To all the agents and experts on Chicago real estate: What are your opinions of 235 Van Buren, the new high

Syed
Home Buyer
Chicago, IL

rise going up just down the street from the Sears Tower. Good value? Or potential corporate rental ghetto? Have any qualms with the developer--CMK, who built Contemporaine, 1720 and 1620 S Prairie.

Answers (3)
Joe Chicago
Agent
Chicago, IL

CMK ,which was started by Collin Kihnke and Matt Kihnke, has a bad reputation in the Real Estate market among professionals. Several of their projects are experiencing significant problems with their window walls leaking, mechanical systems that never worked properly and low quality construction materials. Numerous associations have reported that the true operating expense in their buildings is 200-300 percent more than CMK stated in their sales literature, leaving the new owners responsible for the budgetary shortfalls.

Owners report that it is extremely difficult to get CMK to honor their warranties because, as one owner put it "Collin wont return my calls".

Some of their projects are architecturally progressive, adding new life to the Chicago skyline. Until they improve their construction methods and client services, I would stay far away from one of their developments.

Sat Oct 18 2008, 07:42
Sierra Bloom
Agent
Chicago, IL

I agree. The developers work is pretty good. No real complaints from buyers. If you want to the live in the heart of the financial district, it's perfect for you. Plus, you are close to Greektown, West Loop, Millenium Park, South Loop. Some might even say that it's a fantastic central location to "it all"!

Fri May 2 2008, 13:50
Stacy Karel
Agent
Chicago, IL
FIRST ANSWER

I like the developers work.. I am not as crazy about that area as a place to live.

Sun Apr 20 2008, 21:02

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