Oprah will film and air the last episode of her popular talk show later today. And she intends to leave Chicago for the warmer climes of California sometime soon after.

During her time as a talk show host, Oprah brought much joy and many jobs to Chicago. She also contributed, almost single-handedly, to the renovation and expansion of the West Loop.

When Oprah decided to open her production company, Harpo Studios, in the West Loop in 1990, the neighborhood was neglected and largely in disrepair. The neighborhood had been on the decline for years, and if Oprah had not chosen to base Harpo Studios there, it is unlikely that the West Loop would have experienced the urban renaissance that it did.

But Oprah did choose to place her studio there, and that made all the difference. She began to quietly buy up some of the most neglected buildings in the area, and she did what she could to bring them back to their former glory. Then, when her talk show was granted syndication, many more people began to move to the neighborhood.

Harpo employees chose to settle close to studio headquarters. And other Chicagoans, unaffiliated with Oprah’s show in any way, chose to move to the West Loop to take advantage of the spirit of renewal Oprah brought to the area.

So, what will become of Chicago now that Oprah intends to end her show and move to Chicago? Will urban renewal in neighborhoods like the West Loop grind to a complete and total halt?

In a word, no. Chicago’s real estate experts believe that—although Oprah unquestionably contributed a great deal to Chicago’s recent urban renewal—the city should do just fine without her.

In fact, many real estate experts believe that—as soon as the Chicago-based tech company  Groupon announces its IPO (initial public offering) a new wave of urban renewal and real estate development may sweep through the city.

We can only hope so.

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The Near West side is home to trendy restaurants and shops.

While the West Loop corridor is increasingly becoming known as home to some of the best Chicago restaurants, that’s not stopping some fashionable storefronts from moving in. Decollage opened at 1219 W. Madison in March 2011, and it’s fitting right into the neighborhood. Midwest native Kelsey Tanner-O’Connor is selling both couture and vintage fashion, which she has found at auctions as well as estate sales, from a variety of 1900s decades.

Despite the vintage items, this isn’t your typical vintage store. Rather, it’s a bit more high-fashion with 1920s Vogue magazine covers decorating the walls.

Yet, what you see on the selling floor isn’t everything up for sale. Tanner-O’Connor and her husband own the building, and have another 20,000 feet of space full of other clothing treasures and gems.

That amount of space isn’t uncommon in the West Loop or the Near West Side. As the area continues to grow and become even more trendy, vacant buildings are quickly becoming renovated. Call it a bit of modern vintage charm on the West side.

Photo source: Chicago CondoDomain

1645 West Ogden is located in the trendy West Loop neighborhood of Chicago. The West Loop is best known for its amazing cultural centers like Greek Town, Maxwell Street, and Little Italy. This area was once primarily industrial, but a surge in restoration and renovation has transformed this  neighborhood into a hip and historic hotspot.

The 207 units in 1645 West Ogden span 8 floors and range in price from $100K-$500K. Residents of this fine development enjoy excellent eastern views of the Chicago skyline from expansive windows in their homes.

If you call 1645 West Ogden home, you can also find comfort and luxury in the high ceilings, fireplaces, and balconies that are standard in every unit. The kitchens in these homes include granite countertops and modern stainless steel appliances, as well.

Interested in more information or a tour of 1645 West Ogden? Contact us today!

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1645 W. Ogden

The West Loop is still hot even in a cool economy, and folks are continuing to discover the charms of the area. Add 1645 W. Ogden to the list of intriguing buildings in the booming area.

Located just steps from the United Center, Greektown, the University of Illinois at Chicago, Little Italy, and Maxwell Street, this building offers tremendous views of Chicago’s great skyline, granite counter tops, stainless steel appliances, high ceilings, balconies, and fireplaces.

That’s not to mention the easy access to Chicago’s Loop, public transportation, and several major expressways. Both the Chicago Bulls and 2010 Stanley Cup champion Chicago Blackhawks play in the United Center, and that makes the area a major draw. So do the major musical acts that play concerts in the building.

There are plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants nearby, and there is plenty of retail in the area. Prices in the 207-unit, eight-floor building range from $100K to $500K.

Once an industrial area, the West Loop is full of buildings that have been converted to lofts and condos. The area is rapidly changing, and the proximity to downtown and some of Chicago’s greatest neighborhoods make it very attractive.

Check out 1645 W. Ogden today!

SkyBridge Chicago–photo credit to Jarred Trost

SkyBridge Chicago is the type of building that luxury buyers dream of. Located in Chicago’s West Loop, this building offers one-, two-, three-, and four-bedroom units with up to 3.5 baths. The largest units are up to 4,200 square feet.

The units come with GE appliances, full-sized washers and dryers, bathroom cabinets that offer a choice of maple, oak, laminate, or Thermofoil; Grohe faucets, double-bowl sinks; American Standard commodes; guest tubs; and master whirlpools.

Gas fireplaces are available, and units also feature 9-foot ceilings, granite counter tops, marble flooring, and recessed lighting.

Parking is available, and the West Loop location offers stunning skyline views and easy access to the Kennedy Expressway. That’s in addition to the fine dining and amazing nightlife offered in the West Loop, along with tons of shopping. Don’t forget about the culinary delights of nearby Greektown.

Prices in this Moran and Weiner-developed building range from $300K to $1.7 million. The building offers 266 units on 39 floors.

Take a look at Skybridge Chicago today!

Chicago

If NBA superstar LeBron James signs with the Chicago Bulls when NBA free agency begins, he’s going to need a place to live, at least during the season. Here’s our top five choices for the King, should he sign here.

1. River North

This part of town is a top destination for the young and the rich. It offers more nightlife than the nearby Gold Coast, and it’s proximity to downtown is appealing. So, too, is its accessibility to the Kennedy Expressway, a necessity for athletes who need to get to the airport.

2. Gold Coast

If LeBron wants a quieter existence without straying too far from the night clubs, then the Gold Coast should fit the bill nicely. There’s plenty of high-end property here, and LeBron might appreciate an old-school mansion.

3. Lincoln Park

LeBron is only in his mid-20′s, which puts him the perfect age range for the neighborhood and its collection of college and sports bars. There is plenty of pricey real estate here, as well. The only problem? The area isn’t far from the United Center, but it’s not close to it either.

4. West Loop

If LeBron wants to be near the place he’ll call his office 41 nights a year, than the rapidly growing West Loop is perfect for him. He’ll find plenty of great condos here, and he’ll be close to the court.

5. North Shore

The Bull’s practice facility is in Deerfield, so Mr. James might just want to plunk down his money on a place on the North Shore, perhaps in Deerfield itself or nearby Highland Park. This might be the most logical choice, although the appeal of the city may lure James to buy in one of the four previously listed areas.

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#10-Silver Tower (River North)

Developer: Stonegate Development

Architect: Hartshorne + Plunkard Architects

Marketing: @Properties

Price Range: $250K-$3.5M

The Silver Tower is located in the tony River North neighborhood, and it combines stunning views with luxury living in a vibrant part of town. There are one-, two-, and three-bedroom floor plans available, with high ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows. There also private balconies, a sky room, and a dog room. For a closer look, click here.

Developer: Trump Organization

Architect: Adrian Smith, Skidmore, Owings and Merrill

Marketing: Robert Prohaska

Price Range: $550K-$9 M

The Trump Tower is Chicago’s newest landmark, and it offers amazing views of the city, stainless steel Miele and Wolf appliances, granite countertops, marble and hardwood floors, and more. Floor plans range from studios to five-bedrooms. Don’t forget to check out the world-class luxury offered by the in-building spa. Click here for more.

#8-One Museum Park (South Loop)

Developer: The Enterprise Companies, The Forest City Enterprises, The Fogelson Properties, Bovis Lend Lease

Architect: Pappageorge/Haymes Ltd.

Marketing: Coldwell Banker

Price Range: $600K-$4.5M

This building will offer astounding views of Lake Michigan, Chicago’s skyline, and Solider Field when it’s completed. The location is hard to beat–downtown is just steps away, as is public transportation and lakefront recreation. The South Loop is a hot neighborhood, and this building is shaping up to be one of the best buildings in the area. Take a look here.

#7-Union Row (Pilsen)

Developer: 16th and Union

Architect: N/A

Marketing: Belgravia Realty Group, @Properties

Price Range: $485K-$650K

Another new development that has an appealing location. These town homes are close to the Illinois Medical District, the University of Illinois at Chicago, the Maxwell Street market, and the Loop. Click here for more.

#6-1122 West Catalpa (Edgewater)

Developer: Catalpa Developers

Architect: N/A

Marketing: Catalpa Gardens

Price Range: $250K-$500K

This new development shines due to proximity to the lake, nearby shopping and dining, and its location in a historic neighborhood. Add amenities like a dog walk, hardwood floors, and a rooftop deck, and this building has obvious appeal. There’s also an exercise room with lake views, a party deck, and washer and dryer hookups. Go here for a peek.

#5-Walton On The Park (Gold Coast)

Developer: The Enterprise Companies, Mesirow Financial Real Estate

Architect: Pappageorge/Haymes, Ltd.

Marketing: Waltononthepark.com

Price Range: $450K-$1.3M

Opening this summer, Walton on The Park is a development in the heart of Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, putting residents close to high-end shopping, dining, and recreation. Units will have upscale appliances, floor-to-ceiling windows, and hardwood floors. And that’s just for starters. Click here to see all the luxury Walton on the Park has to offer.

#4-565 West Quincy (West Loop)

Developer: Belagravia Group

Architect: Pappageorge/Haymes, Ltd.

Marketing: Belagravia Group

Price Range: $150K-$450K

Location matters here–but so does the “Q Room” which includes a private bowling alley and a movie screening room. One or two bedroom units are available, and there is plenty to do nearby. Lots of shopping and dining options abound, and of course, the heart of downtown is just minutes away. Take a look here.

#3-235 West Van Buren (Loop)

Developer: CMK Development Corporation

Architect: Perkins + Will

Marketing: CMK Realty

Price Range: $200K-$1M

Want to live downtown? Want amenities such as European vanities in the bathroom? How about taking a look at this development in the heart of Chicago’s Loop. You can’t get any closer to downtown than this. Click here to check it out.

#2-The Emerald (West Loop)

Developer: Harlem Irving Companies, New Frontier Companies, Senco Properties

Architect: Pappageorge Haymes, Ltd

Marketing: The Gerlach Group

Price Range: $275K-$600K

Perhaps the greenest condo building in Chicago, the Emerald offers bamboo flooring and fabrics made from recycled fiber. On top of that, the Emerald is located in the West Loop, right between Greektown and the Loop. There is plenty of dining and shopping near the Emerald, and commuters will love being near major expressways and commuter train stations. Click here for more.

#1-Aqua Lakeshore East

Developer: Magellan Development

Architect: Studio Gang Architects

Marketing: Magellan Realty

Price Range: $700K-$1M

This master-planned community puts residents in the heart of downtown. Michigan Avenue is just a short walk away, as is the lakefront. The Loop–and all of its social offerings–are close by. Living here will put you in the heart of the city. Take a look at Aqua Lakeshore East here.

Zen West Loop

If you’re looking to live in the West Loop, you be looking for a little “Zen.”

As this part of the West Loop continues to transform from its industrial roots to a residential neighborhood, this building will be appealing to buyers who work downtown or commute to the suburbs, due to its proximity to the Loop, major expressways, and major commuter railway stations.

Foodies will love the area’s supply of restaurants–more than 30 close by. There’s also plenty of shopping and retail, and lots of bars and clubs nearby. Greektown isn’t far, and neither is the University of Illinois at Chicago. Nor is the United Center, with its calendar of sporting events and concerts.

Getting to or from Zen is a snap, thanks to public transit provided by Chicago’s CTA. And once you’re home, you’ll be greeted by features such as tinted glass set in metal framing. Units are available with one- or two-bedroom floor plans, and prices range from $250K to $450K.

If moving to the West Loop is in the cards for you, this 9-floor, 82-unit building is worth a look.

Click here for more!

740 West Fulton is a 14-floor, 132-unit building in the West Loop area of Chicago. This is a stylish, up-and-coming neighborhood that is the epitome of city living. 740 West Fulton is surrounded by all the creature comforts of Chicago, like shopping, entertainment, and great restaurants. This stylish building is an industrial blend of glass, steel and concrete that rises above the busy city streets.

Homes in 740 West Fulton feature high ceilings (11’ and 18’ high), stainless steel appliances, exposed duct work, floor-to-ceiling window panels, and granite counters. Modern finishes like painted cement ceilings, internal drywall, oak hardwood floors, traditional baseboards, and cozy fireplaces enhance the contemporary, chic feel of this building. Amenities include a private fitness center, a business center with high-speed internet access and satellite television, and a 24-hour concierge service.

One bedroom units in 740 West Fulton range between 715 and 798 square feet, while the two-bedrooms offer 991 to 1,395 square-foot plans. One-bedrooms start in the lower $300,000s, one bedroom plus den from the mid $300,000s, two-bedrooms from the low $400,000s, and corner two bedrooms start in the mid $400,000s. 740 West Fulton unit prices also include parking.

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Are you looking for the best condo to fit your lifestyle and personality? It can be overwhelming to search through the huge number of condos available in Chicago, so here are some quick snapshots of five condo developments you should check out!

1. R + D659 – West Loop

R + D659 offers more than twenty different condo layouts that exhibit contemporary finishes and open floorplans. The carefully designed open units are enhanced by glass, stone, and stainless steel. Modern finishes create an atmosphere of comfort and vitality within each space. R + D659 offers convertibles, one bedroom plus den, two bedroom, and penthouse units. Amenities include a private fitness center, rooftop pool, and professional business center. R + D659 also boasts a trendy residents-only lounge for for relaxing and entertaining. The bustling West Loop location also means that residents of this modern building have access to fantastic food and ample entertainment only a short walk from their beautiful home. Developer: Mesirow Financial Real Estate, Inc.

2. Vision on State – South Loop

Vision on State is  just a half block from Grant Park, and within walking distance of the Museum Campus and Soldier Field. This development offers 253 units—both one and two bedroom homes. The kitchens in this building are equipped with GE appliances, granite countertops, hardwood floors and 42” cabinets. The master baths in Vision on State are outfitted with marble countertops and ceramic tile floors and shower surrounds. Every unit is enhanced by a large private terrace, and many include beautiful skyline, lake and park views.There are many amenities afforded to the residents of Vision on State. The development features a 24-hour doorman service, modern fitness center, central air conditioning, and a dog run. Developer: Leopardo Companies, Inc.

3. 740 West Fulton – West Loop

740 West Fulton is 14-floor, 132-unit building in the West Loop area of Chicago. Homes in this spacious development feature high ceilings (11’ and 18’ high), stainless steel appliances, exposed duct work, floor-to-ceiling window panels, and granite counters. Modern finishes like painted cement ceilings, internal drywall, oak hardwood floors, traditional baseboards, and cozy fireplaces enhance the contemporary, chic feel of 740 West Fulton. Amenities include a private fitness center, a business center with high-speed internet access and satellite television, and a 24-hour concierge service. Developer: Thrush Companies.

4. 828 West Grace – Lakeview

828 West Grace is a new condo development by Sedgwick Development Corporation that is located in the popular Lakeview area of Chicago.There are several different floorplans in the 17-story building. Residents of 828 West Grace can choose one or two bedroom units, with a choice of one or two bathrooms. Each home includes a fabulous array of stainless steel appliances, 42” cabinets, hardwood floors in all living areas, and granite countertops. 828 West Grace offers amenities like two high-speed elevators and a 24-hour doorman.  The excellent Lakeview location also provide residents with amazing shopping, dining, and entertainment just minutes from their door. Developer: Sedgwick Development Corporation.

5. Fairbanks at Cityfront Plaza – Streeterville

Fairbanks at Cityfront Plaza is known as “a city within a city” because of its great mix of residential and retail spaces. One of the main features in Cityfront Plaza is the 9th floor Sky Deck, which features an owner’s club, stadium style screening room, outdoor cafe, health club facilities, pools and lush gardens. Fairbanks at Cityfront Plaza offers both residences and lofts that showcase wood flooring in living areas, luxury grade carpet in bedrooms, floor-to-ceiling windows, washer/dryer hoop-up, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances. Further amenities include concierge, maid, and laundry services, indoor parking, a dog area, and a 24 hour doorman. Developer: Centrum Properties.

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