Starved Rock Country Homes - DEC

Count ry HOMES FREE

December 2020

Starved rock ®

®

INSIDE: Gifts that save energy - Page 4 Water pipes trouble - Page 6 Improve air flow - Page 8 AND MORE!

Times A publication of

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2123 E 1075th Rd, Oglesby Chismarick Realty The Times - Starved Rock Country HOMES See more listings on pages 11 12/4/20 8:31 AM

BY

Winterproof Lending

It's officially "Once I am home, I'm not going back out." season, which means the last thing on your mind is making a trip to the bank to apply for a home loan.The good news is mortgage lending at First Federal Savings Bank is winterproof! Cozy up with a blanket and your wifi-enabled device, and Loan Valet will help you take care of the rest. Enjoy the benefits that technology gives us without sacrificing personalized service by applying for your next home loan through Loan Valet.

Features of Loan Valet: • Request a Consultation • Submit a home loan application • View notifications & reminders

• Complete assigned tasks • Capture photos of documents • Upload & store required files

All loans are subject to credit and underwriting approval. Other fees and restrictions may apply. Mobile carrier fees may apply. Loan Valet is a registered trademark of First Federal Savings Bank.

www.ffsbloans.com/matt.html

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• Track application progress ures • eSign documents & disclosures • Communicate with lending team

Matt Mooneyham +1 (815) 431-3968 mmooneyham@ffsbweb.com 633 Lasalle St, Ottawa, IL 61350

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS REAL ESTATE Chismarick Realty......................................................................................................11 Starved Rock Realty....................................................................................................5 Real Estate Agent.......................................................................................................10

FINANCIAL & MORTGAGE AFFILIATES Eureka Savings Bank.....................................................................................................7 Financial Plus Credit Union......................................................................................7 First Federal Savings Bank.........................................................................................2 First National Bank of Ottawa...............................................................................9 Illinois Valley Radon Mitigation............................................................................. 10 SOCU..................................................................................................................................3 Wells Fargo.......................................................................................................................7

LOCAL PRODUCTS & SERVICES Arrow Well & Pump................................................................................................12 Danchris Nursery - Contractor’s Grouping...............................................12

Diversified Sheet Metal - Contractor’s Grouping.................................... 12 Marseilles Sheet Metal............................................................................................. 12

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.

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Cool gift ideas that save energy (and do a world of good)

(BPT) - This holiday, people around the world are getting ready for a season that looks dramatically different from past years. As millions decide to stay home, the desire to make the most out of the holiday festivities is driving people to find more creative, convenient, and memorable ways to enjoy the season and eliminate unnecessary stress.

Whether you’re relaxing at home or celebrating with family, a smart home can help take care of daily tasks around the house, giving you more time to enjoy the things that matter most. Not only can smart home products enhance the holiday ambiance, but they can also simplify daily tasks and help you keep your home and family safe. These affordable devices provide the perfect blend of good cheer and peace of mind that are exactly the combination in high demand this year.

Here are five ways smart home devices can take the stress out of the season and help you enjoy a safe, relaxing holiday.

1. Automate holiday lights with smart plugs Using an automatic timer for holiday lights is nothing new, but smart plugs take convenience to the next level. They’re easy to setup and, unlike fussy old-school timers, give you greater control. With smart plugs, you can simply use your smartphone to turn on holiday lights right from the couch, without kneeling behind a tree to plug in a power cord or stepping out in the cold to turn on lights or inflatable decorations in your yard.

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2. Upgrade to a Smart Christmas tree If finding, transporting, and composting a live tree is too much hassle this year, consider upgrading to an artificial tree with smart lights built in. A smart Christmas tree comes with lights pre-installed and, using your smartphone or Amazon Alexa, you can easily select the lighting color, turn lights on or off, or schedule the lights to turn on at a certain time each night.

Many smart Christmas trees even let you change lighting modes with a simple voice command like “set Christmas tree to blue,” or “set Christmas tree to sparkle” to create a flawless festive mood.

3. Keep track of comings and goings with smart security cameras For the holidays and beyond, one of the best investments you can make is a smart home security camera. As online shopping for everything from holiday presents to daily household essentials continues to increase, having a smart home security camera can alert you when your purchases arrive and help keep them safe.

Popular smart home security cameras like Blink Outdoor are wireless, weatherresistant, and offer up to two years of battery life, making them easy and convenient to install anywhere around your home. For indoor settings, Blink Indoor security cameras can help you check in on your home day or night with motion alerts and infrared night vision.

The full range of features are detailed at www.amazon.com/blink, but their cameras also provide two-way audio and live video, so you can check in on your family, accept deliveries, and greet visitors remotely.

Not only does this help encourage social

distancing, it also means you stay cozy with fewer trips to the front door.

4. Protect against winter hazards with smart alarms Upgrading to smart alarms is another top strategy for staying safe during the winter.

You might not associate fires with winter, but house fires are actually more prevalent with the increased use of fireplaces and heaters. Smart smoke alarms alert you to problems even when you’re not at home, ensuring you get help as soon as possible.

Winter also means keeping your home sealed up tight. While this saves energy and keeps you warm, it also increases the risk of carbon monoxide build-up. Smart CO detectors give you up-to-the-moment information about the air quality in your home, allowing you to breathe easy.

5. Sink into a holiday soundscape with smart speakers Finally, smart speakers are the best choice for immersing yourself in the sounds of the holidays. People are missing the cheerful carols and soaring classical music that normally fills the air when you’re out and about this time of year. Capture that feeling with smart speakers. Use them to sync your music throughout your home, and transform it into a winter wonderland in no time.

While this winter will certainly be different, smart home devices can help encourage holiday cheer while keeping everyone safe and sound. From security cameras to dazzling lights, there’s a smart solution out there that can make your holidays even brighter.

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Starved Rock Realty

620 N. Di Division i i St St. Uti Utica (815) 667 667-9990 9990 www.starvedrockrealty.net t d k lt t

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

Alice Green

Johanna Arkels

Larla Grandadam

Denisse Perez

(815) 252-9696

(815) 488-9712

(815) 252-8026

(815) 883-1353

(815) 326-8513

Broker/Owner

Broker

Broker

Broker

Broker

Merry Christmas AS WE REFLE REFLECT ECT ON THIS PAST YEAR AND WE CELEBRATE OUR 20TH YEAR IN BUSINESS, WE’D LIKE TO GIVE BACK TO THOSE IN NEED~~~~~~ SO IF ANY OF OUR CUSTOMERS WHO SOLD, BOUGHT OR RENTED A PROPERTY THROUGH STARVED ROCK REALTY HAVE BEEN AFFECTED BY THE PANDEMIC AND ARE IN NEED OF FOOD OR ESSENTIALS, WE’D LIKE TO HELP YOU ~ PLEASE SEND A PRIVATE MESSAGE TO YOUR AGENT OR TO MY FACEBOOK PAGE; OR FEEL FREE TO TEXT ME AT 815/252-9696. THANK YOU, GOD BLESS AND MERRY CHRISTMAS. Dee Barrera, Broker/Owner Starved Rock Realty.

WE NEED MORE LISTINGS! LOOK AT WHAT WE’VE SOLD IN THE LAST 60 DAYS! LET US SELL YOUR HOME! 300 Gary St, Leonore $45,000

1407 E. Wilson St, Streator $125,000

22417 Star Rd. Tampico $101,000

427 E Church St, Utica $72,000

954 Melugins Grove Rd, Compton $215,000

327 E Washington St. Ottawa $165,000

212 Saunders St., Dalzell $105,000

2517 E. 275th Rd. Peru $320,000

865 N. 2401 Rd. Oglesby $169,000

2643 IL Route 178, Utica $112,000

2115 8th St. Peru $80,000

6 Water St. Oglesby $189,900

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7 signs your water pipes are in trouble

(BPT) - While spending more time at home, you’ve probably started noticing repairs you need to make. You may have even tackled a few projects to improve your home. However, there are some home improvements you might not consider, because they’re hidden until they reach their breaking point - like your home’s plumbing system.

You rely on the pipes to bring safe water into your home for cleaning, laundry - and drinking - every day. Unfortunately, you can’t usually tell something is wrong until they leak, creating water damage costing thousands of dollars.

The good news is, there are signs that indicate it’s time to repipe your home. And when you do it right, that one project can save thousands of dollars and lots of future headaches by preventing leaks, water damage - and unsafe drinking water.

Here’s what to look for.

1. Is your home over 50 years old?

If the original pipes weren’t replaced, repiping is a good idea before large-scale water damage occurs. Older homes typically used galvanized pipes prone to corrosion, leaking and bursting.

If your house was built even earlier - around the 1920s - the pipes were probably made of polybutylene and/or lead. These materials are dangerous and should be replaced immediately.

Polybutylene is highly prone to breaking and leaking, so it’s only a matter of time before a serious problem occurs. And lead seeps into drinking water, which can cause serious health problems for your family.

2. Do you have low water pressure?

When pipes contain rust or mineral buildup, it eventually restricts water flow into the house. By the time it affects your water pressure, it’s the result of years of buildup - a clear sign repiping is needed.

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3. Have you had leaks?

Bigger problems start small. If you’ve welded or patched leaks in small sections of pipe, this can indicate your entire system is at risk.

4. Do you see a problem?

Stains, flaking, indentations or rust on the pipes signals corrosion. Corroding pipes may leak and should be replaced.

Rusty pipes can also turn water reddish or brown, indicating the need to repipe to make your water healthy to drink.

5. Does your water taste or smell bad?

An unappealing smell or taste may also mean your water is unsafe, because of a breakdown of your pipes. It’s best to have them inspected immediately - and drink bottled water in the meantime.

6. Is it making odd noises?

If your plumbing rattles, clanks or bangs, this is a sign of a larger problem. You should have your pipes checked right away.

7. Does it run hot and cold?

If your shower quickly switches from icy cold to burning hot, corroded materials may have broken off inside the pipes and jammed the anti-scald device or valve regulating your water temperature.

The inspection If any of these signs sound familiar, take action and get help.

Each house is different, requiring a unique repiping solution.

Professionals like the Uponor Pro Squad experts are exclusively trained on the multiple installation configurations and considerations that can arise in your home.

The Pro Squad experts do a thorough site analysis first, checking your home for signs of leaks, such as moisture, The Times - Starved Rock Country HOMES

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mildew, foundation cracks and a running water meter. They also conduct a water-usage review. Their inspection and recommendations allow you to be proactive and prevent problems before they occur.

Helping you finance your happily ever after

The solution Once the problem is identified, it’s vital to replace pipes with a more durable material. An innovative solution to repiping homes is using Uponor AquaPEX, a flexible polymer piping material that resists corrosion, pitting and scale buildup while also offering greater resiliency in freezing conditions. Flexible crosslinked polyethylene (PEX) pipe, like Uponor AquaPEX, lasts longer and also makes repiping less invasive. The pipe can bend around corners and fit into tight spaces without having to cut large holes in drywall.

Whatever your home financing needs may be, I’m here to help you. With access to a broad selection of products and programs, homebuyer resources, and my support, you can feel confident that the home financing you choose will work through years of homeownership.

Its benefits include: * Highest industry rating for drinking water safety * Faster, safer, easier installation * Flexible for fewer fittings and better system performance * Resists corrosion, pitting and scale buildup * Sustainably produced * Expands to minimize damage from frozen water * Backed by a 25-year transferable limited warranty

I look forward to working with you throughout a lifetime of homeownership.

Contact me today.

Geoff VeZain

Home Mortgage Consultant Phone: 815-433-3715 Cell: 815-258-7772 geoff.vezain@wellsfargo.com NMLSR ID 413494 CS5218

SM-CL1841697

Repiping using PEX now gives you peace of mind by protecting your home and family from future water disasters, costly repairs and unsafe drinking water.

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.

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Member

250 Marquette Street • LaSalle 815-223-0700 25 The Times - Starved Rock Country HOMES

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5 quick tips for improving the airflow in your home (BPT) - With COVID-19 cases up in most parts of the country families are weighing the pros and cons of gathering.

Experts encourage maintaining a steady flow of fresh, quality air within your home to help slow the transmission of coronavirus.

Proper air circulation is crucial in any home, because airflow regulates temperature and creates a more pleasant and safe breathing environment. By contrast, poor air circulation can actually endanger your health. In fact, the levels of indoor air pollutants are often two to five times higher than outdoor levels, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.

Here’s how to improve the airflow in your home.

Open your windows Only 57% percent of homeowners open their windows in the winter, according to a study conducted by Pella Windows and Doors. However, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and state health departments agree opening your windows is a simple way to help to reduce the spread of coronavirus.

“Opening windows is one of the easiest and most

affordable ways to encourage air flow and limit the spread of germs, and potentially COVID-19, within your home,” said Nicolle Picray, brand communications and public relations manager at Pella Windows & Doors.

The company says the simple act of opening windows for 15-20 minutes a day, even in the winter months, can not only help to slow the transmission of COVID-19, but it can deliver a powerful lift to physical and mental health, as well as help clear homes of indoor pollutants and odors.

Turn on ceiling fans Whenever possible, keep fresh air circulating in your home.

Turning on ceiling fans can keep air moving, and combined with opening windows, can help cross-ventilation.

Check your air filter A dirty air filter will reduce clean airflow from your home’s heating and cooling system. This makes your home less comfortable, raises your energy bills and can lead to costly heating and air conditioning repairs.

Add houseplants Put that green thumb to work. The benefits of adding houseplants to your home decor go far beyond aesthetics. Houseplants are natural air filters that purify your home. And, research shows that greenery reduces stress and creates a more tranquil and relaxed environment.

Rearrange your furniture Create a direct pathway through and around the rooms of your home, especially gathering spaces like the dining room. Make sure there isn’t anything blocking air flow from the windows or covering any of the vents on your floors, walls or ceilings.

By making simple adjustments you can improve the air circulation and ventilation in your home, ensuring you - and your guests - breathe clean air.

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Tips for safe holiday entertaining in petfriendly households

The Right Mortgage for You

Low interest rates and low down payments, we make it easy to get into the home of your dreams with mortgages that fit your needs and lifestyle.

The holidays are a time to spend with friends and family.

Celebrating and entertaining are large components of what makes Thanksgiving, Christmas, Chanukah, and New Years festivities so enjoyable. Holiday hosts with pets must consider companion animals when planning the festivities.

The holiday season brings added dangers for pets. The American Veterinary Association notes that, by keeping hazards in mind, pet owners can ensure their four-legged friends enjoy the season as much as everyone else.

• Secure the tree. Securely anchor the Christmas tree so that it won’t tip over on anyone, including rambunctious pets.

Also, stagnant tree stand water can grow bacteria. If a pet should drink the water, it may end up with nausea or diarrhea.

Replenish the tree basin with fresh water daily.

• Skip the candles. When creating mood lighting, opt for electronic or battery-powered lights instead of open flames.

Pets may knock over candles, and that can be an instant fire hazard.

• Keep food out of reach. Situate food buffets beyond the reach of hungry and curious animals. Warn guests to promptly throw out their leftovers so that dogs and cats do not sneak away with scraps that may cause stomach upset or worse.

Real Simple magazine warns that fatty foods can promote pancreatitis — a potentially dangerous inflammation of the pancreas that produces toxic enzymes and causes illness and dehydration. Small bones can get lodged in a pet’s throat or intestines as well.

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Tested Positive for Radon?

• Avoid artificial sweeteners. Exercise caution when baking sugar-free desserts. The artificial sweetener xylitol can cause dogs’ blood pressure to drop to dangerously low levels. Xylitol is found in some toothpastes and gum, so tell overnight guests to keep their toiletries secure to avoid accidental exposure.

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SOLUTION! 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.

• Be cautious with cocktails. If the celebration will include alcoholic beverages, the ASPCA says to place unattended adult beverages where pets cannot reach them. Ingested alcohol can make pets ill, weak and even induce comas.

We are licensed by the State of Illinois.

• Be picky about plants. Mistletoe, holly and poinsettias can be dangerous in pet-friendly households. These plants can cause gastrointestinal upset and may lead to other problems if ingested. Opt for artificial replicas instead. If guests bring flowers, confirm they are nontoxic to pets before putting them on display.

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• Watch the door. Guests going in and out may inadvertently leave doors open. In such instances, pets who get scared or are door dashers may be able to escape the house. Put a note by the door to watch for escaping pets.

Tom Thomas, Mitigation Professional License #RNM2018203

• Designate a safe space for pets. If the holiday hustle proves too much for cats, dogs, birds, and more, give the pet a safe, quiet spot away from the crowds.

Holiday hosts should factor in pet safety when they open their homes to guests.

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

Tom Thomas Mitigation Professional SM-CL1837705

Experienced & Knowledgeable Agents

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If interested to run on this page Call your Advertising Representative or (815) 433-2002 and our support team can help you 10

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Jennifer Bliss

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2123 E 1075th Rd, Oglesby

309 W Grant St, Streator

406 Prairie Ct, Streator

1102 Sundown St, Streator

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

4 bed | 2 bath | 1600 Sq Ft 2 car garage | MLS# 10911366

3 bed | 1 bath | 1418 Sq Ft 2 car garage | MLS# 10940924

2 bed | 1 bath | 800 Sq Ft 2 car garage | MLS# 10843212

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7 Genseke Ct, Streator

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312 W Morrell St, Streator

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

3 bed | 2 bath | 1109 Sq Ft MLS# 10765328

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

4 bed | 2 bath | 1180 Sq Ft MLS# 10913323

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1206 E Elm St, Streator MLS# 10917982 $299,000

212 E Main St, Streator MLS# 10617080 $89,000

620 E Main St, Streator MLS# 10804245 102 S Everett St, Streator MLS# 10804247 $149,000

201 Dannys Dr #1, Streator MLS# 09376531 $1300/mo

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2 bed | 2 bath | 1144 Sq Ft MLS# 10749139

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Commericial Office | 4700 Sq Ft MLS# 09979437

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1804 Golfview Dr #4, Streator

2 bed | 2 bath | 1150 Sq Ft Condo 1 car garage | MLS# 10718668

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