Local Newsfeed

Today, we are visiting 229 West Berry Street , home to a striking piece of early 20th-century Fort Wayne history. In 1911, a local manufacturer Forest G. Gauntt purchased the southeast corner lot at Berry and Webster for $26,000 with plans to construct a modern 'flat building factory' for Gauntt Manufacturing Company. But plans changed and the concept for the kind of building to erect here was being reconsidered. The site previously held one of Fort Wayne's oldest homes, dating back to the 1830s. It was a 12-room frame house and was last owned by E.L. Chittenden, a former city clerk. Advertisements were placed in 1913 to have the house moved or removed but was razed in 1913 to make way for Gauntt’s vision. Gauntt and Indiana Engineering & Construction began building the ambitious 5-story office building for $100,000—a major investment in 1914! Construction started in April 1914, and by January 1915, at only 3 stories tall, it was already being praised as one of the most modern and completely equipped office buildings in northern Indiana. It featured marble and glass finishes, water to each office, and a grand vestibule leading to an elevator. Gauntt's building also featured 3 storefronts on Berry Street, and every office on the upper levels, including the interior suites, benefited from abundant natural light via a courtyard. 229 West Berry was also the farthest new office building from Calhoun Street’s central commercial district. It pushed the boundaries of the downtown business district further west along Berry, which up to that point was mostly residential. The building gained notoriety for only allowing "professional men' and 'medical practitioners' as tenants. While various medical professionals leased space well into the 70s, the initial concept didn't last long as shoe stores, dressmakers, publishers, and training schools quickly moved in by 1916. It became a highly sought-after location in those first few years. Wildwood Company, a publishing and construction tenant, is quoted as having moved there because of the “high grade of tenants, excellent services furnished by Mr. Gauntt, and the location.” In 1918, Charles Niezer purchased the building for $135,000. That same year, Anthony Wayne Institute moved in, praising the new building's terrazzo floors, mahogany woodwork, well-ventilated rooms, and proximity to the business district and one of the city's best residential neighborhoods. The Medical Protective Company purchased the building in 1919 and completed construction of the 4th and 5th floors in 1920, calling it the Medical Arts Building. After that, it had many names as various insurance companies and colleges owned and occupied the building into the late-1900s. Some may recall it as the Medical Protective Co. Building, Midwestern United Life Insurance Building, or Commercial College Building. As Downtown Fort Wayne saw a decrease in popularity in the 70s, vacancy increased and was fully vacant well into the 80s. That is until 1986 when the building was rebranded as the Financial Independence Center. Since then, 229 West Berry has been occupied by more typical office users, replacing the once popular medical professionals. And more than a century later, 229 West Berry stands as a reminder of our city's early vision to expand modern business. Today, there is one suite available for lease, and Sturges Property Group proudly manages this building as well. Contact Andrew Eckert or John Caffray to learn more about leasing office space. 260 424 8448 Article is written by Kendall Heiser and Amy Schuldt of Sturges Property Group.

J+Space Studio provides seamless design-to-completion solutions for residential and commercial clients. Fort Wayne, IN – A new woman-owned interior design and project management firm is redefining how businesses and homeowners approach renovation and remodeling projects. J+Space Studio, founded by Interior Designer Jenni Poffenberger, has officially opened with a clear mission reflected in its tagline: Design. Detail. Deliver. By integrating interior design expertise with disciplined project management, J+Space Studio eliminates the most common renovation frustrations — miscommunication, delays, budget surprises, and decision fatigue. Clients benefit from a single point of contact, clear communication, and an organized process from initial concept through final installation. “Renovations can feel overwhelming for homeowners and business owners alike,” said Poffenberger, founder of J+Space Studio. “There are countless moving parts, and mistakes cost time and money. My goal is to bridge the gap in this industry, providing clarity, communication, and a sense of calm throughout the process. I deliver solutions and beautiful spaces, but I am very passionate about the client experience of how we get there.” J+Space Studio serves both residential and commercial clients, offering expertise across a wide range of project types. From paint and furniture or kitchen remodels to commercial interiors and space planning, they handle it all. The firm specializes in helping busy professionals and business owners navigate projects with confidence while protecting both the aesthetic vision and financial investment of each renovation. This full-service model ensures budgets, timelines, contractors, and materials are managed efficiently—resulting in cohesive spaces delivered on time and on target. Services include: ● Interior design and space planning ● Residential and commercial renovations ● Full-service project management ● Contractor coordination and oversight ● Furniture, fixture, and material selection As a female entrepreneur in the construction and renovation industry, Poffenberger brings a client-centered perspective rooted in communication, organization, and accountability. “I want people to feel excited about transforming their space — not stressed by the process,” Poffenberger said. “When the right systems and communication are in place, renovation can actually be an enjoyable and empowering experience.” J+Space Studio serves Northeast Indiana with in-person services and virtual services nationwide. For more information, visit the company’s website www.jspacestudio.com  or @jspacestudio on social media. Article by: Northeast Indiana Small Business Center

For years, buying a first home was considered a milestone many people reached in their late 20s or early 30s. Today, that timeline has shifted significantly. Across the United States, the average age of a first-time homebuyer has climbed to around 40 years old, marking the highest level on record and reflecting how much the path to homeownership has changed. Fort Wayne realtor Emily Ewing says the number often surprises people, but it closely mirrors what she sees buyers facing every day. “Right now, the average first-time homebuyer in the U.S. is about 40 years old, which is older than most people expect,” she explained, “A decade or two ago, buying your first home in your late 20s or early 30s was pretty common, but today many people are waiting longer.” Several forces have contributed to this shift. Rising home prices, higher mortgage rates, student loan debt, and the challenge of saving for a down payment have all pushed that first purchase later in life. As a result, today’s first-time buyers often look very different than the stereotype many people still imagine. “In everyday terms, that means a lot of first-time buyers today are more established in their careers, may have kids, or are buying after years of renting, not fresh out of college like past generations often imagine,” Emily said. While the average buyer age had already been creeping upward for years, the pandemic-era housing market accelerated the change. Before 2020, many first-time buyers were still entering the market in their early 30s. But as competition intensified and prices surged during and after the pandemic, younger buyers were often priced out or forced to delay. “Before the pandemic, the typical age for someone buying their first home was generally in the early 30s,” Emily said. “But following the pandemic, especially through 2023, 2024, and into 2025, that median age climbed more sharply.” By 2024, the median age of first-time buyers had risen to about 38, and by 2025 it reached roughly 40 years old, the highest level recorded by major housing surveys. However, that national data doesn’t always tell the full story at the local level. In Fort Wayne and throughout much of Indiana, first-time buyers tend to be younger than the national average. Emily notes that affordability plays a major role in that difference. “Indiana and smaller Midwest markets tend to have younger buyers compared with national averages,” she said. “Even though people across the U.S. are generally becoming older when they buy their first home, areas with more affordable housing still tend to attract younger first-time buyers.” Statewide data from recent years supports that observation, showing many buyers under 35 were likely purchasing their first home, with some parts of Indiana reporting average first-time buyer ages closer to the late 20s. That trend aligns with Emily’s personal experience working locally. “In my personal experience, I work with a lot of first-time homebuyers in the 25–35 age range,” she said. Despite some encouraging local signs, Emily believes the broader national trend will likely continue, at least in the near future. Affordability challenges remain, and most forecasts suggest only modest improvement in mortgage rates and home prices. “Based on current data and expert housing forecasts, it does seem that the average age of first-time homebuyers will continue to trend upward,” she said. “The most important thing to do is save what you can.” She encourages buyers to prepare early and build savings in ways that work harder for them. “I specifically suggest to my clients opening a high-yield savings account,” Emily added. Looking ahead, Emily believes meaningful change would require homes to feel financially reachable again, especially for younger buyers. That could come from lower mortgage rates, slower price growth, or more entry-level homes being built. “When monthly payments drop to a level that feels manageable, younger buyers don’t have to wait as long to save, qualify, and feel comfortable making the leap,” she said. She also points to assistance programs and incentives as an important piece of the puzzle. Down payment and closing cost assistance, often offered through state or local housing agencies, nonprofits, or lenders, can reduce the biggest upfront barriers. “These programs don’t necessarily make homes cheaper,” Emily explained, “but they can make the upfront costs much more manageable, which helps buyers get in the door earlier.” At the same time, Emily sees an opportunity for builders to meet an underserved demand. “I believe many builders will start to build more ‘affordable’ homes for this data specifically. I personally feel like that is an untapped market for many builders,” she said. With higher prices and interest rates becoming the norm, first-time buyers today need a different approach than buyers did in the past. Longer planning timelines, careful budgeting, and flexibility around location, home size, or condition can open up more realistic options. “First-time buyers today benefit most from being informed, patient, and strategic rather than rushed,” Emily said. She also notes that the current market, while challenging, offers something buyers didn’t have during the pandemic years, time. “The market has slowed down, and it’s easier for buyers to think about their purchase decision than it was during the COVID years, when properties were flying off the market.” For buyers debating whether to wait or move forward, Emily encourages focusing less on headlines and more on personal readiness. “If you’re financially stable, plan to stay put for a while, and can afford the monthly payment comfortably, buying now can still make sense,” she said. “Waiting might help if you need more time to save, improve your credit, or reduce other debt.” Ultimately, she says, the right decision looks different for everyone. “The best move is the one that fits your budget, lifestyle, and long-term plans — not just what you see on the news.” As the average age of first-time homebuyers continues to rise nationwide, it’s clear that the path to homeownership looks very different than it did for previous generations. Higher costs and longer timelines have reshaped expectations, turning what was once an early milestone into a decision many people reach later in life. Yet, as Emily Ewing points out, local markets like Fort Wayne still offer opportunities for younger buyers willing to plan ahead, stay flexible, and explore available resources. While no one can predict exactly when market conditions will shift, one thing remains consistent: informed buyers who prepare early and make decisions based on their personal financial situation are best positioned for success. Whether someone is ready to buy now or still a few years away, understanding today’s realities and working with experienced local professionals can make the journey to a first home feel far more achievable.

If you have a business idea or story over a business, contact us today! We are looking for people starting a business or owners looking for advertising opportunities, and owners wanting to tell more people about their business. Looking for stories. LET’S CHAT Email us; fwbusinessjournal@gmail.com

Discover the inspiring journeys of entrepreneurs and business owners as they overcome challenges, pursue their passions, and create businesses in Fort Wayne, IN. Each article offers advice as a entrepreneur, life as a business owner, and how each business owner built their business. Fuzz Friends Pet Care Services: Where Entrepreneur Genevieve Gutzwiller’s Love For Animals Shine Mar 31 4 min read Paw and Petals: How Fort Wayne Entrepreneur Trista Miller Balances Passion and her Business Fido’s Forest, Polite Paws, and Rose’s Bouquets. Oct 19, 2024 11 min read From Board to Boss: Eric Holloway’s Entrepreneurial Journey to Owning Locally Owned Rise Skate Shop in Fort Wayne, IN. Aug 3, 2024 7 min read 1 2 3 4 5 Page Sponsorship Fort Wayne Entrepreneur Stories On this page, you will find captivating stories of individuals who have experienced the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, ultimately achieving remarkable success in Fort Wayne, IN. From humble beginnings, these stories will showcase the resilience, innovation, and determination that drive these entrepreneurs to make their dreams a reality. Get ready to be motivated and learn valuable lessons from their experiences as they navigate challenges, overcome obstacles, and create thriving businesses. Don't miss this opportunity to be inspired by the stories of local entrepreneurs who have turned their visions into remarkable success stories! Fort Wayne Entrepreneurs If you're a Fort Wayne entrepreneur and would like a story about you and your business, fill out a form below, "Share Your Story," to start the process of becoming the next article for the Fort Wayne Business Journal. Share Your Story

Looking for new local businesses in Fort Wayne? Sign up today with the Fort Wayne Business Journal and receive our newsletter. You will find local entrepreneurs stories of the month, Fort Wayne business news, and updates or changes in the business journal. Fort Wayne Business Journal Newsletter First name Last name Email Zip Code I want to subscribe to the newsletter. Message Submit Our Newsletter showcases local business owners and entrepreneurs making a positive and significant difference in Fort Wayne, Indiana. We will send out our newsletters Monthly! Sign up for our Free Newsletter at the Fort Wayne Business Journal.