I was just trying to see what was missing….
I think in his business model (other developers get lucky having someone else build commerical space next to them) the developer should have went “Jerry Kleiner” on the area around the development (speaking to the practice where Kleiner’s restauraunts are ganged up together on a corner or area)

He could still incorporate a retail/cafe space on the south end of his own Opera building on 26th, and perhaps on either corners of his street. The current frontage building space does not create and inviting picture. For what he is going to have to carry in costs, he might have paid himself back and then some with faster sales, and desirable commerical space by creating an integrated anchor in an isolated spot.

I think it may be in the best interest of Opera Lofts and South Loop Hotel to further team up to facilitate a couple of small restauraunt / cafe spaces that serve both well in the long run. This was the under-rated catalyst for some of the developers further north, despite their own problem developments.

Oh, and lower the costs to 10-20% less than anything North of I-55. This is reality.

What can you say, some developers have a vision, yet put out a mediocre product to get by. From touring these units, this guy has put a lot of thought, with some decent upgrades and floor plans. I can’t put my finger on it; other than price, and location, it may take some niche hip restauraunt to make this seem to be progressing.
The South Loop Hotel may be a start, but it will take a little more; Maybe the Olympics are the ticket.

The sales have reflected this, even when the market was better.