CHICAGO-Bids are due Sept. 1 for the former church, school and convent, but price is just one consideration. The process includes a design competition in an attempt to preserve historical attributes of the structures.

HOUSTON-According to the research director for a noted Houston real estate consulting firm, the current local retail market is like a Christmas afternoon littered with shiny new toys and lots of empty boxes.

LONDON-Plans for a new Thames bridge east of Tower bridge have been mooted by Transport for London. Improved communications in East London are seen as key to attracting development to the area, and Londoners are being asked to comment on four possible designs.

NEW YORK CITY- Time Equities Inc. has acquired 306-312 West 97th St. Grubb & Ellis represented the buyer as well as the seller.