Illinois Valley Homes A NewsTribune Publication | February 14, 2024
MLS #11956005 FEATURED PROPERTY
Quality construction with many amenities. This 5-bedroom, 3.5-bath home sits on a large country lot on the edge of Ladd. Lots of room for a pool. Home has finished basement, family room, built-in custom H&B cabinets, wet bar with walk-out to block patio with built-in fire pit and seating wall. 2 bedrooms down both have walk-in closets and large bathroom. Main level has 3 bedrooms. Master Bedroom has full bath, his and her sinks. Jacuzzi tub/separate shower and walk-in closet. Tray ceiling gives master an elegant high-end feel. Many additional features. 2 gas fireplaces. Kitchen and bathrooms have granite countertops. Master and kitchen have ceramic tile. Hardwood floors in high traffic areas. Large deck off dining area has a country view. Whole house vacuum. Privacy fence. 2 car attached garage with extra stall. Garage has heated floor by separate water heater/own thermostat. Nest thermostat, blink camera doorbell, golf cart access in Ladd. Come take a look!
See listing on page 2
5 inspiring trends for 2024 PAGE 6
How to clear out home office clutter
The benefits of residential solar energy
PAGE 16
PAGE 18
Mark Janko Designated Managing Broker
Welcome Home
JANKO REALTY & DEVELOPMENT, LLC 2011 Rock St Peru, IL 61354 815-223-3875
Larry Bianchi 815-228-3826
Barb Bryant 815-252-3036
Penny Decker 815-228-7877
Adam Finley 815-830-4422
Andrea Greenwalt 815-878-1488
5BD/ 3.5BA
3443 E. Cleveland St., Ladd
MLS #11956005
Walkout patio with fire pit
$375,000
Finished basement
Terry Happ 815-488-1620
Katrina Jarrell-Holmes 815-228-9779
Erin Karlosky 815-719-7048
JankoRealty.com SM-LA2137171
2 February 2024 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication
Linda Kaszynski 815-228-5622
Pat Majors 815-228-6353
Jose Maldonado 815-830-3715
Royce Mignone 815-252-9997
Erik Milaicki 815-228-2289
27081 1800 N. Ave. Princeton 2BD/ 1BA #11832078 $185,000
1818 9th St. Peru 4BD/ 2BA #11961385 $230,000
140 Nellie Circle Oglesby 3BD/ 2BA #11933765 $289,000
305 W. Grant St. Lostant 3BD/ 1BA #11919831 $125,000
630 W. Devlin St. Spring Valley 3BD/ 2BA #11911448 $145,000
3443 E. Cleveland St. Ladd 5BD/ 3.5BA #11956005 $375,000
437 Bucklin St. La Salle 3BD/ 1BA #11936524 $75,000
129 Martanna St. Depue 4BD/ 2BA #11904462 $103,900
925 Roosevelt Rd. La Salle 2BD/ 1BA #11933710 $160,000
35 Conservation Ct. La Salle 3BD/ 3.5BA #11841282 $670,000
1343 Illinois St. La Salle 3BD/ 1BA #11950353 $155,000
1406 Bluff St. Peru 6BD/ 2.5BA #11779336 $210,000
1309 25th St. Peru 3BD/ 2BA #11878210 $219,000 SM-LA2137174
A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | February 2024 3
Martha Moscosa 815-993-0804
Christine & Jerry Schweickert 815-488-2990
Theresa Washkowiak 815-481-4663
Kathy Zidow 815-488-4874
211 E. 3rd St. Depue 3BD/ 1.5BA #11935436 $80,000
24704 2200 East St. Ohio 5BD/ 3BA #11906233 $240,000
601 Maple Rd. La Salle 4BD/ 2BA #11916233 $160,000
121 Liberty St. Depue 3BD/ 1.5BA #11946404 $43,000
616 Chartres St. La Salle 2 Apt. Units #11934155 $195,000
512 E. Grant St. Granville 3BD / 1BA #11934572 $94,000
2643 N. IL Rte 178 Unit O-1 Utica 2BD/ 2BA #11926065 $175,000
237 E. 1st St. Oglesby RENTAL #11955775 $1,100 /month
1 Emily Dr., Lot 18 Spring Valley #06196058 $20,000
2 Emily Dr., Lot 36 Spring Valley #06196059 $20,000
8 Emily Dr., Lot 33 Spring Valley #06196070 $20,000
10 Emily Dr., Lot 32 Spring Valley #06196072 $20,000
2 Kimberly Dr., Lot 17 Spring Valley #06196057 $20,000
8 Kimberly Dr., Lot 14 Spring Valley #09349372 $20,000
Lots 5 & 6, Sunset Blvd. Oglesby #11009374 #11009402 $49,900 each
Lots 6 & 7, 2969th Rd. La Salle #11903882 #11904597 $16,500 each
SM-LA2137176
4 February 2024 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication
We're in your corner! Beth Mulcahy 815-866-3630
It’s such a L VELY time to buy or sell!
Lauren Smith 815-200-8746
MLS # 11826167
Kaye Pearson 815-866-7783
$95,000
703 Bryant Circle Dr. - Princeton
Vacant 1+ acre lot in Bryant Woods w/ utilities
ACT
!
D! SOL
MLS # 11913918
DER
UN
$119,500
555 E. Central Ave. - Princeton
TR CON
MLS # 11914146
$117,000
816 S. Main St. - Princeton
4 Bed / 2 Bath Home ~ 2,489 square feet
3 Bed / 1.5 Bath Modified Ranch Home
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 | February 2024 5
New year, new home: 5 inspiring trends for 2024 (BPT) - The new year brings an air of excitement and inspiration that many people channel into new projects. This year, use that energy to refresh your home! Your home should be a space that you can’t wait to return to after work, school and errands. With a few updates, you can easily transform your living room, kitchen and bathrooms, infusing these spaces with both style and function. So, get ready to start 2024 with a home update using these five inspiring trends.
rich earth tones in your home for a beautiful and clean aesthetic. Also, embrace organic and natural materials. They’re timeless and long-lasting, bringing airiness and texture to any room. You can achieve this by incorporating natural stone, wood and rattan materials in furniture, flooring and decor. Together, these natural elements and colors will create an inviting space that brings a touch of nature indoors. IN A SPA-LIKE BATHROOM 2.YouINDULGING don’t have to leave your
For example, consider switching your current showerhead with a newer model like the Delta® ProClean™ 6-Setting Hand Shower. This powerful and practical addition to your shower features two massage spray settings so you can relax to the fullest. You can easily restart the water with the same temperature as when you left it off, providing a seamless showering experience while helping conserve water and, most importantly, your hot water supply!
Once you’re done with your home to have a spa experience. shower, use the ProClean™ EMBRACING ORGANIC AND NATURAL TONES AND In 2024, transform your bath- spray setting to clean shower room into a serene oasis with surfaces at least two times MATERIALS faster than standard sprays, In 2024, consider integrat- spa-inspired features. powering off soap scum and ing soothing neutrals and
1.
shower messes. Delta® bath products make it easy to maintain a clean bathroom. STATEMENTS WITH ACCENT WALLS 3.AnMAKING accent wall can completely shift the design of a room. For example, a floral wall in the bathroom or a tropical print behind the sink can bring personality to the space. So, this year, embrace your creativity and choose a color or pattern that makes a statement.
INVESTING IN FUNCTIONAL SPACES 4.Function should be at the forefront of your mind when upgrading your home. Whether you rearrange furniture to improve flow or add
“Color is such an easy way to transform any space. I also love how the shade you choose is a creative way to infuse your style and personality into your home.” - Joanna Gaines
Debo Ace Hardware 1713 4th St. Peru • (815) 223-0461 Monday - Friday 7:00 AM - 5:30 PM Saturday 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM • Sunday CLOSED SM-LA2137913
6 February 2024 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication
technology to simplify tasks, you’ll enhance your daily life at home. For example, opt for a faucet in the kitchen that has features that make cleaning up easier, like Delta®’s Touch2O® Technology. A simple touch anywhere on the spout or handle with your wrist or forearm activates the water flow at the temperature where your faucet handle is set. The Delta® TempSense® LED light changes color to alert you to the water’s temperature and eliminate any possible surprises or discomfort. Perfect for little ones who might not realize the water is too hot to touch! In your bathroom, add a practical and visually appealing sink faucet that enhances aesthetic appeal but also improves functionality. Opt for a model like the Stryke® Single Handle Pull-Down Bathroom Faucet, which quickly cleans toothpaste, dirt and small debris from your sink with a nimble pull-down spray wand. The Lumicoat® Finish marries function and fashion,
offering several options, including Champagne Bronze, Chrome and Matte Black. Best of all, the finish resists water spots and mineral buildup. It easily wipes clean without needing cleaners or chemicals, helping to keep your bathroom spotless.
intentional inconsistencies beMIXING STYLES Why settle for one tween rooms and spaces and 5. style? Mixing styles is a popu- add more colors, textures and lar design trend, allowing you to choose styles that resonate with your multifaceted aesthetics. Combine traditional and modern elements or vintage and contemporary pieces. Experience a journey with your home renovation, find
finishes.
This year, resolve to update your home to suit your style and everyday needs. Let these five trends inspire you in your home renovation and decoration endeavors in 2024!
me about.. One-Stop Ask Mortgage Loans Shop!
Better home loans wit h..
Furniture • Mattresses Flooring • Bedroom • Living Room Tables and Chairs
Mon-Wed & Fri 9-5 • Thu 9-1 • Sat 10-5 • Sun 12-4
A Streamlined Process
•
Local Servicing &
•
Competitive Rates
. . . call us today.
BEDDING IN MENDOTA 1091 S St Hwy. 251 • Mendota, IL 815-539-6263 www.meyersfurnitureandbedding.com
•
(815) 223-8800 Janette Glupczynski NMLS# 460147
eLSB.com
The better way to bank. A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | February 2024 7
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
Fall in L VE with your new home! COMMERCIAL - Wonderful Business Opportunity! Condo
Condo
605 S. Main St., Princeton - MLS 11914938
1839 N. Main St. Princeton - MLS 11754825
609 S. Main St.
917 N. Main St.
Princeton - MLS 11914284
Princeton - MLS 11894948
LAND - The Best Buy on Earth is EARTH! Land
Land
Land
923 N Main St.
19 Century Dr., .65 Acres
Century Dr., 7.32 Acres
Princeton - MLS 11918802
Princeton - MLS 11756815
Princeton - MLS 11754833
804 Hudson St., 15.49 Acres Utilities to Site Princeton - MLS 11754830
HOMES - Great Homes!
SM-LA2137955
SOLD 324 Peru St. Princeton - MLS 11940687
8 February 2024 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication
766 Anita Lane Princeton - MLS 11864983
with
Elevating
the home
inspired design
(BPT) - Interior design trends are always in motion, as the industry pulls inspiration from various styles and environments. There are a multitude of ways to elevate and personalize your design, and the new year is the perfect time to refresh your perspective and approach to the home. Try returning to the basic principles of form and functionality to curate a room that showcases modern sensibilities, or incorporating unique details to add character and depth to a space.
AT-HOME SPA OASIS Spas are sanctuaries that ease both the body and mind. When designing your own space, opt for features and fixtures that bring heightened luxury to your bathroom. One way to create a sense of serenity is to incorporate the calming benefits of steam found in the Mystix™ Steam System by Brizo®. The system offers enhancements, such as chromatherapy, audiotherapy and aromatherapy, to stimulate and soothe the senses in
a well-rounded wellness experience. With these features, there is no need to wander further than your own home to indulge in the advantages of a spa. TEXTURE & SATURATION To amplify visual interest in the home, bring in dimension through layered fabrics and textured wallpapers. Consider adding a limewash to add a notable, but soft approach to texture and to create a sense of depth in a space. A similar outcome can be achieved through a subtle tile accent on the walls or ceiling as an innovative way to bring more character to the design without overwhelming a room. Handpicking unique accents and color choices can redefine the living space. Replace small pops of color with bold, vivid hues or look for distinctive split finishes that enhance your fixtures and catch the eye. The Brilliance® Black Onyx/Matte Black, Brilliance® Luxe Gold®/Clear, Polished Chrome/Clear split finishes from Brizo are striking options and add a touch of the unexpected to the kitchen and bath.
We Sell, Install and Service our Appliances
Grasser’s can help remodel your outdated kitchen! Call Heather today! SM-LA2137959
MODERN FUNCTIONALITY The simplicity of modern style is a draw to many who love clean lines and functionality. Recently, there has been an uptick in “soft modern” design, which brings a sense of warmth to a contemporary space through details, colors and accents. The Jason Wu for Brizo™ Kitchen Collection embodies this sophisticated style with its fresh, streamlined aesthetic and unparalleled customization options and finishes. The collection’s Matte White signature finish is timeless, and the ability to select Polished Nickel or Wood faucet levers adds a touch of personality. Choose these warm, neutral tones to bring in elements from nature, transforming a modern room from cold and sterile to functional, yet fashionable.
404 W.Main St., McNabb, IL • www.grassersplumbingheating.com
A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | February 2024 9
RANCH STYLE HOME 3-BEDROOMS/2-BATHS 411 Elm Street, Spring Valley, siituated on a beautiful, private half-acre setting featuring open plan, stone fireplace, full-basement, 2-car garage & 11'x24' shed. MLS #11876486 $265,000
2300+SF RANCH STYLE HOME W/ 3-BEDROOMS/3-BATHS, main floor laundery, large familyroom fireplace & full-basement. 9 Ramblewood Lane, Spring Valley, IL MLS #11952770 $219,000
3030 4TH ST., PERU, IL | 815.224.9400 | MALOOLEYDAHMREALTY.COM
Kathryn Erjavsek 815.307.0711 Specializing in Equestrian & Rural Properities
Dawn Farneti 815.343.1900 Listing & Selling Residential, Multi-unit & Commercial Properies
Christine D 815.303.46 Listing & Se Residential Commercia Retail/Offic
Brokers Representing the Greater Illinois Valley & Starved Rock Country A
ETE
P CC
A
FER
F DO
ENJOY OVER AN ACRE OF COUNTRY LIVING 206 West Green River Road, Ohio, IL Well-maintained, 1699-sf home features vaulted ceilings & 2-car garage.
ETE
P CC
A
FER
F DO
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.
10 February 2024 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication
4-BEDROOM / 2-FULL BATH 1127 N Gooding St., LaSalle, Features hardwood flooring, m floor laundry, custom cabinetry, ss applianc garage & more!
Dahm 622 elling l, Rural, al & ce Space
Area
H IL main
ces,
NEW LISTING 1245 SF HOME + 3-LOTS 405 E. 2nd St., Spring Valley, IL featuring 3-bedrms, x-large kitchen, hardwood floors, 1-car garage INCLUDES 3-adjacent vacant lots
$85,000
FOR SALE PROFESSIONAL OFFICE BUILDING 2960 SF ADA office building features reception area, private offices, conference room, fullbasement & Ample Parking!
$299,000
HERE’S YOUR OPPORUNTIY TO JOIN OUR REAL ESTATE TEAM! Malooley Dahm Realty is expanding its team of Residential & Commercial Real Estate Brokers. Generous commission schedule based on experience, knowledge, & volume. Here is your opportunity to join our team. We’re a company that recognizes and rewards its Brokers!
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
Call to schedule a confidential meeting to answer all your questions! Beverly Malooley Designated Managing 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
A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | February 2024 11
815-223-1088
coldwellbankertoday.com
Pietro Alfano
Jaimie Bazydlo
Janet Benvenutti
Nathan Byers
Wendy Fulmer
Kelli Geinosky
Robin Guerrero
Utica-Well built all brick 3 bedroom, 1 bath ranch Spring Valley-All brick 3 bedroom, 3 bath home LaSalle-Charming 2 bedroom, 1 bath home, Peru-Affordable 3 bedroom, a bath home, large home, cedar lined closets, 1 car garage. on 1+ acre lot with wooded view, 2 car garage. spacious kitchen, fenced rear yard, 1 car garage. enclosed front porch, 1 car garage with carport. #11963231 $164,900 #11958532 $397,500 #11952499 $79,900 #11949467 $79,900
Ottawa-Fully rented 4 unit apartment building, LaSalle-Conveniently located 2 bedroom, Oglesby-Completely remodeled 3 bedroom, Henry-Cozy 2 bedroom, 1 bath home, unheated each unit 1 bedroom/1 bath, plenty of parking. 1.5 bath home, 2 car attached garage, Large yard. 1 bath home, lovely front porch, 2 car garage. enclosed porch and sun porch, 2 car garage. #11947618 $230,000 #11944111 $65,000 #11938391 $150,000 #11936419 $74,500
LaSalle-Lovely 2 bedroom, 1 bath bungalow, Peru-Lovely 3 bedroom, 1 bath home on corner DePue-Very well maintained 2 bedroom, 1 bath LaSalle-Neat 3 bedroom, 1 bath home, spacious kitchen with large island, full basement. lot, hardwood floors, 2 car garage. ranch home on large lot, full basement. kitchen, enclosed front porch, large yard, shed. #11935638 $125,000 #11932189 $174,900 #11921349 $62,000 #11914558 $129,900
LaMoille-Clean 4 bedroom, 1 bath home on 5.09 Princeton-Neat 3 bedroom, 2 bath home, 1+ car LaSalle-Lovely 4 bedroom, 1.5 bath home, front Peru-One of a kind, 4 bedroom, 2 bath home, acres, heated/cooled garage, horse shed, chicken coop. garage, sunny deck, shed, and nice back yard. screened porch, floored attic, nicely manicured yard. 2 balconies overlooking front and rear yards. #11904701 $269,500 #11862621 $199,500 #11851832 $145,000 #11813453 $249,900 12 February 2024 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication
815-223-1088
coldwellbankertoday.com
Chris Hopps
Jessica Jeffrey
Vincent Jessen
Barb Kuzma
Bonnie Lester
Lacey Monterastelli
Garry Schroeder
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 Utica-Single family building lot in established subdivision, city water available........... #11949410........ $19,000 LaSalle-Vacant residential lot with utilities nearby, close to business district.............. #11942716........ $10,000 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 | February 2024 13
815-223-1088
coldwellbankertoday.com
TJ Templeton
Amber Witek
Carol Wlodarchak
Karen Zermeno
Heidi Huber
Bob Huber
Tom Guttilla
SM-LA2136516
COMMERCIAL
Peru-Move right into this 5,000 sq ft building close to interstate, 12 ft overhead doors, concrete floor. #11964416 $350,000
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
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 $194,500
COMMERCIAL LEASES Peru-Move in ready 5,000 sq ft north Peru building, 12 ft overhead doors........................... #11964416... $2,500/month 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..... $700/month Peru-Downtown space has large open area with back storage and 2 bathrooms. ................ #11908126 ...$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
14 February 2024 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication
local-realtygroup.com
LOCAL REALTY GROUP
Beth Coleman-Weger, Broker Donna Bayler, Broker 815-252-2713 815-760-2204 SoldbyBethColeman@gmail.com DonnaBayler@gmail.com
Home Featured
HOMES
1709 10th St. Peru, IL
207 5th St. McNabb, IL
Commercial
PROPERTIES
730 Old Hwy 26 Hennepin, IL
427 W. Dakota St., Spring Valley, IL
Local Realty Group Inc.
Angie Heckman, Broker Brandi Kunkel, Broker 309-312-0180 815-252-4071 Angie.Heckman@yahoo.com IVREwithBrandi@gmail.com
IS!
IS WHERE THE NEW PRICE
NEW LISTING
6820 E 1075th St. Granville, IL
Mike Gonet, Managing Broker 815-481-2411 Mike_Gonet@hotmail.com
1376 Alexander Ln. Varna, IL
Lots
FOR SALE
NEW LISTING
8910 N 600th Ave. Hennepin, IL
2146 Donahue St., LaSalle, IL
Lake Front
512 W. Dakota St. Spring Valley, IL
618 E. Grant St. Granville, IL
815-339-1158
884 Fair Haven Dr,. Varna, IL
1105 Jay Ct., Varna, IL
local-realtygroup.com
A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | February 2024 15
How to clear out home office clutter
H
ome offices have garnered more attention in recent years. Restrictions implemented as part of the response to the COVID-19 pandemic forced many professionals to start working from home, which created a greater need for home office space. Though millions of professionals have now returned to the office full-time, millions more have continued to work from home five days a week or are now working on a hybrid schedule. As a result, home office spaces have maintained their utility even as restrictions related to the pandemic move further into the rearview mirror. Since home office spaces remain vital for so many, it’s important that these spaces are conducive to productivity. Conquering home office clutter is a step in that direction. • Cut through the piles of paper. Home offices have a tendency to transform into paper depositories over time. Work files,
notes, monthly bills, receipts, and junk mail can quickly overwhelm a home office. Professionals who spend ample time working from home can resolve to cut through the piles of paper. Use a paper shredder to discard documents with sensitive information, such as bank statements and utility bills. Signing up for e-statements can prevent the piling up of paper in the future. Invest in a small file cabinet to store important personal and professional documents. • Discard old devices. Old devices are another space eater in many home offices. In fact, a recent survey from Material Focus found that more than 20 million unused electrical items are currently hoarded in homes throughout the United Kingdom. Old smartphones and laptops that users are afraid to throw out can be wiped clean and discarded in adherence with local laws. Contact your local government to determine how to safely discard old devices rather than simply tossing them in the trash once they’ve been wiped clean. • Buy a bigger bookshelf. Home offices often double as reading rooms, which makes them vulnerable to clutter
Make YourDream Home a Reality
You have a beautiful home Make sure it is fully protected. Replacement Cost Coverage from COUNTRY Financial® helps replace your house and belongings at today’s prices. Get full protection today.
Missy Clancy NMLS# 759336 Mortgage Loan Officer - AVP 815-220-2288 mclancy@myhtnb.com
LaSalle • Joliet
myhtnb.bank
16 February 2024 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication
Give us a call to learn more.
Perry May Financial Representative
0817-501HC-11925-11/16/2018
726 1st St • Lasalle 815-223-2100
associated with leisure time as well. Books stacked in a corner or taking up space on your desk can create a cluttered look, but also compromise your ability to concentrate. A 2011 study from researchers at Princeton University published in The Journal of Neu-
roscience found that clutter can make it difficult to focus on a particular task. If books are strewn about your office, purchase a bookshelf that can hold them. Once books are shelved, the less cluttered space can make it easier to concentrate.
• Go digital. If space is limited, forgo traditional file cabinets in favor of digitizing important records and documents. Scan important receipts and statements and store them on a desktop or backup hard drive so they’re never out of each. This creates
space and makes it easier and quicker to find important files. Home offices can quickly become overwhelmed with clutter. Some simple strategies can help any professional transform their home offices into more organized spaces. TF23C521
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 | February 2024 17
Here comes the sun! The benefits of residential solar energy
S
olar energy panels have gained visibility in neighborhoods across the country. Where it once was a rarity to see solar panels on the roofs of homes, today a stroll or drive around a given community is bound to reveal a number of homeowners have made the transition to solar power. You may be wondering if the investment is worth it. Solar panels harvest energy from the sun through the use of photovoltaic cells. These semiconductor materials absorb photons from the sun, and the photons release electrons from the atoms of the semiconductor material. According to Forbes, the flow of these electrons within the cell creates an electric current directed to circuits. Solar panels
Flooring • Carpet • Tile Luxury Vinyl • Laminate Custom Showers
Come home to Come See Tony & Annette beautiful Free Design Service Mobile Service Express
4250 Mahoney Dr., Peru • 815-410-4999
Your Window of Opportunity Awaits You at Maze.
SM-LA2136520
Opportunities do not come around every day. Now is the perfect time to replace your windows and doors with Marvin.
CALL
Joe Salz
Outside Sales
815-223-1742 • M-F 7:30-4:30 • Sat 8:00-Noon
Along Peru’s Historic Riverfront - at 1100 Water Street • www.mazelumber.com
18 February 2024 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication
Saralyn K Shetterly Vice President NMLS# 461067
can be placed anywhere there is abundant sunlight, such as in open fields. In residential areas, they’re most often placed on roofs to get the most sun exposure. Although having solar panels on the roof may affect the aesthetic of a home, many people find the benefits far outweigh such issues. Consider these perks to going solar. • Save money: One of the draws of solar power is the ability to save money on your monthly utility bill. Electricity costs seemingly rise year after year. The Solar Energy Industries Association® says the cost of solar has decreased by more than 70 percent in the past decade compared to the cost of electricity, which has risen about five percent. Over the course of a solar panel life span, which is typically between 25 and 30 years, it’s possible to save $25,500 to $33,000 on electricity. • More affordable: As noted, the cost of installing solar panels continues to drop. Investopedia says up-front cost of a residential solar power
system is between $3,500 and $16,000, depending on the size of the system. Energy.gov says the United States has extended the federal residential solar tax credit, and you can save a 30 percent tax credit on the cost of solar systems through January 1, 2033. Options abound for financing to make solar more affordable. • Increased home value: According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, homeowners can increase the value of their homes by $20 for every $1 in savings on electrical bills from solar energy. Homes with solar panels sell 4 percent higher than those that don’t have them. • Get paid back: Solar incentives in some areas may enable homeowners to turn profits in addition to generating electric bill savings. Solar renewable energy credits compensate you for the electricity that the solar panel system generates. • Avoid disruptions in power: Strong storms or even accidents that affect power lines can knock out traditional electricity for hours. Battery
Warm Up With a Cup of Hot Chocolate and a Holiday Pie
storage combined with solar energy can be beneficial during a disruption in power, and eliminate the need to purchase a backup generator. • Protect the planet: Burning of fossil fuels to generate power contributes to carbon emissions. Switching to solar
can reduce carbon emissions and help prevent air and water contamination. Solar energy panels are becoming more visible in residential neighborhoods thanks in large parts to the many benefits such panels provide. TF23C563
Handles Like A Dream, Gives Snow Nightmares. Power Clear ® 518ZE
$
Model 38475
599
• Throws Snow up to 35' • 18" Clearing Width • 2 Year Limited Warranty
Snowmaster 724 QXE
1099
$
• Clearing Width 24" • Ideally used to clear 6-12" of snow at a time on a driveway made of concrete or asphalt surfaces that can park up to 4-10 cars • 3 Year Limited Warranty
SPRING VALLEY • MENDOTA • PRINCETON Locally Owned & Operated by Paul and Mary Breznay NOW HIRING Full/Part Time (EOE)
Model 36002
SMITH’S SALES & SERVICE 1604 Peoria Street • Peru • 815-223-0132
SM-LA2136525
A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | February 2024 19
20 February 2024 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication