Big Mill Apartment Complex in Reading, PA Settles, Highlighting Historic Preservation, Class A Quality and Significant Investment Potential - Lancaster Chamber of Commerce

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Big Mill Apartment Complex in Reading, PA Settles, Highlighting Historic Preservation, Class A Quality and Significant Investment Potential

Community Partnership/News

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BIG MILL APARTMENT COMPLEX IN READING, PA SETTLES,

HIGHLIGHTING HISTORIC PRESERVATION, CLASS A QUALITY

AND SIGNIFICANT INVESTMENT POTENTIAL

 


READING, Pennsylvania – October 8, 2026 – NAI Keystone is proud to announce that the commercial real estate property known as the Big Mill Apartment Complex, located at 702 N. 8th Street, Reading, PA, has successfully settled, marking the completion of a significant commercial real estate transaction involving one of Reading’s distinctive historic mixed-use properties. Originally built in 1904, the six-story Big Mill is a Class A mixed-use apartment building that combines historic character with extensive modern improvements. The property was most recently renovated in 2017 and was honored that same year with the Pennsylvania Historic Preservation Award, recognizing the quality and significance of its preservation and redevelopment.

Extensive Capital Improvements

More than $15 million was allocated through the historic preservation tax credit program as part of the property's renovation and preservation efforts. The improvements have helped transform the historic structure into a modern Class A residential and mixed-use asset while preserving its architectural character.

Diverse Residential and Commercial Components

In addition to its residential apartments, the Big Mill features a variety of commercial and lifestyle amenities. The retail spaces retain original hardwood flooring and feature clear-span, open-space layouts that provide flexibility for a variety of potential uses. A distinctive core pavilion area further enhances the property and can accommodate outdoor seating and events.

The combination of residential, office, medical and retail components creates a diversified mixed-use environment within a single historic property.

Strategic Reading Location

The Big Mill is strategically positioned within walking distance of Reading's city center and numerous surrounding amenities. The property also benefits from convenient access to shopping centers, malls, parks, universities and colleges.

Its location within a densely populated area, combined with its Class A condition and range of amenities, supports the property's appeal as a high-quality residential and mixed-use asset.

A Historic Asset Positioned for the Future

The settlement of the Big Mill Apartment Complex represents another chapter in the continued evolution of a landmark Reading property. The combination of historic preservation, substantial capital investment, modern building systems, diverse commercial uses and residential upside positions the property as a distinctive asset within the Reading market.

With its substantial renovation completed, historic designation and award-winning preservation efforts, the Big Mill demonstrates how adaptive reuse can preserve an important piece of Reading's architectural heritage while creating a functional, modern mixed-use environment for residents, businesses and the surrounding community.

Property Highlights at a Glance:

Address: 702 N. 8th Street, Reading, PA

Year Built: 1904

Building: Six-story, Class A mixed-use property

Net Rentable Area: Approximately 122,000 square feet

Site Area: Approximately 0.93 acres

Residential Units: 69

Apartments: 57 two-bedroom units and 12 one-bedroom/studio units

Commercial Spaces: Seven Class A office and retail spaces

Major Renovation: 2017

Historic Recognition: 2017 Pennsylvania Historic Preservation Award

Historic Preservation Investment: More than $15 million through the historic preservation tax
credit program

Roof: Liquid membrane roofing system with more than 10 years remaining on the current 20
year warranty

Amenities: Restaurant, medical office space, retail, pavilion and outdoor event/seating area


The settlement underscores the continued value of the Big Mill as a premier historic mixed-use property in Reading and reflects the strength of the asset's underlying physical improvements, location and long-term potential.


About NAI Keystone
NAI Keystone is part of a global commercial/industrial real estate network. We provide sales and leasing solutions for those looking to buy or sell or lease. We also help property owners lease existing sites and assist businesses in their search for the perfect space to buy or lease. As the largest firm in the region, we have deep market knowledge and have developed the most robust process for delivering success. Learn more at www.naikeystone.com or give us a call at 610.779.1400.

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Press Contact: Andréa Much, Marketing Manager, 610.370.8524 or via email at amuch@naikeystone.com

Additional Info

Media Contact : Andrea Much

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