c.1840 Three Bedroom Illinois Colonial $189K
OHU50K Notes $189,000
c.1840 Three Bedroom Illinois Colonial For Sale. In a convenient location close to parks and stores.
Realtor Comments
Step into one of Macombs oldest and most storied homes, believed to date back to the 1830s, beautifully maintained and thoughtfully updated for modern living. This 3-bedroom, 2.5 bath gem is nestled in a picturesque, tree-lined historic neighborhood and includes an extra lot that opens directly to Mavis Park, offering peaceful green space just steps from your back door. Rich in original details, the home features Jack pine floors, French doors, handcrafted walnut banister, shutters, ornate porch trim, and solid stone steps. The spacious kitchen boasts an oversized bay window with serene backyard views, a large center island, sleek quartz countertops, and a generous walk-in pantry. The primary suite offers comfort and privacy with a deep walk-in closet and full ensuite bath. A unique feature of the home is the Italian marble fireplace, repurposed from the teller counter of the First Nation Bank of Bushnell, complete with original green marble flooring where customers once signed during the Depression era. Modern upgrades include a new HVAC system (2017), water heater (2021), blown-in insulation within 5-inch-thick walls for energy efficiency, and oversized steel gutters added in 2019. The 2.5 car garage includes automatic doors and room for your riding mower, workshop, or extra storage. This is more than just a home, its a living piece of Macombs history, blending craftmanship, character, and convenience in one extraordinary property. Sold AS IS.
- 3 bed
- 2.5 bath
- Build date 1840
History
Pros
• Very Affordable Cost of Living
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Approximately 31% lower than the national average, and 12–26% cheaper than the Illinois average
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Median home value around $94K–$99K, and rent for a 2‑bedroom is roughly $730–840/month—well below national averages
• Low Crime Rates & Perceived Safety
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Crime rate about 59% lower than the U.S. average; violent crime 68% below. Your overall chance of being a crime victim is about 1 in 109
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Said to feel very quiet and safe by locals moving from higher-crime areas
• Strong Educational & Cultural Presence
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Home to Western Illinois University (WIU) (≈6,300 students as of fall 2024), a major local employer and source of community events
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Public school district has a solid graduation rate (~90%), dual‑credit programs, and active community engagement
• Community & Outdoor Recreation
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Residents describe a friendly, tight-knit community with involvement in local festivals and events
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Scenic amenities include Spring Lake Park (with trails, boating, fishing, cross-country courses), several city parks, a golf course, and museums
• Public Transit Access
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Go West Transit offers free bus service across 17 routes in McDonough County—including to major shopping locations like Walmart and Hy-Vee, and campus—making it a rare fare-free system in Illinois
Cons
• Economic Decline Linked to University
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WIU enrollment has dropped 47% since 2010, triggering faculty layoffs, closed dorms, and shuttered businesses downtown
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Macomb’s population also declined about 23% between 2010 and 2024
• Limited Job Market and Professional Opportunities
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Median household income (~$34K) is below state and national levels; few high-paying jobs locally
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Many residents must commute or leave town for professional roles—manufacturing and education dominate, but diversification efforts are ongoing
• Few Entertainment & Cultural Offerings
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Despite university events, residents report limited nightlife, restaurants, and variety of cultural options:
• Seasonal Weather Extremes
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Typical Midwestern weather: hot, humid summers and cold winters. Spring and fall can be pleasant and even show all four seasons in one day
• Social and Cultural Isolation for Some Groups
