Local real estate broker wants to buy and renovate Centlivre Village Apts.

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) - Centlivre Village Apartments was once known as a luxury apartment complex when it was built in the 1960's but it has now become an eyesore, according to the complex's property manager.

"They're just really secure, well-built buildings, and it's a shame to see anybody wanting to tear them down or to have them be vacant like this," said Zach Banohoom, a local real estate broker.

There are currently 495 units in five different buildings. 17 residents currently occupy one of the buildings.

Banohoom said in the last 15 years, this property has lost its luster. He said once the owner turned the complex into Section 8 government housing, that's when the property started going downhill. In addition, there has been crime in the area. He said he's checked with the Fort Wayne Police Department and found out 16 calls to 911 were made to that area in the last 30 days. Even with these stats, he has faith in Centlivre.

"You can have a great community here. Large grounds, park areas, pool, basketball courts, it could really be prime place to live just north of town," he said. "For people who are looking for an alternative for the high rents downtown, they're still close."

There have been several attempts to get state and federal funding to help renovate all the complexes, but all attempts have been denied. The owner, who lives in California, is looking to sell the property for $3.5 million. Banohoom said there's only one way to buy and renovate Centlivre Village.

"I think there will be issues getting private funding, but I think it's the last resort," he said.

Banohoom is currently raising money through private investors and community members. He is looking to raise $5 million but estimates it will take between $10 and $15 million to bring all 495 units up-to-date.

Anyone interested in becoming a private investor or in the progress being made can visit www.rally.org/rebuildcentlivre or www.facebook.com/rebuildcentlivre.