realestate

Suburbs see surge in apartment complex listings amid growing investor interest

Two new multifamily properties enter market as Chicago area listings and sales gain momentum.

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wo new properties have entered the Chicago area's multifamily market, joining over 20 high-profile listings since the start of the year. Lakeside Capital Advisors has listed The Westlyn, a 242-unit complex in Warrenville, while Continental Properties has put Authentix McHenry, a 288-unit property in McHenry County, on the market.

    The listings come as investors weigh the region's strong rent growth against high interest rates. An August analysis found that among 16 high-profile multifamily sales reported in the area, eight resulted in a gain for the seller, four resulted in a loss, and four had unknown results due to unrecorded sale prices or loan information.

    The Federal Reserve's decision to cut interest rates by half a percentage point may boost interest in these properties. The Westlyn is 95% occupied with an average rent of $1,971, while Authentix McHenry features amenities like a pool and leash-free dog park.

    Marketing materials for The Westlyn note that the break-even price would be $365,000 per unit or around $88 million, although an asking price has not been disclosed. CBRE is marketing the property, which is located in DuPage County to avoid Cook County's fluctuating property taxes.

    Continental Properties developed Authentix McHenry starting in 2021 and completed construction in 2022. The property features a mix of studio through three-bedroom units with an average unit size of 866 square feet. An asking price has not been disclosed, but Walker & Dunlop is representing the seller.

Apartment complexes proliferate in suburban areas as investors drive market growth nationwide.