c.1940 Illinois Handyman Special For Sale Under $44K

Most appliances are included except the washer & dryer. There is a separate dining room that could also be used as part of the living area. One bedroom is on the main floor, with the 2nd being upstairs along with another room for use as to whatever the need might be. Flooring needs to be added throughout most of the home. Sitting on a large 60 x 174 lot with an alley behind makes a perfect spot for a garage. The covered front porch has newer decking and ready to be stained. If you’re looking for a very affordable home and have handyman skills, this one may be for you!

• 2bed
• 1bath
• 1,584sqft
• Circa 1940

More Illinois Properties

Pros

• Highly Affordable Cost of Living: The cost of living in Macomb is significantly lower than both the national and Illinois averages (roughly 19-22% lower). Housing is particularly inexpensive, with median home values often around $105,000 and median monthly rents near $565.

• Short Commutes: Due to the city’s size and layout, the average commute time is roughly 9 minutes, making it “exceptionally drivable.”

• College Town Perks: The presence of Western Illinois University provides access to cultural events, university athletics, and educational resources that are often unavailable in other towns of similar size (population ~15,000).

• Low Violent Crime: Statistics indicate that violent crime rates are lower than the national average, contributing to a generally quiet residential atmosphere.

• Access to Nature: Nearby Argyle Lake State Park and the Lakeview Nature Center offer opportunities for hiking, fishing, and boating within a short drive.

Cons

• Economic Limitations: The local economy is heavily dependent on the university and a few manufacturing or service-sector employers (e.g., Pella Corporation, NTN-Bower). The median household income is lower than the national average, at approximately $39,500.

• Seasonal Weather Extremes: Residents experience a full four-season climate. This includes long, humid summers and freezing, windy winters with an average of 21 inches of snowfall annually.

• Limited Walkability and Transit: Outside of the immediate university area, the city is not very walkable (Walk Score of 30/100) or bikeable, making a car a necessity for most daily tasks.

• Geographic Isolation: Macomb is somewhat remote. While it has an Amtrak station (providing a direct link to Chicago), the nearest major metropolitan areas are several hours away by car.

• University-Dependent Vibrancy: The town’s energy and business activity can fluctuate significantly when students are away for summer and winter breaks.