Michigan Avenue - Niche Media - Michigan Avenue magazine is a luxury lifestyle magazine centered around Chicago’s finest people, events, fashion, health & beauty, fine dining & more!
Issue link: http://digital.greengale.com/i/67043
Estate Moguls The Real Albert and Jason Friedman Friedman Properties What They've Done: Become the largest property owners in River North, with more than 50 properties, purchased block by block. "It's not just about renting space; it's about building relationships," says Albert Friedman. "The success you have in life is based on what people speak of you." In the Beginning: Before Albert Friedman's father died (when Albert was 21), the pair would walk to work together at a hotel a family member managed, and along the way they would pass the Cook County Criminal Courthouse, rebuilt in 1892. "He'd say, 'Isn't that a beautiful building?'" recalls Friedman. "After he passed, I wanted to own it—and every other building he liked." Now that he owns it, he has another memento: In Friedman's office sits a glass-encased, 3-D diorama of the infamous courthouse. Family Values: "When we don't agree, my mother is the nuclear option," says Jason Friedman. Adds Albert: "I'm always thinking I can do better. That's why my son is here. It's nice to have someone from the next generation." Also Known As: Although he's been called "The Mayor" and "King of River North," Albert Friedman says his first nickname was "Frontier Friedman." "It didn't bother me," he says. "It was a good thing." Albert (left) and Jason Friedman