By Carlo Calma
Bungalow-style homes in Chicago’s Auburn Gresham neighborhood has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places, according to a press release issued by the Historic Chicago Bungalow Association (HCBA).
The neighborhood has become the 10th Bungalow Historic District included in the list, following in the footsteps of recent additions Talman West Ridge, South Shore and West Chatham.
Neighborhood Eligible for Benefits
In addition to community pride, the HCBA also explained that bungalow homeowners listed in the National Register also qualify for one other benefit set up by the state.
“Properties listed on the National Register are also eligible for an eight-year property tax freeze if they undertake renovations equal to 25 percent of the market value of their homes,” according to the press release.
Under the Property Tax Assessment Freeze Program, a home valued at $150,000, for example, would face a tax bill of approximately $6,751 if it was rehabbed without the tax freeze, as compared to $4,951.
The HCBA’s Efforts to Aid Bungalow Homes
To help bungalow communities attain recognition from the National Register of Historic Places, the HCBA created the Chicago Bungalow Multiple Property Listing on the Register of Historic Places to serve as “an umbrella” under which homes and neighborhoods can be nominated for listing.
In regards to the recent addition of the Auburn Gresham neighborhood, Mary Ellen Guest, HCBA executive director, explained that they were, “Delighted to see the recognition for Auburn Gresham.”
“HCBA is extremely grateful to the Richard H. Driehaus Charitable Foundation for funding the countless hours of work necessary to create this district,” she added.
To learn more about the HCBA’s efforts to list bungalow neighborhoods in the National Register of Historic Places, visit their website at Chicagobungalow.org