NewsTribune_Illinois Valley Homes_041923

Illinois Valley Homes

MLS# 11714614 - 25 OAKLANE DRIVE, OTTAWA, IL 61350

FEATURED PROPERTY

REIMAGINED, REMODELED & REDESIGNED! Impressive French country style, two-story, brick home soars to spectacular heights after an extensive transformation. Surrounded by a lush half-acre, this timeless architecture delivers a crisp modern edge interior with awless high-end nishes and artistic craftsmanship that ow e ortlessly throughout. An impressive entryway opens to a beautiful living room, formal dining room and open staircase. The expansive “redux” mixed it up with an impressive chef’s kitchen featuring the nest cabinetry, high-end appliances, & expansive quartzite surfaces that ow seamlessly into the great room. Not only comfortable & relaxing, this room was designed for the dramatic with a 16’ custom co ered ceiling, soaring replace, & luxury lighting. Ascend the custom stair case to the second oor and discover a convenient laundry room, three spacious bedrooms plus a luxurious light lled primary suite & exceptional en suite bath that delivers an intimate grandeur.

ORIGINAL, INVITING, & TIMELESS!

See listing on page 11

Don’t skip these important spring home maintenance steps

PAGE 2

Patio projects to enhance outdoor living

5 easy ways to refresh your bathroom for spring

PAGE 14

Don’t skip these important spring home maintenance steps

(BPT) - Maintenance is an important part of home ownership, but many people delay tasks, thinking a few weeks or even months won’t do any harm. However, putting off home maintenance is risky because small issues that are simple to fix now can quickly lead to complex problems that are expensive to fix later.

Spring is the ideal time to give your home a once-over both inside and out to flag any issues and create a maintenance to-do list. According to the experts at State Farm, here are some top spring maintenance tasks to help protect your home:

ROOF AND GUTTERS

Your roof provides funda-

mental protection of your home from the elements in all seasons. Inspect your roof at least once annually for damage, discoloration, loss of granules and missing, worn or curling shingles. If you have the skills, you can do this yourself, or, call a qualified contractor who can come and do an inspection.

Some additional things to keep in mind, especially during rainy spring months: Gutters and downspouts should be safely attached, clear of leaves and other debris, and have no leaks. Position downspouts to direct water away from the home so it doesn’t impact the foundation. Also, check that flashing is secure - the thin, metal ma-

terial that’s around windows, vents and chimneys to direct water away.

HVAC SYSTEMS

HVAC stands for your home’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems. These systems work together to keep your home comfortable throughout the seasons. Regular maintenance helps keep them working well today and extends their life in the future while also saving on energy costs.

Start by setting a reminder every few months to replace filters. Dirty filters can block airflow and make the HVAC system work harder, decreasing efficiency and increasing energy costs. Then, schedule a spring maintenance check with a local HVAC professional. Pros will often check the thermostat, clean or replace filters, lubricate moving parts, check refrigerant levels, inspect the condenser and coils, and investigate unusual noises.

GARAGE SPACES

Garages can quickly become cluttered and certain items pose risks, such as fuel that can start a fire or items that can be attractive to pests. Embrace spring by planning a day to clean out the garage so it is organized and safe.

If you store any fuel in the garage, use dedicated, leakproof containers out of the reach of children and pets, and away from potential sources of fire ignition such as water heaters or power tools. Be smart about paint and

home-improvement chemicals, too. A shed away from your home may be a better storage spot for combustible items. Many people also store furniture, clothing and food in their garage, but these are all tempting to insects and rodents. Clothing and furniture can also soak up dust and fumes that destroy their integrity, even if pests don’t. As for food, it’s just too risky to store any in the garage. Even nonperishables like canned goods can spoil due to temperature fluctuations in garage spaces, so opt to store extra food elsewhere.Smoke detectors

Get in the habit of checking your smoke alarms on a regular basis, such as at the start of every season. Do this by hitting the test button on each device. If you don’t already have them, make sure a smoke detector is located in every bedroom and living space. This small investment and maintenance step can help save lives.

Additionally, don’t wait until the alarms chirp at you to tell you batteries are low. Once a year, replace all the batteries in all the alarms to give you peace of mind that these critical devices are set up to work well in an emergency.

If you need assistance with any of these spring home maintenance tasks, consider hiring a qualified, insured contractor in your area. Reach out to your local State Farm agent for a list of trustworthy professionals who can help.

Make YourDream Home a Reality

NMLS# 759336 Mortgage Loan Officer - AVP 815-220-2288 mclancy@myhtnb.com

Patio projects to enhance outdoor living

Warm weather paves the way to more opportunities to enjoy fresh air. For homeowners who have the luxury of outdoor spaces, including private patios, now is the time to start thinking about projects to enhance these gathering spots.

A patio can be considered a transitional area that links the outdoors to the inside of a home. According to the home and lifestyle resource The Spruce, a patio is often an oasis for lounging and entertaining. And depending on homeowners’ budgets and preferences, a patio can be just as comfortable and stylish as interior spaces. The following are five patio projects that can transform these valuable spaces.

1.PRETTY PERGOLA

A pergola is an open-air (traditionally wood) structure that adds a measure of shade and privacy without completely blocking views of Mother Nature. Installing a pergola over the patio helps define the seating area. Hanging plants can add to the ambiance and string lights can make this a great spot to gather when the sun sets.

2.PATIO FIRE PIT

Build a fire pit right into the design with the same materials used to create the patio. For example, if the patio is brick or flagstone, build up to create an eye-catching fire pit. Fire pits not only look good, they also expand the time frame that the patio can be enjoyed, offering cozy spots to sit even when the weather chills.

3.FRAME IT IN

Make the patio a true extension of the inside by

putting up walls around three sides of the patio if it connects to the home. Leave the last open to the yard, or consider installing screens to mimic the look of popular lanais. The walls will offer more weather protection, meaning you can invest in high-quality patio furniture to make this a fully functioning outdoor living room. Hang a television that is rated for outdoor use for movie-watching under the sun or stars.

4.OOH LA LA Vintage bistro tables and chairs can turn a drab patio into one that calls to mind a Parisian courtyard. Whimsical lighting and accents that you would normally think to see indoors, like a gilded mirror, can add extra appeal. Soften wrought iron and other metals on the furniture by including plenty of flowers and greenery. Don’t forget the candles and a place to stash a bottle of chilling wine.

5.FARMHOUSE CHIC Transform a patio into an entertaining space that caters to guests A large farmhouse style table flanked by benches and some upholstered chairs sets the scene for a dinner amid the fresh air. Watering cans filled with wildflowers and mismatched flatware establish a casual feel for gatherings in the space. For those who plan to cook and serve outside with frequency, invest in outdoor appliances so you’ll never have to miss a beat with guests.

The options for transforming patios into stylish gathering spots is only limited by the imagination. TF234817

REDESIGN BOLD

"25 Oaklane welcomes, comforts, and delights after a two year plus interior remodel. The goal was to create a truly seamless connection between the interior living space and it's beautiful lush half-acre."

easy ways to refresh your bathroom for spring

(BPT) - There’s nothing like the warmer temperatures, blooming flowers and longer, brighter days to inspire you to take a fresh look at your home, and the ideal place to get started is in one of your most-used spaces: the bathroom. Spring is the perfect time to refresh your bathroom, so why not go beyond a thorough cleaning to make the room feel brand new? Fresh, seasonal colors give the room an upgraded look, and products like a new toilet seat let you continue that spring-fresh feeling all season.

Here are simple ideas to help you get started on revamping your bathroom this spring.

1.Invite

more color: Start with swapping out some of the simple elements in your bathroom, taking the opportunity to brighten the space with fresh new colorful towels, bathmats and even a new shower curtain. Choose light, appealing colors and/or patterns based on natural elements that will bring more of a springtime feeling into your home.

2.Decorate thoughtfully: Consider adding some easy decorative accents, like glass jars filled with cotton swabs, small soaps or garden flowers. A little goes a long way, so choose just a few of these accents to help give the room a sense of spa-like ele-

gance, without making it seem overly busy or cluttered.

3.Think attractive storage solutions: Include smart and visually appealing storage options such as a few pretty baskets on shelves for holding extra guest towels, for example. Baskets are also really useful for keeping that extra clutter off of your countertops, and you can easily organize them by categories like toiletries, washcloths and makeup.

4.Upgrade your seat: Spring cleaning for your bathroom isn’t complete without a new toilet seat. The Mayfair by Bemis Affinity is an attractive plastic seat that installs easily and is designed for a precise fit, so it never moves after you install it. The seat also features quiet closing to avoid unpleasant slamming. Best yet, the hinges are designed to let you easily remove the seat for thorough cleaning - and when you’re finished cleaning, you simply place the seat back on the toilet and close the hinge caps. The durable plastic seat wipes clean effortlessly for that

final touch on a fresh, spring bathroom feel.

Visit ToiletSeats.com for more options to help you find the perfect seat from Bemis Manufacturing Company.

5.Refresh your windows: After giving your bathroom windows a thorough cleaning inside and out, consider updating how they look overall with new window treatments. One terrific on-trend idea is to install roller blinds or Roman shades in lighter colors. If you opt for blinds or shades made from thin-enough fabric, they will still provide much-needed privacy while also letting in some natural light - helping the whole room feel lighter and brighter.

Ready to get started on refreshing your bathroom? These are all ideas you can easily DIY - no plumber or designer required! - that will make a big difference for the look and feel of your bathroom, right away. Then you can relax and enjoy your room all season long.

Peru-Spacious 3 bedroom, 2 bath home, open floor plan, 2 car attached garage in senior community. #11746506 $232,000

Arlington- Quality 4 bedroom, 4 bath custom built home on 4.12 acres, 2 car attached heated garage. #11739038 $779,000

Peru- Fine 3 bedroom, 1.5 bath home with hardwood floors, newer kitchen, 1 car garage, deck, patio. #11746149 $161,900

Cherry-Clean and move in ready 3 bedroom, 1 bath home, unfinished basement, 2 car garage. #11735104 $109,000

Utica-Solid all brick 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath home, full finished basement, 2 car garage on corner lot.

Princeton-Historical 4 bedroom, 1.5 bath modernized home, tandem 2+ car heated garage.

DePue- Charming 5 bedroom, 1.5 bath 4 square home on 31.86 acres, land is very scenic. #11700807 $344,900

Standard-Affordable living, neat 2 bedroom, 2 bath ranch home, deck, patio, 1+ garage.

Peru- Spacious, 2,000 sq ft, 4 bedroom, 1.5 bath home, original woodwork, appliances included.

LaMoille-One story home with 2 bedrooms, 1.5 bath, 2 car garage, outbuilding with gas line.

Henry- Lovely, well cared for 2 bedroom, 2 bath home, covered concrete patio, cozy fire pit, shed. #11670632 $179,900

Wenona-Nice 3 bedroom, 1 bath Farmhouse style home on nice lot with mature trees, 2 car garage.

Spring Valley-Great 3 bedroom, 2 bath home, main level laundry, 2 car attached garage. #11493281 $124,900

Peru-Move right in 4 bedroom, 1 bath home on large corner lot, 2 car attached garage. #11645611 $129,000

Seatonville- Great home for country living features 4 bedrooms, 1 bath on corner lot, 1 car garage. #11642608 $114,000

LaSalle-Roomy 3 bedroom, 1 bath home on large corner lot, heated front porch, basement with walk out. #11612807 $147,000

#11687286 $85,400

#11734687 $199,000

#11702246 $219,900

#11677523 $138,999

#11664195 $80,000

#11679341 $129,995

Jaimie Bazydlo Janet Benvenutti Nathan Byers Wendy Fulmer Robin Guerrero Pietro Alfano Chris Hopps

Kelli Geinosky

RESIDENTIAL LOT LISTINGS

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 $95,000. Call Wendy Fulmer 815-252-8280 or Chris Hopps 815-252-5273.

STONE BLUFF TERRACE

Large, wooded building lots starting at $19,000. Water to site, gas & electric nearby. Overlooking scenic Vermilion River Valley! Lot sizes from .32-1.34 acres, 3 available lots. Call Chris Hopps at 815-252-5273.

Barb Kuzma

Bonnie Lester

David Postula Garry Schroeder

Vincent Jessen

Jessica Jeffrey Gunnar Jauch

COMMERCIAL LOT LISTINGS

Peru-Commercial building lot located in high traffic area with great visibility. ......... #11671042 ..... $150,000

Peru-Prime commercial lot, 79+/- acres with 2 entrances, close to Interstate 80 .. #11425902 $650,000

Streator-Some wooded and tillable, 11.71 acres located on the Vermillion River ..... #11422412 ...... $151,059

Princeton-Cleared, level building site features 2.88 acres in business plaza .......... #10878168 ..... $300,000

Bob Huber

Carol Wlodarchak

TJ Templeton Amber Witek

Karen Yade Karen Zermeno Heidi Huber

Tom Guttilla

Streator- Great investment, features store area, walk-in cooler, 2 bathrooms, office, and storage.

LaSalle-Well established restaurant/tavern with great clientele, extensive list of equipment included.

LaSalle-Turnkey operation, U shaped bar with abundance of space for gaming, fenced outdoor.

Utica- Currently home to Cajun Connection, large dining area, patio, porch and parking lot.

Peru-Downtown office space available, large reception area, back office with storage, shared bath.

Utica- Unlimited possibilities, 4400 sq ft, commercial kitchen, great room, parking, storage.

Princeton- Building with 3 commercial storefront, 3 apartments and full basement.

Mark-High traffic exposure, spacious building, restaurant equipment included, plenty of parking.

1 bath #11739280

720 W. Clark PRINCETON $124,900

3 BDRMS; 1 1/2 baths #11686033

8 N. Cherry Street PRINCETON $145,000

3 BDRMS; 2baths #11725485

711 North Main St. CHERRY $189,500 Commercial Building #11491197

224 East Central PRINCETON $69,900

2 BDRMS; 1 bath #11734223

777 S. Main PRINCETON $295,000 Condo/Commercial #10958375

1001 W. Farnham PRINCETON $140,000

2 BDRMS; 2 baths #11748412

1219 W. Washington OTTAWA $60,000

2 BDRMS; 1 bath #11729023

957 County Road 2000 East VARNA $350,000

4 BDRMS; 2 Baths #11653811

326 Meltzer WALNUT $65,000

2 BDRMS; 1 1/2 baths #11740689