NewsTribune_Illinois Valley Homes_021424

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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!

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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

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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

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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

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16 February 2024 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication

Give us a call to learn more.

Perry May Financial Representative

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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

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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


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