Howdy folks! In this week's least expensive feature, we're up North in Andersonville checking on introductory prices in the heart of the neighborhood, bounded by Bryn Mawr Ave to the North, Foster Ave to the South, Glenwood Ave to East, and Ravenswood Ave to the West. That makes for a pretty tight focus, which we hope brings greater utility to our endeavor. Refreshingly, unlike Streeterville and Lincoln Park, Andersonville's cheapest reach beyond the high-rise efficiency. They're all condos, but of varying size and in serviceable condition. As always, all listings are 'active' and MLS-derived. Dig in!
5) 1740 W Foster #3F
Asking Price: $169,000
Size: one-bed/one-bath
The Skinny: This "penthouse" condominium (read: third-floor walk-up) is big on customization, from closets to blinds and built-ins. And there's a marble bath, believe it or not. Even though assessments are just $143/month, the seller has offered to pay your first six months' worth. With a year logged on the market (plus a stint in 2010), it's time for such strategies.
4) 1702 W Summerdale #1
Asking Price: $164,900
Size: two-bed/one-bath
The Skinny: This fairly spacious condo, in a multi-unit on a quiet street a block west of Ashland, would be a solid get for a couple or young family. It's a lovely little thing, all gussied up for the sale. The hardwood floors look great, as does the exposed brick, cherry cabinets, and balcony. Although its a first-floor unit, the balcony manages to lift off the ground a bit, and, with a fence at the property line, feels a little less like an invitation to mischief. Assessments are $145/month.
3) 1647 W Rascher #2W
Asking Price: $160,000
Size: two-bed/one-bath, 1,000 sf
The Skinny: Finally, an agent gives us some square-footage— likely in an effort to bolster her claim of the "best value in Andersonville". It may well be. The bright second-floor corner unit has evenly sized rooms, a solid kitchen, nice hardwoods, in-unit washer and dryer, and a large common deck. Monthly assessments are $266 but include heat.
2) 1651 W Balmoral St. Unit G
Asking Price: $142,000
Size: three-bed/two-bath
The Skinny: Hold your horses! This could be Andersonville's best value#&8212; if you don't mind basement units. Let's list its assets, shall we: hardwood floors; chef's kitchen; in-unit laundry; patio; and, a large living room/dining room combo. There's one really mystifying claim here— the one about being "bright and sunny". Assessments run $236/month. A short sale, patience is paramount.
1) 5225 N Ashland #3D
Asking Price: $99,900
Size: one-bed/one-bath
The Skinny: Someone forgot the 'penthouse' label. We're talking about a top-floor unit, after all. Far and away the least expensive of bunch, this one-bed has exactly zero frills. We can't see the interiors, but when there's nothing to spur brokerbabble you can be certain you've got a real bore on your hands. The unit was re-listed in February with a "huge price reduction", but we're blind to the price history. Its Ashland location is a busy one, but it's a stone's throw from Clark Street shopping and dining and borders a pocket park. Assessments are $98/month.