CHICAGO-Nearly $90 million was spent on maintenance and capital expenses in the first quarter of 2003, an average of more than $400 per unit. The multifamily REIT is betting on the money translating into higher occupancy rates.

CHICAGO-The University of Illinois-Chicago expands to 40,000 sf at Lincoln Properties' 40-story building, where it holds classes for its executive MBA program. Meanwhile, Marcus Evans Ltd. subleases nearly 23,000 sf at 455 N. Cityfront Plaza Dr.

CHICAGO-Although his resignation includes a one-year non-compete clause, former chief executive officer Douglas Crocker II decides to cut ties as he pursues other business opportunities in his retirement.

CHICAGO-The multifamily REIT may not close on a $50-million purchase, and expects total 2003 acquisitions to be in the neighborhood of $25 million. The REIT had forecast $125 million in purchases this year.

CHICAGO-Advocate Health and Hospitals Corp. will continue to occupy 44% of the 141,760-sf building at 3000 N. Halsted St., where median family income is in the low six figures.

CHICAGO-Skokie-based U2P Properties, Inc. will acquire the former Gerri's Palm Tavern at 446-48 E. 47th St. from the city for $58,500, and combine it with its property next door in a $580,000 project aimed at bringing night life back to a "Blues District.

CHICAGO-While renewing for another seven years, Wachovia Securities Inc. also pays $3.3 million to give up 43,840 sf at the building owned by Prime Group Realty Trust and the State Teachers Retirement System of Ohio.

CHICAGO-At least two industrial projects, including a $16-million refrigerated storage facility at 2600 S. Damen Ave., might have gone to Will County without Cook County Class 6(b) property tax incentives recommended for approval by a city council committee.