Buffalo Bloviator

The extensive WNYmedia.net revitalization coverage has caused
the Buffalo Bloviator to get swept up in the downtown redevelopment
excitement. I decided to call some of the phone numbers on those
“for sale” signs and talk turkey. Perhaps it is time for the Buffalo
Bloviator to take its publishing operations downtown where the action is.

Here is my short list thus far. Which one should I buy? Comments,
suggestions, and advice are solicited!

1) “Big Blue” 153 Delaware Avenue.

Great location three doors from Niagara Square and one block from Chip. 6000 square foot 1865 brick house that as Father Dunn wrote in his book “Delaware Avenue Mansions and Families,” “…amazingly still stands”. Surrounded by parking lots. Formerly the venerable Round Table restaurant. I toured the inside. The building is not as bad as it looks at first glance. Perhaps not the best traditional investment income selection, but for my own personal/business occupancy, I see great potential. Hmmmmm.

2) “Rose Nails” 535 Main Street at the corner of Genesee.

 

 

Amazing future location when Main Street is opened to traffic and alive.
Directly across from the Hyatt. Formerly Howard’s Jewelers. 4 stories,
7000+ feet, great investment income potential. Great view of Main Street
from the windows. Pretty brick facade. Total rehab required. The interior
is completely gutted. Roof is shot. Windows need energy upgrading.
No parking. Charming little Main Street building. I would occupy a floor
or two and rent out the other two floors as lofts or office. Special rehab
incentives are available specifically for this stalled 500 block of Main Street.
Asking price $265,000.00.

3) “Werner Photography”  Foot of Chip at Genesee.

   

Nice location with a nice view of the old Washington Market area.
Very nice facade with skylights and lots of copper work. I have not been able to get inside of the building to have a look. There seems to be an issue with either the owner or listing agent. Word among the professionals is that they are “difficult”.
This could be an asset to me since I am willing to be persistent.   Here is a post and comment I made in Buffalo Rising to a man who identified
himself as the listing agent: 

 http://www.buffalorising.com/city/archives/2006/09/my_favorite_buildings_85.php

Biniszkiewicz wrote:  

As for the properties to the left of Eddie Brady’s: These properties have been owned for a couple decades by an investor with a vision but not faith. They are for sale. Why don’t you buy them? We have the listing. Call me if you are serioius. 

“I saw above that you mentioned that the Werner building was your listing.
I called the phone number on the building almost every day for two weeks last
month and nobody would call me back about the building. Is it for sale or not?
No wonder the buildings are sitting idle. Please contact me. I am going to buy
something before the end of the year.  I even asked agents I have been working with to try and contact the seller and they told me not to bother. Word is, the seller is non-responsive. What gives?? 
Please contact me at Bloviate@BuffaloBloviator.com ”