WBGL buys property from Hallbeck Homes

It's a bit ironic that in Champaign-Urbana, a community centered around a major college campus, few commercial properties feature campus-style grounds. While many office parks and other commercial corridors attempt to incorporate some green space in their setting, most fall well short of being called "plush."

Any company determined to find such a property to call home could be in for a long search.

Such was the case for WBGL, a local radio station operating out of the "same cramped rental space" for the past 27 years. But after a three-year property hunt, they got in touch with Sperry Van Ness / Ramshaw Real Estate agent Scott Ryle, who found the perfect combination of grounds and building: the west Champaign property Hallbeck Homes had called home for years. The transaction closed in December with WBGL set to take possession early this year.

"The process really started when Scott got involved," said Jeff Scott, WBGL's station manager. "Before that, it was very reactive, and then with Scott it became proactive. The building we found wasn't even on the market."

Part of the New Life Media Network, WBGL is known as "Family Friendly Radio" and broadcasts contemporary Christian music, including all Christmas music in the month leading up to the holiday. WBGL's broadcasts transmit from several communities throughout central Illinois and Chicagoland, reaching 150,000 loyal listeners. A non-commercial company, they do not sell advertising and rely on community support.

The WBGL team looks forward to moving to its expansive new digs this spring. Customizing the space to suit the station's needs has been made easier with the Hallbeck group involved in the build-out.

"It's a perfect property—and then some," Scott said. "The growth opportunities at our new location are better than our drawings we had done."

And even with the building exceeding expectations, the beautiful grounds were what sealed the deal for WBGL.

"Many buildings we looked at felt right inside, but didn't work outside, or visa versa," Scott said. "Our new home has a campus feel and for that we are grateful."