T
he iconic Chrysler Building, a staple of New York City's skyline, is back on the market after its owners were evicted for failing to pay rent. Cooper Union, which owns the land beneath the skyscraper, has hired Savills, a British real estate firm, to oversee the sale. Completed in 1930, the Chrysler Building was once the world's tallest structure, standing at 1,046 feet with 77 floors. Designed by William Van Alen for Walter P. Chrysler as a symbol of the Chrysler Corporation, its stainless steel spire and ornate crown are instantly recognizable.
The building has changed hands several times, including a $800 million sale to Abu Dhabi in 2008 and a more recent purchase by Signa and RFR for $150 million in 2019. However, Signa's insolvency filing in 2024 led to an Austrian court ruling that it must sell its share of the building. Cooper Union is not disclosing the new asking price, but with Manhattan's astronomical property costs, it remains to be seen how much Savills can fetch for the Chrysler Building.
Despite its gleaming exterior, the building has reportedly fallen into disrepair, with tenants complaining about poor cell service, lack of natural light, elevator issues, and pest infestations.
