From Packed Estate to Full-Price Sale: How a Thoughtful Strategy Delivered a Smooth Outcome in Back of the Yards

$225,000 | Mixed-Use | 5209 S Halsted, Chicago, IL

Challenge

When an estate needed to sell a mixed-use property in Chicago’s Back of the Yards neighborhood, they faced an uphill climb. The building—a former hardware store with three apartments—was packed to the brim. The store was still full of unsold inventory, while the apartments contained rooms of personal belongings.

On top of that, a large, weathered sign left behind by the previous broker created an eyesore the estate didn’t want to deal with. The heirs were hesitant to spend time clearing out the property and were hoping for a solution that would minimize effort while still producing results.

Action

The first step I encouraged was securing an appraisal. For estate sales, this is invaluable—it gives beneficiaries an unbiased, third-party view of fair market value, helping prevent disagreements among heirs.

To explore all options, I presented multiple strategies: hosting an estate sale to clear out items, bringing in an auction company for consultation, or listing directly as-is. After careful consideration, the estate chose the simplest path: list the property on the MLS, contents included.

To make the process more manageable, I rolled up my sleeves and worked alongside the family to remove the massive broker sign that had been left behind. Small steps like this not only helped improve curb appeal but also built trust and momentum in what could have been a stressful process.

Results

The property went under contract in just two weeks, selling for full asking price in an all-cash deal. For the estate, it was the smoothest possible outcome—quick, straightforward, and without the burden of clearing out the entire building.

The buyer, a seasoned buy-and-hold investor, recognized the potential in Back of the Yards. By mid-2021, the median sales price for commercial buildings in the area was $145,000. By June 2025, it nearly doubled to $285,000. His strategy of holding the property positions him well for long-term gains while he maintains the property and keeps it in compliance.

For the community, this sale represented another step forward in a neighborhood already seeing meaningful investment. Back of the Yards continues to benefit from city-backed programs like the Neighborhood Opportunity Fund, as well as grassroots development, ensuring that properties like this remain poised for positive transformation.

“Estate sales can be overwhelming, but with the right strategy, they don’t have to be. By focusing on value, clarity, and practical options, we were able to deliver a smooth and successful outcome for everyone involved.”
— Molly Heyen