A Vintage 4-Bedroom Brick Cottage Reduces $20,100: 2235 W. Homer in Bucktown

We first chattered about this 4-bedroom renovated brick Bucktown cottage at 2235 W. Homer in July 2010.

2235-w-homer-approved.jpg

See our prior chatter here.

It has been reduced $20,100 during that time.

The house is now listed $1600 under the 2008 purchase price.

Built in 1878, the home has modern amenities alongside its vintage features, such as original stained glass windows.

It has central air and a 2-car garage on a smaller than standard Chicago lot of 24×100.

But it also has a feature rarely found in vintage homes of this size: 4 bathrooms.

This house is in a “hot” part of Bucktown- near Erhler Park. Is it now priced to sell?

2235-w-homer-livingroom-approved.jpg

2235-w-homer-kitchen-approved.jpg

2235-w-homer-bedroom-approved.jpg

2235-w-homer-bathroom-approved.jpg

2235-w-homer-bathroom-_2-approved.jpg

Robert John Anderson at Baird & Warner has the listing. See more pictures here.

2235 W. Homer: 4 bedrooms, 4 baths, 2 car garage

  • Sold in June 2001 for $250,000
  • Sold in May 2005 for $648,500
  • Sold in July 2008 for $831,500
  • Was listed in July 2010 for $850,000
  • Reduced
  • Currently listed for $829,900
  • Taxes of $7930
  • Central Air
  • Bedroom #1: 19×16 (second floor)
  • Bedroom #2: 15×14 (second floor)
  • Bedroom #3: 12×7 (second floor)
  • Bedroom #4: 16×11 (lower level)

108 Responses to “A Vintage 4-Bedroom Brick Cottage Reduces $20,100: 2235 W. Homer in Bucktown”

  1. Very beautiful home on a block where other homes are also being or have already been renovated. The home is immaculately clean and time was spent to make sure everything was staged to perfection. I have a strong feeling it is kept in this condition at all times. This is one example of renovating to make it thoroughly modern while retaining the original vintage feel.
    Kudos to the owners for unbdertaking such a high quality renovation while using high quality materials. The craftsmanship is evident with an eye to the smallest of details…nothing seems to have been overlooked and it should pay off on sales day.
    While I realize not all buyers currently in the market have this type of money or financing to purchase such a property, for the ones who do have access to funding this would be an outstanding option. The pricing seems to be on target as some money was obviously spent on the renovation.
    The only thing I noticed in the pictures was the discoloration on the garage overhang…a bit of mold perhaps? A quick wipe down with bleach would have cured this small issue as there doesn’t seem to be any damage from rain run off. Small detail that should have been noticed by the owners or the photographer and rectified before the final pictures were taken.
    Overall, a fantastic home and although it is not one of my renovations, it is very similar to the end product we produce.

    0
    0
  2. westloopelo, that looks like a rusty gutter to me. It’s trivia and a credit for a new gutter for the garage from the seller takes care of that.

    0
    0
  3. This is a very nice house – but who would want to pay this type of money to live in this type of neighborhood? I just don’t get it. I know that there are people who love the city and want to raise their kids there, but I would guess that someone who could afford an 850k house and has kids would likely move to the suburbs, buy a 650k nice house and a 200k “in-town”. I think the market for this price in this area is very small…

    0
    0
  4. I agree, it is such a small issue that I would not bother to mention it during the offer. Small expense and for a person like myself, a few hours work to correct.
    I was studying all pics trying to find something…anything that appeared to have a defect and this is all I could find. Something that does not happen often.
    Again, fantastic job on the renovation and best of luck to the sellers. If there are serious buyers looking for a meticulous turnkey home, this should be granted serious consideration.

    0
    0
  5. There are many households who have no interest whatsoever in moving to the suburbs to raise their children…I think this fact was discussed and confirmed in a previous thread. And no, not all suburbanites are keen on the idea of maintaining two homes when Chicago has such reliable and inexpensive mass transit.
    Further, for those who do go that route and can comfortably afford to do so, a $600k and a $200k home in each location would not be the price point they would be considering. I would like to think the price points would be closer to $1.5 mil to 2.5 for their suburban home and $500k+ for their pied-a-terre. Such an unneeded luxury and only a few Chicago households would have either the desire or the need for such a thing.
    Regarding the neighborhood and surrounding homes, it is one of the best streets in the area and really has no, or very few negatives.
    I am very surprised at your comment clio…I thought you would think for the quality and the price you would be highly recommending it to those looking and qualified? You have, in the past, thought dumpy places within ear shot of the El were fantastic places that ‘poor souls would be happy and lucky to own’.
    Consistency my friend, consistency!

    0
    0
  6. Clio, care to tell us more about “this type of neighborhood”?

    0
    0
  7. “I know that there are people who love the city and want to raise their kids there, but I would guess that someone who could afford an 850k house and has kids would likely move to the suburbs, buy a 650k nice house and a 200k “in-town”.”

    Are families with school age kids and that have an $850K budget really putting $200K of it toward an in-town? I think this is overpriced but not because there aren’t people who would buy a $850K home in bucktown.

    0
    0
  8. Clio, you are afflicted with congenital foot in mouth disease. The only cure is 00 buckshot delivered orally.

    0
    0
  9. do you gals know what i dont want when i pay 825k for a home?

    *i dont want sloped ceilings in my master bath and master bedroom(well at least its big and open)
    *i dont want my third bedroom to be only 7 feet wide (and probably with sloped ceiling)
    *and i dont want to live that close to western ave

    0
    0
  10. Jon, or anyone else, what do you think of this immediate area within bucktown? Relative to east of damen or north or armitage? Also, are there some more run down houses on Homer?

    0
    0
  11. What is Erhler Park like? Is it safe and full of children or is it sketchy and full of ruffians and ne’er-do-wells?

    0
    0
  12. Ehrler park is actually a pretty nice little park in Bucktown. Because of the one way streets around there, not much traffic. And too tucked away to attract the ruffians. You’ll find half the neighborhood there at 8 every Saturday morning, sipping Starbucks and wondering why they had kids.

    0
    0
  13. this part of bucktown is ok. close to map room and i believe they have free food sat afternoon. bring yer kids! it’s not as lincoln parky as east of damen. that said, the house is nice and all but priced kind of high, I think.

    0
    0
  14. “Jon, or anyone else, what do you think of this immediate area within bucktown?”

    Really nice, quiet, full of families who hang out on the sidewalk a lot (because the lots are so small, I would guess). Over the past few years, it’s gotten almost as nice btwown east of damen, but is quieter– more SF’s, less multi-units.

    DZ, agree there are still a few homes around here that haven’t been torn down or updated (see 2030 w shakespeare– under $400k Btown SF!). The optimist would say that means there’s still opportunity to see appreciation.

    We came close to buying in this area, and with the improving schools there, I might actually regret it. But I do like me some land, and the lots over here can really try your patience if you like space.

    “What is Erhler Park like?”

    Safe/children. It feels very “private” to this little corner of btown, which is nice, and the homes around it are very high-end– no riff raff is going to fly for too long.

    0
    0
  15. “What is Erhler Park like? Is it safe and full of children or is it sketchy and full of ruffians and ne’er-do-wells?”

    At least during kid hours, no ruffians. Much more of a yup parent vibe than kid areas in logan square.

    0
    0
  16. If I were to rank “parts of Bucktown” I’d say east of Damen south of Cortland is best. West of Damen but east of Oakley and north of Wabansia is next. North of Armitage, east of Oakley has some nice spots, too.

    But yeah, 830k seems a tad silly in the current climate, even though my wife loves this house.

    0
    0
  17. pic from the park. can figure out if thats a dog or a kid by the fence.

    http://maps.google.com/maps?q=2234+w+homer+chicago&oe=utf-8&client=firefox-a&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=2234+W+Homer+St,+Chicago,+Cook,+Illinois+60647&gl=us&ei=6_W-TNz9OYGClAeig7nlBw&ved=0CBMQ8gEwAA&ll=41.916194,-87.68314&spn=0.002128,0.003991&t=h&z=18&layer=c&cbll=41.916117,-87.683339&panoid=-EyjE6M9DSRNKRVcGKbX4Q&cbp=12,348.59,,1,9.77

    0
    0
  18. “Safe/children. It feels very “private” to this little corner of btown, which is nice, and the homes around it are very high-end– no riff raff is going to fly for too long.”

    Yeah, those nice high end houses that back up to the park are quick with the call to the cops if dogs are running around in the park. I imagine the same goes for ruffians.

    0
    0
  19. “Jon, or anyone else, what do you think of this immediate area within bucktown? Relative to east of damen or north or armitage? Also, are there some more run down houses on Homer?”

    I live spitting distance from this house (less than a block). I do like Homer, but I don’t like these shepherd’s cottages at all. Many of them look run-down from the outside, but they do back up to a park which is nice in some respects. Homer is a mishmash of new contemporary houses, these (ug) cottages and some smaller houses. A friend of mine lives across the street from this place in a rental so there’s some of that too. Anything between say Webster and Churchill that is within a couple blocks east or west of Damen is appealing in my opinion.

    On Erhler Park: Very nice – it’s been redone lately and there are no signs of “trouble” that I ever see. Lots of kids and families, nannies, etc.

    On proximity to Western: Not really. Especially on Homer because it dead-ends into Oakley you don’t really get that gritty Western feel.

    That’s my two cents, but what do I know? Clio surely knows more about “this type of neighborhood” and why people wouldn’t want to live here than I could ever learn from living there for nine years! Educate me Clio!!!

    0
    0
  20. danny (lower case D) on October 20th, 2010 at 8:09 am

    I’m still blown away by the date – 1878. It is quite beautiful.

    0
    0
  21. I’ve always liked this area and neighborhood that’s why I was wondering about the situation at the park. The current house backs up to the park; the biggest issue i’d have, if the park were bad, would be kids breaking into my garage on a regular basis, but my fears are allayed.

    0
    0
  22. Thanks, all. I just wish the lots were bigger around there.

    Also, as I’ve mentioned before, they are attempting to jump start the neighborhood school (Pulaski) by starting a new IB program there. Just started this fall I think. I’m just guessing but think the odds are good it becomes a viable neighborhood school. Anyone know anything about Pritzker?

    0
    0
  23. Call me crazy but I’m not paying $800k for a place that doesn’t have a double vanity in the master bath. Sorry, some things should come standard for that price.

    0
    0
  24. “You have, in the past, thought dumpy places within ear shot of the El were fantastic places that ‘poor souls would be happy and lucky to own’.
    Consistency my friend, consistency!”

    Westloop, I am being consistent – those “dumpy places” I was positive about were appropriately priced and that is the reason I was positive about them. This place is very expensive and, at this price point there are a lot of options out there. Also, my 650/200 comment regarding the suburban house/in-town was meant as a suggestion at a better way to spend 850 (the price of this house).

    0
    0
  25. i hate bucktown!

    but question for you code nerds here, can you really call a 7′ wide slopped ceiling room a bedroom?

    wanna see the smallest second bedroom ever?

    OMG! MLS: 07617127 is a 2bedroom house and the second bedroom is 20×5, yes 5 feet. the picture of this bedroom is even more side splitting than the price!!!!

    0
    0
  26. DZ, knowing the principal and some who have worked there, I actually consider Pulaski to be a solid option now. Certainly a nice fall-back if Drummond didn’t work out.

    Prizker would be a definite “no” for me, unless it’s changed one heckuva lot in the past few years (and I don’t see evidence of that).

    0
    0
  27. “jg on October 20th, 2010 at 8:30 am

    Westloop, I am being consistent – those “dumpy places” I was positive about were appropriately priced and that is the reason I was positive about them. This place is very expensive and, at this price point there are a lot of options out there. Also, my 650/200 comment regarding the suburban house/in-town was meant as a suggestion at a better way to spend 850 (the price of this house).”

    Ooops.

    0
    0
  28. This place has come down a lot. I would have thought people would pay extra for the smokiness.

    http://www.redfin.com/IL/Chicago/2345-W-Belden-Ave-60647/home/13357061

    0
    0
  29. Groove77 –

    That house would be perfect for an avid bowler! You could build a lane in the second bedroom and practice!

    0
    0
  30. “This place has come down a lot. I would have thought people would pay extra for the smokiness.

    http://www.redfin.com/IL/Chicago/2345-W-Belden-Ave-60647/home/13357061

    What do you mean by smokiness? I went through this house and really liked it. Unfortunately, it has fallen into complete disrepair. They did a none-too-gentle job ripping everything out of this place. It’s a pretty neat place, but there appears to be a mold issue in the basement. I still have my eye on it, but it would be either the best deal (at some point) or the biggest disaster ever (IMO).

    0
    0
  31. “That house would be perfect for an avid bowler! You could build a lane in the second bedroom and practice!”

    LOL, but seriously 5′ wide can that really be called a bedroom?

    0
    0
  32. “What do you mean by smokiness?”

    Honey 1 bbq on Western. . . imo, the most overrated bbq in the city.

    I saw that place too. . . officially “too close to western” for me. Also, horrible for public transport.

    But if it were a block or 2 east, I’d be all over it. . . love the park/pool area there.

    0
    0
  33. Oh, bbq…veg here, so didn’t register.
    It is pretty close to Western, but at the right price I could deal with that (it’s not ON Western and the condo building on Western creates somewhat of a barrier). It’s a very unique layout – I’m surprised that it is listed as a 3/3.5 because I think (if I recall correctly) it is more like 5/4.5. This is the place that the realtor told me the combination to the lockbox and to just go ahead and take a look! Ha.

    0
    0
  34. “LOL, but seriously 5? wide can that really be called a bedroom?”

    I am not sure – a lot of things are called bedrooms. I am more amazed at how a 2/2 house in LP can be listed over 800K – it just blows my mind! Especially when the 2’s are 11×16 and 20×5! 800K!!!!

    0
    0
  35. Note to “JG” – I posted my last comment on the computer in the reception area (which you obviously had logged on to). Obviously you work with me. I know that your previous posts were not so kind to me – if you have something to say to me or have a problem with me, just be a man, confront me and say it to my face. You KNOW that I would do the same…

    0
    0
  36. Did something like this really sell for $660K new in 2003?

    http://www.redfin.com/IL/Chicago/2131-W-Dickens-Ave-60647/home/13357135

    0
    0
  37. “Note to “JG” – I posted my last comment on the computer in the reception area (which you obviously had logged on to). Obviously you work with me. I know that your previous posts were not so kind to me – if you have something to say to me or have a problem with me, just be a man, confront me and say it to my face. You KNOW that I would do the same…”

    clio, I wouldn’t be so tough on jg, he/she seems to have your best interests at heart:

    http://cribchatter.com/?p=9318#comment-93144

    0
    0
  38. yeah, but I also remember jg suggesting that a fitting punishment for some horrible person would be to spend “5 minutes alone with clio” – not very nice at all. …whatever.. I hate these kindergarten antics

    0
    0
  39. there is a jg, and a JG. you may (or may not) be getting them mixed up.

    0
    0
  40. “I am not sure – a lot of things are called bedrooms. I am more amazed at how a 2/2 house in LP can be listed over 800K – it just blows my mind! Especially when the 2’s are 11×16 and 20×5! 800K!!!!”

    the best part of the price is it doesnt matter the school district as no kid over 3 years old could live in that bedroom.

    what is more sad is a person paid 785k in 2002!!!!!!

    http://www.redfin.com/IL/Chicago/2151-N-Magnolia-Ave-60614/home/13352709

    0
    0
  41. “Did something like this really sell for $660K new in 2003?

    http://www.redfin.com/IL/Chicago/2131-W-Dickens-Ave-60647/home/13357135

    A bunch of similar house on the block went up at that time for around the same price.

    On a side note – I love this house. And if we could sell our condo (and get them down to $750K), I’d live there in a heartbeat. But selling the condo seems like an impossible feat at this point.

    0
    0
  42. “yeah, but I also remember jg suggesting that a fitting punishment for some horrible person would be to spend “5 minutes alone with clio” – not very nice at all. …whatever.. I hate these kindergarten antics”

    Using persona to support yourself. Whatever, I don’t really care. Using persona to have conversations with yourself. I still don’t care, but a little sadder. Sigh.

    http://cribchatter.com/?p=9417#comment-98392

    0
    0
  43. “A bunch of similar house on the block went up at that time for around the same price.”

    So new construction for about $400K plus the lot, presumably inclusive of a profit for the developer? Can you still build that house for something in that ballpark? What’s a lot around there now? $350K at most?

    0
    0
  44. “I am more amazed at how a 2/2 house in LP can be listed over 800K – it just blows my mind! Especially when the 2’s are 11×16 and 20×5! 800K!!!!”

    “the best part of the price is it doesnt matter the school district as no kid over 3 years old could live in that bedroom.”

    No, the best part is, you don’t even get an acceptable elementary school for your $800k (it’s in Mayer, of course).

    I get the appeal of Magnolia St.– it is absolotely gorgeous, some of the nicest looking homes in the city. . . but you still don’t get a decent local school.

    0
    0
  45. “So new construction for about $400K plus the lot, presumably inclusive of a profit for the developer? Can you still build that house for something in that ballpark? What’s a lot around there now? $350K at most?”

    The teardowns/foreclosures seem to be going at around $350/400 (but I haven’t reached that too much, just a couple that I’ve noticed).

    The developer was Mark Properties and they did a ton in that area in the early 200’s. 2021 Oakley is also them and for sale in the same range.

    0
    0
  46. “So new construction for about $400K plus the lot, presumably inclusive of a profit for the developer? Can you still build that house for something in that ballpark? ”

    *very* basic build. splitface sides and back, nothing much going on inside, tiny kitchen. hollow-core doors. a developer could probably get it done for about the same, you might be able to contract with a builder for under 10% more.

    Taxes are going to be ~50% higher–AV went from 66,199 to 90,587.

    0
    0
  47. “No, the best part is, you don’t even get an acceptable elementary school for your $800k (it’s in Mayer, of course).”

    SqureD,

    do you need a good elem with that second bedroom? all the emotional abuse of living in that bedroom will out weigh any good school 🙂

    0
    0
  48. “*very* basic build. splitface sides and back, nothing much going on inside, tiny kitchen. hollow-core doors. a developer could probably get it done for about the same, you might be able to contract with a builder for under 10% more.”

    You’re saying that’s what 2131 dickens is or that’s what you could get for $400K (or both)? I would think bucktown shoppers would think a new construction version of that would be a steal at $700-750K, but I haven’t been inside that house.

    0
    0
  49. “You’re saying that’s what 2131 dickens is or that’s what you could get for $400K (or both)? ”

    I’m saying that 2131 is that, and that you might be able to get it replicated in the $400-450k range.

    0
    0
  50. new here…just comparing to 2021 N Oakley ( http://www.redfin.com/IL/Chicago/2021-N-Oakley-Ave-60647/home/133569850 ). same price…seems to me you get larger place and corner lot at the expense of cottage character. but maybe a worthwhile trade-off? also sounds like south of armitage might be more desireable in that damen to western space?

    0
    0
  51. I’m a parent in the market for a house in Wicker Park/Bucktown for around $800-$1M and would never dream of moving to the suburbs. I just can’t fathom the mindset of people who think that all parents want to spend their lives carting their children from mcmansion to school to mcmansion so they can have the benefit of bland suburban life (and I even had a happy childhood in an old leafy suburb). I don’t even know anyone who talks about moving to the suburbs, except possibly Oak Park or Evanston.

    (This house, by the way, is too small, too far north, and too far west for me, though my family regularly goes to Ehrler park.)

    0
    0
  52. “I’m a parent in the market for a house in Wicker Park/Bucktown for around $800-$1M and would never dream of moving to the suburbs.”

    calyx,

    lets revisit your feelings when High School comes around 🙂

    0
    0
  53. “I don’t even know anyone who talks about moving to the suburbs, except possibly Oak Park or Evanston. ”

    I know I can’t fathom a world either where not every family can afford an $800-$1M home and has the option of upscale urban living. What is this Bosnia?

    0
    0
  54. calyx,
    I agree that there are a lot of positives about living in the city -your children will certainly be more well-exposed. However, it is extremely inconvenient for most people which is why MOST who have the choice will choose to move to the suburbs.

    0
    0
  55. “This house, by the way, is too small, too far north, and too far west for me”

    Where are you looking? Do you care about the neighborhood elem? I’m more or less in same boat, but looking all over the place. My thinking is if I’m going to be in bucktown/wicker, I’d at least like to be in pulaski district. Almost all short lots, however, except for east of damen.

    0
    0
  56. Hi Calyx!
    Like you we are committed to urban living and spent quite a while hunting for a house in your same price range. We are thrilled with a purchase very near this home, walking distance to Pulaski and so many great amenities. Block after block after block of Bucktown is occupied by families of many types. The ignorance of so many Crib Chatter commenters and prejudice against the NW side is really far removed from the friendly and proud vibe of our neighborhood.

    0
    0
  57. Bob, we’re talking about *this* house and people who can afford *this* house who might not want to move to the suburbs, not people who don’t have as many options. I can certainly fathom the move to the suburbs for people who can’t afford to live in a decent school district or send their kids to private schools.

    Clio, I think the suburbs are extremely inconvenient. I currently have an very short commute to downtown, which limits the time I spend away from home. We live in walking/biking/busing distance of most places we go on a daily basis. That to me is convenience. I truly don’t understand how suburbs are more convenient. Cheaper, yes, but that’s not the same as convenient.

    DZ, I’m currently in the Burr district, and I know people who could afford privates who are liking it so far. And Drummond is great if you lottery in (risky). I hear good things about Pritzker too. I don’t know anything about LaSalle II, but I have to assume it’s good (but far from a sure thing in terms of admissions). And Near North is my top pick of any school in the city, including the big three (Latin, Parker, Lab), though obviously Groove’s point about revisiting my feelings come high school is a concern w/r/t any of the schools mentioned except the big three.

    Anna, I still laugh about Clio’s comment about being “terrified” of Western Ave. My 70-yr-old FIL who lives in the Palmolive Building sometimes eats at Bite, but I guess he’s made of heartier stock than some chatterers!

    0
    0
  58. clio, at one time I respected you. Now, I’m embarrassed for you. I have to laugh at the eye-opening clio/jg revelation exposed earlier in this thread. I’ve often suspected that some posters on CribChatter shared many personas to provide support, push an agenda, create discussion, and to gang-bang/flame others who do not share the same viewpoint. I’ve even suspected that a major playa is “in” on the game, as controversial discussion = more page hits = more advertising web revenue.

    How ironic, as I’ve been accused of doing the same! And no, I’m still not that person! Flame away, off now to start my weekend early………..LOL

    0
    0
  59. “off now to start my weekend early………..LOL”

    Thats because you’re semi-retired these days, Joe. Not too many nibbles on selling builders ad-space huh? Its the equivalent of fishing in bubbly creek isn’t it 😀

    0
    0
  60. “yeah, but I also remember jg suggesting that a fitting punishment for some horrible person would be to spend “5 minutes alone with clio” – not very nice at all. …whatever.. I hate these kindergarten antics”

    I’d be more upset with the fact that I hired someone who didn’t know the meaning of the word “penultimate”, but that’s just me.

    Of course, since the “person” is actually a sock puppet, it’s irrelevant.

    0
    0
  61. uhhh, people can think whatever they want, but 2 things that should be kept in mind:
    1. the site isn’t about me
    2. i am not that idiotic or desperate to create multiple fake names to “bolster” or support my opinions. My opinions are based in fact and experience. I don’t need any imaginary supporters or detractors. Believe me, I WILL find out who is making fun of me and taunting me at work with this charade.

    0
    0
  62. “Like you we are committed to urban living and spent quite a while hunting for a house”

    i wonder how many people that are gunning/wanting the “urban living” actually grew up in a urban enviroment?

    0
    0
  63. “Anna, I still laugh about Clio’s comment about being “terrified” of Western Ave. My 70-yr-old FIL who lives in the Palmolive Building sometimes eats at Bite, but I guess he’s made of heartier stock than some chatterers!”

    What’s a “FIL” and what is a “Bite”? That is great that this person is not terrified of Western avenue, but I have yet to meet a neighbor that wouldn’t feel the same as I do!!!

    0
    0
  64. “That is great that this person is not terrified of Western avenue, but I have yet to meet a neighbor that wouldn’t feel the same as I do!!!”

    Your neighbors live in Oak Brook, of course they are terrified of Western Avenue! That’s part of the suburban Kool Aid! Everyone in Oak Brook knows that every time you step foot onto Western Avenue a puppy dies, or worse!!!

    0
    0
  65. “though obviously Groove’s point about revisiting my feelings come high school is a concern w/r/t any of the schools mentioned except the big three.”

    Calyx,

    one positive is that High School is YEARS away, and with people stuck in their homes cuz the economy “white flight” isnt happening. so maybe these stuck parents will cause a movement to make things better by the time our kids are HS age.

    0
    0
  66. “I agree that there are a lot of positives about living in the city -your children will certainly be more well-exposed.”

    yeah yall can take your diversity and “well-exposed” blah blah and shove it. its a bunch of tree hugging Bull doo-doo. and would love to actually know what yall yuppies think “diverity” and “urban” living really is. i bet our views of it will be way different.

    0
    0
  67. >> What’s a “FIL” and what is a “Bite”? That is great that this person is not terrified of Western avenue, but I have yet to meet a neighbor that wouldn’t feel the same as I do!!!

    Clio, typically when people use the phrase “eats at ___,” the word or words following “at” name a restaurant, particularly when the word or words is/are capitalized. For instance, “eats at Bite” would typically indicate that Bite is a restaurant.

    FIL = father in law (a much more understandable misunderstanding).

    I’m going trick or treating in Oak Brook dressed as Western Avenue. Scaaaarrrryyy!

    0
    0
  68. “Your neighbors live in Oak Brook, of course they are terrified of Western Avenue! ”

    I am neighbors with Calyx’s “FIL” (whatever that is) – it is my weekend place – which is why I made the comment.

    0
    0
  69. “I’m going trick or treating in Oak Brook dressed as Western Avenue. Scaaaarrrryyy!

    Calyx, I know that you are joking, but that actually WOULD be a scary costume!! Thanks for the great idea!!

    0
    0
  70. I saw a fancy car on walton this morning and checked for clio, but it was a black Ferrari.

    I still say south western has stretches that arent to be trifled with. recent anecdotal evidence : http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2010-10-18/news/ct-met-teen-killed-1019-20101018_1_teen-shot-gang-crossfire-gang-ties

    0
    0
  71. “I’m going trick or treating in Oak Brook dressed as Western Avenue. Scaaaarrrryyy!”

    the funniest quote of the month goes to calyx!!!!!!!!!!!!

    0
    0
  72. “the funniest quote of the month goes to calyx!!!!!!!!!!!!”

    Agreed.

    0
    0
  73. “I still say south western has stretches that arent to be trifled with. recent anecdotal evidence: http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2010-10-18/news/ct-met-teen-killed-1019-20101018_1_teen-shot-gang-crossfire-gang-ties

    Yes – that story about the boy being shot… Less than 93 blocks from this house on Homer! Western is a danger zone! Hide your kids! Hide your wife!

    0
    0
  74. “I still say south western has stretches that arent to be trifled with.”

    The subject section of Western described as “terrifying” (by the man with as many phobias as cars) was the section north of the Eisenhower. So, not on point.

    0
    0
  75. maybe i misunderstood. clio, are you terrified of western on the n. side?

    0
    0
  76. “clio on August 31st, 2010 at 2:24 pm
    Drive south from this location (1300 n bell) down Western avenue – it is one of the most terrifying experiences in life.”

    I guess it’s fair to assume he didnt make it to 69th

    0
    0
  77. Yeah, he did specify he was talking about western north of the ike. . . in the late 80’s.

    Which was seriously horrifying– I do not want to see the costume.

    But, curious how familiar Clio and his friends are with their own hood, relative to these scary places.

    I just looked it up, and within 1 half mile of lamborghini chicago, from 9/30-10/13 there were reported

    7 robberies
    6 burglaries
    86 larcenies

    and one criminal sexual abuse.

    Interestingly, for that same time period, within 1/2 mile of 100 n Western, there were reported

    3 robberies
    1 aggravated assault
    1 aggravated battery
    2 burglaries
    (and that’s pretty much it).

    This is why I laugh at green zone folks when they say my neighborhood is not safe.

    0
    0
  78. SquareD

    do my neighborhood!

    0
    0
  79. “This is why I laugh at green zone folks when they say my neighborhood is not safe.”

    Irrelevant as you need to take population density into account.
    If its sole safety from property or violent crime Alaska and North Dakota are looking pretty good.

    0
    0
  80. Thank you, Bob– er, Captain Relevance.

    If Alaska was within walking distance to the L, believe me, I would live there.

    (But, no, I would not take the stupid bus.)

    0
    0
  81. “This is why I laugh at green zone folks when they say my neighborhood is not safe.”

    Ya, I love showing Lake View fans this Top 10 link.

    http://chicago.everyblock.com/crime/

    I know, I know! There are other variables involved but it’s still fun.

    0
    0
  82. Developer Jim Gramata just put his personal residence on the market and I shot video there with him yesterday.

    It’s 2321 W McLean, priced at $799K. See

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bbS_3ukQedI

    If you go to our YouTube.com/yochicago1 channel you’ll also see Jim talking briefly about Pulaski, and at greater length about the neighborhood.

    0
    0
  83. love the police sirens going off in the background as you’re talking about the neighborhood LMAO

    0
    0
  84. Joey I thought you were taking an extra long weekend? That bored already?

    Joey & Sparky in the same thread when neither has been sighted around here for quite some time. Quite the coinkeydink!

    0
    0
  85. Bob,

    I have one identity, and one only, as you well know. I responded to some comments on my neighborhood list several days ago.

    Sonies,

    You never hear sirens in your neighborhood? And you know for a fact that they’re not ambulance sirens?

    The CribChatter way – just make stuff up.

    Just in case anyone missed the disclaimer in the video description at YouTube, Jim Gramata’s a client.

    0
    0
  86. This is one of the Shepherds Cottages that line up in a row on this block. The cottage just two doors down just sold and closed in the low 500,000’s.

    This cottage is way overpriced!

    The people who bought it overpaid and now they are stuck!

    0
    0
  87. “Developer Jim Gramata just put his personal residence on the market and I shot video there with him yesterday.
    It’s 2321 W McLean, priced at $799K.”

    Thanks, Joe. Video was helpful especially given the layout and stairs. I kinda like the layout but not sure about it with kids. Ideally I would have liked to have seen the other bedrooms (unless I missed them somehow).

    Another nit, but a 2 car garage for an $800K bucktown SFH is just about mandatory, not exactly a dream or luxury. Also, I would have liked a little more detail in the pulaski school video, but that’s probably just me.

    Why is the owner moving and to where?

    0
    0
  88. bucktown is irrelevant now anyway move along.
    its been yuppified and now way overpriced for no good reason i can see.

    and SquareD i am still waiting on the stats for my hood 🙁

    0
    0
  89. Groove you are a lazy bastid. . . gis dot chicagopolice dot org

    (I don’t remember what side of Riis you’re near, and as you know it’s a huge area. I looked at Austin and Fullerton, and was struck by almost no crime NE of there, v. average-ish crime SW of there. Didn’t look W or N of the park, which I believe have gotten sketchier).

    0
    0
  90. DZ,

    Secondary bedrooms are both 9×13. Our videos are long, so I typically skip secondary bedrooms in them to focus on other topics.

    http://www.redfin.com/IL/Chicago/2321-W-McLean-Ave-60647/home/13357126

    Agreed as to the garage.

    Jim mentioned in the video that he didn’t know much about Pulaski, and I’m unfamiliar with the school.

    Don’t know the answers to your final questions and, if I did, wouldn’t supply them as a matter of policy. It should be the owner’s decision whether or not to discuss those topics, especially in this particular venue.

    0
    0
  91. “Groove you are a lazy bastid. . . gis dot chicagopolice dot org”

    its not lazy it more of the only interneting i do at work is cribchatter. i know its sad but its all i really have time for.

    i will check it tonight at home

    0
    0
  92. Thanks, Joe. At least for me, seeing how all the rooms are laid out in relation to each other is useful. But I did see the floorplan they had up.

    And groove, you are a lazy bastid. Part of your cribchatter assignment is to look up stuff. It can’t just all be telling stories of your misbegotten youth. You’re probably right about btown, although it is a great commute for me, and little dz loves margies and red hot ranch.

    0
    0
  93. “It can’t just all be telling stories of your misbegotten youth.”

    and dont forget the random estimates out of my azz on home projects 🙂

    0
    0
  94. that mclean house isnt bad. kind of near gallery cabaret which is a dump, otherwise, block looks nice. close to western : you’d never see clio.

    0
    0
  95. “And groove, you are a lazy bastid. Part of your cribchatter assignment is to look up stuff.”

    97% of my posts are off the top of my head no need for facts as in my world everything i think is a Fact.

    “It can’t just all be telling stories of your misbegotten youth”

    wife is already tired of hearing them i need a new audience and that is you guys 🙂

    0
    0
  96. “97% of my posts are off the top of my head no need for facts as in my world everything i think is a Fact.”

    The other 3 percent is apparently to repeat responses to posts you’ve already responded to.

    0
    0
  97. “The other 3 percent is apparently to repeat responses to posts you’ve already responded to”

    no its 2% for the repeats

    0
    0
  98. “”The other 3 percent is apparently to repeat responses to posts you’ve already responded to”

    there are reasons to the madness, it all relates to when i was a young child

    0
    0
  99. “”The other 3 percent is apparently to repeat responses to posts you’ve already responded to””

    ok is this running joke getting old now?

    0
    0
  100. He’s probably moving because he has 2 young kids, and the schools in bucktown BLOW for the most part. Not to mention the neighborhood is so random, you really want section 8’s, hipsters, and other gangbangers walking around while your kids play outside?

    0
    0
  101. hipsters definitely. dont want the kids to grow up intolerant of the unwashed like bob

    0
    0
  102. Sonies,

    People can learn nothing about the property or the owner’s motives from your comment – but they do learn a great deal about you from it.

    0
    0
  103. Sonies – would you consider Ashland and Wabansia “Bucktown?” Because I frequently drive by the school over there and it’s constantly touting its quality with signs, banners, etc. Are they lying?

    0
    0
  104. “Sonies – would you consider Ashland and Wabansia “Bucktown?” Because I frequently drive by the school over there and it’s constantly touting its quality with signs, banners, etc. Are they lying?”

    Do you believe all the advertising you see? Burr does not appear to be one of the best CPS elems, but does appear to be improving.

    0
    0
  105. “by the school over there and it’s constantly touting its quality with signs, banners, etc. Are they lying?”

    no thats just yuppies trying to justify overpaying for property.

    0
    0
  106. “hipsters definitely. dont want the kids to grow up intolerant of the unwashed like bob”

    Hipsters are just skateboarding kids from Glen Ellyn who graduated to bicycles, guitars and barista jobs.

    0
    0
  107. “2321 W McLean, priced at $799K”

    2321 W Mclean sold for $697,500 on 5/27. Subject property, 2235 W Homer, still for sale, at $799K list.

    0
    0

Leave a Reply