Ida B. Wells statue in Bronzeville – (coming soon?)

Ida B. Wells sign in Bronzeville Chicago

Ida B. Wells was a social reformer and a social activist.
She was also a journalist that wrote countless articles
that condemned racism. She lived from 1862 to 1931.

Ida B. Wells lived in Bronzeville. She lived in a greystone
near 36th and King Drive. Her home is now a National Landmark.

Ida B. Wells Home in Bronzeville

There is a movement to have a statue erected in her honor.
If this movement is successful, her statue will probably reside
somewhere on King Drive near her old home.

Ida B. Wells dedicated her life to the fight for justice and equality
for African Americans. I can’t think of anyone more deserving of
a statue in Bronzeville. Will she get one? Stay Tuned…

Until the next time,

Mark Killion
Real Estate Broker
Century 21 Affiliated
5200 S. Harper Ave
Chicago, IL 60615
24 Hour Voice Mail: 312-242-1822
Send me a note!

Visit me online: www.773property.com

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

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Magic Johnson pumps millions into Hyde Park

Magic Johnson pumps millions into Hyde Park

Magic Johnson Invests in Hyde Park

Former NBA star Magic Johnson is investing millions in
the Hyde Park Chicago neighborhood. There has been
renewed interest in the Hyde Park neighborhood by some
big time investors. I recently wrote about a huge commercial
transaction worth about $160 million. It appears that
investors with deep pockets view Hyde Park as a smart bet.

Magic Johnson leads an investment fund that is loaning up to
16 million dollars towards the redevelopment of 53rd and Harper.
This corner will be anchored by a new 130 room Hyatt Hotel.
It will offer about 150,000 square feet of office space.
It will also offer about 75,000 square feet of commercial retail space.

All of the office space has already been leased to the University of Chicago.
Half of the commercial retail space has been leased to L.A. Fitness.
They hope to fill the remaining space with restaurants and clothing stores.
There will also be a new movie theater across the street.

Hyde Park Harper Court - 53rd and Harper

An artist rendition of “the new” 53rd and Harper.

The first phase should be completed in 2013.
The 2nd phase will include about 400 residential units.
I’m guessing the 2nd phase will be done by 2015.
The total project will cost about 150 million. (wow!)

This project will go a long way towards making Hyde park a
‘must visit’ Chicago neighborhood. This should also bode very well for
local real estate values.

Until the next time,

Mark Killion
Real Estate Broker
Century 21 Affiliated
5200 S. Harper Ave
Chicago, IL 60615
24 Hour Voice Mail: 312-242-1822
Send me a note!

Visit me online: www.773property.com

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

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Posted in Chicago, Chicago neighborhoods, Chicago Real Estate, HYDE PARK, Hyde Park Chicago, Investment Property, Real Estate | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

CHICAGO PROPERTY VALUES: 2011 vs 1994

CHICAGO PROPERTY VALUES: 2011 vs 1994

773property.com

The Chicago magazine recently featured an interesting article
on Chicago Real Estate values. They compared today’s property
values to property values from 1994. The results were mixed.
Thanks to the Great Recession, 1 in 6 neighborhoods actually
lost value.

But, on the bright side, that means 5 out of 6 neighborhoods
increased in value. So, it appears that real estate is still
a great LONG TERM investment.

Below you will find a snapshot of this report.

______________________________________________

REPORT FOR SINGLE FAMILY HOMES

______________________________________________

HYDE PARK

Average Sales Price JUN 2010–JUN 2011

$744,133

Change in Sales Price since 1994

231%

–===========================================

KENWOOD

Average Sales Price JUN 2010–JUN 2011

$689,958

Change in Sales Price since 1994

346%

–==========================================

GRAND BOULEVARD (aka BRONZEVILLE)

Average Sales Price JUN 2010–JUN 2011

$173,962

Change in Sales Price since 1994

222%

–==========================================

MORGAN PARK

Average Sales Price JUN 2010–JUN 2011

$121,092

Change in Sales Price since 1994

20%
–===========================================

SOUTH SHORE

Average Sales Price JUN 2010–JUN 2011

$111,351

Change in Sales Price since 1994

46%

–===========================================

CHATHAM

Average Sales Price JUN 2010–JUN 2011

$91,453

Change in Sales Price since 1994

11%

–===========================================
If you are interested in stats for a different neighborhood,
or a suburb, just send me a note!
–===========================================

Until the next time,

Mark Killion
Real Estate Broker
Century 21 Affiliated
5200 S. Harper Ave
Chicago, IL 60615
24 Hour Voice Mail: 312-242-1822
Send me a note!

Visit me online: www.773property.com

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

773property.com Logo

Posted in Chicago, Chicago neighborhoods, Chicago Real Estate, Chicago Relocation, Grand Boulevard, HYDE PARK, Kenwood, rentals, South Shore | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

Foreclosure activity rises in the 3rd quarter of 2011

Foreclosure activity rises in the 3rd quarter

After 5 straight quarters of declining U.S. foreclosures,
the number of default notices rose in the 3rd quarter of 2011.
This could be a sign that things will be getting worse before they
start to get better.

I believe the foreclosure process slowed down late last year due
to the “robo-signing” scandal. That was the scandal where it was
discovered that banks were foreclosing on homeowners without reading
all of the facts.

Now that banks have a process in place to deal with foreclosures, I would
expect the number of foreclosures to continue to rise in the short term.

Here in Illinois, there was a spike in Bank Owned Properties (aka REO).
The number of REO sales in Illinois was up 27% in the 3rd quarter.
Other states that had increased REO sales included Georgia (42%)
and Massachusetts (62%).

The entire foreclosure process in Illinois still takes about a year to complete.
In some cases, it can take a lot longer.

When will it end?

Well, it appears that this real estate slump or market correction will
continue for several years. The slump is already close to its 5th Birthday.
It looks like this financial malaise will drag on for another few years.
As long as the unemployment rate remains historically high, I think
the real estate market will remain flat until 2015.

Also, it is estimated that 1 out of every 3 homeowners is underwater.
“Underwater” is a nice way of saying that an owner owes more than the
home is worth. For example, an owner might have a $200,000 mortgage,
but the home is only worth $115,000. So in this example, the home is
underwater by $85,000. Unless banks start doing more loan modifications
where they reduce the principal balance, today’s underwater homes will
be tomorrow’s foreclosed homes.

Underwater Home

What does this all mean?

So, if you are thinking about selling, now is as good a time as any.
I don’t think the market will get any better any time soon.
If you are thinking about buying, please do your homework.

Look at the neighborhood trends and determine which neighborhoods
have the most stable property values. I would recommend buying a
single family home. Buyers can still get FHA financing for single family
homes. So their selling prices have been relatively stable.

Since mortgage rates are at record lows, it is still a good time to buy.
You just have to do your homework. I would suggest working with a Realtor
that has experience in your neighborhood of choice.

What can I do if I am facing foreclosure?

There is a FREE hotline available to assist owners that are facing foreclosure.
The phone number is 888-995-HOPE. Please visit the HOPE website for more info:

http://www.995hope.org/

Until the next time,

Mark Killion
Real Estate Broker
Century 21 Affiliated
5200 S. Harper Ave
Chicago, IL 60615
24 Hour Voice Mail: 312-242-1822
Send me a note!

Visit me online: www.773property.com

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

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Posted in Chicago, Chicago Real Estate, Chicago Rehab, Chicago Relocation, condo, financing, Real Estate | Leave a comment

South Shore Property Values – Chicago Real Estate

South Shore Property Values – Chicago Real Estate

Now let’s take a look at Chicago’s South Shore neighborhood.
Like everywhere else, the real estate meltdown has really hit
South Shore hard.
In my opinion, South Shore is very undervalued right now.
Buying real estate in South Shore should be a great long term value play.

This neighborhood has a lot going for it. For one, it is very close to the lake.
So this is lakefront property selling at prices from 15 years ago.

Also, there are big development plans in the works for this neighborhood.
A whole new lakefront community is being planned. It will be near 83rd and South Shore Dr.
It may take 10 to 15 years for it all to come to fruition though (see an artist rendition below).

South Shore Chicago Lake side community

This neighborhood has plenty of shopping and it is close to the
Metra Train and public transportation.

It is important to note that two distinct markets have emerged in most of Chicago.
A low-end market, and a high-end market.

Low-end market: Also known as distressed sales. These include foreclosures and
short-sales. These properties usually need extensive repairs.
These are priced very low, usually under $50K.

High-end market: Recently rehabbed properties. These properties have granite counters,
hardwood floors, custom cabinets, stainless steel appliances, etc.
These are priced much higher, usually starting at $150K.

Also, the availability of financing is a major influence on selling prices. If a property can
not be financed, the selling price will generally be much lower than its financed counterpart.
You see this a lot with all of the low priced condos out there. Condos are very difficult to finance
right now. If the current association is underfunded, you can’t get financing. This phenomenon is reflected in
the depressed selling prices for condos (see below).

But that’s enough of the small talk and real estate ‘mumbo jumbo’, let’s get down to the numbers.


This analysis is based on MLS Data for the 6 month period ending SEP-23-2011

SOUTH SHORE SINGLE FAMILY HOMES:

2 BEDROOMS: 2 homes sold. Average price = $20K

3 BEDROOMS: 17 homes sold. Average price = $94K

4 BEDROOMS: 17 homes sold. Average price = $109K

5+ BEDROOMS: 4 homes sold. Average price = $194K

———————————————————-

SOUTH SHORE CONDOS:

1 BEDROOM: 6 condos sold. Average price = $35K

2 BEDROOMS: 19 condos sold. Average price = $36K

3 BEDROOMS: 20 condos sold. Average price = $33K

4 BEDROOMS: 19 condos sold. Average price = $27K

———————————————————-

SOUTH SHORE MULTI-UNIT:

2 FLATS: 13 properties sold. Average price = $95K

3 FLATS: 10 properties sold. Average price = $86K

4 FLATS: 2 properties sold. Average price = $37K

———————————————————-

SOUTH SHORE MULTI-FAMILY 5+ Units:

6 unit building: 3 sold. Average price = $109K

9 unit building: 1 sold. Average price = $100K

10 unit building: 1 sold at $40K (Needed total rehab)

20 unit building: 1 sold at $300K (NOI = 68K)

68 unit: 1 sold at $400K (Needed total rehab)

———————————————————-

SOUTH SHORE RENTALS:

Studio…. 6 rented… Average Rent = $534

1 Bedroom…. 22 rented… Average Rent = $669

2 Bedroom…. 22 rented… Average Rent = $948

3 Bedroom…. 18 rented… Average Rent = $1,158

4 Bedroom…. 5 rented… Average Rent = $1,380

5 Bedroom…. 18 rented… Average Rent = $1,479

–=======================================================

Well, there you have it. Another informative analysis done by yours truly.
If you are thinking about buying, renting, or selling in the South Shore
neighborhood, this should give you a good idea of current market values.
If you have any questions, or need advice, please feel free to contact me.

Until the next time,

Mark Killion
Real Estate Broker
Century 21 Affiliated
5200 S. Harper Ave
Chicago, IL 60615
24 Hour Voice Mail: 312-242-1822
Send me a note!

Visit me online: www.773property.com

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

773property.com Logo

Posted in Chicago, Chicago neighborhoods, Chicago Real Estate, Chicago Relocation, condo, financing, Investment Property, Real Estate, rentals, South Shore | Leave a comment

Hyde Park property to sell for 160 MILLION!

Hyde Park property to sell for 160 MILLION?!
Recession?! What recession?
Apparently, major deals are still happening every day.
Sources close to this deal are stating that Regents
Park will soon be sold for close to 160 MILLION!

Regents Park is a large and popular complex in the
Hyde Park neighborhood. It has about 1,000 units
and the rent prices are not cheap.
Rental demand is very high right now in the area.
So, that fact made this an attractive buy to the investors
from New Jersey.

They also are probably aware that a lot of new amenities
are coming to Hyde Park in the next few years.
(i.e. Hotel, movie theatre, grocery store, etc. )
So they are betting on the fact that the rents will keep rising
to the top!

This is the second biggest purchase this year in Chicago.
So this is really a big deal :) (pun intended)

============================================

Until the next time,

Mark Killion
Real Estate Broker
Century 21 Affiliated
5200 S. Harper Ave
Chicago, IL 60615
24 Hour Voice Mail: 312-242-1822
Send me a note!

Visit me online: www.773property.com

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

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Posted in Chicago Real Estate, Chicago Relocation, HYDE PARK, Hyde Park Chicago, Real Estate | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

Marilyn Monroe Statue – Downtown Chicago

Marilyn Monroe Statue – Downtown Chicago

There is an eye-catching Marilyn Monroe statue on
North Michigan Ave. It is near 400 North Michigan Ave,
right past the Chicago River. It is a great tourist attraction.
I always thought that Marilyn was larger than life!

Marilyn Monroe Statue

Until the next time,

Mark Killion
Real Estate Broker
Century 21 Affiliated
5200 S. Harper Ave
Chicago, IL 60615
24 Hour Voice Mail: 312-242-1822
Send me a note!

Visit me online: www.773property.com

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

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Posted in Chicago, Chicago neighborhoods, Chicago Real Estate, South Loop, West Loop | Leave a comment

95% Conventional financing for credit scores down to 620!

95% Conventional financing for credit scores down to 620!

I received this information from a good loan officer
that I know. This info was so useful, that I wanted
to share it with all my blog readers out there.
I will cut and paste his e-mail below. Feel free to
contact him with any questions. For VIP Treatment,
Be sure to mention you saw this info at www.773property.com.

============================================================

“Hello,

Mortgage insurance guidelines were relaxed on Monday.
Borrowers with credit scores as low as 620 can obtain
mortgage insurance on an owner-occupied single family
home, a 2-unit property or a condominium with as little
as 5 percent down!
This is a major reduction in scoring requirements as the
previous minimum score was 680. Your clients who
previously were limited to FHA financing can broaden
their home search and move forward with a home purchase.

Many customers with a 620 credit score also have limited savings.
Chicago Bancorp has an excellent home buyer program available
for any property in Illinois. Our Moderate Income program gives
3% down payment assistance to 1-2 person households with
income less than $75,000.
Our Low Income program gives 5% down payment assistance
for a single person who makes less than $42,000 or two people
who make less than $48,000. Both programs have higher income
limits for 3+ person households….”

For more information, please contact:

Phillip Williams
Senior Mortgage Banker
Chicago Bancorp
NMLS ID #217499
312-738-6006

============================================

Until the next time,

Mark Killion
Real Estate Broker
Century 21 Affiliated
5200 S. Harper Ave
Chicago, IL 60615
24 Hour Voice Mail: 312-242-1822
Send me a note!

Visit me online: www.773property.com

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

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Posted in Chicago, Chicago neighborhoods, Chicago Real Estate, Chicago Relocation, financing | Leave a comment

TRC Senior Village

TRC Senior Village

If you are over 55 years of age, you can enjoy access
to the fitness center at the TRC Senior Village. It is
located at 53rd and Calumet.

According to their website:

“All residents of the facility are welcome to participate in the
Community Health and Wellness Center which hosts numerous
workshops, lectures, demonstrations, and a fitness center.
The Center is located on the first floor and is open to all seniors,
both residents and community members, who are age 55 and older.”

For more information, please visit their website at:
http://www.trcwabash.org/Senior_Village.html

==============================================

Until the next time,

Mark Killion
Real Estate Broker
Century 21 Affiliated
5200 S. Harper Ave
Chicago, IL 60615
24 Hour Voice Mail: 312-242-1822
Send me a note!

Visit me online: www.773property.com

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

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Posted in bronzeville, Chicago, Chicago neighborhoods, Chicago Relocation, Douglas, Grand Boulevard, Kenwood | Leave a comment