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HOME IMPROVEMENT September 2021

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Do it yourself takes off Popular renovation projects during the pandemic Spending so much time at home during the pandemic led many homeowners to spruce up their homes. According to HomeAdvisor’s 2021 State of Home Spending report, spending on home improvements increased by an average of $745 per household in 2020. In the face of travel restrictions and social distancing guidelines, many homeowners pivoted in 2020 and spent money they initially intended to use for vacations on home improvements. Though many such projects required the services of a professional contractor, others, including the most popular project among the 5,000 homeowners who participated in the HomeAdvisor report, were do-it-yourself endeavors. That not only gave homeowners’ homes a new look, but also gave them something to do during quarantine. The following are the five most popular home improvement projects of 2020 according to the HomeAdvisor report.

Bathroom renovations

Floors took on a lot of extra traffic during the pandemic, so it shouldn’t be too surprising that flooring projects were popular in 2020. More than 1/4 of participants told HomeAdvisor their homes were updated with a new floor during the pandemic.

Landscaping With nowhere else to go to escape the daily grind in 2020, many homeowners took to their yards. Twenty-four percent

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Fall Home Improvement September 2021 Published by Southern Lakes Newspapers LLC 1102 Ann St., Delavan, WI 53115 (262) 728-3411

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of those homeowners reported making their backyard retreats more appealing by repairing or upgrading the landscaping outside their homes. In fact, the average homeowner reported completing 3.4 landscaping projects in 2020.

kitchens in 2020.

Interior painting

Slightly less than 35% of participants reported taking on an interior painting project in 2020. Interior painting projects can be perfect for DIYers, but homeowners Kitchen also can trust this task to skilled Another project that makes sense given professionals. the circumstances, kitchen renovations were While the home improvement trends the fifth most popular home improvement cooled off slightly over this past summer project in 2020. Restaurant closures and with the easing of pandemic restrictions social distancing guidelines led many across the country, many homeowners are people to dine in more often than they still looking at projects for the fall of 2021 otherwise would, and just under 23% of and beyond. (METRO CREATIVE) homeowners reported renovating their

Homes & Design Fall Home Improvement

For advertising opportunities, call (262) 728-3411 or email vicki@southernlakesnewspapers.com EDITOR IN CHIEF: Edward Nadolski SPECIAL SECTIONS EDITOR: Tracy Ouellette PAGE DESIGN: Jen DeGroot CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Heidi Schulz ADVERTISING DIRECTOR: Vicki Vanderwerff

SEPTEMBER 2021

Flooring

As the world gradually emerges from the pandemic, many homeowners who caught the renovation bug while in quarantine also will be emerging with what feels like an entirely new home.

HOMES & DESIGN • HOME IMPROVEMENT

Real estate professionals routinely report how much prospective buyers love updated bathrooms, so it’s no surprise that roughly 31% of homeowners who took part in the HomeAdvisor report indicated they renovated their bathrooms in 2020.

Tips before deciding to do a DIY demolition Home improvement projects can range from relatively inexpensive undertakings to complex endeavors that cost homeowners thousands of dollars. In an effort to make expensive projects more affordable, homeowners may look for ways to pitch in, and do-it-yourself demolition is a common way to cut costs. Because of geographical fluctuations in price as well as the scale of a project, it’s hard to pinpoint just how much homeowners can save by doing demolition work themselves. HomeAdvisor estimates that the average small interior demolition project costs slightly more than $3,000, though more significant demolition projects can cost considerably more than that. Given the cost, it’s no surprise that so many homeowners volunteer to do demolition on their own. Though it’s possible to do so safely, homeowners can take steps to determine if it’s in their best interest to take on a DIY demolition

or leave it to the professionals. Demolition projects seem simple, but they often require the use of equipment most homeowners don’t have on hand. Rentals can be considered in such instances, but the cost of renting equipment can reduce the amount of money homeowners are saving by going it alone. For example, homeowners may be able to pull up vinyl or tile flooring on their own, but not all floors are installed the same. Some floors may have been glued more effectively than others, making it hard and/or time-consuming to pull them up by hand. A walk-behind floor scraper can make it easier to remove such floors, but that equipment must be rented. A cost analysis comparing the contractors’ demolition cost estimate and the cost of DIY, complete with equipment rental projections, can give a more accurate picture of how much money homeowners will save by going it alone. (METRO CREATIVE)

DIY demolition can save homeowners a lot of money. But such projects are not necessarily as simple as they seem. Homeowners should take steps to see exactly what they’re getting into before they volunteer to take on demo duty. STOCK PHOTO Fall Home Improvement

SERVICE CORNER Shorewest REALTORS® Kathy Baumbach Sales Director

Shorewest REALTORS® Shorewest-Lake Geneva 623 Main Street Lake Geneva, WI 53147

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ELECTRONICS and APPLIANCES Lyle’s TV and Appliance From massive televisions to wholehouse music systems and fully integrated “smart” systems that automate everything from entertainment systems to thermostats, Lyle’s has the products and knowledge to

FENCES Aronson Fence Company The fences provided by Aronson Fence Company are all top quality – whether they are made of cedar, ornamental metal or vinyl. Wood picket fences are one of the most popular types of fence. All of the cedar fences from Aronson Fence Company are made to order, not preordered from another company. The cedar is purchased from a mill in upper Michigan. Aronson Fence Company can be reached by phone for information or to schedule an appointment at 262-248-3390 in Wisconsin

or 847-526-9300 at the showroom, 26356 W. Ivanhoe, Wauconda, Illinois. They are online at aronsonfence.com or on Facebook.

FLOORING Carpets Plus Outlet Family owned and operated for more than 20 years, Carpets Plus Outlet has the Racine and Kenosha area’s largest in-stock selection of quality flooring. Carpets Plus Outlet provides free estimates, expert installation and financing. The store is on Kenosha’s north side at 1241 22nd Ave., Kenosha. The phone number is 262-683-5399 and the website is carpetsplusoutlet.com.

GARDEN CENTER Breezy Hill Nursery Breezy Hill Nursery offers a complete selection of annuals and perennials. It also • CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

SEPTEMBER 2021

turn the average home into a Smart Home. Lyle’s TV and Appliances is at 17 S. Washington St., Elkhorn. Contact them at 262-723-3477 or visit www.lylestv.com to see a selection of their products online. The store is open Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Thursday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

HOMES & DESIGN • HOME IMPROVEMENT

Fall is the time of the year when many people take a long look at their homes and properties to determine how to best prepare for winter and the holiday entertaining season. It’s no surprise then that many people turn their focus to home improvement. Whether that entails a new decor, flooring or furnace – or a full remodel – homeowners have to partner with trusted suppliers of products and services to finish their jobs with the best results their budget allows. In the Geneva Lakes Area, there are plenty of stores, contractors and services that can assist with tasks ranging from small to large. Here’s a look at several of Spirit magazine’s preferred home improvement providers:

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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carries a full line of nursery stock and one of the area’s largest selections of landscape supplies. Breezy Hill provides residential and commercial landscape services. Irrigation services and LED lights for outdoors are designed for your space. The garden shop carries a collection of planters, gifts and garden art. Check their website for special events and to receive their newsletter. Breezy Hill Nursery is at 7530 288th Ave., Salem. The telephone number is 262-537-2111 and they are online at www. breezyhillnursery.com

HEATING and COOLING Thielmann group Thielmann Group now with six locations – including Burlington Heating and Air conditioning and Roth Heating in Waterford – has been keeping heating systems running at their peak since 1929. Thielmann Group sells and services topgrade furnaces and air conditioning units, including Lennox, Daikson, and Carrier in forced air systems and a variety of boilers including Buderus, Lennox, NTI and others, for hot water heating systems. For HVAC service, repairs or new installations, the Thielmann Group is ready to

A kitchen remodel with fixtures like these are among the specialties handled by James R. Taylor and Sons of East Troy. FILE PHOTO Fall Home Improvement

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serve. They offer 24-hour emergency service. Burlington Heating and Air Conditioning is at 201 S. Pine St., Burlington. The telephone number is 262763-2653. Roth Heating has two locations, 107 N. Milwaukee, Waterford, 262-534-5568, or 400 W. Drexel, Oak Creek, 414-764-4700. Visit thielmannheating.com for more information about their services.

HOME BUILDER

Beautiful and practical landscapes like this are among the services provided by Koch Kuts. FILE PHOTO Fall Home Improvement

Caravelle to choose fixtures for new homes or home renovations. A walk through Caravelle Lighting overwhelms the senses with the large number of fixtures and the variety of colors and styles from which to select. In addition to the fixtures on display, Caravelle has a number of catalogs with additional styles and models of lighting to enhance the beauty of your home. Caravelle Lighting is at 9307 Highway 12 in Richmond, Illinois. Call 815-6784558 or visit caravellelight.com.

REAL ESTATE Keefe Real Estate Keefe Real Estate is a market leader in Southern Wisconsin and Northern Illinois and No. 1 in sales volume in the tri-county area of Walworth, Racine, and Kenosha counties. Keefe is most well-known, however, for its position as a leader in selling lakefront property in the region. The firm strives to remain the market leader by cultivating close relationships with local communities, a reputation of trust and excellence, and a team of the professional and knowledgeable agents. Keefe has eight offices in Wisconsin and Illinois. Call 800-690-2292 or visit keeferealestate.com for additional information.

REMODELING James R. Taylor and Sons Whether it’s a new roof, windows or doors, or a complete kitchen remodel, the professionals at James R. Taylor and Sons are up to the task. • CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

SEPTEMBER 2021

design process to assure a positive result and a space that will be enjoyed by the whole family. HOME DÉCOR Koch Kuts is also able to incorporate fire pits, water features and outdoor kitchens Ginger Blossom into its designs. Their scope of work also When it comes to décor items Ginger includes ponds and retaining walls. Blossom has cornered the world market. And for those looking for traditional The store – located in several buildings on lawn and landscaping services, Koch Kuts a farmstead – carries ethnic and traditional remains committed to services that gave the crafts, rugs, furniture, sweaters, antiques and business its start. other items from all over the world. Contact Koch Kuts at 262-534-9509 or In order to provide customers with the visit their website www.kochkuts.com. unique crafts, Ginger Blossom buys in small quantities and focuses on variety. Reesman Company Most items have been bought personally For 50 years homeowners and businesses from the artist by Ginger, so there’s a story owners have depended on the Reesman behind every craft just ask. Company, of Burlington, to help solve their The store, at 3016 Highway 173 landscape and structural problems. Richmond, Illinois, is open seven days a What started out as an excavation and week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. utility firm has now consolidated its heavy construction, aggregate operations, and the landscaping division under the Reesman LANDSCAPE SERVICES Company name. Whether its decorative patios, fire B & J Tree and Landscape pits, outdoor kitchens or water features, B & J Tree and Landscape is locally Reesman has built a reputation for topowned and operated, serving the Geneva notch projects. Lakes Area since 1959. The Reesman Company is a full Specializing in trimming, removal, and scale landscape architect providing both planting of trees, B & J Landscape has advanced over the years to a company that can industrial and residential services. Their office is at 28815 Bushnell Rd, offer our clients everything for their outdoor living needs, including retaining walls, patios, Burlington. They are available by phone at 262-539-2124. The company’s service area planters, brickwork and more. in southeast Wisconsin stretches from the B & J Landscape is at W2795 Krueger state line to Milwaukee on the north and as Rd., Lake Geneva. Call 262-248-3653 or far west as Madison. See www.reesman.com visit bandjlandscape.com. or on Facebook for additional information. Koch Kuts Designing an outdoor space that will LIGHTING add beauty and value to a property requires planning. Koch Kuts will offer a variety of Caravelle Lighting ideas and help the homeowner through the Builders often refer customers to

HOMES & DESIGN • HOME IMPROVEMENT

Hackbarth Builders Hackbarth Builders, Inc. has been a leader in custom home building as well as interior and exterior remodeling since 1979. The firm serves homeowners throughout Southeast Wisconsin by building and remodeling homes that incorporate the features and amenities customers request. Hackbarth’s professional staff works with customers throughout the design process to ensure every detail is built to fit the desired lifestyle and budget. Hackbarth Builders is at W572 Highway 20, East Troy. The phone number is 262642-9601.

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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The firm is a licensed, bonded, insured and a BBB-accredited company with a professional crew that is always learning new ways to build a better structure and to complete expert repairs and remodeling work. James R. Taylor and Sons has a showroom in East Troy at 2115 Division St. and is available by phone at 262-642-7970.

ROOFING AMB Roofing Providing residential and commercial services that include shingle and metal roofs, AMB Roofing uses quality materials and a professional approach designed to maximize a customer’s investment. The firm employs eight professional crews that specialize in everything from metal roofing, to shingles, to gutters and siding. AMB Roofing is at 2516 Hiller Ridge, Johnsburg, Illinois. They can be reached by phone at 815-385-2621. Breezy Hill offers a complete line of nursery stock that is perfect for fall planting.

TILE RESTORATON

FILE PHOTO Fall Home Improvement

Grout Experts Using steam as a time-tested method to clean, disinfect, and sterilize surfaces, Grout Experts can bring dingy tiled surfaces back to life. The firm uses pressurized 298-degree dry steam that sterilizes and

kills viruses like COVID-19, mold and mildew. Additional services include color sealing, tile replacement, water damage repair and reglazing. Grout Experts provides service in

Southeastern Wisconsin and in Illinois to customers in Lake County, Cook County North, and Chicago Metro North. For additional information or to schedule a quote, call 847-356-6928 or visit www.grout-experts.com.

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Exposed beams Exposed beams instantly evoke images of a farmhouse. The home improvement experts at BobVila.com note that this rustic renovation project can utilize real wood or faux beams that look like the real thing.

Decorative beams that have nothing to do with a home’s structural integrity can be installed by skilled do-it-yourselfers. However, even faux beams are heavy, and BobVila.com recommends homeowners have an engineer assess their existing structure prior to installation.

Distressed wood Distressing is designed to make something look less than perfect. Distressed wood finishes can be found throughout many farmhouse style homes. Furniture and picture frames can provide the distressed look farmhouse fans are looking for. This is a relatively inexpensive project that many homeowners can tackle on their own after watching some online tutorials that recommend the right tools and techniques to get the job done right.

Kitchen sink Many components combine to create a truly classic farmhouse kitchen. But perhaps no component is more essential

than the classic farmhouse sink. The renovation experts at HGTV note that a classic farmhouse sink features a deep, wide basin. Farmhouse sinks are large enough to handle all the dishes that come after a big family meal. Old-fashioned porcelain sinks are worth consideration by homeowners who want their kitchen sinks to evoke a traditional farmhouse feel.

Countertops HGTV recommends butcher block countertops for homeowners who favor European farmhouse style. Homeowners overhauling their kitchens to create a farmhouse feel should consider installing a large island with a walnut butcher block countertop for an authentic farmhouse feel. (METRO CREATIVE)

Farmhouse style homes are wildly popular. Some simple renovations can help homeowners with a fondness for farmhouse style bring this classic look into their homes. STOCK PHOTO Fall Home Improvement

HOMES & DESIGN • HOME IMPROVEMENT

Farmhouse style homes are having a moment. A 2020 survey from Homes.com asked more than 5,000 adults across the United States about their favorite house style from a list that included bohemian craftsman, mid-century modern ranch, French chateau, and Tudor, among others. Modern farmhouse was the runaway winner, as participants in 42 of the 50 states indicated this simple, cozy style was their favorite. Home renovation projects can help homeowners put their own unique stamp on their homes, and such projects can be both aesthetic and functional in nature. The following are some farmhouse design elements homeowners can consider as they look to transform their home interiors with this popular style in mind.

SEPTEMBER 2021

Design ideas to give your home a farmhouse feel

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With creativity and the right tools, making impactful interior updates can be simple and affordable. STOCK PHOTO Fall Home Improvement

Save money on renovations the “play hard” design trend, which is all about designating a place for fun and happy activities.

barrier that seals the edges of the tape, to ensure sharp paint lines and professionallooking results every time.

Embrace patterns in unexpected places

Create calming spaces

You may think of patterns for playrooms or children’s bedrooms, but have you ever considered using them to create a focal point in your kitchen, dining room or even your patio? With just a few tools, including paint, brushes and tape, you can add striped or checkered designs to walls, tables and floors. Creating a pattern doesn’t have to mean splurging on a variety of paint colors. You can create subtle variety by alternating high gloss and matte finish paints, or by adding varying amounts of white paint to create multiple shades of the same base color. However you create the pattern, having the right tape will be critical to avoid paint bleed from stripe to stripe. FrogTape Multi-Surface Painter’s Tape is made with PaintBlock Technology, which forms a

While old homes have unique character, outdated features can make the task of modernizing interiors feel like a major undertaking. For bathrooms, it’s simple and affordable to sand down what you have and refresh it with a coat of paint. Consider giving boring, outdated square tiles a contemporary look with different tones of gray. You can take it a step further by updating the vanity with deep green paint and gold accents. When you’re finished, you’ll have a sanctuary from your daily stresses created efficiently and affordably.

Add personal pops of style Think about the spaces where you spend a lot of time doing things you may not • CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

HOMES & DESIGN • HOME IMPROVEMENT

As a homeowner, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by necessary renovations and all the things you’d like to accomplish around your property. If your list of updates is long, but your time and budget are strapped, remember, even small changes can make a big impact. Here are simple, affordable ways – inspired by FrogTape brand painter’s tape’s annual Paintover Challenge Room Makeover Contest – to make your space feel like new. Use Bright and Bold Colors. It’s common to keep interiors neutral with trendy grays and off-whites, occasionally adding in pops of color with accessories or accent walls. If you’re looking to take a unique approach to rejuvenating a room, consider adding bright and bold hues to your walls. Take inspiration from the outdoors, fruity drinks or blue skies to evoke emotions of joy with vivid greens, pinks or blues. Each year, celebrity designer Taniya Nayak teams up with FrogTape brand to share design trends. In 2021, Nayak suggests using the bright and bold colors of

SEPTEMBER 2021

TIPS FOR A BUDGET-FRIENDLY DIY HOME UPGRADE

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ANDREYPOPOV / ISTOCK VIA GETTY IMAGES PLUS Fall Home Improvement

Is your HVAC system ready for cool weather?

Dirty filters make HVAC equipment work harder and cause more wear and tear on your system. They also increase your energy bill and reduce indoor air quality.

Compare systems Compare the Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency of your heating system with newer models. If it’s below 13, you may want to consider a new, more efficient system. Remember, the higher the rating, the less wasted energy for a reduced carbon footprint. Be sure to choose equipment bearing the Energy Star logo. High-efficiency systems reduce your impact on the environment and can also save you money. You may also be eligible for a Federal Tax Credit if you select a qualifying model.

Use a humidifier A humidifier not only adds moisture

Check insulation Improperly insulated walls, floors, attics, basements and crawlspaces drain away heat and can also lead to moisture imbalance. Adding weather stripping and caulk around windows and doors can also go a long way to improving your home’s insulation.

Turn down thermostat Keeping your thermostat five degrees cooler can lower your heating bills without affecting your home’s comfort. Install a programmable thermostat to regulate temperatures.

Clean the furnace area Don’t keep chemicals or cleaning products near your heater, and don’t store anything next to it that could impede ventilation. Keep vents and returns free of obstructions. Don’t lay carpet over vents, place furniture over or in front of them, or obstruct the flow of air.

Have system checked Have a technician give your HVAC system a pre-season tune-up so that everything is running efficiently before temperatures plummet. Even the most efficient system can suffer if it’s not properly maintained. Just be sure your HVAC equipment is installed and serviced by a North American Technician Excellence-certified HVAC technician, as they have demonstrated their knowledge of today’s increasingly sophisticated heating and cooling systems by passing a nationally recognized test developed and supported by all segments of the industry. Working with a NATE-certified technician translates to a longer life for your HVAC equipment, increased energy efficiency and fewer callbacks and warranty returns. To find a NATE-certified contractor in your area and for more HVAC tips and insights, visit www.natex.org. (STATEPOINT)

With a few simple considerations in fall, you can reduce your home energy bill and improve your home’s comfort all winter.

SEPTEMBER 2021

Clean air filters

to your home, it can actually make it feel warmer. In turn, you’ll be more apt to lower your thermostat, saving money and consuming less energy.

HOMES & DESIGN • HOME BUYER, OWNER & RENTER

As you enjoy mild autumn weather, take time to ensure your home is equipped to handle the chilly months ahead. Following these steps will mean a more comfortable, energy-efficient winter:

Why excavation is best left to the professionals When shopping for a home, buyers often try to envision themselves living in a given property. Images of family gatherings and holidays may instantly come to mind, but prospective homeowners also may begin to envision changes they would make to a property if they were eventually to call it home. Changing an existing structure or building an entirely new home on an empty plot of land can be exciting. Such changes typically require excavation, which is a complicated process that may be necessary for projects big or small.

What is excavation?

Excavation is the process of extracting material from the ground by digging. Earth, rock and other materials may be moved during the excavation process.

Can do-it-yourselfers excavate?

Skilled DIYers who have participated in excavation projects in the past may be able to handle a project on their own. However,

will need to go forward with the project. In addition, professionals will know the local laws regarding building and excavation. For example, homeowners may be unfamiliar with the concept of lateral support, which refers to landowners’ right to have their land physically supported in its natural state by adjoining land and underground structures. This is an important concept to Why hire an excavation understand during an excavation project, professional? and professionals can advise homeowners if Even the most skilled DIYer might be a project they want to undertake will violate better off hiring an excavation professional lateral support laws. than going it alone. That’s true for a number • Experience – Perhaps the best reason to of reasons. work with excavation professionals is their • Liability – Homeowners who hire a experience. A lack of excavation experience fully licensed and insured professional can result in damage to a homeowner’s excavation firm can rest easy knowing property and surrounding properties, which that they will not be responsible for any can prove costly. DIYers may not know the damages or injuries that may occur during type of soil they have on their property nor the project. recognize the different types of challenges • Permits/requirements – A professional each type of soil can present during an excavation firm typically files all the excavation project. Such knowledge comes necessary paperwork for work permits or with experience and is often invaluable. (METRO CREATIVE) can advise which permits homeowners it’s important that homeowners recognize that excavation is about more than just digging in the ground. It’s a complicated process that requires the use of specialized tools and equipment. In addition, a strong understanding of the land that will be excavated is required for the project to be safe and go smoothly.

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always enjoy – like the office or laundry room. Give these spaces a little TLC. Add fresh color to the walls, organize and hang photos of your favorite places to balance energy, encourage productivity and make everyday tasks feel less like chores.

Dedicate areas for happy moments Do you have that one spot that you’re not sure what to do with? It could be a nook or the basement. Use these areas as places to live well and embrace the calming, happy

FOR RENT

moments in life, like relaxing with family, reading a good book or playing a board game. Add comfy, cozy textures of knit throw blankets, worn leather sofas or knobby rugs. Consider comforting, familiar shades like navy, light blues and grays, and cognac. These colors and textures work well on fireplaces, bookshelves or walls. To see more of Taniya Nayak’s 2021 Design Trends for FrogTape brand and check out the 2021 Paintover Challenge projects for inspiration, visit https://www.frogtape.com/ paintoverchallenge. (STATEPOINT)

2 BEDROOM HOUSE/KANSASVILLE UPSTAIRS. All appliances, lg yard, avail. August 1st. $700 A mo. Security and references. No Pets. Call 262-332-3532 0R 262-332-1861

REAL ESTATE Lots/Acreage VACANT LOT- 75’ WIDE x 180’ DEEP 25 Collie Street Wms. Bay crackerjack.38@hotmail. com

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are only available in Illinois and Wisconsin. FNBT reserves the right to recapture closing costs and fees for Loans or Lines of Credit closed within 36 months. Rates tied to Prime and subject to change. Promotion ends September 30, 2021.

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HOMES & DESIGN • HOME IMPROVEMENT

SEPTEMBER 2021

Applying is easy!

Family Owned & Operated For 3 Generations

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