The neighborhood has faired incredibly well during the downturn with an average sales price in the last 12 months of $255,400, down from $262,550. I was shocked to see these numbers…I think they are the lowest depreciation I have seen, which is great news (well, unless you are looking to buy in Shaw Estates).

Chartwell Estates is just west of Shaw Estates and has a slightly smaller and more affordable housing stock.

Click here for some photos of the area.

Here are the is what is currently for sale as of 9/28/11:

990 Whittier, East Lansing – $225,900

987 Longfellow, East Lansing – $239,900

1017 Whittier, East Lansing – $244,900

803 Longfellow, East Lansing – $259,900

Lau Construction was started in 2005 by Christopher and Adraine Lau, who met at Michigan State University in the Construction Management Program. Both have always had an interest in urban revitalization and decided to stay close to home and open their own business. Lau Construction has given special attention to The Westside Neighborhood. Ten of these whole house renovations have occurred in this neighborhood. “We like working in The Westside Neighborhood because we live there as well. The historic character of the neighborhood makes it a wonderful place to live and an easy place to sell a renovated home. We can work close to home and help change the neighborhood for the better at the same time.”

There have been challenges along the way, of course. “You have to learn to adapt to a changing and sometimes challenging real estate market” says co-owner Adriane Lau, who is also a real estate Broker with RE/MAX Real Estate Professionals, “Being on the front lines in real estate I have seen things change seemingly overnight.”

For more photos and information, please visit Lau Construction’s Website.