Tuesday, July 29, 2008

Chances in the challenges... Detroiters have a good reason to stay optimistic about the future.

The current political and economic climate has made 2008 a turbulent and frustrating year for many Detroiters, including me. Detroit has made significant progress over the last few years; unfortunately, the current chaos has overshadowed these gains.

Last week, a blogger posted a quote from me, about why I returned to Detroit: “I had no intention of returning to Detroit, but then I saw the chances in the challenges.” Seeing this quote inspired me to take the after-noon off for an inspirational bike ride to see the “chances in the challenges”.

What I saw was a clear reminder of why we have good reasons to be optimistic about the future of Detroit. Below is a pictorial of my two-hour bike ride:

South University Village
Opened July 2008
124 apartments
first floor retail space


Willys Overland Lofts
Opening August 2008
75 condos priced from $160,000 to $500,000


Rosa Park Transit Center
Opening Winter 2009


Westin Book-Cadillac Hotel and Condominiums
Opening October 1, 2008
455 room Westin Hotel
67 condos priced from $280,000 to $1,500,000


Fort Shelby Hotel and Apartments
Opening November 2008
204 room Double Tree Guest Suites
63 apartments


The Dequindre Cut
Opening late August 2008


Downtown Foodland Market - Lafayette Park
Opening October 2008


Greektown Casino Hotel
400 room hotel
Opening Winter 2009
Feel free to contact me with any questions or feedback.
Austin Black II

Just Listed: 4221 Cass Avenue, Unit 100 ($150,000)

Open bi-level loft in the heart of Midtown, within walking distance to Wayne State University, Mario's, Majestic Cafe, Avalon bakery, Traffic Jam, Motor City Brewing Works. Loft features hardwood floors, stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, spacious master bedroom with walk-in closet, indoor parking with room for storage. Loft includes property tax abatement thru 2019.

One bedroom, one bath, 816 sq ft… Just listed at $150,000

MLS# 28111263

Austin Black II - Listing Agent
Max Broock Realtors
313.550.2307

Just Reduced: 6533 East Jefferson Ave. #313W ($89,999)

This true loft is within walking distance to Belle Isle, the soon to be completed River Walk, and less than a 5 minute drive from downtown and major expressways. This loft features high ceilings with wood beams, exposed brick, stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, quartz concrete floors, jetted tub and a balcony. Property has a Neighborhood Enterprise Zone designation.

One bedroom, one bath, 729 sq ft… Just reduced to $89,999

MLS# 28021667

Austin Black II - Listing Agent
Max Broock Realtors

Just Reduced: 829 Piper ($66,000)

Builder Close-Out: Brand new condominium in the Heritage at Riverbend development, built by Lombardo Homes. Home boasts lots of upgrades including: cherry cabinets, 6’ jetted tub, walk-in closet in the master bedroom and all appliances included. Live just minutes from downtown Detroit and the shops of Grosse Pointe. Property has a Neighborhood Enterprise Zone designation.

One bedroom, one bath, one car garage, 890 sq ft… Just reduced to $66,000.

MLS #28055733

Austin Black II - Listing Agent
Max Broock Realtors
313.550.2307