Retiree buys 132-year-old Illinois Victorian for $97,500, invests $85,000 in repairs

Rebecca Roucloux Avery, 67, left her home in Austin to purchase a historic Victorian property in Vermont, Illinois, paying $97,500 for the 132-year-old house. The home required significant structural attention, prompting her to spend an additional $85,000 on foundation and roof repairs. Avery is undertaking the renovation project alongside her partner as the work continues. Beyond the physical restoration, the project has helped her build ties with her new local community.