They would of skewed that story to prove a point, if you know a realtor or mortgage broker/appraiser you can access the raw data, use the raw data to calculate your own appreciation rates.

Buyers are lining up down the block and foaming at the mouth to purchase homes. 

You'll want to find a realtor or some one with access to the MLS there in your city.

I heard some attorney have access to those files ? 

Anywhere within a 30 to 40 mile radius of downtown Chicago if the financials make sense & the specific block has no to low crime.  

If not, then viable comps may not exist.If you don't have access to your local MLS, have an agent run them for you.  

I grew up in a investor family and have access to a competent constructor (my father who owns a contruction and investment business in Germany)Furthermore I have about 25-30k which I am planing on using to do the rehabs.

What about butcher block counter tops from Ikea? 

Or do you mean that you are licensed and you have access to the MLS?

Search for your county recorder online and see if you have access to records.