You Can Go Home Again

At the crossing of two rivers and less than 90 minutes from downtown Chicago, Tom Heimsoth saw a historic Illinois town where life was a lot like it used to be…located in an area with unparalleled natural beauty. He envisioned a place where families and friends could come together to make lasting memories. And he saw the magnificent waterfront parcel that would become the finest resort community in the Midwest.

Heritage Harbor features elegant homes, walk-able neighborhoods, a world-class marina, dining, activities, adventure and amenities. Heritage Harbor is "pocket neighborhoods", "traditional neighborhood designs", and inspired architecture. It's more than year-round recreation, natural beauty and access to one of Illinois' best-kept secrets - it's a place you'll want to call home.

The Developer

Tom Heimsoth

The initial and driving force behind Heritage Harbor is Tom Heimsoth. As the former CEO and chairman of Resource Information Management Systems, Inc. in Naperville, Illinois, Tom Heimsoth was at the helm of a national leader in health-care software and outsourcing services for many years. In 2000, he sold the company to The TriZetto Group (Nasdaq TZIX). He stayed with TriZetto until 2002, when he retired to pursue his interest in real estate development and investment.

Continuing his record of building solid businesses, Tom is now involved full-time at Heritage Harbor. He was always interested in developing a marina-based resort community in Ottawa and in Starved Rock Country. Tom and his wife Sandra, whom friends and family have affectionately nicknamed "Pete," have four grown children and eight grandchildren. Tom's son Jeff Heimsoth owns and operates Quest WaterSports, a marine dealership in Ottawa.

Tom sees Heritage Harbor as a chance to protect, and even enhance a place of historic significance and stunning natural beauty. He also believes that Heritage Harbor Ottawa and Starved Rock Country will becomes renowned as a place for great vacation getaways…and a special place where families can have a lifetime of warm and wonderful memories.

The greatest reward we can receive is a satisfied customer...here is what our customers have to say about Heritage Harbor...

"A low maintenance getaway not far from home in beautiful surroundings”  “Heritage Harbor is where we kick back and relax after a long week"—Harry & Ann H.

"We had been talking about buying a vacation home for a while but our main concern was travel time.  Originally, we were looking in the Geneva or Delavan Wisconsin area.  Because we wanted activities that we could take advantage of in both the summer and winter months.  But, we were still looking for something a little closer.  Heritage Harbor was our answer.  It is only one hour from our home in Downers Grove!  It has the Illinois River, Starved Rock, the I&M Canal, and the downtown area of Ottawa which can be enjoyed year round.  Each weekend is a different experience"—Dan & Julie M.

"We like the long term vision of the project where you can enjoy the tranquility of looking at the river and the social aspect of the marina, the pool and the restaurant"—Jim & Laurie R.

"The benefit of a home in Heritage Harbor is not just investing in memories but also it is a good real estate investment on the water"---John & Christina V.

"My experience is in Ottawa has been very fulfilling.  I have always wanted to have a property with river access.  I grew up in Peoria on the river and now that I live in Chicago I can maintain contact with friends and family have a place to entertain.  Additionally, I have found the people of the surrounding communities very friendly."  Tom S.

"Everything is wonderful at Heritage Harbor, some times I have to pinch myself because I can’t believe I’m living here"—Laura S.