Homes&Design
M arch 2022
Home Services Home Furnishings Home Improvements Home Decor Real Estate & Rentals
HOME IMPROVEMENT ~ Published by Southern Lakes Newspapers LLC
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Grams Insurance Agency LLC 15 N Madison St., Evansville, WI 53536 julset@gramsinsurance.com 608- 882-6515
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HOMES & DESIGN • SPRING HOME IMPROVEMENT
MARCH 2022
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Home improvements to enhance an evolving lifestyle Refresh the staircase
Modernize the bathroom
It’s amazing how the right paint and new hardware can revitalize a row of sad You probably don’t spend much time using old cabinets. With no major construction staircases compared to the rest of the house, involved, you can transform your so staircase design isn’t likely top of mind. bathroom vanity over the course of a However, if you have dated carpet on weekend. your stairs, you have a prime opportunity to Select new hardware that looks bold revamp a central component of your home and stately (think chrome bars, not little for a small investment. It could be as simple plastic knobs) to match the tones in your as installing new treads, selecting new paint countertop, and remove the cabinets and for the walls and maybe a new stain on the give them a fresh, neutral shade. If you’re trim. over the white-on-white bathroom look, To go the extra mile, local ironworkers are try a dramatic dark finish that will make happy to custom fabricate a handrail. If you your new hardware and fixtures really have kids in the house or older family members pop. moving in, keep safety in mind on stairs to help them navigate your home with ease. CONTINUED ON PAGE 6
Evolving trends in home design reflect the changes in how the home is used. STOCK PHOTO Homes & Design
HOMES & DESIGN
Spring Home Improvement March 2022 Published by Southern Lakes Newspapers LLC 1102 Ann St., Delavan, WI 53115 (262) 728-3411
Homes & Design Spring Home Improvement
For advertising opportunities, call (262) 728-3411 or email vicki@southernlakesnewspapers.com EDITOR IN CHIEF: Edward Nadolski SPECIAL SECTIONS EDITOR: Tracy Ouellette PAGE DESIGN: Jen DeGroot CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Heather Ruenz ADVERTISING DIRECTOR: Vicki Vanderwerff
MARCH 2022
2022 that will have lasting impact:
HOMES & DESIGN • SPRING HOME IMPROVEMENT
Home is more than just where the heart is. Whether creating an office, a socially distant gathering space or making room for a loved one to move in, people are using their homes in ways they may never have before. Experts predict homeowners will focus on upgrades and home improvements that fit this evolving lifestyle in 2022 and beyond. In fact, the Leading Indicator for Remodeling Activity from Harvard University’s Joint Center for Housing Studies predicts a steady and significant rise in remodeling projects that is projected to reach $401 billion of annual spending by the third quarter of 2022. If you’re looking to make some moves with home renovation projects in the New Year, here are five trending upgrades for
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HOMES & DESIGN • SPRING HOME IMPROVEMENT
MARCH 2022
Tips for negotiating with contractors
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Spring is the season for fixing up a home. Homeowners who aren’t interested in doing the work themselves turn to contractors to ensure the job is done not only to code, but on time and efficiently. After receiving an initial estimate from a contractor, homeowners may wonder if there is any additional wiggle room in contractors’ costs. Certain contractors are willing to negotiate while others are firm in their prices. However, learning the basics of negotiation can put homeowners in position to save money on dream renovations.
Do your homework Getting the best price typically require shopping around and not settling on the first bid. Experts recommend getting at least three estimates on the same job — and be sure to let each contractor know that you are soliciting multiple bids. This alone may entice a
specific contractor to give you his or her best offer up front. Avoid simply choosing the lowest bid. Look at quality of work, reputation and reviews. If you like a costly contractor more than another, see if that contractor is willing to match a lower bid to win the job.
Pick the right season As with other industries, home renovation work heats up during certain seasons or times of year. General contractors may be more willing to negotiate for a lower price depending on when their busy season may be. Jobs may slow down in winter, for example.
Talk about supplies Even after getting a good bid, you may be able to speak with your contractor about lowering costs even more by choosing less costly supplies. Find out if contractors can
Learning the basics of negotiation can put homeowners in position to save money on dream renovations. STOCK PHOTO Homes & Design
source materials from a low-cost supplier. In addition, discuss if you can purchase your own supplies.
Ask to do a portion Be honest with the contractor about your budget and figure out if there is any way for you to do some of the work to lower costs. The contractor can give you jobs that are within your abilities, which can shave dollars off the final price.
Know your rights and laws Understand the laws governing contract language in your state or province. Contracts should also spell out the change order process so that expectations of changes and costs will be known in advance. These are just some of the tactics homeowners can use when negotiating the price of home remodels or improvements. (METRO CREATIVE)
5 important things to know about radon exposure Radon exposure is life-threatening. 1. Radon-related lung cancers are responsible for an estimated 21,000 deaths annually in the United States.
professional.
Radon testing should always be 4. done when you buy a home and after building a new home. Many states now require radon results (if known) to be disclosed during a real estate transaction. Some states require testing in priority buildings like schools and daycares.
Smoking and radon exposure can When high levels of radon are 2. 5. separately increase the risk of lung detected, professional radon cancer. If you smoke, exposure to both mitigation should be a priority. tobacco and radon enhances the risk of lung cancer even further.
The only way to detect radon in 3. your home is to test the air. The EPA urges anyone with radon levels above 4 picoCuries per liter (pCi/L) to take action to fix their homes. Both the EPA and the American Lung Association recommend that mitigation be considered if levels are greater than 2 pCi/L. After high levels are detected and confirmed, a radon mitigation system should be installed by a radon
Do‑it‑yourself radon mitigation is typically not an effective long-term solution. Some state health departments offer financial assistance or low interest loans for radon mitigation. Learn more about radon testing and mitigation at Lung.org/Radon. While elevated radon is common, it is a problem that is easy to address. By finding, fixing and preventing high indoor radon levels, its health impacts are preventable.
Test your new or existing home for radon. It’s crucial and easy to do. RIDOFRANZ / ISTOCK VIA GETTY IMAGES PLUS Homes & Design
(STATEPOINT)
MARCH 2022
the American Lung Association, have launched a new five-year National Radon Action Plan. The campaign is sharing five important things to know about radon:
HOMES & DESIGN • SPRING HOME IMPROVEMENT
Radon is present at high levels in a surprisingly large number of American homes, schools and other buildings. While this naturally-occurring gas is odorless, tasteless and colorless, it’s far from harmless. Experts are raising awareness about the serious health risks associated with radon exposure and what you can do about it. “Elevated radon in homes is more common than you may think. In fact, at least one in 15 American homes have elevated levels of radon, and this is something that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Exposure to radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States,” says Albert Rizzo, M.D., chief medical officer for the American Lung Association. “The good news is that it is easy to test for radon. Do-it-yourself test kits are simple to use and inexpensive.” In an effort to eliminate this preventable lung cancer risk factor, protect all communities and buildings, and save lives, the Environmental Protection Agency, along with strategic partners like
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IMPROVEMENTS Install new flooring Flooring is quite literally the foundation of design, so it must strike a blend of fashion and function. Research flooring with a good combination of durability and timeless aesthetics, like the Duravana hybrid resilient flooring, a waterproof and eco-friendly product exclusive to LL Flooring. Duravana’s range of styles are designed to replicate the natural color, grain and texture of real hardwood, with more unique plank patterns than traditional vinyl plank or laminate. Plus, its easyclick installation makes it DIY friendly. Learn more at LLFlooring.com.
Organize the mudroom A little bit of organization in an entryway can make a huge difference in the functionality and flow of the home.
• CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3
Start with simple shoe and boot storage, like a DIY bench or wall rack, so those items don’t spill out to hallways and bedrooms. Wall hooks are helpful for when guests arrive. And if you don’t have a true mudroom, a bit of wallmounted storage can make even the slimmest entryway feel intentional and inviting.
Define outdoor spaces Once the snow melts, adding a dedicated lounge to your back or side yard can feel like adding a whole room’s worth of square footage to your house. It could be as easy as a new patio set and a fire pit with some gravel or simple flagstone landscaping. Gabion baskets, framed with good-looking lumber, can be made into a simple divider or group seating. Pergolas with climbing plants continue to be popular. This outdoor space can become a year-round retreat that everyone will love. (BPT)
FIRST IN HOME MORTGAGES NOW is the time to think “FIRST” ... for your home mortgage refinancing needs
“FIRST CITIZENS” has attractive fixed term rates. Call to see how low they really are! Low borrowing rates also mean it’s a good time to purchase a new home.
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MARCH 2022
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Must-have features in your bathroom remodel Veteran homeowners recognize the value of remodeling their kitchens and bathrooms. Kitchens and baths tend to appear dated more quickly than other spaces, such as living rooms and bedrooms, which can always be revamped with some fresh paint and new furnishings. The home improvement pricing resource Home Guide indicates an average bathroom remodel costs anywhere from $5,500 to $15,000 depending on the size and scope of the renovation. However, a bath redo can increase a home’s resale value and can return as much as 68 percent of homeowners’ investments.
Floating vanity Add an airy feeling to the room by creating space between the vanity and the floor. A floating vanity can be a counter with a vessel sink or even have cabinets, as long as the vanity doesn’t extend to the floor.
Freestanding sink or tub There’s something elegant about a freestanding tub or pedestal sink. Such features can lend a classic vibe to a space. However, freestanding fixtures also come in modern or eclectic forms, so there are options for any design style.
Frameless showers Switch to a walk-in shower option, which improves aesthetics and makes it easier to “age in place” in a home. Pair that frameless shower with clear glass shower doors so sightline in the space remains unencumbered.
As homeowners plan their bathroom renovations, it’s a good time to consider improvements that will improve function and add design appeal for years to come.
Dual sinks and vanities With a double vanity, two people can share the space and easily use the bathroom without getting in each other’s way. One vanity with two sinks works, but homeowners can create even more personal space by dividing vanities and mirrors.
Small textured tile on shower floors Small textures are appealing and add safety. The added texture and grouting will keep feet from slipping on wet floors. Also, opt for mold-resistant grout to make cleanup even easier.
STOCK PHOTO Homes & Design
Special showerheads
Install a window
Invest in showerheads that can run the gamut from creating steam showers to rainfall effects. Some showers will have multiple shower jets to offer an invigorating experience.
Natural light and airflow can reduce the risk for mold and mildew growth, and windows add some aesthetic appeal to a space. Just be sure to choose frosted privacy glass. Additional considerations for a bath remodel include heated floors, well-placed and attractive storage options and a toilet enclosure (water closet) for added privacy. These and other bathroom renovation ideas can add value and improve the appeal of the room.
Improve drainage Increase the diameter of the drainpipe in the bathroom from the standard to a twoinch drain pipe. This will reduce the risk of clogs and overflow leaks.
(METRO CREATIVE)
HOMES & DESIGN • SPRING HOME IMPROVEMENT
Create a calm and serene sanctuary in the bathroom with light, natural hues and materials. Nature-inspired colors on tiles, walls and vanities can add to the spa vibe.
MARCH 2022
Natural textures
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How to pick the right trees for your property
Height Homeowners must consider the projected height of a tree before planting it. Avoid trees that will bump into anything when fully grown, as that can adversely
Canopy spread Trees grow out as well as up, so it’s important to consider their potential width at maturity as well. The ADF sizing guide can help homeowners get an idea of how wide a tree is likely to be at maturity. Trees that spread out quite a bit don’t necessarily need to be avoided, but it’s important that they’re planted far enough apart so they don’t adversely affect surrounding plants. In addition, wide trees that are planted too close together can make the landscape appear crowded, taking something away from its aesthetic appeal.
Growth rate
Growth rate is an important variable because it can affect how quickly homeowners will see changes in their landscapes. Homeowners who want to plant for privacy can consider trees with quick growth rates or purchase more mature trees that are already near full growth. Those who are not in need of instant transformation can try trees with slower growth rates, which the ADF notes typically live longer than fast-growing species.
Requirements Different trees require different amounts of sun and moisture and different soil components to thrive. Homeowners can have their soil tested to determine which trees will thrive in it. Local garden centers can be a great resource for homeowners who want insight as to which trees will thrive in their local climates. (METRO CREATIVE)
Trees serve many functions on a property. Choosing the right trees for a landscape requires careful consideration of a host of variables.
MARCH 2022
affect surrounding greenery and pose a safety hazard. The ADF’s tree sizing guide can be accessed at www.arborday.org/trees/ rightTreeAndPlace/size.cfm and serves as an invaluable resource for homeowners who want to plant new trees around their properties.
HOMES & DESIGN • SPRING HOME IMPROVEMENT
Trees benefit a landscape by serving both aesthetic and utilitarian functions. A home surrounded by healthy green trees can be a sight to behold, and those same trees can benefit surrounding plants and wildlife at the same time. As appealing as trees are, not all trees and landscapes make for the perfect match. The Arbor Day Foundation notes the importance of planning when designing a landscape. Planning ensures the trees homeowners ultimately choose for their properties will grow well in the soil and moisture present in their yards. Careful consideration of a handful of variables can help homeowners determine which trees will make the best fit for their properties.
STOCK PHOTO Homes & Design
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MARCH 2022
Residential
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On the garden path
Raised bed gardening provides easy access and increased productivity
Raised beds provide gardeners the opportunity to overcome poor soil, resulting in more productive gardens.
mixture of quality topsoil and compost, a high-quality potting mix, or a planting mix designed specifically for raised bed gardens. Grow any plants that you normally would grow in ground. Just make sure the plants are suited to the growing conditions – sunlight, heat, and wind – in your area. Since the soil mix and drainage is ideal in a raised garden, you will be able to grow more plants per square foot. Just be sure to leave sufficient room for plants to reach their mature size. Keep your plants healthy and productive with proper watering. This is critical for growing any garden, but even more crucial in a fast draining raised bed. The simple act of raising the garden height increases drainage, and a raised bed filled with planting mix means more frequent watering. Consider using drip irrigation or soaker hoses for watering ease. Always water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry. Add some mulch to help reduce watering and the need for other garden maintenance. Spread a layer of evergreen needles, pine straw, shredded leaves, or
other organic matter over the soil surface. This helps conserve moisture, suppresses weeds and adds nutrients and organic matter to the soil as it decomposes. You’ll spend less time watering and weeding throughout the season. Add an organic fertilizer at planting if your planting mix does not already contain one. Apply again mid-season if the plants need a nutrient boost. Always follow the label directions on the fertilizer container. The time and effort invested in creating raised beds will be returned many times over with years of healthy and productive gardens. Melinda Myers has written more than 20 gardening books, including “The Midwest Gardener’s Handbook, 2nd Edition” and “Small Space Gardening.” She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” DVD series and the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment TV & radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine. Her website is www.melindamyers. com.
MARCH 2022
PHOTO COURTESY OF MELINDAMYERS.COM Homes & Design
HOMES & DESIGN • SPRING HOME IMPROVEMENT
Raise your garden to new heights for easier access and greater productivity. Raised beds allow you to overcome poor soil by creating the ideal growing mix. They also make gardening more comfortable thanks to less bending and kneeling. By MELINDA MYERS Whether you Columnist purchase a kit or build your own, there are a few things to consider when creating a raised bed garden. Locate the garden in a sunny area if possible. Most plants require at least six hours of sun, and vegetables like tomatoes, peppers and melons produce best with a full day of sunlight. Select a long-lasting material such as interlocking block, fieldstone, plastic lumber or naturally long-lasting wood like cedar. The material selected will influence the shape and size of your garden. Some materials allow for curved beds while others are limited to squares, rectangles, and other angular shapes. Design your raised bed to fit your space and your needs. A three- or fourfeet width makes it easy to reach all parts of the garden for planting, weeding, and harvesting. Raising your planting bed at least eight to twelve inches improves drainage and provides an adequate space for most plants to root and grow. If you want to minimize bending, go higher. Add benches to increase your gardening comfort and ease. Roughen or loosen the existing soil surface if your bed is built on compact, slow-draining soil. This will allow water to readily move from the raised bed into the soil below. Cover the bottom of the bed with newspaper or cardboard, if needed, to suffocate existing weeds and grass. Line the bottom of your raised bed with hardware cloth to reduce the risk of animals burrowing into your garden. Lay the hardware cloth over the ground and bend it up along the inside of the raised bed walls. Fill the bed with a quality growing mix that is well drained but also able to retain moisture and nutrients. This may be a
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Attention: Local Area Home Owners To Get Opportunity of the Year…
HOMES & DESIGN • SPRING HOME IMPROVEMENT
MARCH 2022
Frustrated Contractor is “Giving Away” $3,151 Furnaces for $1,275 with Off-Season Central Air…
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(This is the ”Hottest AND Coolest Deal of the Year” … especially if your furnace is over 10 years old) Yes, it’s absolutely true. You can actually replace your old (and probably very inefficient) furnace and air conditioner as a package for at least $1,876 less than you would have to pay at any other time. Let me explain. Every year, the months of January, February, March and April can “Kill” my business. I end up losing a ton of money during these “Killer” months and it can take me the remaining eight months to make up for them. And I’m looking for the same thing to happen this year. My Problem Is Your Opportunity I’ve decided to give up trying to make a profit during the “killer” months. If I can only minimize my losses during January, February, March and April I will come out ahead in the other eight months. Here’s how this (admittedly daring) offer came about. Every year, the big manufacturers of air conditioners have to guess how many to build to meet the demand. Of course, they’re never exactly right. So, they always have some inventory they must hold over until the next summer season. I went to one of my distributors and they allocated 44 premier air conditioners and furnaces. And, because of the quantity and time of year, I was able to buy them at drastically reduced, dirt cheap, out-of-season prices. They are brand new 2021 models. And they are NOT the seconds or “blems” or standard “builder” models. They are factory-fresh, premier air conditioners and furnaces and have a full factory warranty. Here’s How You Can Get A Furnace For Peanuts By putting this furnace and air conditioner package together (then “Jaw-Boning” the distributor) and committing to a do-or-die purchase agreement of these systems, I was able to buy both the furnace and the air conditioner for less than anyone should have a right to pay! So, if you buy one of these normal new, premier air conditioners, I am “giving” you the furnace and all I ask for is the $1,275 it costs to have your furnace installed. Here’s How Just call me at 262-248-2103 anytime. We will come out and measure your home (and determine the availability of the proper size). Don’t forget, I only have a limited amount of matched systems. When they are gone, this remarkable offer ends also. I will show you the real world price on the air conditioner that fits your home. Then, I will show you the substantial savings now. And it will include all labor and installation materials. Nothing is left out. The Concept Is Simple Really By letting you win big now, I will win at the end of the year. I’m betting that if I make you an offer that is “irresistible” (at least it should be if your furnace or air conditioner is over 10 years old) and I barely mark it up above the price I paid, I will accomplish two things: 1. I will cover my rent, utilities, insurance and taxes in the “killer” months. 2. I can pay my professional staff and technicians to work instead of paying them to sit at home. If I can accomplish these two objectives, I will minimize my losses and the rest of the year, I can be a winner.
Keith Nissen King of Comfort
No Obligation Even after I completely explain the installation, there is absolutely no obligation. If you decide you don’t want to take advantage of the spectacular savings… that’s okay. I will give you a surprise gift worth $60 because you are kind enough to read this ad and give me a chance to solve my problem. I want you to think well of Master Services Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, even if you don’t buy. You Can Buy With NO Cash You don’t even have to pay me right away. I have set up a bank rate financing plan. Consider this. If you decide to make monthly investments instead of paying cash the entire amount of your payments might be more than offset by the savings on your utility bills. It’s like “having your cake and eating it too”. Ironclad Guarantee I’m so confident that you will save at least 25% on your cooling and heating bills (I’m projecting more like 35% +), that I will pay you Double The Difference for two years if you don’t! I’ll show you exactly how this works. There is no way you can lose. Your lower utility bills will help you save big. And I will even double your savings if you save less than 25%. If these premier systems were not among the best on the market, I couldn’t afford to make such a promise. Why This Offer Can’t Last You must act before April 15th. Here are two reasons why. 1. I only have a limited amount of pieces of equipment. When all of the air conditioners are sold and all the furnaces are “given” away, that’s it. There are no more at this price. 2. If I have any of these systems that are left on April 15th (although I doubt I will), this offer still ends. Here’s why. The only reason I am making this virtually no-profit (for me) offer is because of the “killer months”. My business always picks up about May first. Since these furnaces cost me so little, I can sell them at last years prices next November and December and still come out ahead. Give me a call now at 248-2103 and I will set an appointment for your no-obligation survey.
Lake Geneva WI 262-248-2103
www.masterserviceslg.com “We Think You’re Kind of a Big Deal” © 2001 AT500
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SINGLE-FAMILY HOMES Waterford • 108 N 3rd St...................... $ 180,000 • 5006 Buena Park Rd......... $ 380,000 • 4424 Buckey St................. $ 485,000 • 5028 Bayfield Dr................ $ 490,000 • 5700 Marsh Rd.................. $ 895,000 Sturtevant • 2010 90th St...................... $ 330,000 Burlington • 33920 Rose St.................. $ 210,000 • 30217 Sumac Dr............... $ 205,000 • 525 Park Ave..................... $ 325,000 • 4525 Mormon Rd.............. $ 400,000 • 344 Pickett Ct.................... $ 559,000 • 224 N Oakland Ave........... $ 278,000 Rochester • 116 S English Settlement Ave ......................................... $ 645,000 Raymond • 707 60th St........................ $ 380,000 • 9210 County Road K...... $ 1,335,001 Union Grove • 575 Wellington Dr.............. $ 465,000 Norway • 6941 Settler Ave................ $ 329,900 • 25112 S Wind Lake Rd..... $ 589,900 Yorkville • 15231 Kingston Way......... $ 830,000 Dover • 26410 Durand Ave............. $ 379,000 Racine • 1216 William St................. $ 186,000 • 3040 Glendale Ave............ $ 180,000 • 1228 Cedar Creek St........ $ 140,000 • 725 Willmor St................... $ 188,000 • 2801 Lasalle St................. $ 192,900 • 2101 Georgia Ave............. $ 189,900 • 1412 Hillcrest Cir............... $ 185,000 • 111 Virginia St................... $ 200,000 • 320 Lakecrest Dr............... $ 175,000 • 3138 Barbara Dr................ $ 200,000 • 913 Florence Ave.............. $ 212,000 • 1110 N Illinois St............... $ 220,000 • 1358 Harrington Dr............ $ 220,000 • 2923 Concord Dr............... $ 210,000 • 118 Sheffield Dr................ $ 225,000 • 44 Illinois St....................... $ 229,900 • 3519 Kentucky St.............. $ 212,500 • 605 Chicago St.................. $ 222,900 • 433 Augusta St.................. $ 227,000
• 3530 Oakwood Dr............. $ 200,000 • 2705 Concord Dr............... $ 228,000 • 4900 Westway Ave............ $ 242,500 • 3348 Victorian Dr............... $ 250,000 • 2304 Hayes Ave................ $ 240,000 • 732 Perry Ave.................... $ 244,750 • 183 Westminster Sq.......... $ 263,000 • 1753 College Ave.............. $ 265,725 • 406 16th St........................ $ 342,000 Mount Pleasant • 135 Trellis Ln..................... $ 370,000 • 3808 Stoneybrook Dr........ $ 377,500 • 9323 Dahlia Ln.................. $ 385,000 • 7137 Woodbridge Dr......... $ 379,900 • 4415 Allen St..................... $ 390,900 • 7962 Braun Rd.................. $ 395,000 • 6521 Heritage Ave............. $ 400,000 • 3310 Pleasant Ln.............. $ 460,000 • 4845 Newport Ln............... $ 615,000 • 1436 90th St...................... $ 550,000 Caledonia • 8811 Foley Rd................... $ 375,000 • 9223 Prairie Crossing Dr... $ 380,000 • 3149 Terrace High............. $ 382,900 • 5721 Richwood Ln............ $ 389,900 • 4531 Bannoch Dr.............. $ 400,000 • 4718 Chris Ct.................... $ 395,000 • 3625 County H.................. $ 460,000 • 5505 Highway 38............... $ 774,500 • 6500 Brook Rd.................. $ 830,000
CONDOS Waterford • 513 Torch Pine Ct.............. $ 203,900 • 444 Woodfield Cir.............. $ 375,000 Racine • 333 Lake Ave 104.............. $ 340,000 Caledonia • 4845 Scotts Way 202.......... $ 92,000 Mount Pleasant • 1105 N Sunnyslope Dr #101.................................... $ 180,000 • 1445 Sun Valley Dr 201..... $ 168,000 • 7158 Parkstone Ter 64...... $ 222,000 • 5855 Kinzie Ave 31........... $ 235,000 • 1076 Bedford Ct 202......... $ 248,000
VACANT LAND Burlington • 6533 Foxtail Ln.................... $ 25,000 Mount Pleasant • 1700 Warwick Way.............. $ 35,000 Raymond • Lt 0 W 7 Mile Rd................ $ 125,000
• 1331 27th St Lt2................ $ 380,000
WALWORTH COUNTY SINGLE-FAMILY HOMES Delavan • 3460 Country View Dr....... $ 325,000 • 2503 Rockford Colony Ln.. $ 370,000 • 4420 East Dr..................... $ 425,000 • 1401 Grant Ave................. $ 465,000 • 4602 View Crest Dr........... $ 579,000 • 4429 South Shore Dr..... $ 2,200,000 Bloomfield • W1316 Greenview Rd....... $ 132,000 • N1262 S Lakeshore Dr...... $ 180,000 • N1870 Clover Rd............ $ 1,285,000 Darien • N2808 Foundry Rd............ $ 140,000 Elkhorn • 236 W Page St.................. $ 153,000 • 831 Chelsea Dr................. $ 320,000 • 1140 Rosemary Rd........... $ 375,000 • 766 N Sandy Ln................ $ 408,000 East Troy • N9114 Juniper St............... $ 180,000 • W2435 Saint Peters Rd..... $ 591,964 • N9229 South Shore Dr... $ 1,065,000 Whitewater • 391 N Fremont St.............. $ 162,000 • N7697 E Lakeshore Dr...... $ 885,000 Richmond • N6291 Johnson Rd........... $ 325,000 Sharon • 158 Martin St..................... $ 167,000 Walworth • 132 Windmill Ln Lt54......... $ 329,900 • 408 Savannah Dr Lt51...... $ 338,045 • 682 Cook St...................... $ 375,000 Sugar Creek • W5127 Hawkhunter Rd..... $ 350,000 • W5490 Plantation Rd........ $ 375,000 Lake Geneva • 415 S Lake Shore Dr......... $ 699,900 Darien • 329 Duck Pond Ln............. $ 343,500 Genoa City • 219 Walworth St................ $ 275,000 Spring Prairie • W1312 State Hwy 11......... $ 510,000 Geneva • W3941 Palmer Rd............. $ 700,000 • N4462 Lost Creek Dr........ $ 840,000
MARCH 2022
RACINE COUNTY
HOMES & DESIGN • SPRING HOME IMPROVEMENT
home and property sales
Here is a listing of recent single-family home, condominium and vacant land sales in Kenosha, Racine and Walworth counties. The information is provided through the Multiple Listing Service.
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home and property sales Here is a listing of recent single-family home, condominium and vacant land sales in Kenosha, Racine and Walworth counties. The information is provided through the Multiple Listing Service.
Williams Bay • 401 Cambridge Dr Lt164 Lincoln....................... $ 456,180 • 54 Stam St........................ $ 800,000 Linn • N1701 State Road 120... $ 1,700,000
CONDOS Fontana • 150 Lake St 2D.................. $ 660,000 • 73 Saint Andrews Trl...... $ 1,401,000 Lake Geneva • 129 S Curtis St 1021......... $ 223,900 • 852 Kendall Ln 5J.............. $ 260,000 Geneva • 1474 N Geneva National Ave ......................................... $ 787,055 • 1365 Saratoga Ln 3-43..... $ 710,000 • 1375 Geneva Natl N Ave 15-43................................... $ 715,000 Whitewater • 400 S Rice St 9................. $ 185,500
VACANT LAND Linn • Lt0 Lackey Ln................. $ 1,750,000 Geneva • 777 Hunt Club Dr 56-03.... $ 195,000 • Lt13 Royal Glen Ct............ $ 196,500 East Troy • Lt 15 Troy Hill Ct.................. $ 84,000
HOMES & DESIGN • SPRING HOME IMPROVEMENT
MARCH 2022
KENOSHA COUNTY
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SINGLE-FAMILY HOMES Twin Lakes • 1213 Parkway Trl............... $ 740,000 • 2631 E Lake Shore Dr....... $ 965,000 Bristol • 21201 119th St.................. $ 433,500 Pleasant Prairie • 8100 Ridgeway Ct............. $ 576,486 • 9921 Cooper Rd................ $ 770,000 • 4280 95th St...................... $ 820,000 • 8609 Lakeshore Dr............ $ 849,000 Randall • 39334 Bloomfield Rd......... $ 500,000 • 40224 106th St.................. $ 555,000 Salem Lakes • 22216 121st St.................. $ 302,900
• 12625 259th Ave............... $ 335,000 • 25405 Runyard Way W...... $ 369,900 • 120 Katie Dr...................... $ 395,000 • 11910 250th Ave............... $ 399,900 • 23825 112th St.................. $ 510,000 • 21709 121st Pl.................. $ 482,500 • 300 N Cogswell Dr............ $ 620,000 Paddock Lake • 6050 248th Ct.................... $ 425,100 • 7600 259th Ct.................... $ 516,903 Somers • 425 Sheridan Rd............... $ 925,000 Brighton • 29715 41st St.................... $ 410,000 Kenosha • 6414 96th Ave................... $ 249,500 • 7609 31st Ave................... $ 267,000 • 1409 80th St...................... $ 265,000 • 5210 65th St...................... $ 270,000 • 9304 67th St...................... $ 300,000 • 7712 6th Ave..................... $ 281,500 • 9411 73rd St...................... $ 271,500 • 8645 33rd Ave................... $ 270,000 • 600 68th St........................ $ 265,000 • 3703 Van Buren Rd........... $ 299,900 • 3311 14th Pl...................... $ 340,000 • 3614 14th Pl...................... $ 325,000 • 5515 66th Pl...................... $ 335,000 • 7125 92nd Ave.................. $ 340,000 • 2142 30th Ave................... $ 335,000 • 9319 62nd Pl..................... $ 355,000 • 10623 67th Pl.................... $ 360,000 • 6051 111th Ave................. $ 390,000 • 15516 67th St.................... $ 385,000 • 6314 107th Ave................. $ 395,000 • 6113 83rd Ave................... $ 412,500 • 1403 40th Ct...................... $ 415,000 • 9903 81st Pl...................... $ 475,000
CONDOS Kenosha • 2830 21st St 16................. $ 179,900 • 1504 24th Ave 7................ $ 218,575 • 7010 53rd St 76................. $ 249,000 • 5508 2nd Ave 3b............... $ 450,000 Pleasant Prairie • 4688 98th St 68................. $ 717,036
VACANT LAND Somers • Lt0 12th St...................... $ 1,704,054
CLASSIFIEDS CALL 262.728.3411 TO PLACE YOUR AD FOR RENT Room for Rent WAYSIDE/ROOM FOR RENT On the square in Walworth. Rent by month only. Call, please leave a message. 847-739-6789
REAL ESTATE Other Real Estate PUBLISHER’S NOTICE All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familiar/ status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper 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 an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll-free at 1-900-669-9777. The toll-free tele phone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY
L. C. M.
Distinctive Landscape-Design & Installation
LAKE COUNTY MECHANICAL Heating, Air Conditioning • Ventilation & Duct Cleaning
847-989-4649 • 847-356-5252 lakecountymechanical.com
servicing lake county illinois & southern wisconsin
proud antioch chamber member
412332
Fully Licensed, Bonded and Insured
25 OFF $50 OFF $200 OFF
$ • YEAR-ROUND TREE SERVICE • CERTIFIED ARBORIST • PAVERS • RETAINING WALLS • FALL & SPRING CLEAN UPS
262-248-3653 www.bandjlandscape.com
W2795 KRUEGER RD. LAKE GENEVA office@bandjtree.com
Serving You For Over 50 Years
Any Service Repair Over $100
Limited time offer. Not valid with any other offer. Must mention coupon at time of appointment. During regular business hours only. Limit one coupon per service repair Good only at Lake County Mechanical through 4/15/22
Whole House Humidifier Installation
Limited time offer. Not valid with any other offer. Must mention coupon at time of appointment. During regular business hours only. Limit one coupon per service repair Good only at Lake County Mechanical through 4/15/22
Any New Complete Heating & A/C System Limited time offer. Not valid with any other offer. Must mention coupon at time of appointment. During regular business hours only. Limit one coupon per service repair Good only at Lake County Mechanical through 4/15/22
412640
Spring Upholstered Furniture Sale NOW THROUGH APRIL 30, 2022
25% OFF
Paper Dolls Home Furnishings & Interior Design Interior Design Services • Custom Window Treatments Blinds & Shades • Wallpaper 138 E. Geneva Square Lake Geneva, WI 53147 • 262.248.6268 paperdollsinterior.com
HOMES & DESIGN • SPRING HOME IMPROVEMENT
MARCH 2022
Special Ordered Upholstered Furniture
412642
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