Illinois Valley Homes A NewsTribune Publication | December 15, 2021
MLS # 11274971 - 545 Jordan Street in Oglesby - - $169,900 - offered by Dee Barrera FEATURED PROPERTY
WOW ! Wonderful brick ranch with spacious open floor plan. Remodeled Kitchen feature stainless appliances ,ceramic stove top, newer sink, counters, fixtures, and lighting Enclosed looking out to wonderful 4-season room. Main level laundry room, Built in office area and very large room sizes adds to this 2 bedroom homes appeal. Very well maintained with newer windows 2009, roof 2014, updated electrical and new appliances 2011, Bathroom took down to studs and totally rebuilt 2014. Also newer flooring, ceiling fans add to the value in this home. Also oversized attached 2-car garage with bath and additional storage. Freshly painted inside, and garage floor/trim. Move right into this unique find! Property offered by Starved Rock Realty See listing on page 2
What to know about refinancing a mortgage
Designer tips for transforming your home lighting
Tips for home buyers during a seller’s market
PAGE 4
PAGE 14
PAGE 19
Starved Rock Realty
620 N. Di Division i i St St. Uti Utica (815) 667 667-9990 9990 www.starvedrockrealty.net t d k lt t
PUT THE STARVED ROCK REALTY TEAM TO WORK FOR YOU! Dee Barrera Broker/Owner
(815) 252-9696
Alice Green Broker
Johanna Arkels Broker
(815) 488-9712
(815) 252-8026
Larla Grandadam
Denisse Perez
(815) 883-1353
(815) 326-8513
Broker
Broker
545 Jordan Street in Oglesby MLS # 11274971 - $169,900
WOW ! Wonderful brick ranch with spacious open floor plan. Remodeled Kitchen feature stainless appliances ,ceramic stove top, newer sink, counters, fixtures, and lighting Enclosed looking out to wonderful 4-season room. Main level laundry room, Built in office area and very large room sizes adds to this 2 bedroom homes appeal. Very well maintained with newer windows 2009, roof 2014, updated electrical and new appliances 2011, Bathroom took down to studs and totally rebuilt 2014. Also newer flooring, ceiling fans add to the value in this home. Also oversized attached 2-car garage with bath and additional storage. Freshly painted inside, and garage floor/trim. Move right into this unique find!
Offered by Dee Barrera
1537 County Road 60 East in Bradford MLS # 11256888 - $97,900 Attention Duck hunters and wild life enthusiasts. 20 to 30 mins from boating, fishing, hunting and 3 Marinas and many wildlife and water fowl conservation and hunting clubs. This home has 2 bedrooms, 1 bath on 3 full lots and over sized 2 car garage. 20x12 family room & 13 x 14 dining room; close to Marshall State Fish and Wildlife, Hennepin & Hopper Lakes, Woodford State Fishing & Duck hunting & wildlife just to name a few.
Offered by Dee Barrera
2607 N. Illinois State Rt. 351, Oglesby, Il MLS # 10991356 - $399,900
RARE FIND! Approx 14 acres; 5 separate 2 bedroom houses with old world character. Lots of hardwood floors and natural woodwork. Each house has a garage, separate septic and cisterns. 2 wells on property, 1 dug and one bored. Lots of possible options for water including possibility of Jonesville and Oglesby. One house has a very long-term tenant that pays $500 per month. One owner occupied and one vacant. Other 2 houses have barns and one out building - 1 street light has separate electric meter. All houses nicely spaced for privacy. This beautiful park-like property perched high on a hill with wonderful views of the Illinois Valley. Offered by Dee Barrera
1212 W. Jefferson St in Ottawa MLS # 11247570 - $118,500
VERY Spacious 3 bedroom, 2 bath home loaded with lots of character and original hardwood floors throughout most of the home and some built-ins too! Nice westside ranch! Massively large living room, front finished porch area opens up to the dining room, stove, refrigerator, dishwasher, and microwave. New bedroom door, newly polyeurathaned hardwood floors have just been poly eurathaned; and cleaned up the basement & garage. Furnace is gas forced air, also wood burning. Great 2.5 car detached garage & shed outside with alley access. Home has original hardwood floors, updated kitchen, windows, siding, gutters, roof & more! Realtor related. Offered by Alice Green
1522 Birchlawn in Ottawa MLS # 11273458 - $139,000 Nice ranch home only minutes from the Illinois River! Home is built on a slab, main floor laundry, a deep 1 car attached garage, big fenced in backyard with an oversized shed. Some original hardwood floors, 3 bedrooms, and 1 bathroom. Furnace and Central Air new in August 2021; stove and refrigerator stay. The wooden fencing belongs with this property, the chain link fence does not. Offered
Green
by Alice
321 Rachel Way in Utica MLS # 11254922 - $25,000 Build your dream home in this desirable Senica Manor subdivision. Conveniently located close to downtown Utica! Enjoy the shopping, food and fun this quaint little town has to offer. Also close to major interstates 80 and 39 for travel and Starved Rock and other State Parks. If fishing, camping or boating is your thing, the Illinois River is right here in town and the Vermillion River isn’t far either! Come be part of “The Village” with us! Offered
by Larla Grandadam
WE NEED MORE LISTINGS!
Housing demand is HIGH and supply is LOW, so if you’re thinking of moving, it’s a great time to do so. There are likely many buyers who are looking for a home just like yours, and there are options coming for you to find a new house too. Let’s connect today to see how you can benefit from the opportunities available in our local market. Our agents are ready to help you! 2 December 2021/January 2022 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication
Local Realty Group Inc.
815-339-1158
local-realtygroup.com
LOCAL REALTY GROUP
Donna Bayler, Broker 815-760-2204 Donna.Bayler@gmail.com
Beth Coleman-Weger, Broker 815-252-2713 SoldbyBethColeman@gmail.com
Angie Heckman, Broker 309-312-0180 Angie.Heckman@yahoo.com
Mike Gonet, Managing Broker 815-481-2411 Mike_Gonet@hotmail.com
There's GNOME place like HOME
for the holidays!
519 E. Sycamore St. Hennepin, IL
329 E. Erie St. Spring Valley, IL
128 S. Sixth St. Hennepin, IL
303 S. Archie St. Granville, IL
1008 Edwards St. Henry, IL
A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | December 2021/January 2022 3
What to know about refinancing a mortgage
Interest rates dipped during the pandemic and have remained low ever since. That’s unlikely to last forever, which has given many homeowners a sense of urgency regarding refinancing. Refinancing can be financially advantageous, but there are some things homeowners should know prior to contacting their lenders.
a Change Terms mortgage refinance is characterized by a shift to a loan charging a lower interest rate. The initial savings with such a refinance are undeniable, but changing from one 30-year to another 30-year restarts the mortgage clock, which can add years to the time homeowners will be repaying their debt. As a result, homeowners may end up paying more interest over time than they might have had they just kept their initial mortgage. Homeowners interested in a Change Terms refinance may want to look into switching from a 30-year to a 15-year mortgage. A shorter term mortgage will increase the monthly payment, but the loan will reach maturity much faster, greatly reducing the amount of interest homeowners will pay over the life of the mortgage.
REFINANCING DOES NOT ALWAYS SAVE MONEY OVER THE LONG HAUL It’s hard to blame homeowners who jump at the chance to refinance their mortgages. Refinancing is often associated with significantly lower monthly payments, and such savings can be used to finance home improvements, pay for tuition or build retirement nest eggs. However, homeowners won’t necessarily save money over the long haul if they’re refinancing an existing 30-year mortgage with an- REFINANCING CAN BE COSTLY Lower monthly payments other 30-year mortgage. The mortgage experts at might be the number that Mortgage Calculator note that catches homeowners’ eyes
as they look to refinance, but it’s important that homeowners recognize that refinancing is not free. In fact, the personal finance experts at Kiplinger note that refinancing incurs many of the same costs that homeowners had to pay when they signed their initial mortgage papers. That includes fees, taxes and appraisal costs. These costs are sometimes paid up front, but they also might be rolled into
the loan balance. In the latter instance, homeowners could be paying interest on their refinancing costs. Homeowners who are refinancing solely because of lower interest rates should know that some lenders raise interest rates to compensate for refinancing costs. That can negate the savings and end up costing homeowners more money than the original mortgage. MM21C517
Perry May Financial Representative
726 1st St • Lasalle 815-223-2100
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.
Give us a call to learn more.
Matt Hostetter Financial Representative
108 S McCoy St • Granville 815-339-6136
Louis Lukacsy Insurance Agent
0817-501HC-11925-11/16/2018
726 1st St • Lasalle 815-223-2100
@^m Ik^&jnZeb_b^] Mh]Zr
Mistie Brokaw NMLS# 1492488 815-875-3333 Princeton
Jaimie Rosenthal Linda Hessenberger NMLS# 1253864 815.875.3468 Princeton
NMLS# 477893 815.220.1865 Peru
\^gmkZe&[Zgd'\hf u :iier Hgebg^ Mh]Zr
SM-LA1937359
4 December 2021/January 2022 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication
Landmark Realty of Illinois LLC 1221 North Main Street Princeton • Illinois • 61356 • 815-875-1221 illinoisvalleyhomeshow.com
124 S. Pleasant Street PRINCETON $300,000 4 BDRMS; 2 ½ baths #11218575
9391 1850 East St. TISKILWA $215,000 3 BDRMS; 2 baths #11235293
930 Timber Ridge Road PRINCETON $283,900 5 BDRMS; 3 baths #11230030
601 S. Main PRINCETON $265,000 Commercial Property #10993463
24798 1900 N. Avenue MALDEN $360,000 Commercial Property #10891754
816 Peoria Street PERU $196,000 Commercial Property #11189545
200 S. Maple Street WYANET $124,500 3 BDRMS; 2 baths #11202876
303 Park Avenue West PRINCETON $445,000 5 BDRMS; 2 ½ baths #11271643
1220 N. Vernon Street PRINCETON $25,000 Vacant Lot #11203514
300 West Boyd PRINCETON $120,000 Vacant Land #10916387
922 South Euclid Avenue PRINCETON $180,000 4 BDRMS; 1 ½ baths #11259188
772 W. Backbone PRINCETON $159,900 Commercial Property #11234190
3285 Il Hwy. 29 Road PUTNAM $475,000 3 BDRMS; 3 baths #11107030
304 East Oak St. MANLIUS $79,000 3 BDRMS; 2 baths #11263511
461 Griswold Lane PRINCETON $114,900 2 BDRMS; 1 bath #11275487
14306 910 North Avenue TISKILWA $129,500 3 BDRMS; 1 bath #11205680
139 South Park Street SHEFFIELD $60,000 2 BDRMS; 1 ½ baths #11144350
302 Park Avenue East PRINCETON $375,000 4 BDRMS; 2 ½ baths #11167315
13953 2100 North Avenue PRINCETON $225,000 3 BDRMS; 2 baths #11255923
432 South Main St. PRINCETON $625,000 Commercial Property #11196636
A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | December 2021/January 2022 5
815-223-1088
coldwellbankertoday.com
Pietro Alfano
Jaimie Bazydlo
Janet Benvenutti
Frank Duttlinger
Wendy Fulmer
Ashley Gonzales
Robin Guerrero
Linda Hamer
LaSalle-Lovely 3-bedroom, 2-bath ranch Utica-Quality throughout this well maintained Marseilles-Nicely located 3 bedroom, 2 bath LaSalle-Cute 2 bedroom, 2 bath home, 2 home on ½ acre lot, 2 car garage. 4 bedroom, 3 bath home, 2 car garage. home on corner lot, 2 car garage. car heated garage, storage shed. $349,000 #11272345 $185,000 #11271568 #11274078 $284,900 #11273887 $79,900
Peru-Well built 4 bedroom, 2 bath brick LaSalle-Well maintained 3 bedroom, 1 bath Peru-Spacious 4 bedroom, 1 bath home Mendota-Lovely 3 bedroom, 1.5 bath ranch home, 2+ car heated garage. home, large 2 car garage. on corner lot, 2 car garage. home on 2.14 acres, plus 2 buildings. #11270793 $239,900 #11266734 $75,000 #11262949 $129,500 #11261864 $380,000
LaSalle-Charming 3 bedroom, 1 bath Oglesby-Affordable 3 bedroom, 2 bath LaSalle-Home of your dreams, 5 bedroom, Spring Valley-Affordable 3 bedroom, 1 bath home, full basement, garage, patio. mobile home, appliances and shed remain. 3.5 bath home on 3+ acre estate. home, sunny deck, partially fenced lot. #11255256 $139,900 #11254870 $23,900 #11252522 $504,900 #11251123 $58,900
Mendota-Well maintained 4 bedroom, 2 LaSalle-New construction 3-bedroom, Peru-Wonderful like new 3 bedroom, 2 bath LaSalle-Traditional 2 story, 4-bedroom bath home, original natural woodwork. 2-bath home, 2 car garage, energy efficient. home, oversized 2 car garage on corner lot. home with pocket doors. #11250234 $159,900 #11244174 $280,000 #11240357 $189,500 #11225522 $79,000
Peru-Spacious 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath ranch Granville-Very spacious 5 bedroom, 3 bath Oglesby-Situated on large fenced lot, 3 Peru – Sturdy 3 bedroom, 1 bath brick home and commercial building. home, 2 car garage, outbuilding. bedroom, 1.5 bath home, large garage. ranch home, breezeway, garage. #11218142 $160,000 #11204122 $185,000 #11201176 $100,000 #11173616 #95,900 6 December 2021/January 2022 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication
815-223-1088
coldwellbankertoday.com
Cherise Haymaker
Chris Hopps
Vincent Jessen
Barb Kuzma
Bonnie Lester
David Postula
Garry Schroeder
RESIDENTIAL
Peru-Classic Beauty with old world charm, 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath home on corner lot. #11170258 $355,000
Peru – Spacious duplex features 2 bedroom, 2 bath home, 2 car garage. #11166199 $350,000
Oglesby – Spacious brick 4 bedroom, 4 bath ranch home with 2 car garage. #11136473 $235,000
Tiskilwa – Hunting property with 3 bedroom, 2 bath home, outbuildings on 28.42 acres. #11135929 $625,000
Varna – Beautiful home with 5 bedrooms, 3 baths and cathedral ceilings. #11131652 $259,000
Oglesby–Ranch 3 bedroom, 2 bath home, large back yard, heated garage. #10887400 $169,500
Spring Valley-Charming 3 bedroom, 1.5 bath home, enclosed porch, garage. #11259970 $79,900
Princeton-Very well cared for 3 bedroom, 2 bath ranch home, 2 car garage. #11265570 $169,900
LOT LISTINGS Putnam–Lake lot on finger of Lake Thunderbird, lake access & amenities. ........................... #11133366....... $60,000 Utica-Affordable single-family lot with city sewer & water, restrictive covenants. .................#10775030....... $23,000 Putnam–Lake view residential lot, close to clubhouse & boat launch....................................#10105633......... $6,000 Utica–Residential building lot, city sewer & water, restrictive covenants. ............................. #08977584....... $25,000 Utica–Single family lot in established development with city water & sewer. ........................ #08762325....... $14,500
SUBDIVISIONS HERITAGE FIELDS SUBDIVISION
CEDAR LANE PREMIUM HOME SITES
STONE BLUFF TERRACE
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
Limited supply, ready to build upon with city sewer & water, curbs & sidewalks, underground utilities. Plat & restrictive covenants available, Peru school district. Lots starting at $95,000. Call Wendy Fulmer at 815-252-8280 or Chris Hopps 815-252-5273. MLS#10785416
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. MLS#08273641
A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | December 2021/January 2022 7
815-223-1088
coldwellbankertoday.com
TJ Templeton
Amber Witek
Carol Wlodarchak
Karen Yade
Karen Zermeno
Bob Huber
Tom Guttilla
COMMERCIAL
Magnolia-Unlimited possibilities await, beautiful 2 story brick building with character. #11275146 $28,000
Peru-High traffic location, 1177 sq ft building, office, reception, and show room. #11275040 $189,000
Oglesby-Spacious commercial building on high traffic and high visibility road. #11267162 $219,000
Peru-Turnkey automotive machine shop business waiting for a new owner. #11247724 $350,000
Oglesby – Corner lot with 2 buildings, parking behind buildings, street and alley access. #11237179 $185,000
Princeton-Multi use property, 3 store fronts, 3 apartments and full basement. #11225337 $229,900
Tonica-Well maintained property, 2 buildings on 3 acres, fenced for security. #11224227 $265,000
Oglesby – Great place to start your business or move to this office/retail space. #11176341 Gross Lease
Ottawa – Unlimited possibilities at this 1.24 acre in downtown area. #11161065 $1,180,000
Mark – High traffic exposure, spacious building, plenty of parking spaces. #11090721 $85,000
McNabb – Well maintained bar & restaurant with indoor/outdoor entertainment. #10516373 $110,000
Henry – Must see industrial property with 5 steel framed buildings for your needs. #10297715 $1,200,000
COMMERCIAL LOTS Peru–Building site located in high traffic area with great visibility. ................. #11166650....$150,000 Ladd–26 acres of prime commercial land NW corner of I 80 & IL 89 .............. #10954862...$145,000 Princeton-Cleared, level building site features 2.88 acres in business plaza .. #10878168 .. $300,000 Princeton–Cleared, level building site features .51 acres zoned B2 ............... #10878119....$100,000 Princeton–Cleared, level building site features .43 acres in high traffic area.. #10878085 ...$100,000 Spring Valley–Great opportunity on this 3.43 acres, county road access....... #10516038 ...$125,000 Mendota–Prime agricultural land zoned for manufacturing, easy access....... #08880199 $1,190,000 8 December 2021/January 2022 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication
Can’t find a home or condo that suites your needs or wants? Then build your own dream home or getaway at Lake of the Ozarks. We have plenty of Land or Lots for sale. Here are a few and there are many more! MLS# 3539746 Lot 444 Grand View Dr., Porto Cima MLS# 3540390 Nassau Circle, Four Seasons
We want to Wish everyone a Very Merry Christmas & a Happy and Healthy New Year!! Gene Azarskis ABR/MRP/SRS, Spouses Selling Houses Team, & RE/MAX Lake of the Ozarks
A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | December 2021/January 2022 9
SM-LA1939064
10 December 2021/January 2022 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication
A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | December 2021/January 2022 11
Merry Christmas from Team Noble!
Kaye Pearson 815-866-7783
Lauren Smith 815-200-8746
Roxana Noble 815-878-7171
Beth Mulcahy 815-866-3630
Susan Jones 815-324-4737
PENDING
PENDING 21886 2280 East Street, Princeton MLS # 11266383 $153,000
922 South Euclid, Princeton MLS # 11259188 $180,000
17313 IL Hwy 40, Sheffield MLS # 11235832 $193,500
303 Park Avenue West, Princeton MLS # 11271643 $445,000
461 East Griswold Street, Princeton MLS # 11275487 $114,900
132 North Maple Street, Princeton MLS # 11256249 $168,500
139 South Park Street, Princeton MLS # 11144350 $60,000
605 Hidden Lake Drive, Princeton MLS # 11254322 $269,500
302 Park Avenue East, Princeton MLS # 11167315 $378,900
615 North 1st Street, Princeton MLS # 11132351 $82,000
200 South Maple Street, Wyanet MLS # 11202876 $124,500
204 South Center Street, Buda MLS # 11238930 $50,000
PENDING
2.2 ACRES - ZONED RESIDENTIAL 300 West Boyd Avenue, Princeton MLS # 10916387 $120,000
15.49 ACRES - ZONED RESIDENTIAL 804 West Hudson Street, Princeton MLS # 10383031 $447,661
TURN-KEY BUSINESS + INVENTORY 513 South Main Street, Princeton MLS # 11132351 $725,000
MAKE YOUR BUSINESS DREAMS A REALITY. 601 South Main Street, Princeton MLS # 10993463 $265,000
Landmark Realty of Illinois, LLC 1221 North Main Street • Princeton, IL
12 December 2021/January 2022 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication
at Team Noble – Landmark Realty
TURN-KEY RESTAURANT & BAR + RENTAL SPACES 432 South Main Street, Princeton MLS # 11196636 $625,000
WELL-ESTABLISHED, RENOVATED BUSINESS. 816 Peoria Street, Peru MLS # 11189545 $190,000
11,000+ SQ. FT. WAREHOUSE - ZONED M-2. 24798 1900 North Avenue, Malden MLS # 10891754 $360,000
OFFICE AVAILABLE FOR RENT - $3,500/MONTH 1051 Ace Road, Princeton MLS # 10882856 $970,000
We Wish You A
Blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year
A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | December 2021/January 2022 13
Designer tips for transforming your home lighting (BPT) - When it comes to choosing beautiful, functional lighting, the selections can appear endless and may be leaving you with no idea where to start. If so, you’re not alone. Many homeowners mistakenly believe any fixture will do the same job, when in fact effective lighting design is something of an art. The right lighting elements can make your home more relaxing or energizing, boost your sense of well-being and make daily tasks easier, all while reflecting your personal taste. According to Statista, the desire
for such improvements motivated 63% of U.S. consumers to plan changes to their home lighting over 2020-2021. To assist such forward-thinking homeowners, Erin Hoover, director-design, Luxury Space for Kohler Co., offers the following suggestions on choosing ideal home lighting. Factor in function. Ask yourself what you’d like your lighting to accomplish in the room you’re addressing. How is the room used? Do you need a main source of illumination
for the space, or do you need may guide placement of chanto supplement that with deco- deliers, linear style designs or rative accents? Where do you pendants. need direct and indirect light? Stay savvy in the kitchen. Consider existing archi- Since most kitchens feature tecture. Even if you like an multiple light sources, Hoover eclectic look (Pinterest and recommends designating one Instagram can be inspiration), fixture as your statement or you’ll want to at least partially focal piece, then choosing align each fixture with the rest other functional and decoraof your space in terms of form, tive accent pieces that align. line and/or color. In general, “The other lighting doesn’t high ceilings work well with have to match, but should be a pendants, chandeliers and little simpler,” she says. “Make linear-style lighting and lower sure it’s the correct scale for ceilings work better with flush your space and ceiling height,” or semi-flush fixtures and Hutton continues. “Pendant sconces. Your furniture layout or linear lighting is a good
Makeover your home with fun and fresh paint colors Stop in today to see how the vibrant colors of Benjamin Moore® can help your next paint project be your best ever.
Debo Ace Hardware
Shop your favorite Benjamin Moore® colors.
1713 4th St Downtown Peru (815) 223-0461 www.acehardware.com SM-LA1929725
©2019 Benjamin Moore & Co. ben, Benjamin Moore, Gennex, and the triangle “M” symbol are registered trademarks licensed to Benjamin Moore & Co.All other marks are the property of their respective owner. 10/19
14 December 2021/January 2022 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication
choice for kitchen islands and bars, and mixed metals are on trend with or without black or white accent finishes.” For added design flexibility, she notes, choose lighting that can be raised or lowered to easily adjust the height above bar areas, counters and islands. KOHLER Lighting also exclusively offers finishes that perfectly color match Kohler and Kallista fixtures and faucets. Introduce style to your bathroom. Depending on your daily routines, you may want your bath to offer both bright, functional lighting (for grooming) and mood lighting (for relaxation). Popular layouts feature 7- to 9-inch sconces mounted on each side of a vanity mirror, or a larger single sconce placed on the wall overhead. In powder rooms where steam isn’t an issue, Hoover likes decorative Kohler sconces that feature linen-look woven shades; she also recommends installing dimmer switches. “If you have the ceiling height, I love a chandelier in a bathroom,” she adds. “A 20- to 24-inch chandelier may be better than a 30- to 36-inch one unless you have a very
before deciding on the pendant, pendant cluster or chandelier that will make the right statement. “A single pendant can look stunning in a foyer that’s nine feet wide, whereas a 36-inch chandelier or two-tier Fit out your foyer. Hoover chandelier is perfect in a grand recommends considering the foyer,” she advises. height and depth of these imSince your lighting design portant, first-impression rooms spacious bath with a ceiling height of more than nine feet. A larger pendant of 15 to 18 inches makes a statement over a freestanding tub if ceiling heights allow.”
is so important to the beauty, functionality and overall mood of your home, it should never be an afterthought. Take time to choose from the wide variety of bright, beautiful styles available, then invest in the fixtures that will truly transform your living spaces. Find more information about KOHLER Lighting at us.Kohler.com.
Your Window of Opportunity Awaits You at Maze.
Opportunities do not come around every day. Now is the perfect time to replace your windows and doors with Marvin.
we protect your home. because, well, somebody should. SM-LA1939058
simple human sense
Joe Salz
Outside Sales
Since
1848
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
Make YourDream Home a Reality LaSalle (815) 223-1795 bestinsuranceagency.com SM-LA1939080
Neal Hodges
Missy Clancy NMLS# 759336 Mortgage Loan Officer - AVP 815-220-2288 mclancy@myhtnb.com
m myhtnb.com
A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | December 2021/January 2022 15
2011 Rock Street, Suite A • Peru, IL 61354 • 815-223-3875 January 2018 Mark Janko
Larry Bianchi 815-228-3826
Mark Janko, Managing Broker
Barb Bryant 815-252-3036
Penny Decker 815-228-7877
Adam Finley 815-830-4422
Andrea Greenwalt 815-878-1488
Terry Happ 815-488-1620
Katrina Jarrell 815-228-9779
Your Local Residential, Commercial, Land, Farms & Property Management Team 3131 Carrie St., Peru $295,000
3BD/ 3.5BA
#11270127
217 S. Western Ave., Ladd $99,900
4BD/ 1.5BA
#11249257
722 W. Saint Paul St., Spring Valley $89,900
2BD/ 2BA
#11221816
410 Deerfield, Oglesby $398,900
3BD/ 2BA
#11219088
16 December 2021/January 2022 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication
912 Cleveland St., Peru $105,000
4BD/ 1BA
#11255362
541 11th St., La Salle $118,000
2BD/ 2.5BA
#11208469
1836 LaHarpe St., La Salle $114,900
3BD/ 1BA
#11211389
2643N. IL Rte 178, Unit 19-2, Utica $265,000
3BD/ 4BA
#11259888
SE HABLA ESPANOL
Erin Karlosky 815-719-7048
Linda Kaszynksi 815-228-5622
Tisha Kent 815-883-4941
222 O’Conor Ave., La Salle $209,900
4BD/ 2BA
#11214089
1230 Illinois St., La Salle $78,000
3BD/ 2BA
#11222992
754 Gooding St., La Salle $76,000
4BD/ 1BA
#11271446
605 W.Vly 4th St., McNabb 119 E. Iowa St., Spring $105,000 $51,500
3BD/ 1BA
#11145183
316 N. La Salle St., Ladd $69,900
2BD/ 1.5BA
#11265864
Pat Majors 815-228-6353
Jose Maldonado 815-830-3715
Royce Mignone 815-252-9997
Erik Milaicki 815-228-2289
1515 Linden Ave., La Salle $92,000
3BD/ 1.5BA
#11240671
2412 5th St., Peru $179,500
4BD/ 2BA
#11218439
315 E. Hopkins Ave., Granville $115,000
2BD/ 3BA
#11258568
2423 8th St., Peru $99,900
2BD/ 2BA
#11172796
1231 Creve Coeur St., La Salle $136,000
2+1BD/ 2BA
#11219505
A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | December 2021/January 2022 17
SE HABLA ESPANOL
Jeff Mills 815-228-7833
Martha Moscosa 815-993-0804
460 E. US Hwy 34 Mendota $149,900
4BD/ 1BA
#11119349
Pat Olsen 815-910-5983
Brian Phillips 630-800-8622
0 Pulaski St., Peru $42,500
Lot 112X148
#10877086
316 N. La Salle St., Ladd $69,900
2BD/ 1.5 BA
Christine & Jerry Schweickert 815-488-2990
Theresa Washkowiak
1922 14th St., Peru $99,000
2BD/ 1BA
#11209024
Kathy Zidow 815-488-4874
Lot 5 Church St., Peru $72,000
Lot
#10115658
631 9th St., La Salle $183,900
3BD/ 2BA
#11265864
815-481-4663
#11257176
Build your dream home! Lot 12 Ann Marie Dr. North Utica $85,000
2.19 Acres
#10660279
Lot 11 Arrowhead Dr. North Utica $70,500
1.80 Acres
#10660295
113 Scott Ave., Lot 63 Oglesby $44,900
.38 Acres
#06196078
Lot 6 Ator Dr., La Salle $19,500
Lot 87X135
#08256200
Lot 6 Arrowhead Dr., North Utica $62,000
1.61 Acres
#10660366
Lot 13 Hidden Grove Spring Valley $52,000
.45 Acres
18 December 2021/January 2022 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication
#06492419
000 N. Spalding & W. 3rd St., Spring Valley $7,500
Lot
#118184357
Tips for home buyers during a seller’s market
A combination of factors, including low interest rates and a pandemic-driven decision by many city dwellers to look for houses in the suburbs, has created a housing boom for much of 2020 and 2021. That boom has created an undeniable seller’s market in real estate. Just what is a seller’s market? The financial resource Investopedia defines it as a marketplace in which there are fewer goods for sale than there are interested buyers,
giving sellers the ability to dictate prices. Since mid-2020, there has been an extremely low inventory of homes for sale but a very high interest among purchasing parties. Data from the National Association of Realtors indicated that, by the end of February 2021, housing inventory fell to a record low of 1.02 million units. These factors have led to a surge in competition from buyers, including bidding wars on homes and all-cash offers to entice sellers. In December 2020, the median listing prices for single-family homes shot up 13.4 percent from the same time the previous year, according to Realtor.com, and it hasn’t slowed down much since. Jeffrey Mezger, a 40-year veteran of the real estate industry and CEO of KB Home, says it’s the best seller’s housing market he’s seen in his career. So where does this leave buyers interested in relocating? Here are some tips. ■ Consider areas with slower
Ask us about our
Mortgage Loans Ask us about our
Low Fixed Rates • Local Servicing • Speedy Loan Process •
overall price growth. Experts say the southern and midwestern United States offer the best value for home shoppers because of their meager price growth. ClearCapital, which tracks housing values, says San Antonio, St. Louis and the Dallas/Fort Worth areas experienced the least price appreciation from 2019 into 2020. ■ Get preapproval or have your funds ready. Speed is the way to go if a buyer is interested in a property and wants to make an offer. Real estate professionals say buyers should be “offer ready,” which means having a mortgage preapproval letter or proof of funds for a down payment ready to go. Failure to have funds in check can slow down the process or compel sellers to reject an offer. ■ Work with a real estate agent. These are complicated times and it pays for buyers to have a professional working in their corner. A real estate agent uses his or her knowl-
edge to make a timely offer and negotiate on the buyer’s behalf. He or she also will provide insight into specific neighborhoods, amenities and school districts. ■ Eliminate certain contingencies from the equation. Contingencies are factors that must be met before a sale can go through, according to the relocation site Moving. com. A common contingency is the need to sell one’s current home before closing on another. Asking for extended closing periods or certain home repairs are some additional contingencies that can make buyers less attractive to sellers. ■ Make it personal. Buyers can offer a personalized note with the offer that may connect with the seller emotionally and set one them apart from others who have made similar offers. Buying in a seller’s market can be challenging. But some strategies can set buyers apart from the pack. TF217128
Tested Positive for Radon? We Are The
SOLUTION!
Illinois Valley Radon Mitigation, LLC. Serving the Illinois Valley and surrounding counties. We are locally owned and operated. We are licensed by the State of Illinois
. . . call us today.
Tom Thomas Mitigation Professional
(815) 223-8800 Janette Glupczynski NMLS# 460147
eLSB.com
Let’s get to know each other.
Free Estimates Guaranteed Work Fully Insured Tom Thomas, Mitigation Professional License #RNM2018203
Owner: Tami Thomas-Leonatti
717 Bellevue Ave., Ottawa Call 815-313-5892 tami@illinoisvalleyradon.com www.illinoisvalleyradon.com
A NewsTribune Publication | Illinois Valley Homes | December 2021/January 2022 19
THE
PROPERTY MERCHANTS COMPANY
The Property Merchants Company 512 S. Main, Princeton, IL 61356
815-872-0080 • thepropertymerchants.com
Professional Realtors
Todd Massey, Managing Broker: 815-872-0080
Thomas Hall
Broker • 815-878-8508 thomashallrealtor@gmail.com
Donna Milliron
Broker • 815-915-6710 grannyofpm2000@yahoo.com
Vicki Smith
Broker • 815-876-7461 vlsteach@yahoo.com
Bill Lane
Broker • 815-878-2584 bill.lane@thepropertymerchants.com
Come See Us at our New Location - 512 S. Main, Princeton, IL Multi-use 14+ acre commercial property 1661 N. Main St., Princeton, IL 61356 MLS #: 10344521
Retail Building and Mult-Unit Apt 705 N. Main Street, Princeton, IL 61356 MLS#: 11115211
List Price: $1,375,000 Tom Hall
List Price: $106,000 Tom Hall
Commercial Vacant Lot 2210 N Main St, Princeton, 61356 MLS#: 09181725
Residential Building Lot 1 Woodland Dr., Princeton, IL 61356 MLS#: 10837521
List Price: $325,000 Tom Hall
List Price: $78,500 Tom Hall
Residential Lot 1005 Winding Brook Ct MLS#: 11045030
Commercial Rental 338 E. Backbone Rd, Princeton, IL 61356 MLS#: 09725455
List Price: $45,000 Tom Hall
Rent: $2500/month Tom Hall
Commercial Land for Sale 1750 N. Main St., Princeton, IL 61356 MLS#: 10472548
Commercial Land for Sale – Lot B 1750A N. Main St., Princeton, IL 61356 MLS#: 10472585
List Price: $395,000 Todd Massey
List Price: $150,000 Todd Massey
Four Bedroom Home 125 S. First Street, Princeton, IL 61356 MLS #: 11165054
Commercial Rental Space 1210 N. Main, Princeton, IL 61356 MLS#: 10377617
List Price: $179,900 Vicki Smith SM-LA1939089
20 December 2021/January 2022 | Illinois Valley Homes | A NewsTribune Publication
List Price: $700/month Vicki Smith