405 E Peru St
Princeton, IL 61356
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,712 sqft (on 0.77 acres)
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,712 sqft
(on 0.77 acres)
Local Information
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Description
A distinguished landmark of Princeton history, the Watts A. Johnson Home (circa 1900) is a rare offering where architectural heritage meets refined modern living. Once featured in the May 4, 1904 Bureau County Republican as the "New Residence of Mayor Watts A. Johnson," this extraordinary home stands as a testament to timeless design and enduring quality. The meticulous restoration of the home spanned 16 years, honoring its original character while seamlessly incorporating modern comforts and thoughtful upgrades. From the moment you enter, a grand, wide foyer sets a tone of elegance. The main level unfolds into a front den, formal living room, and dining room highlighted by Brazilian cherry flooring. The custom chef's kitchen is both beautiful and functional, featuring granite countertops, a substantial island, soft-close custom cabinetry, upgraded stainless steel appliances including a gas Five Star stove, and a discreet walk-in pantry designed to keep everyday conveniences elegantly out of sight. Throughout the home, details such as crown molding, wainscoting, painted and natural woodwork, and radiant heated tile flooring throughout all tiled areas reflect exceptional craftsmanship. Architectural distinction continues with a striking turret-style facade extending to the second level, accented by graceful, curved glass windows. A main-level full bath allows for comfortable long-term living, while a built-in bench with storage at the foot of the staircase adds both charm and function. The second level offers four well-appointed bedrooms, two full bathrooms, a laundry room, abundant closet space, and a walk-up attic. Just beyond the landing, a charming office or homework retreat overlooks the east yard, providing a quiet and inspiring space. Behind the scenes, modern systems ensure everyday comfort. Most windows have been upgraded to Marvin brand replacements (with select exceptions). An updated zoned boiler system provides efficient heating, while a modern central air system delivers cooling to both the first and second floors. A new tankless water heater was installed in 2026 for your convenience. A generous rear walk-in entry provides an elegant solution for coats and shoes. The lower level offers ample storage and includes a toilet and sink. Outside, a beautifully preserved vintage carriage house serves as a two-car garage, featuring wood flooring and a fully floored upper level for additional storage. The corner lot totals .77 acres, offering both presence and privacy, as well as a charming new fence (2023) and gorgeous brick patio (2024). Safety is of utmost importance as reflected by the addition of a radon system (2023) and removal of an old lead water line (2023) which was replaced with updated materials. Additionally, a new roof in 2023 allows for peace of mind for decades to come. A visit here is an invitation to experience one of Princeton's most thoughtfully restored historic residences, where legacy, luxury, and livability exist in perfect harmony. One fireplace is non-operational.
Home Highlights
Parking
Garage
Outdoor
No Info
A/C
Heating & Cooling
HOA
None
Price/Sqft
$100
Listed
115 days ago
Home Details for 405 E Peru St
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Interior Details Basement: Unfinished,PartialNumber of Rooms: 9Types of Rooms: Master Bedroom, Bedroom 2, Bedroom 3, Bedroom 4, Dining Room, Eating Area, Family Room, Kitchen, Laundry, Living Room, Mud Room |
Beds & Baths Number of Bedrooms: 4Number of Bathrooms: 4Number of Bathrooms (full): 3Number of Bathrooms (half): 1 |
Dimensions and Layout Living Area: 3712 Square Feet |
Appliances & Utilities Appliances: Range, Microwave, Dishwasher, High End RefrigeratorDishwasherMicrowave |
Heating & Cooling Heating: SteamHas CoolingAir Conditioning: Small Duct High VelocityHas HeatingHeating Fuel: Steam |
Fireplace & Spa Number of Fireplaces: 2Fireplace: Family Room, KitchenHas a FireplaceNo Spa |
Gas & Electric Electric: Circuit Breakers |
Windows, Doors, Floors & Walls Window: Replacement WindowsFlooring: Hardwood |
Levels, Entrance, & Accessibility Stories: 2Accessibility: No Disability AccessFloors: Hardwood |
View No View |
Security Security: Carbon Monoxide Detector(s) |
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Exterior Home Features Roof: AsphaltFencing: FencedFoundation: Brick/Mortar |
Parking & Garage Number of Garage Spaces: 2Number of Covered Spaces: 2Has a GarageNo Attached GarageParking Spaces: 2Parking: Yes,Garage Owned,Detached,Garage |
Frontage Not on Waterfront |
Water & Sewer Sewer: Public Sewer |
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Cumulative Days on Market: 90Days on Market: 115 |
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Year Built Year Built: 1891 |
Property Type / Style Property Type: ResidentialProperty Subtype: Single Family ResidenceArchitecture: Queen Anne |
Building Construction Materials: Vinyl SidingNot a New Construction |
Property Information Parcel Number: 1616252024 |
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Price List Price: $369,900Price Per Sqft: $100 |
Status Change & Dates Possession Timing: Close Of Escrow |
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MLS Status: Active |
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Direction & Address City: Princeton |
School Information Elementary School District: 115Jr High / Middle School District: 115High School: Princeton High SchoolHigh School District: 500 |
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Listing Agent Listing ID: 12510800 |
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Community Features: Curbs, Sidewalks, Street Lights, Street Paved |
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HOA Fee Includes: None |
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Lot Area: 0.77 acres |
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Special Conditions: None |
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Listing Agreement Type: Exclusive Right To Sell |
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BasementMls Number: 12510800 |
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CurbsSidewalksStreet LightsStreet PavedSource Internet Entire Listing Display |
Last check for updates: about 2 hours ago
Listing Provided by: Janelle McCarter, (815) 875-1221
Landmark Realty of Illinois LLC
Source: MRED as distributed by MLS GRID, MLS#12510800
Price History for 405 E Peru St
| Date | Price | Event | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| 04/25/2026 | $369,900 | Listed For Sale | MRED as distributed by MLS GRID #12510800 |
| 04/01/2022 | $299,500 | Sold | N/A |
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Property Tax and Assessment
| Year | 2024 |
|---|---|
| Tax | $9,622 |
| Assessment | $361,659 |
Home facts updated by county records
Comparable Sales for 405 E Peru St
Address | Distance | Property Type | Sold Price | Sold Date | Bed | Bath | Sqft |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
0.07 | Single-Family Home | $260,000 | 03/02/26 | 3 | 2.5 | 2,248 | |
0.39 | Single-Family Home | $275,000 | 11/05/25 | 4 | 2.5 | 2,374 | |
0.53 | Single-Family Home | $290,000 | 06/02/25 | 5 | 4 | 2,840 | |
0.40 | Single-Family Home | $225,000 | 11/26/25 | 3 | 3 | 1,722 | |
0.32 | Single-Family Home | $237,000 | 05/04/26 | 3 | 2 | 2,100 | |
0.48 | Single-Family Home | $216,500 | 09/05/25 | 4 | 1.5 | 1,760 | |
0.77 | Single-Family Home | $310,000 | 10/02/25 | 3 | 3 | 2,948 |
Assigned Schools
These are the assigned schools for 405 E Peru St.
- Jefferson Elementary School
- K-3
- Public
- 215 Students
NAGreatSchools RatingParent Rating AverageA school district that has no policies for bullying and or proper punishment.Parent Review8y ago - Lincoln Elementary School
- 3-4
- Public
- 208 Students
7/10GreatSchools RatingParent Rating AverageN/AParent Review18y ago - Logan Jr High School
- 5-8
- Public
- 434 Students
5/10GreatSchools RatingParent Rating AverageThe school is filled with bugs I have about two teachers there that are just rude and do not care for their students and only in it for money.The food is just terrible one time I got milk that expired three months prior.Student Review3y ago - Princeton High School
- 9-12
- Public
- 469 Students
7/10GreatSchools RatingParent Rating AverageThis high school is truly disappointing as an educational institution. Schools are supposed to be a safe place our children go to further their education and pave the way for their future. Lastly, high school should be fun. I absolutely loved high school! Sadly, here, my nephew fears going to school each day due to being assaulted and harassed on a ridiculously regular basis. When he tries to report an incident, said incident is brushed under the rug as he is accused of exaggerating the incident he is a victim of. The educators never keep their stories straight. My nephew was suspended for almost 2 weeks on account of my nephew is the minority. I normally would not pull the race card, as in a lot of situations I feel it's used as a cop out. However, when his brother was expelled due to "behavioral issues" and comes home with weekly reports of perfect behavior from his new institution it makes you think. My nephew, who is currently suffering this staff, was stabbed with a pencil TWICE. When he tried to go to the principal to report it they said he was just poked. It has now been 2 weeks and my nephew has a scar forming. My nephew who is being suspended for 2 weeks asked the principal for space as he was made uncomfortable. My nephew was denied his space so he told him to back up. This all occurring after a teacher told him she didn't want to have to fight him earlier in the week. Of course when questioned, she tried to clean up her comment. This is NOT a school that can be trusted to SAFELY educate our youth with integrity. DO BETTER PHS!!Other Review1y ago - Douglas Elementary School
- PK-K
- Public
- 214 Students
NAGreatSchools RatingParent Rating Average
No reviews available for this school. 
Check out schools near 405 E Peru St.
What Locals Say about Princeton
At least 31 Trulia users voted on each feature.
91 % Say parking is easy
89 % Say it's dog friendly
86 % Say people would walk alone at night
84 % Say car is needed
83 % Say yards are well-kept
80 % Say there's holiday spirit
68 % Say kids play outside
62 % Say it's walkable to restaurants
60 % Say neighbors are friendly
59 % Say there are sidewalks
59 % Say streets are well-lit
54 % Say they plan to stay for at least 5 years
42 % Say it's quiet
42 % Say there are community events
22 % Say there's wildlife
18 % Say it's walkable to grocery stores
Sourced by Trulia users. Learn more about our methodology.
LGBTQ Local Legal Protections
LGBTQ Local Legal Protections
Janelle McCarter, Landmark Realty of Illinois LLC
Agent Phone: (815) 875-1221
405 E Peru St, Princeton, IL 61356 is a 4 bedroom, 4 bathroom, 3,712 sqft single-family home built in 1891. This property is currently available for sale and was listed by MRED as distributed by MLS GRID on Jan 26, 2026. The MLS # for this home is MLS# 12510800.