This is Ra. He likes rock ‘n’ roll, nail polish and new homes. Ra and his buddies spent the evening of June 19 at Opera Lofts looking at potential “homes away from home.” In this video, Ra talks about the things he likes and doesn’t like about the new loft development at 2545 S Dearborn St in the Ickes Prairie Homes area of the Near South Side.
A sponsored article about the Opera Lofts can be found here. Keep an eye out for part 2 from my visit to the Opera Lofts, in which I talk with developer Andy Schcolnik about the project.

Thanks for removing my earlier post observing that Ra is a tool. I’m just telling it like it is. Seriously, who cares what this ass clown thinks — especially when he’s friends with the developer?
In all fairness to Ra, though, he’s right about this place being overpriced.
Wow, other than the eye shadow, $10 Blueblocker sun glasses, and nail polish…agree
Jackpot,
You’re correct that I removed your earlier comment – if you can’t conduct yourself in a civil fashion you’re simply not welcome here. Your juvenile comment says a lot more about you than about the person you’re describing.
What’s more, you’re encouraging some of Jeff’s worst tendencies.
I’m leaving your current comments in place. If you want to continue along this path, they’ll be your last comments. This is a real estate site, not a place for you to flaunt your lack of manners and education.
I’ll feel like I’ve hit the Jackpot for the day if you leave.
Fair enough, Joe. I am actually quite educated,for what it’s worth, but I do lack manners at times. I thought that some of Ra’s comments were somewhat demeaning to women, and I responded with a post that was admittedly juvenile. In any event, you have my word that my future posts will elevate the discourse rather than detract from it.
But more to the point, Ra is right about the price for this development being too high. I predict that we’ll see prices go down in this area.
Jackpot,
Demeaning to women?? Did you watch a different video than I did? What are you talking about?
Ra seems like a different kind of dude, but I would agree with his assesment of Opera Lofts. Seems very nice in and out, but the price is questionable for its location.
Jason,
Never mind; it doesn’t matter.
What do others think is a fair price for this place? If the price were right, would you buy in the South Loop right now?
I’m glad to hear the opera lofts aren’t right for him, because frankly he’s not right for the opera lofts. I am a resident and I must say that all of my neighbors are nothing but courteous and respectful. It takes exceptional people to make such a exceptional place. True, the area is still developing, but you’d have to be a fool not to realize the potential of this area.
HI! I was curious if anyone is currently living at the Opera Lofts? I’d love to live there but my boyrfriend is kinda skeptical about the area and everything so I was just curious what others opinions were. Thanks!
Is he skeptical because its in an predominately black neighborhood and its on the south side? Many people have negative perceptions about the two. The area is gentrifying quickly so you should buy property before it becomes unaffordable. The amenities haven’t caught up to all the housing stock. the lofts are so beautiful and definetly work the price. Too bad I can’t buy a home now.The area is very close to the south loop and and is one of the few nice places on the south side.
Thank you for your response, greatly appreciated!
hi jessica
not sure if you are still interested, but i live in the opera lofts and it is fantastic. the units are unlike any other space i looked at. i too was nervous about the area, but it has really moved along quickly. the ickes housing projects are being knocked down the beginning of august and there are a lot of “green” spaces in the works as well. i am so excited about the growth!!!
kate,
How about sharing some details on that growth with us? What has “moved along quickly” in the area? The Ickes projects were very sparsely occupied, so not much of an impact there.
Elaborating on your glowing report will dispel the skepticism some might have over whether you’re truly a resident.
Hydeparker – the place is overpriced for the location. There are non-racial factors like proximity to highway and other location issues, nearby restaurants and services, safety and crime, etc.
It is a great project and I hope the succeed, but most responsible people can get past the race trip you want to lay.
Developer should have carved out front floor space for a cafe tenant to create his own anchor.