A rare blend of history, character, and modern updates, this one-of-a-kind home was originally built as the Fairview School in 1877 and has been tastefully reimagined into a spacious five-bedroom, three-bath residence. Situated on one acre at the corner of Polo Road and Penrose, the property offers a unique living experience with thoughtful improvements throughout. The remodeled kitchen features stone countertops, a wet bar, heated floors and custom pantry, while the inviting living spaces are highlighted by a fireplace, main floor laundry, and a convenient main floor bathroom. Recent updates include a new roof, stained siding, garage floors, and garage openers in 2022, along with a new front window and door in 2025. Outside, enjoy the hot tub, attached 2.5-car garage, and a detached barn with loft and wood burner, providing endless possibilities for a workshop, storage, or hobby space. With a full basement and a rich history that can't be replicated, this is a truly special property ready for its next chapter.
A rare blend of history, character, and modern updates, this one-of-a-kind home was originally built as the Fairview School in 1877 and has been tastefully reimagined into a spacious five-bedroom, three-bath residence. Situated on one acre at the corner of Polo Road and Penrose, the property offers a unique living experience with thoughtful improvements throughout. The remodeled kitchen features stone countertops, a wet bar, heated floors and custom pantry, while the inviting living spaces are highlighted by a fireplace, main floor laundry, and a convenient main floor bathroom. Recent updates include a new roof, stained siding, garage floors, and garage openers in 2022, along with a new front window and door in 2025. Outside, enjoy the hot tub, attached 2.5-car garage, and a detached barn with loft and wood burner, providing endless possibilities for a workshop, storage, or hobby space. With a full basement and a rich history that can't be replicated, this is a truly special property ready for its next chapter.
NWIAR #202603501
Jun 13, 2026
Listed
$324,900
$135/sq ft
Year
Property tax
Land + Additions
Assessment*
2025
$3,121 (+6.1%)
$5,446 + $47,425
$52,871
2024
$2,941 (+8.3%)
$5,072 + $44,170
$49,242
2023
$2,714 (+8.8%)
$4,723 + $41,134
$45,857
2022
$2,495 (+4.8%)
$4,312 + $37,552
$41,864
2021
$2,382 (+6.4%)
$4,732 + $34,832
$39,564
2020
$2,237 (+7.6%)
$4,460 + $32,829
$37,289
2019
$2,079 (+2.0%)
$4,125 + $30,366
$34,491
2018
$2,039 (+0.5%)
$4,069 + $29,953
$34,022
2017
$2,029 (−7.5%)
$3,945 + $29,041
$32,986
2016
$2,193 (+1.6%)
$4,187 + $30,826
$35,013
2015
$2,158 (+3.5%)
$4,066 + $29,934
$34,000
2013
$2,085
$3,977 + $29,280
$33,257
Public record
Public record
Zoning
Beds
—
Baths
—
Stories
—
Lot width
—
Lot depth
—
Lot size
1 Acre
Year renovated
—
Finished Sq. Ft.
—
Unfinished Sq. Ft.
—
Total Sq. Ft.
—
Year built
—
Style
Single Family Residential
County
Whiteside County
APN
0513300003
Parking Spaces
—
Basement
—
Accessible
—
HOA Dues
—
Garage
—
Features
—
Last updated by owner on Jul 6, 2026.
A-1
Agricultural District
The purpose of the agricultural district is to preserve, to the greatest extent possible, the agricultural base of the county. This is to be accomplished by limiting the allowable and conditional uses and also through the use of the LESA program when considering proposed changes to other zoning classifications.
Permitted uses
Include but are not limited to:
Agriculture
Greenhouse / nursery
Religious facility
Housing-Group
Housing-Single unit
Infrastructure
Office
Educational/school
Kennel
Park & open space
Climate risks
1/10 Flood Factor
Minimal risk of a flood reaching the building in the next 30 years
1/10 Fire Factor
Unlikely to be in a wildfire in next 30 years
2/10 Heat Factor
7 days above 102° expected this year, 16 days in 30 years
2/10 Wind Factor
0% chance of strong winds in next 30 years
3/10 Air Factor
2 unhealthy days expected this year, 3 days in 30 years
Provided by First Street
Historical weather
Sterling, IL • 61081
Average low and high temperatures (°F)
30
14
39
20
56
34
64
44
74
51
83
63
86
69
83
63
82
56
70
47
50
35
35
21
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Sun exposure
89/ 100
Very good sunlight
Sunscore
This home receives average direct sun exposure in Sterling. There appears to be minimal shading by surrounding buildings, terrain, and vegetation.
9.6 hrs
5.8 hrs
JuneDecember
Provided by Shadowmap
Redfin Estimate for 31040 Penrose Rd
$319,057
$5,843 under list price of $325K
Nearby comparable homes
The Redfin Estimate uses 5 recent nearby sales, priced between $200K to $400K.