One-of-a-Kind Historic Opportunity in the Illinois Valley

717 5th Street, La Salle, Illinois

Offered at $159,000, 717 5th Street in La Salle, Illinois is a truly exceptional property rich in history, architectural character, and endless potential. Rarely does a home of this size, significance, and versatility come to market.

With roots dating back to the late 1800s, this remarkable structure has served many purposes over the decades—originally built as a boys’ home, later thoughtfully remodeled into a funeral home in the 1920s, and more recently used as both a single-family residence and a multi-family property. Today, it stands ready for its next chapter.

For homeowners, investors, or history enthusiasts, this is a rare opportunity to own and reimagine a genuine piece of Illinois Valley heritage.

Historic Character You Can Feel the Moment You Enter

The main level greets you with a grand formal entrance that immediately conveys the home’s stature and craftsmanship. Soaring 9-foot ceilings, beautifully preserved original woodwork, and natural wood flooring throughout the home establish a sense of warmth, elegance, and authenticity that is increasingly hard to find.

This level offers multiple living spaces, each with its own charm and purpose. A large great room provides an ideal setting for gatherings or community-style entertaining, while the family room, anchored by a cozy gas fireplace, creates a more intimate space for everyday living.

A formal dining room adds sophistication and is perfectly suited for hosting holidays, dinner parties, or special events.

Original pocket doors remain intact, a true testament to the craftsmanship of the era and a feature that enhances both function and character.

Thoughtful Layout with Flexibility in Mind

One of the most impressive aspects of this property is its adaptability. The main level also includes a laundry room, abundant storage areas, and multiple access points throughout the home. These features support a wide range of potential uses, whether as a spacious private residence, a multi-family conversion, or a unique hospitality venture.

The flow and scale of the rooms allow for creative reconfiguration while preserving the integrity of the original design.

Second Level: Private Living Spaces and Added Functionality

The second floor continues the theme of space and flexibility. This level currently offers three to four bedrooms, allowing for a variety of living arrangements. Large windows throughout flood the home with natural light, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere in every room.

Uniquely, the second level also features a full kitchen with pantry, along with a full bathroom, making it well-suited for multi-generational living, rental income, or conversion into separate living quarters. This setup enhances the home’s potential as a multi-family property, bed-and-breakfast, or short-term rental.

Walk-Up Attic with Expansion Potential

The third level features a full walk-up attic, offering incredible storage and future expansion possibilities. Whether you envision additional bedrooms, a studio, office space, or a hobby area, this expansive attic provides a blank canvas for your ideas. Even as-is, it serves as excellent storage for seasonal items or long-term needs.

Entertaining Space in the Basement

The home’s partially finished basement adds yet another layer of usable space. Complete with a bar and game room area, this level is ideal for entertaining guests, hosting events, or simply relaxing in a casual setting. The basement also provides additional storage and utility space, further enhancing the home’s functionality.

A Rare and Valuable Feature: A Working Elevator

Adding to the uniqueness of this property is a working elevator that services all floors. This is an incredibly rare feature in homes of this era and offers both accessibility and convenience. Whether for mobility needs, future planning, or simply the novelty of a historic elevator, this feature significantly sets the property apart.

Exterior Features and Ample Parking

The exterior of the home is just as accommodating as the interior. The property includes a 2.5-car detached garage with openers, along with a pull-through carport, providing exceptional parking and accessibility. In total, the property offers approximately 7.5 parking spaces, an uncommon advantage in a historic neighborhood.

A nicely sized yard offers space for outdoor enjoyment, gardening, or entertaining, rounding out the property’s appeal.

Updated Systems for Peace of Mind

Despite its age, the home is equipped with multiple modern updates that enhance efficiency and reliability. These include:

Multiple heating zones

Two furnaces

One air conditioning unit

Dual electrical systems (200-amp service and a 100-amp fuse box)

These upgrades provide peace of mind and support the home’s size and varied potential uses.

Endless Possibilities in a Prime Location

With multiple entrances and a versatile layout, this property lends itself to a wide range of uses. It could be restored as a grand single-family residence, reconfigured into a multi-family income property, or transformed into a historic Airbnb, bed-and-breakfast, or event space. Opportunities like this are exceptionally rare.

Located close to shopping, dining, and with easy access to Interstates 80 and 39, the property offers convenience while maintaining its historic charm.

A Home That Must Be Seen to Be Appreciated

With three bedrooms, three bathrooms (one full and two half baths), abundant parking, and layers of history woven into every corner, 717 5th Street is truly one of a kind. There is far too much to list—this property must be experienced in person to fully appreciate its scale, character, and potential.

If you are searching for a home with history, space, and unlimited opportunity in the heart of the Illinois Valley, this extraordinary property is ready to inspire its next owner. Schedule your private tour today and discover the possibilities that await at 717 5th Street in La Salle.

FROM ZILLOW

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