Illinois Valley Homes A NewsTribune Publication | January 17, 2024
MLS# 11921382 - 6820 E 1075th Rd, Granville, IL 61326 FEATURED PROPERTY You could find this stone-sided home, mature trees, rolling terrane, blacktop driveway and picturesque barns on a postcard. The setting of this 3.5 acre farmstead is second to none! The views from inside this home bring the outside in. Large windows in the kitchen, dining room and living room allow you to appreciate nature from inside. This 1900 sq ft ranch home with a full basement is charming. From the stone exterior to the curved interior doorways, this home is unique. Some features include a dedicated dining room, eat-in kitchen, enclosed porch and two entrances to the full basement. The family room is stunning. The gas fireplace is surrounded by built-ins. The natural hardwood floor is warming and the view from the bay window is perfect. There are 3 bedrooms on the main level. The full basement has an additional bedroom-like room and a second bathroom. The barn and two extra storage buildings on the property allow for plenty of storage, animals, a repair shop or whatever you’d like. The large barn with the three overhead doors is heated. Make sure to visit this property. While you are here just stop and listen. You’ll only hear peace and quiet.
See listing on page 2
Is your home smart? PAGE 6
Symptoms of plumbing problems PAGE 14
Unlocking hidden potential: 5 ways to elevate your laundry room PAGE 18
Beth Coleman-Weger, Broker 815-252-2713 SoldbyBethColeman@gmail.com
Donna Bayler, Broker 815-760-2204 DonnaBayler@gmail.com
Mike Gonet, Managing Broker 815-481-2411 Mike_Gonet@hotmail.com
Angie Heckman, Broker 309-312-0180 Angie.Heckman@yahoo.com
Brandi Kunkel, Broker 815-252-4071 IVREwithBrandi@gmail.com
Featured HOMES Featured HOMES
PE
ND
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6820 E 1075th St. Granville, IL 327 Cleveland St. Spring Valley, IL
278 Winter Haven Dr. Varna, IL NE
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1709 10th St. Peru, IL
NewYear CCOMMERCIAL OMMERCIAL PROPERTY PROPERTY LLOTS OTS FOR FOR SALE SALE
PR
ICE
5804 Academy St. McNabb, IL
NewHome NE
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PR
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618 E. Grant St. Granville, IL
427 W. Dakota St., Spring Valley, IL
405 W Park Row St. Henry, IL
Laake Front L 2146 Donohue St., LaSalle, IL
Local Realty Group Inc.
1105 Jay Ct. Varna, IL
815-339-1158
2 January 2024 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication
884 Fair Haven Dr. Varna, IL
local-realtygroup.com
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A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | January 2024 5
Is your home smart? (BPT) - Controlling the operations of a home with a finger tap seemed out of reach only a few years ago. Today, homeowners are unlocking doors, setting alarms, adjusting the temperature and even turning on lights with a tap on a smartphone. Are we now living in George Jetson’s world?
Mercury Insurance product manager for homeowners Adam Bakonis. “Smart devices not only notify homeowners of issues earlier, they make you more aware of what is happening with different systems and can help prevent a costly disaster.”
When investing in any smart “Smart homeowners are in- home system, you should quisitive about what is going speak to an insurance agent on with their property,” said to see if the device may qualify
you for an insurance discount. WATER LEAK DETECTION SYSTEMS Excluding weather events, water leaks are the most common cause of property damage and can easily go undetected. By the time a leak has made itself known, it may have done some extensive damage. Water leak detection devices can discover all types of leaks, including hidden
ones - though functionality and capabilities will vary by device. “Sensors that monitor water flow, for example, can send a notification to a homeowner’s device periodically and let them know of a potential issue,” said Bakonis. “Many of these systems will notify homeowners through their smartphones, allowing them to view and monitor water use
Loans to Purchase, Build or Refinance First-Time Home Buyer Program Available In-House Servicing on All Loans No Points - Competitive Closing Costs “Color is such an easy way to transform any space. I also love how the “Color is such an easy way to transform any space. I also love how the shade you choose is a creative to infuse your and personality home.” shade youwaychoose is astylecreative wayintoto your infuse your style and personality – Joanna Gaines into your home.” - Joanna Gaines
Debo Ace Debo Ace Hardware Hardware 4th St 1713 4th St.1713 Peru • (815) 223-0461 Peru, IL 61354 (815) 223-0461
Monday - Friday 7:00 AM - 5:30 PM Saturday 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM • Sunday CLOSED
6 January 2024 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication
Customers can now apply on-line on our website.
CALL
www.eurekasavings.com 250 Marquette St LaSalle, IL. 61301
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both indoors and outdoors notification to a homeowner’s and be alerted to a potential smartphone if the battery is problem before it gets worse.” getting low. CYBER PROTECTION AND SECURITY While smart home technology provides homeowners with a sense of security and convenience, there can still be risks, especially from cyberattacks. Homeowners should stay vigilant and protect their systems with strong passwords, encryption and connecting devices only to their own network. Homeowners should also make sure they don’t share any sensitive login SMART FIRE information since these deDETECTION SYSTEM Smart smoke detectors take vices may rely on a password fire prevention a step further or specific device access. than standard smoke detecCyber protection is an adtors. Smart smoke detectors can be wired into home secu- ditional type of coverage that rity systems and be monitored homeowners who incorpoto notify both the homeowner rate smart technology into and the local fire department their home should seriously or a monitoring service of an consider as the coverage may alarm. Some alarms can de- be designed to protect any tect unsafe carbon monoxide electronic device connected levels in the air and prevent to the internet. the spread of smoke by shut“It’s important for hometing down air ventilation systems. They may also provide owners to remember that Homeowners may be able to lower the cost of their water bills by preventing water waste while also avoiding catastrophic damage due to a leak. Some water districts and insurers provide rebates or other incentives for a water leak detection device. Homeowners should check with both their insurance agent and local water district to see if they qualify for any discounts.
home cyber is not just computers, it’s all electronic devices,” said Bakonis. “A cyber-attack on a connected home device would be covered by cyber protection coverage that is available to be bundled with many homeowners policies. This protection would pay to recover data and restore systems that have been lost or damaged due to a hack, including connected home devices.” Homeowners should check with their insurance agent to see what options are available and what is covered.
Many systems work together so homeowners can start with smaller devices and expand their systems as their needs increase.
“If you are investing in smart home devices know that there are often insurance benefits that come in the forms of discounts for devices that monitor some of the most common claims which are fire, water and theft,” said Bakonis. “Over time, the amount you save on your premium may be even greater with devices that help with monitorInvesting in a smart home ing safety and prevention. doesn’t have to be expensive.
Cory Biers
Tara Stefanich
Chris Holdenrid
Ashley Rzasa
Jess Newcomer
Mellissa Maurice
Senior Vice President, Loans Mendota 815.539.3834 NMLS #477892
Mortgage Originator Ottawa 815.433.3727 NMLS #688620
Senior Vice President, Mortgage Loans Mendota 815.539.3834 NMLS #461073
Mortgage Originator Streator 815.673.4381 NMLS #1900504
Retail Loan Officer Mendota 815.539.3834 NMLS#1706593
Loan Officer/ Branch Manager Peru 815.224.4484 NMLS #1014484
Robert (Bob) Suarez Community President Peru 815.224.4484 NMLS #477891
A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | January 2024 7
Brokers Representing the Greater Illinois Valley & Starved Roc Dawn Farneti 815.343.1900 Listing & Selling Residential, Multi-unit & Commercial Properies
Kathryn Erjavsek 815.307.0711 Specializing in Equestrian & Rural Properities
Christine Dahm 815.303.4622 Listing & Selling Residential, Rural, Commercial, & Retail/Office Space
3030 4th St., Peru, IL | 815.224.9400 | MalooleyDahmReal
4-BEDROOM / 2-FULL BATH 1127 N Gooding St., LaSalle, IL Features hardwood flooring, main floor laundry, custom cabinetry, ss appliances, garage & more!
2023 UPDATED HOME / 4-BEDROOM / 2-BATH 453 E. Walnut Street, Oglesby, IL Features new appliance, flooring, freshly painted. Move-in Ready!
ENJOY 20 Beautif master be
RANCH STYLE HOME - 3-BEDROOMS/2-BATHS 411 Elm Street, Spring Valley, IL situated on beautiful half-acre in private setting featuring open plan, stone fireplace, 2-car garage & 11'x24' shed.
8 January 2024 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication
4-LARGE BEDROOMS W/WALK-IN CLOSETS 922 S. Euclid Avenue, Princeton, IL This sun-filled 2600+Sf home features updated kitchen,spacious living/dining rooms, 2-baths, main floor laundry, 2-car garage & beautiful yard & deck.
ck Country Area Beverly Malooley 815.488.5159 Designated Managing Broker Representing Sellers & Buyers
PROFESSIONAL OFFICE BUILDING
FOR SALE 2960 SF ADA accessible building features reception area, offices, Kitchen/break area, conference room, & full-basement. ample parking. 409 E Second St - Spring Valley, IL Beverly Malooley, Broker 815.488.5159
VACANT LAND
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12.9 ACRES - $79,000 Rolling hills, timber with building site. Build your dream home and/or use for recreation. Rt. 29 & East St - Depue, IL Christine Dahm, Broker 815.303.4622
LEASING OPPORTUNITIES HIGHLY VISIBLE 600-4500 SF Immediate occupancy. Completely updated & ready for your business! Perfect for professional office or retail.
Y OVER AN ACRE OF COUNTRY LIVING 06 West Green River Road, Ohio, IL ful setting close to Princeton features bedroom w/en suite plus 2-additional edrooms & bath. Well-maintained, 1699-sf home features vaulted ceilings & 2-car garage.
$135,000
12 Gunia Drive, la Salle, IL Call: Beverly Malooley, Broker 815.488.5159
DOWNTOWN LA SALLE Leasing available office or retail 433 1st St., La Salle, IL Contact: Christine Dahm, Broker 815.303.4622
PERFECT LEASE SPACE for retail or office In the heart of Historic Downtown La Salle 433 1st St., La Salle, IL Contact: Christine Dahm, Broker 815.303.4622
A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | January 2024 9
815-223-1088
coldwellbankertoday.com
Pietro Alfano
Jaimie Bazydlo
Janet Benvenutti
Nathan Byers
Wendy Fulmer
Kelli Geinosky
Robin Guerrero
Ottawa-Fully rented 4 unit apartment building, LaSalle-Conveniently located 2 bedroom, 1.5 Peru-Well maintained and affordable 2 bedroom, Oglesby-Completely remodeled 3 bedroom, each unit 1 bedroom/1 bath, plenty of parking. bath home, 2 car attached garage, Large yard. 1 bath home, full basement, 1 car garage. 1 bath home, lovely front porch, 2 car garage. #11947618 $290,000 #11944111 $65,000 #11943570 $88,000 #11938391 $150,000
Henry-Cozy 2 bedroom, 1 bath home, unheated Wyanet-Affordable 3 bedroom, 2 bath home, Oglesby-Solid 3 bedroom, 1 bath home, spacious Peru-Well maintained 2 unit, south unit 2 enclosed porch and sun porch, 2 car garage. main level bedroom, large front porch. living room, full basement, 2 car garage. bedroom, 1.5 bath-north unit 2 bedroom, 1 bath. #11936419 $74,500 #11935274 $29,900 #11934563 $149,900 #11932435 $156,500
Peru-Lovely 3 bedroom, 1 bath home on corner LaSalle-Neat 3 bedroom, 1 bath home, spacious Princeton-Neat 3 bedroom, 2 bath home, 1+ car Peru-Well maintained 2 bedroom, 1 bath home, 3 lot, hardwood floors, 2 car garage. kitchen, enclosed front porch, large yard, shed. garage, sunny deck, shed, and nice back yard. season porch, side deck, 1 car garage, corner lot. #11932189 $189,900 #11914558 $129,900 #11862621 $199,500 #11859424 $79,900
DePue-Very well maintained 2 bedroom, 1 LaMoille-Clean 4 bedroom, 1 bath home on 5.09 Peru-Affordable 3 bedroom, 1 bath home, LaSalle-Spacious and charming 2 bedroom, bath ranch home on large lot, full basement. acres, heated/cooled garage, horse shed, chicken coop. large enclosed front porch, 1 car garage. 1 bath bungalow, covered porch, rear deck. #11921349 $62,000 #11904701 $279,000 #11949467 $79,900 #11935638 $125,000 10 January 2024 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication
815-223-1088
coldwellbankertoday.com
Chris Hopps
Jessica Jeffrey
Vincent Jessen
LaSalle-Lovely 4 bedroom, 1.5 bath home, front screened porch, floored attic, nicely manicured yard. #11851832 $145,000
Barb Kuzma
Bonnie Lester
Peru-One of a kind, 4 bedroom, 2 bath home, 2 balconies overlooking front and rear yards. #11813453 $249,900
Lacey Monterastelli
Garry Schroeder
LaSalle-Brand new 3 bedroom, 2 bath mobile home, new deck, concrete parking pad. #11785714 $114,900
SUBDIVISIONS HERITAGE FIELDS SUBDIVISION Large residential building lots starting at $19,900. Curb & gutters, city sewer & water available. Close to I-39! Lot size begins at .25 an acre & covenants are available. Call Garry Schroeder at 815-252-5854. MLS#10141625
CEDAR LANE PREMIUM HOME SITES Ready to build, city sewer/water, curbs, sidewalks, underground utilities. Plat & restrictive covenants available, Peru school district. Starting at $80,000. Call Wendy Fulmer 815-252-8280 or Chris Hopps 815-252-5273. MLS#10785395
RESIDENTIAL LOT LISTINGS LaSalle-Vacant residential lot with utilities nearby, close to business district.............. #11942716........ $10,000 Utica-Single family residential building lot, walking distance to downtown................. #11949410........ $19,000 Henry-Build your dream home on this scenic lot, city utilities .................................... #11767996.......... $5,000 LaSalle-Duplex lot on golf course, city water/underground utilities ............................ #11488050 .......$65,000 COMMERCIAL LOT LISTINGS Princeton-Cleared, level building site features 2.88 acres in business plaza ...................... #10878168 .......$300,000 A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | January 2024 11
815-223-1088
coldwellbankertoday.com
TJ Templeton
Amber Witek
Carol Wlodarchak
Karen Zermeno
Heidi Huber
Bob Huber
Tom Guttilla
SM-LA2130855
COMMERCIAL
LaSalle--Turn key investment opportunity, well built building ,currently bar, can expand to full restaurant. #11942774 $199,000
Spring Valley-Property is 100% handicap accessible, 9,565 sq ft, can be split into smaller spaces to suit. #11938514 $499,000
LaSalle-High traffic corner location, 5,300 sq ft building on 1+ acre lot, plenty of parking, unlimited uses. #11873611 $325,000
Troy Grove-Turnkey business offers restaurant with fireplace, full bar, restrooms, back room, and apartment. #11855347 $300,000
Ladd-Well established bar and grill, with banquet facilities, basement with walk-in cooler and upstairs space. #11844560 $249,900
LaSalle-Instant cash flow with 5 commercials and 2 residential spaces in the heart of downtown. #11825199 $695,000
Peru-Own this Peru Icon, The Right Spice, has everything that is needed to run a successful restaurant. #11820633 $690,000
LaSalle-Well established restaurant/tavern with great clientele, extensive list of equipment included. #11710340 $325,000
Utica-Unlimited possibilities with this 4,400 sq ft commercial building on 1.75 acres. #11338122 $209,000
COMMERCIAL LEASES LaSalle-Updated 2,800 sq ft features 2 offices, bathroom, open space, storage ................. #11937758...$2,000/month LaSalle-Layout the ideal flow for you and your clients with 1,400 sq ft of space. ................. #11930671 ..$1,200/month LaSalle- Cozy 800 sq ft commercial space located in heart of downtown. .......................... #11930634 .... $800/month LaSalle-Spacious reception area, 2 offices, conference room, storage and bath. ................ #11922458..... $800/month Peru-Commercial space has large open area with back storage and 2 bathrooms. .............. #11908126 ...$1,500/month LaSalle-Turn Key bar in the Gateway to LaSalle building, indoor/outdoor space. .................. #11908070 ..$1,500/month Oglesby-Multi tenant property with 3,000-20,000 sq ft of office space available. ............... #11891928 ...Varies By Size LaSalle-Downtown store front, 600 sq ft property can be opened up to fit your needs. ....... #11889770..... $650/month
12 January 2024 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication
Landmark Realty of Illinois LLC 1221 North Main Street Princeton • Illinois • 61356 • 815-875-1221 illinoisvalleyhomeshow.com
816 S. Main SHEFFIELD $189,000 3 BDRMS; 2 1/2 baths #11947687
816 S. Main PRINCETON $117,000 4 BDRMS; 2 baths #11914146
11 King Court PRINCETON $30,000 1 Acre Lot #11950721
19235 1900 N. Ave. PRINCETON $419,900 4 BDRMS; 2 baths; 4 acres #11810972
323 W. Putnam PRINCETON $60,000 2 BDRMS; 1 Bath #11888683
115 North Paul MCNABB $235,000 4 BDRMS; 2 baths #11908742
309 East Van Buren OHIO $167,000 4 BDRMS; 3 baths #11897503
531 Elliott KEWANEE $149,000 3 BDRMS; 1 Bath #11921789
102 N. Main Street OHIO $99,000 Commercial Property #11914295
257 Lake Thunderbird Drive PUTNAM $399,000 4 BDRMS; 2 baths #11905733
21199 2300 North Ave. OHIO $380,000 4 BDRMS; 2 baths #11877316
405 Backbone Road East PRINCETON $712,500 Commercial Property #11806595
233 W. Walnut SHEFFIELD $29,900 1 BDRM; 1 bath #11943672
110 N. Chicago MAGNOLIA $349,000 Commercial Building #11785793
116 1st St. BRADFORD $90,000 2 BDRMS; 1 bath #11860325
703 Bryant CIrcle Drive PRINCETON $95,000 Vacant Lot #1182667
420 S. Main PRINCETON $249,000 Commercial Property #11751239
425 W. Clark PRINCETON $16,000 Vacant Lot #11890030
308 W. South ANNAWAN $49,900 2 BDRMS; 1 bath #11863826
15431 645 East St. SHEFFIELD $169,900 5 Acre Building Site #11793980
A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | January 2024 13
Symptoms of plumbing problems
The drip of a faucet, the bang of pipes and the visible signs of a leak under the sink are some notable indicators of plumbing problems. Other, potentially serious issues may not be so evident. How can homeowners tell if they have potential plumbing problems? The following are some sights and sounds that indicate it is time to call in a plumber. • Banging or clanking: Plumbers refer to these noises as water hammer. This is when a rush of water forces through the pipe and bumps into a closed valve, producing a metallic noise. Something is in the pipe that is restricting water flow. Over time, the flow of water meeting an obstacle could loosen pipe joints as the water tries to find an easier workaround. • Pipe discoloration: If there is any sign of discoloration on pipes, particularly rust, it could be a symptom of a dripping sink or drain line that is
slowly leaking. A slow leak can eventually turn into a big mess if left unattended. • Sewer smells: Pipes need traps and vents. Traps are designed to prevent sewer gas from entering the home, while vents channel sewer odor up to the roof. If there are sewer smells, it could mean a trap has dried out or a vent line is cracked, says Family Handyman. • Low water pressure: If you turn on the faucet and the water pressure is poor, it could be the result of a clog or a leak somewhere in the system. Pipes that are improperly sized for a home also can affect pressure. • Sluggish drains: Clearing drains is perhaps the only plumbing problem that homeowners should address themselves. More often than not, drains that fail to drain quickly have a blockage such as hair or other debris. If attempts to clear the drain do
not work, it is best to bring in a professional plumber. • Shaking sounds: Water can cause occasional noises, but if the sounds are frequent, the pipes are not secured firmly enough. A plumber will need to
Your Window of Opportunity Awaits You at Maze.
tighten the mounting straps or even completely replace them. Plumbing issues are nothing to take lightly, as small problems can quickly escalate and cause thousands of dollars in damage. SH242649
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Grasser’s can help remodel your outdated kitchen! Call Heather today!
NMLS# 759336 Mortgage Loan Officer - AVP 815-220-2288 mclancy@myhtnb.com
myhtnb.com 14 January 2024 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication
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Missy Clancy
404 W.Main St., McNabb, IL • www.grassersplumbingheating.com
Ed Neaves, Managing Broker
609 S. Main St., Princeton, IL 61356
Julie Duncan Realtor® 309.826.9845
Roxana Noble Realtor® 815.878.7171
Jennifer Carlson Realtor® 513.815.0183
Contact Berkshire Hathaway for All your Real Estate Needs! COMMERCIAL - Wonderful Business Opportunity! Condo
605 S. Main St., Princeton - MLS 11914938
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917 N. Main St.
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Princeton - MLS 11894948
LAND - The Best Buy on Earth is EARTH! Land
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804 Hudson St., 15.49 Acres Utilities to Site Princeton - MLS 11754830
HOMES - Great Ranch Homes!
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SOLD 324 Peru St. Princeton - MLS 11940687
2025 Hickory Lane Princeton- MLS 11936259
766 Anita Lane Princeton - MLS 11864983
A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | January 2024 15
What to know about kitchen countertop materials
K
itchens are the busiest rooms in most homes. Kitchens have become more than just places to prepare meals, with many functioning as gathering spaces and even go-to dining spots in homes that do not feature formal dining rooms. So much time spent in the kitchen makes it worthwhile to invest in these popular spaces. Kitchen renovations are high on many homeowners’ to-do lists, and there’s many decisions to make once they commit to redoing the room. When renovating a kitchen, homeowners will have to choose which countertop material they want to install, and the following rundown of popular options can help simplify that decision.
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16 January 2024 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication
QUARTZ Quartz is considered a low-maintenance and durable countertop material. The home improvement experts at This Old House note that quartz countertops are typically 94 percent ground quartz and now come with an honed, sandblasted or embossed treatment, which makes them appealing to homeowners with varying ideas on the ideal look of a kitchen countertop. Quartz can crack if it’s not handled properly, and edges and corners can chip over time. Rounded edges can minimize the risk of chipping. Costs vary by location and product availability, but quartz typically costs about the same as natural stone. GRANITE Consumer Reports notes that no two slabs of granite are the same, and that uniqueness has long appealed to homeowners. Tests run by Consumer Reports found that heat, cuts and scratches did not harm granite, though this material, like quartz, can crack around edges and corners. Granite is a dura-
ble material that, if properly maintained, can last several decades. Granite also is nonporous, which makes it resistant to bacteria. LAMINATE Laminate countertops appeal to budget-friendly homeowners and Consumer Reports notes that they’re easy to install. Home Depot also notes that laminate countertops come in a wide range of colors, textures and designs. Laminate countertops also are durable, which helps budget-conscious homeowners stretch their dollars even further. Laminate countertops are easily maintained, though it’s also easy to permanently damage them with knives, so Consumer Reports recommends always using a cutting board when preparing meals on laminate. BUTCHER BLOCK Butcher block countertops are among the more unique options homeowners may consider. Sometimes referred to as “wood countertops,” butcher block countertops are made from wooden strips that are fused together. The home improvement experts at BobVila.com note that butcher block is among the more affordable materials, but the final cost will be dictated by location and availability. BobVila.com notes that butcher block countertops are highly sensitive to liquid, so exposure to moisture should be limited. Sealing butcher block countertops immediately after installation can help protect against bacteria and warping. Though butcher blocks can be high maintenance, many homeowners find the unique look is well worth the extra elbow grease. Kitchen countertops can define how the room looks, and homeowners have many options to choose from when designing a new kitchen. FH238147
We're in your corner! Lauren Smith Beth Mulcahy Kaye Pearson 815-200-8746 815-866-3630 815-866-7783 ACT
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$119,500
555 E. Central Ave. - Princeton 3 Bed / 1.5 Bath Modified Ranch Home
MLS # 11810972
$419,900
19235 1900 North Ave. - Princeton Country Estate 4 bed/2 bath on 4 Acres
MLS # 11826167
$95,000
703 Bryant Circle Dr. - Princeton
Vacant 1+ acre lot in Bryant Woods w/ utilities
MLS # 11914146
$117,000
816 S. Main St. - Princeton
4 Bed / 2 Bath Home ~ 2,489 square feet
Commercial
MLS # 11751239
$249,000
420 S. Main St. - Princeton
2 Main Floor Retail Spaces. 2 Upstairs Apartments with 1100sf each. On Main Street in charming Princeton!
FOR RENT
ELM POINT CENTER
535 Elm Place - Princeton
MLS # 11888555 - Conference Room, 853 SF MLS # 11888587 - Office Space, 748 SF Elevator, Utilities, Parking Lot, Daily Maintenance
The Cornerstone Team Landmark Realty of IL, LLC
MLS # 11785793
$349,000
110 N. Chicago St. - Magnolia
Commercial building with store front, office space, kitchen, 2 half-baths, storage, and 2 warehouse/shop areas.
1221 North Main Street Princeton Illinois 61356 A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | January 2024 17
Unlocking hidden potential: 5 ways to elevate your laundry room
W
hen you’re seeking ways to optimize your home, it’s easy to overlook the humble laundry room. But there are many ways to improve your experience of this room, making it more functional and attractive. A beautifully appointed laundry room is a sight to behold, helping to transform ordinary tasks into enjoyable routines. If you’re ready to turn your laundry room into a space you love, consider these upgrades.
SOME LIGHT ON THE SUBJECT 1.IsSHED your laundry room too
dark? Improving the room’s lighting will make daily chores easier to do while also making the room feel more bright and cheerful. You may need to add several recessed lights to really
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SMITH’S SALES & SERVICE 1604 Peoria Street • Peru • 815-223-0132
SM-LA2130631
you can choose one of six colors to suit your design: White, Black, Taupe, Grey, Graphite, Brown and Black Plum. The sink is made of KOHLER Consider adding a window Neoroc composite material if possible, or enlarging an ex- that’s extremely durable and isting window to boost natural will resist scratches and stains. light. Applying a fresh coat of To make it easier to use your light-colored or white paint can also make any space feel new sink for washing your pet or anything else, choose open and airy. a handshower or faucet that MAKE IT FUNCTIONAL AND functions well and looks even better. KOHLER’s Awaken MULTI-PURPOSE Every good laundry room four-function handshower needs a utility sink deep provides advanced spray perenough to soak soiled cloth- formance with three distinct ing. How about a sink you sprays - wide coverage, incan also use to bathe your tense drenching or targeted dog? You can create the per- with the smooth rotation of a fect pet beauty parlor with a thumb tab. 12” deep Cairn Utility Sink Or consider the Crue touchfrom KOHLER. It offers a generous workspace, along less pull-down sink faucet with with a stainless steel utility a three-function sprayhead. sink and accompanying wash The Crue faucet collection bin. Both slide on the ledge represents a true high point in the sink, so you can tailor in user-focused, sophisticated it to suit your needs. The off- plumbing design. The conset drain increases the sink’s temporary silhouette - a simworkspace as well as poten- ple arched spout and single tial for storage underneath. Its lever handle - offers a straightsoft curves and matte finish forward style that adapts to add beauty to any room, and nearly any room design, and see well, especially if there’s no window, and cooler-colored LED lights can help you sort colors better.
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the touchless functionality ing kitchen cart. makes tasks simpler. ELEVATE THE SITUATION One way to truly elGET ORGANIZED Increasing shelving evate your laundry room is and/or cupboard space is al- to put your machines up on ways smart for a laundry room pedestals. This option not upgrade. If you select open only makes maintenance and shelving, use matching bas- cleaning a lot easier, but is kets, boxes or trays to create also much gentler on your a unified look. Make sure to back - you’ll do a lot less leaninclude a large drying rack to ing and bending over every hang delicates and other items laundry day. that need to be air dried. FLAUNT YOUR STYLE One idea that’s seriously There’s no reason your trending is combining the laundry room can’t also be laundry area with the mud- pretty. Consider bright paint room, which helps contain the colors or whimsical wallpaper mess coming in from outside. when you’re giving the room a When designing your mud- makeover. Fun art accents and room/laundry room, make even a whiteboard or chalksure to provide sturdy benches board for laundry instructions for sitting and removing boots (or playful notes!) may encour- ideally with space inside for age more family members to added storage. join the laundry routine.
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Not just for kitchens anymore, installing an island in your laundry room is a great way to provide the perfect folding space - and another opportunity to add more storage underneath. Limited space? Consider using a roll-
Even achieving a couple of these upgrades can make a big difference in how you use and perceive the humble laundry room. Following through with all of them might just make it your favorite room in the house. - (BPT)
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