Melissa,

For all the development that has taken place over the past 10+ years in the W Loop, there's still a need for more Commercial and Retail businesses to establish and add more vibrancy to the area. Yes, there are great restaurants along Randolph street and a great deal of new businesses have come into the area and added to the streetscape but too many midrise buildings with garage structures have rendered vast swaths of street unfriendly to the pedestrian and casual visitor. Walk the streets bounded by Halsted, Randolph, Aberdeen & Monroe and you'll get a feel for the area.
Street vibrancy is a great indicator of a neighborhoods potential. Take another walk on Division from Ashland to Damen and then north on Damen to Armitage and you'll see street vibrancy. Observe and compare each area and decide which has more upside potential over the next 5 years. I think we'd both pick the same area.

Best of luck, Ken.

The West Loop is a great area. Its next to the Financial business district, Sears Tower, Theater district, Chicago River close to the lake and has some of the cities best restuarants and nightlife. South Loop is also a good area as well as Lakeview and Lincoln Park although the later are a bit more. With any of these areas when the market turns will see good appreciation. If you need any help I have a beautiful condo in the West Loop in a great location and view.
Thanks
Pete
1panton@gmail.com

Melissa,

I have a good friend that lives in the West Loop right off Washington and Canal Street. He loves it there!

Good luck in your home buying efforts:) If you have any financing related questions please email me at Tino.Muratore@gmail.com. There are quite a few home buying incentives if you purchase your property downtown Chicago.

Thanks,

Tino Muratore

A professional realtor can't answer a direct question it is against our code ot ethics we can run past sold stat's may assist, contact the city planning community determine what are any redevelopments going on. http://www.lynn911.com