 10677265 • $1100/MO Beautiful defines this main floor unit - 2 bedroom, 2 bath, 1 car attached garage with main floor laundry, washer, dryer, stove, refrigerator, microwave. Tenant pays utilities - Like Brand New! Unit has 2 nice sized bedrooms, 2 full baths, Lovely hardwood flooring, large walk in closet, sky lights, crown molding, all stainless kitchen appliances included. Siding, windows, electric, plumbing, wiring, flooring, drywall, appliances, & so much more redone in 2012.

Take a closer look to appreciate all the great features. Available now - $35 credit/background application fee required for each applicant on the lease.

Offered by Dee Barrera

1045 Marquette St - Unit 2 MLS # 10677271 • $1200/MO **TOTALLY FURNISHED** This quality plus, immaculate, 2 bedroom, 2 bath upstairs apartment is like no other you’ve seen! Approximately 1100 SF condo-like unit has a unique open floor plan with skylights, and gorgeous hardwood floors, it’s furnished with a new 50” flat screen TV, linens, dishes, pots and pans, stainless steel stove, fridge, microwave and dishwasher. Stackable washer and dryer, small utensils and appliances also included!! Huge walk in closet in the master bedroom, and a jack and jill bath in the 2nd bedroom. 1 car garage with storage. Plus tons of other storage for your personal items.

THIS IS TRULY A MUST SEE if you “want the best” Credit and background application required plus a $35 fee for each applicant on the lease. NO PETS. AVAILABLE NOW! SHORT OR LONG TERM!

Offered by Dee Barrera

2 UNITS

LASALLE 325 Clark St

MLS # 10603200 We have several units available in this building - ALL FURNISHED - Live in quiet, quaint, historic Utica - short term leases available minimum 3 months. FULLY FURNISHED, ALL UTILITIES including cable, internet, WiFi, electric, gas, laundry and trash - Laundry in basement and included in rent. - All units individually decorated with different appointments. 1 bedroom units with large great room, dining and living area. SOME UNITS HAVE HOT TUBS AND FIREPLACES. $35 credit/background fee for each applicant on the lease.

Offered by Dee Barrera

$1250/MO

UTICA 979 North 24th Rd

MLS # 10466931 THIS PROPERTY IS AMAZING! 1 Bedroom on 2 acres, FULLY FURNISHED, (down to the kitchen utensils!) most utilities included- gas, wifi and internet, electricity, trash - cable not included; Great patio area.

Pets accepted based upon owner’s approval. Weekly rentals available for $500/week also. Move in ready - like new! $35 credit/background fee for each applicant on the lease.

Offered by Dee Barrera

$1350/MO The Times - Starved Rock Country HOMES

OGLESBY Saturday, April 11, 2020

7

Country 1803 S. Bloomington St, Streator Phone: 815.672.9099 Fax: 815.673.5099 Website: www.countryil.com

Jennifer Bliss

Jenny Gura

Gigi Lansford

815-674-5483

815-257-8910

815-674-7656

BROKER

Beckie Chismarick

DESIGNATED MANAGING BROKER

815-257-3183

BROKER

BROKER

Debbie Spangler

LICENSED MANAGING BROKER

815-674-3098

911 Painter St, Streator

1826 S Harrison St, Streator

118 S Shabbona St, Streator

1006 E Wilson St, Streator

3 bed | 1 bath | 858 Sq Ft 1.5 car garage | MLS# 10472187

2 bed | 1 bath | 864 Sq Ft 1.5 car garage | MLS# 10561554

1 bed | 1 bath | 722 Sq Ft 1.5 car garage | MLS# 10605435

3 bed | 1 bath | 1170 Sq Ft MLS# 10672502

$25,000

$29,323

$35,000

$42,000

318 Court St, Streator

1013 E Livingston St, Streator

135 W 2nd St, Streator

218 S Bloomington St, Streator

2 bed | 1 bath | 1257 Sq Ft MLS# 10024297

2 bed | 1 bath | 1104 Sq Ft 1 car garage | MLS# 10618726

2 bed | 1 bath | 696 Sq Ft 1 car garage | MLS# 10639657

3 bed | 1.2 bath | 1934 Sq Ft 2 car garage | MLS# 10596876

1409 E John St, Streator

307 S Columbus St, Ransom

801 W 2nd St, Streator

3 bed | 1 bath | 1000 Sq Ft 2 car garage | MLS# 10659905

3 bed | 1 bath | 1330 Sq Ft 2 car garage | MLS# 10464752

1 bed | 1 bath | 1200 Sq Ft MLS# 10495302

2 bed | 1 bath | 928 Sq Ft 1.5 car garage | MLS# 10576101

309 Oakley Ave, Streator

308 S Everett St, Streator

1714 N Franklin St, Streator

213 E Livingston Rd, Streator

4 bed | 2 bath | 1418 Sq Ft 1.5 car garage | MLS# 10569415

2 bed | 1 bath | 1027 Sq Ft 2 car garage | MLS# 10607037

3 bed | 1 bath | 1165 Sq Ft 2.5 car garage | MLS# 10612738

2 bed | 1 bath | 1040 Sq Ft 2 car garage | MLS# 10594635

309 S 3rd Ave, Streator

203 W Larue St, Streator

1101 Cleveland St, Streator

1502 E Kent St, Streator

2 bed | 2 bath | 1640 Sq Ft 2 car garage | MLS# 10649535

4 bed | 2 bath | 1535 Sq Ft MLS# 10399878

3 bed | 1.1 bath | 1887 Sq Ft 2 car garage | MLS# 10535756

3 bed | 2 bath | 1420 Sq Ft 2 car garage | MLS# 10558537

$47,000

$60,000

$75,000

$83,900

$50,000

$62,500

$75,000

$86,000

$59,900

$65,000

$75,000

$89,900

$60,000

217 W 11th St, Streator $68,000

$70,000

$104,900

Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated

8

Saturday, April 11, 2020

The Times - Starved Rock Country HOMES

308 E 6th St, Long Point

902 Polk St, Streator

1004 Holcomb St, Streator

67 E Circle Dr, Streator

3 bed | 2.1 bath | 2235 Sq Ft 3 car garage | MLS# 10615070

3 bed | 2.1 bath | 1096 Sq Ft 1 car garage | MLS# 10637364

4 bed | 1 bath | 1400 Sq Ft 1 car garage | MLS# 10546546

4 bed | 1 bath | 1032 Sq Ft 2 car garage | MLS# 10663416

906 Taylor St, Streator

320 W Main St, Grand Ridge

7068 E 3000 North Rd, Manville

4 Helen St, Streator

3 bed | 2 bath | 1438 Sq Ft 2 car garage | MLS# 10580267

3 bed | 2 bath | 1272 Sq Ft 5 car garage | MLS# 10630715

3 bed | 1.1 bath | 1726 Sq Ft 2 car garage | MLS# 10600076

3 bed | 1.1 bath | 1920 Sq Ft 2 car garage | MLS# 10630328

$105,000

$112,000

$126,000

$138,000

$139,000

216 S Vermillion St, Streator

2123 E 1075th Rd, Oglesby

4 bed | 2.1 bath | 2570 Sq Ft 2.5 car garage | MLS# 10675925

2 homes | 1950 Sq Ft | 1750 Sq Ft 10 acres | MLS# 10121181

$155,000

$125,000

$122,900

$149,900

Call us to schedule a showing!

$500,000

Multi Units - Commercial - Land 306 S Park St, Streator

404 Powell St, Streator

307 E Hickory St, Streator

2 unit | 1 bed each

Former church building

Office Building | Extra Lot | Garage

MLS#10436412

MLS#10603110

MLS#10358726

$34,500

$50,000

$130,000

112 S Vermillion St, Streator

601 E Main St, Streator

109 E Elm St, Streator

4 unit | downtown area

Commercial Bldg | 800 Sq Ft

MLS#10359667

MLS#10618761

$160,000

$74,900

1115 N Park St, Streator

212 E Main St, Streator

Commercial Rental

Updated Downtown Building

MLS#10649524

MLS#10617080

$650/mo

$89,000

201 Danny’s Dr #1, Streator

510 E 12th St, Streator

Next to Catlin Nature Preserve

Commercial Rental

Neighborhood Bar

10+ acres

MLS# 09376531

MLS#10503390

MLS# 10053120

$1300/mo

$100,000

$190,000

Commercial Bldg | 4798 Sq Ft MLS#09979437 $289,000 1013 Hoyne St, Streator Corner lot | 0.44 acres MLS#09909276 $12,000 00 E 1251ST Rd, Ottawa

Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated The Times - Starved Rock Country HOMES

Saturday, April 11, 2020

9

Gorgeous trends in green home design

(MS) — An eco-friendly home offers many benefits. Besides reducing your carbon footprint and being better for the environment, you can save lots of money on your energy bills in the long run. Plus, many of the latest trends are simply beautiful. Here are some to consider for your next home or remodel:

Bamboo materials

Bamboo is a renewable resource that can be harvested gently, without disturbing the surrounding environment. It’s also a great alternative to hardwood, since it can regenerate faster than trees. The timeless material is very popular for flooring and can also be used for bathroom and kitchen cabinets.

When buying this material for your home, look for a highquality, sustainable producer since cheaper versions can be less sturdy.

Passive house

Go beyond efficient appliances with an entire house that uses little-to-no energy. Derived from the German Passivhaus, passive house is a movement that refers to a design process that creates buildings that have a small ecological footprint and require little heating or cooling. Use the philosophy to guide decisions for your home — from adding solar panels on your roof to boosting your insulation.

Reclaimed pieces

One of the quickest and easiest ways to have a positive

10

Saturday, April 11, 2020

environmental impact is buying as little new as possible. The next time you need a piece of furniture, create something rustic by recycling or upcycling an old or vintage item with a new coat of paint or a fresh wood stain. If you’re planning a demolition, try deconstruction instead — “un-build” the structure and find elements you can salvage or reclaim, like exposed brick and wood beams.

Water conservation

With more parts of the world experiencing drought, saving water is one of the top concerns for environmentalists.

Wasting water is also expensive and leads to higher utility bills. Upgrading your home with water conservation features can go a long way, and most are designed to look sleek and minimalist. Opt for low-flow showerheads, toilets and sink fixtures.

Insulated concrete forms

Many homeowners now prefer to build with insulated concrete forms (ICFs) because the material offers better energy efficiency and performance than traditional wood. Homes built with Nudura ICFs also provide better fire protection and can help you save as much as 60 percent on heating and cooling costs. Your home is less likely to contain cold areas as the insulation is continuous around the entire house.

Find more information about the benefits of building with ecofriendly ICFS at nudura.com.

The Times - Starved Rock Country HOMES

Top 5 hottest home building trends

(MS) — These days, home trends are about more than good design and aesthetics — they’re about creating spaces that reflect our values and are more comfortable and enjoyable to live in. From net-zero and net-positive construction to tiny minimalist homes, trends are all about your family’s lifestyle.

Whether you’re shopping for a new home, renovating your own or creating a new build from scratch, here are some of the biggest trends you need to know for inspiration.

Sustainable design: This one has been popular for a long time, but green design has evolved to be about much more than energy-efficient appliances and LED light bulbs. Now, it’s all about making sure everything in your home reduces your carbon footprint and minimizes any impact on the environment.

To try the trend yourself, think big and get creative – install solar panels on your roof, choose building materials that don’t require deforestation and upcycle old furniture for decorative elements instead of buying new.

Disaster resiliency: Climate change affects us in so many negative ways, and one of the top concerns is the increase in natural disasters. From wildfires that last for months to major floods that affect entire cities, we now need to prepare for the worst when The Times - Starved Rock Country HOMES

building our homes.

Switching to disaster-resilient materials is an important first step. Many builders now prefer to use stronger, more energyefficient materials like insulated concrete forms (ICFs) instead of more traditional materials like wood. For example, Nudura ICFs can withstand winds of up to 250 miles per hour (equivalent to an F4 tornado) and offer a fire protection rating of up to four hours.

Outdoor living

Many of us are now choosing to forgo getting a cottage or summer home and recreate the experience in our own backyards. This trend helps you make the most of your existing space and take full advantage of your yard or patio during the summer months.

You can design a full living space outside, complete with an outdoor television and comfy couches, as well as a kitchen and refrigerator for entertaining. Consider adding a fireplace or firepit to keep warm during cool summer nights and enjoy the outdoors through spring, fall and even winter if you’re brave.

Home automation

This is another longstanding trend that shows no signs of slowing down. It has also evolved to encompass more of the home to make life even more comfortable

and convenient. From an oven that can be turned on remotely to preheat, to skylights that can open and close automatically to create the perfect ambient temperature, there are more ways than ever to integrate smart home technology into your living space.

You can start small with voice assistant and smart light bulbs and work your way up to a total smart home system that includes home security, temperature controls and all your electronic devices.

Customization

You don’t have to settle for what mass manufacturers decide to build, or what works for everyone else. Creating a home that’s as unique as you are is the latest trend, with custom-built storage and personalized architectural features to make your space stand out.

You can even go as far as building a custom home that’s suited to your family. Older home demolitions and purchasing landonly properties is becoming more common, allowing you to work with an architect to create exactly what you want with a new build.

Find more information about the benefits of building a home with ICFs at nudura.com.

Saturday, April 11, 2020

11

5 outdoor projects that add value

Exterior renovations can enhance the appearance of a property and make it more enjoyable for homeowners. Certain renovations have the potential to add value to a home, while others may do the opposite. Learning which one have the largest return on investment can help homeowners select features that will have the most positive impact.

Curb appeal goes a long way toward attracting potential buyers. According to the National Association of Realtors, first impressions of a property have a strong influence on buyers. Landscaping and external features can do much to influence such impressions.

Lawn care program

Investing in a lawn care program that consists of fertilizer and weed control application and can be transferred over to a subsequent home owner is an attractive feature. NAR says such a care program

12

Saturday, April 11, 2020

can recover $1,000 in value of the $330 average cost, or a 303 percent ROI.

Low-maintenance lifestyle

When choosing materials for projects, those that offer low-maintenance benefits can be preferential. These include lowmaintenance patio materials, composite decking, vinyl fencing, and inorganic mulched beds.

Fire pit

A fire pit can be used for much of the year. In the spring and summer, the firepit is a great place to congregate to roast marshmallows or sip wine and gaze into the fire. In the fall, the fire pit can make for a cozy retreat. A fire pit that has a gas burner is low-maintenance, and the National Association of Landscape Professionals says that most can recoup about $4,000 of their $6,000 average price tag.

Softscaping

Hardscaping refers to structures like outdoor kitchens or decks. Softscaping involves the living elements of the landscape. Hiring a landscape designer to install trees, shrubs, natural edging, and rock elements can do wonders toward improving the look and value of a home.

Pool or water feature

In certain markets, particularly hot climates, a pool or another water feature is a must-have. However, in other areas where outdoor time is limited, a pool or water feature can actually lower the value of a home. Speaking with a real estate professional can give homeowners an idea of how a pool will fare in a given neighborhood.

Outdoor improvements can improve the marketability of a home, as well as enhance its appearance and function.

The Times - Starved Rock Country HOMES

How to clean when faced with a shortage of supplies In light of concerns about COVID-19, various health organizations have issued specific instructions on how to maintain personal safety and cleanliness. These recommendations involve using common household products to sanitize homes, offices and public spaces. As people take such precautions, many are stocking up on extra essentials — resulting in shortages.

Everything from hand sanitizers to paper towels may be hard to find on grocery store shelves, leaving some to wonder what they can do to remain safe without sanitizers?

The Environmental Protection Agency states that coronaviruses are some of the easiest types of viruses to kill because they have an envelope around them that enables them to merge with other cells and infect them. If that protective coating can be disrupted, the virus can’t do its job. For those having trouble finding well-known cleaning agents, these alternatives may suffice.

Hot water and soap

The reason hand-washing is at the top of the list of sanitizing methods is because it is so effective

at washing away viruses and bacteria. Friction from scrubbing with soap and water can help break the protective envelope, states the EPA. Soap and water can clean all surfaces in a home, especially when applying a little extra elbow grease.

Hydrogen peroxide

As people clear isopropyl (rubbing alcohol) off the shelves, do not discount hydrogen peroxide. The CDC says household hydrogen peroxide at 3 percent concentration can deactivate rhinovirus, the virus that causes the common cold, within six to eight minutes of contact. Coronavirus is easier to destroy than rhinovirus, so hydrogen peroxide may be effective at combatting that virus as well.

Natural items can be used for general cleaning, but have not been endorsed for use on COVID-19 disinfection. In lieu of shortages, white vinegar, baking soda pastes and citrus oils and juices could fill the void of chemically-based cleansers for other home tasks.

Tested Positive for Radon?

We Are The

SOLUTION!

Home is where your story begins

Illinois Valley Radon Mitigation, LLC. Serving the Illinois Valley and surrounding counties. We are locally owned and operated. The area’s newest family owned Mitigation company.

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.

We are licensed by the State of Illinois.

Contact me to get started.

Geoff VeZain

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

Free Estimates Guaranteed Work Fully Insured

Owner: Tami Thomas-Leonatti

The Times - Starved Rock Country HOMES

717 Bellevue Ave., Ottawa Call 815-313-5892 tami@illinoisvalleyradon.com www.illiniosvalleyradon.com

CS5218

Tom Thomas, Mitigation Professional License #RNM2018203

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-CL1769153

Saturday, March 14, 2020

13

Simple strategies to meet the neighbors after moving

A lot goes into building safe, strong communities. While no single factor can be highlighted as more important than another in regard to building strong communities, a willingness on the part of residents to connect with their neighbors can greatly benefit local neighborhoods and the people who call those communities home.

According to Mental Health America®, a community-based nonprofit dedicated to promoting the mental health of all Americans, research has shown that social connections increase happiness and lead to improved overall health and even longer lives. Adults may find that establishing a connection with their communities, and maintaining that connection while juggling the responsibilities of work and a family, is not always so easy.

That’s especially so for adults who have recently relocated to new areas. Reaching out to neighbors can be a great way for adults to build new relationships that can benefit them as individuals and strengthen their communities.

• Don’t be shy. People often want to know who’s living next door, so adults who have recently moved need not be shy about introducing themselves to their new neighbors. Introduce yourself and share what inspired you to move to your new neighborhood.

• Answer and ask questions. Neighbors will no doubt ask questions when you introduce yourself, so be ready to answer these questions. Questions may focus on your career and where

14

Saturday, April 11, 2020

you grew up. If you grew up in the area where you recently moved, some of your neighbors likely did as well. Sharing stories about your school days and/or local hotspots can be a great way to break the ice. Don’t hesitate to ask some questions of your own as well.

Asking questions might reveal some common interests that can serve as strong foundations for budding relationships.

• Host a backyard barbecue. Backyard barbecues are laid back affairs, and that pressure-free atmosphere is perfect for meeting new neighbors. Once you have settled in, invite a handful of your neighbors over for the barbecue. If you have children, invite neighbors who also are parents, ideally ones whose children are the same age as your own. Kids have sparked many a conversation, and discussions about local schools, parks and programs for youngsters can be great ice breakers.

• Volunteer. Volunteering with community-based organizations is another great way to meet new neighbors. Volunteering with an organization whose mission you identify with may be even better, as you’re likely to find like-minded neighbors who share your passions when working with such groups.

Strong communities are built around people. When moving to a new community, adults can overcome the challenges such relocations present by taking various steps to connect with their new neighbors.

The Times - Starved Rock Country HOMES

Local Contractors

DiversiďŹ ed Sheet Metal

HEATING • AIR CONDITIONING • REFRIGERATION • ARCHITECTURAL SHEET METAL

• Residential • Commercial • Industrial

402 N. Illinois, Streator

(815) 672-2990 OFFICE • (815) 672-5620 FAX

If your business provides services and products related to home improvement this is the place to advertise.

Your business message will reach over 30,000 monthly readers.

It’s economical. It’s effective. It will work for you!

Times

THE

The Times - Starved Rock Country HOMES

Call Today!

815-220-6948

Saturday, April 11, 2020

15

SPRING pricebreak

50

% OFF

COMPARE PRICE

ALL FURNITURE

PLUS

NO INTEREST FOR

3 YEARS

*

Minimum purchase of $1299 required.

PLUS

FREE DELIVERY

**

The ultimate in delivery service. Details inside.

PRICE

break

794

$

Queen Bed with storage

Compare $1619

57% OFF

697

$

5-Piece Dining

5-Pc. Set includes solid wood 40” x 60” table with on 12” butterfly leaf and 4 side chairs.

Extra Side chair $99 each.

Compare $2119

Solid Wood Queen

62% OFF Bed with Storage

Transitional style bed made from solid reclaimed pine.

Includes headboard, footboard, rails & 2 drawers.

Dresser $649, Mirror $239, Chest $629, Nightstand $299

Ottawa Lafayette St.

Jefferson St.

turkfurniture.com

Rt. 23 (N. LaSalle St.) & Jefferson St.

815-433-8875 OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

FINANCING AVAILABLE SM-CL1767165

16

Saturday, April 11, 2020

The Times - Starved Rock Country HOMES