$324,900

beds

baths

2,400

square ft

31040 Penrose Road

Sterling, Illinois 61081

New / MLS #12676251 / Single Family / Sterling

Listing information updated 6/15/2026 at 11:03am

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, 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.

Full Features

Exterior Type:

Wood Siding

Basement:

Unfinished,Full

Beds Above Grade:

Cooling System:

Central Air

Heating System:

Propane, Forced Air

Appliances:

Range, Microwave, Dishwasher, Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer, Water Softener

Main Level Primary Bedroom:

Pool:

Age:

100+ Years

Roof Type:

Asphalt

Parking Type:

Garage - Yes,Garage Owned,Attached,Detached,Garage

Parking Spaces:

Garage:

Attached

Room Count:

Water Front:

Square Feet:

2,400

Lot Size:

1.0-1.99 Acres

Acreage:

Internal Features:

1st Floor Full Bath

Room Information

Living Room:

15x20 - Main

Dining Room:

13x12 - Main

Kitchen:

13x13 - Main

Family Room:

N/A

Primary Bedroom:

14x16 - Second Level

2nd Bedroom:

12x12 - Main

3rd Bedroom:

12x9 - Main

4th Bedroom:

12x18 - Second

Bedroom 5:

12x12 - Second Level

Enclosed Porch:

16x11 - Main Level

Laundry:

N/A Level

Taxes & Assessments

Tax Amount:

$3,120

Tax Year:

2025

Location

Zip Code:

61081

City:

Sterling

County:

Whiteside

Schools

School District(s):

Elementary School:

N/A

Middle School:

N/A

High School:

N/A

Exterior Type:

Wood Siding

Basement:

Unfinished,Full

Beds Above Grade:

Cooling System:

Central Air

Heating System:

Propane, Forced Air

Appliances:

Range, Microwave, Dishwasher, Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer, Water Softener

Main Level Primary Bedroom:

Pool:

Age:

100+ Years

Roof Type:

Asphalt

Parking Type:

Garage - Yes,Garage Owned,Attached,Detached,Garage

Parking Spaces:

Garage:

Attached

Room Count:

Water Front:

Square Feet:

2,400

Lot Size:

1.0-1.99 Acres

Acreage:

Internal Features:

1st Floor Full Bath

Living Room:

15x20 - Main

Dining Room:

13x12 - Main

Kitchen:

13x13 - Main

Family Room:

N/A

Primary Bedroom:

14x16 - Second Level

2nd Bedroom:

12x12 - Main

3rd Bedroom:

12x9 - Main

4th Bedroom:

12x18 - Second

Bedroom 5:

12x12 - Second Level

Enclosed Porch:

16x11 - Main Level

Laundry:

N/A Level

Tax Amount:

$3,120

Tax Year:

2025

Zip Code:

61081

City:

Sterling

County:

Whiteside

School District(s):

Elementary School:

N/A

Middle School:

N/A

High School:

N/A

Listing Office: RE/MAX of Rock Valley

Listing Office Phone: 815.732.9100

Disclaimer: The data relating to real estate for sale on this website comes courtesy of Midwest Real Estate Data, LLC as distributed by MLS GRID. Real estate listings held by brokerage firms other than @properties are marked with the Broker Reciprocity thumbnail logo and detailed information about them includes the name of the listing brokers. Properties displayed may be listed or sold by various participants in the MLS. Based on information submitted to the MLS GRID as of 6/15/2026 at 11:03am. All data is obtained from various sources and may not have been verified by broker or MLS GRID. Supplied Open House Information is subject to change without notice. All information should be independently reviewed and verified for accuracy. Properties may or may not be listed by the office/agent presenting the information. Some listings have been excluded from this website.