Back in January, we received an inquiry through our website from someone looking to sell their condo fast in Chicago. The unit was located in a great area but needed some updating—it had been well-lived in over the years and showed signs of excessive wear and tear, in part from the family’s experience raising a child with special needs.
The seller didn’t have a cell phone, only a landline, so just getting in touch required a little patience. But once we connected, I could tell right away that he was being honest and straightforward about his situation.
Why He Wanted to Sell As-Is
The condo was dated and clearly beat-up. The seller wasn’t interested in putting more time, energy, or money into repairs—and especially wasn’t up for painting, staging, or getting it “MLS-ready.” He also made it clear that he didn’t want dozens of people walking through his home, opening closets, and inspecting every corner.
Not only did he want an as-is sale, but he also needed to close on his own timeframe. He was looking for flexibility—some extra time to find a new place that would be a better fit for his child and family.
He simply wanted to move on.
The First Offer… and a Big Misstep
After learning about the condition and running some quick numbers, I gave him an estimated offer range. We were about $25,000 to $30,000 off from what he had in mind, and he politely declined. At that point, I assumed the deal wasn’t going anywhere.
About 10 days later, I followed up. This time, he answered—but his tone had changed. He told me he had already been lowballed by another big investor in the area and was tired of people wasting his time. Unfortunately, I made things worse.
I forgot to check my notes and gave him a new offer… but it was even lower than my original range. He was understandably upset and hung up the phone. As soon as the call ended, I reviewed my notes and realized I had mistakenly offered him nearly $40,000 less than before. Ouch.
Owning the Mistake and Rebuilding Trust
Rather than letting the opportunity slip away, I dug into the comps again—this time more thoroughly—and found a few recent condo sales I had missed earlier. Armed with better data, I knew there was still a path forward.
I waited until the next night and decided to call him back.
To my surprise, he answered.
This time, I led with an apology and explained how I had missed the mark. Then I presented him with a new, much stronger offer—within $15,000 of what he was hoping to get. That changed the conversation.
Walking the Property, Shaking Hands, Making a Deal
That weekend, we scheduled a walkthrough of the condo. I met him and his wife in person, toured the unit, and we all sat down at the kitchen table. It was clear they just wanted a clean, respectful exit—and they appreciated that I came back to the table with transparency and a willingness to make it right.
We each moved a little on price, and ultimately we struck a fair deal that worked for both sides.
The Takeaway
At Braddock Investment Group, we’re not just looking for a quick close—we’re looking for the right close. If you’re seeking an as-is condo sale in Chicago, we’ll meet you with honesty, follow-through, and respect.
Deals like this don’t happen if you’re only focused on the numbers. They happen when you’re willing to admit mistakes, follow up, and build trust.
Need to Sell Your Condo Fast in Chicago?
If your condo needs work, or if you’re just ready to move on without the hassle of MLS showings, repairs, and long negotiations—we’re here to help.
We specialize in as-is condo sales in Chicago, and we make fair cash offers that work for your timeframe.
👉 Contact Braddock Investment Group—trusted Chicago condo buyers—for your no-pressure offer today.