Hegewisch
Hegewisch is divided up into three distinct sections. In the center is Old Hegewisch, with predominantly frame, small multi-unit and single-family homes, originally settled in 1883 as a company town for employees of the U.S. Rolling Stock Co. owned by A. Hegewisch. To the north of 130th Street is the newest segment, Avalon Trails, with 1,500 square foot single-family brick bungalows and ranches feet with detached garages, and a few with finished basements. Neighboring the William W. Powers Conservation Area and Wolf Lake to the east is the area of Arizona. Arizona has a more eclectic mix of housing than Avalon Trails, with slightly bigger brick homes closer to the lake and smaller frame homes south of the lake. Ordinary prices for three-bedroom brick houses in Hegewisch are $145,000 to $155,000, with some of the nicer homes asking in the $170,000 range. A 4,200-square-foot house recently sold for $195,000. Homes under $100,000 exist, but they need work and they are a rare find.
For investors, the small multifamily buildings in the oldest part of the neighborhood are being bought as income properties. Prices typically range from $125,000 to $130,000 for two-flats to $180,000 to $195,000 for four-flats.
The 67-year-old William W. Powers Conservation Area for hunting and fishing enthusiasts is also dedicated to conservation of Wolf Lake and other natural habitats in the area. The conservation area provides a touch of nature in the middle of this urban setting, and post-steel era seems to have brought with it a heightened awareness of issues of environmental protection and historic preservation.
The median income in Hegewisch is $43,655, and the demographics break down as 67% white, and 29% Hispanic.
