Near West Side Neighborhood (Hermitage+Washington/Lake) (Chicago, Ashland: apartments, to rent)

[yamasho]

As I mentioned before I am a college student looking to move to Chicago for a job that starts in June. I found an amazing deal. A condo owner wants to rent out his brand new condo. (built in 2006) These units go for $300k

The condominium is located on Hermitage (between W. Washington and W. Lake) Closer to Washington. The building is located right in-back of Union Park (if that helps)

Anyway, it seems perfect. A brand new unit that sits right on the path of the EL and only two blocks from the station Ashland/Lake Station. W/ free covered parking.

Everything checks out. However, i visited the area before and seem to remember it being pretty darn bad. But this was further down Lake past Damen and Leavitt. I really did not like the area and this is only 6-8 blocks away. But that seems to be how Chicago neighborhoods are based on what people have discussed on the boards.

Here is a link a search I did for the property on Google Maps: http://maps.google.com/?q=loc:+Hermi...m=1&iwloc=addr

Your responses are greatly appreciated!!!

[Drover]

That's another neighborhood that's "in transition." It's basically right on the edge of where gentrification meets the 'hood, and this is one of those areas where a couple blocks makes a prety big difference. You were on the "bad" side of that couple-block transition earlier. Not too long ago that whole area was a combat zone. But by all appearances the gentrification of the West Loop continues to move westward so it won't be long before that's a chic area. Right now, it's an OK area. Not great, not bad. There are a few nightlife options there. There's a club just north of the Ashland L stop, can't remember the name of it, that has local bands about every night. Some decent-looking restaurants along the Ashland corridor too.

[Drover]

Just remembered the name of that club -- Cobra Lounge. Looks to be a bit of a mullethead/punk-metal place.

[oakparkdude]

A lot of these new condo units were bought by investors who are now stuck renting them out with negative cash flow. If you don't mind living in the area, its a great way to take advantage of someone else's folly.

[yamasho]

The condos are named Westhaven Park and they are a 9-floor midrise. If anyone knows much about these condos please inform me. This sounds like a REALLY good deal.

The condo is furnished and comes with a free parking spot (covered). All I would have to pay in addition to the rent is the electric bill. Also, be aware that I am not talking about the WestHaven Park Apartments further west. Those are in a an area that I do not wish to reside in being that I a just moving to chicago. I know these are only 7 or so blocks away, but its amazing how much more safe the area seems...

..thanx in advance!!!

[mcgoof23]

Still a little scary over there, wouldn't recommend wandering around by yourself after dark.