House Hack in Chicago South Side?

[Art Maydan]

I’m looking for a multi-unit to house hack in Chicago and have a limited budget. We’ve been pre-approved for $220K for a 2-unit, $280K for a 3-unit, and $305K for a 4-unit. Originally, we were looking at homes in the North side in the $350-$400K range. I’m having trouble finding 2-4 units in the North side in our budget that don’t need much work.

There are a lot of homes for sale in the South side that are in our budget and look to be in decent shape. Is all of Chicago’s South side unsafe, or just areas of it? I was looking at the crime map and it appears to be just pockets. Would living in a “safe” pocket in the South side still be a bad idea? I’m not really worried about myself, but I have a tiny wife and we might have a baby in the next few years. I’m also worried about the quality of tenant.

Would you consider house hacking anywhere in the South side, or should I keep looking for something good in our budget in the North?

[Brian Phillips]

Hey Art,
I grew up on 79th and Harlem .. Very familiar with the southside of Chicago. When I think of the south side I think of it starting near 35th( and extending South) here's my gut feeling about it.. I would really only consider a couple areas as potentials. Beverly and Mt. Greenwood. ( not that there are absolutely no others, I would just focus on these ones)

Primarily for yours and your families safety, and the whole point of investing... Build wealth..

The city of Chicago requires city employees to live within the city limits. And as far as police and firemen .. That's where they go..
So the fact that there are so many police , makes it pretty safe.. And seems like everyone knows each other..And for the most part they take a lot of pride in ownership ..and maintain the homes nice..Keeping them in demand.

Good luck .. And Go White Sox!