Chicago Signature Properties

Selecting the perfect new Chicago apartment can be tricky…. with so many styles of apartments, amenities and features it can seem nearly impossible! Upon signing a lease, a list of questions to ask will ensure you’re knowledgeable on every aspect of the lease and apartment. (After all, you’re legally bound for a year!). Asking these questions will not only save your wallet, but also your sanity. With the amount of stress Americans face each day, the last thing you want to do is arrive home to apartment troubles! The end of the day is your moment to unwind, kick back and relax. Asking these questions will ensure a smooth sailing renting year, with little to no hassle.

Apartment Questions to Ask:

1: If there’s a security deposit needed, how much does it cost?

2: What is the penalty for terminating the lease early?

3: How much is the application fee?

4: Are utilities included?

5: What is the apartment maintenance like? And are they available 24/7?

6: Does the apartment come with pest control? (Bug issues are very expensive and time consuming)

7: What type of security is available? (Some people prefer gated residences, doorman and other amenities)

8: What amenities are offered?

9: How frequently are rents raised?

10: Are pets allowed? And how much is the deposit?

11: How close are the nearest schools, neighborhoods, hospitals, etc? (It’s great to ask what’s nearby

12: Is transportation easily accessible?

13: What’s parking like? Is there reserved parking?

14: How much do bills average out to?

15: How much noise comes through the walls? Is it a quiet building?

As you can see, there’s a list of questions to ask your future landlord. We know it may seem like a lot, but asking these questions will definitely ensure a smooth sailing year. A lot of websites have apartment checklists. Make sure you bring a copy with you before you sign any lease!

Also, let Chicago Signature Properties do the work for you and find your dream apartment! Happy Renting!

Hosting an Apartment Get-together on the Cheap!

Living in the windy city isn’t always glamorous and easy… especially on your wallet! Don’t let those city living expenses deter you from throwing rockin’ parties. Chicago Signature Properties has some great tips that can save you hundreds. With summer-time right around the corner, it’s the perfect time to host like Martha! (For cheap!) — View “Guests in Tiny Apartments: How to Host Correctly and Worry Free”

Speak Up: Chances are, guests will ask if they can bring something or contribute in some way. Don’t be shy! Speak up! Invite them to bring an inexpensive bottle of wine, dessert or some type of appetizer. Be specific with what you’re looking for. (The point is, you don’t have to buy it! So this will already help your wallet)

Co-Host: Invite a friend to share the spotlight with you. This can help eliminate costs by going “halvsies”. And plus, double the fun!

Stock Up: Now’s the perfect time to find that Costco member! If you buy in bulk, you can save a ton of money! Costco is one of my favorite places on earth. Literally, everything you need in bulk, at a cheap price! They also have a ton of pre-made appetizers; bakery items and more for less than triple the price at your local grocery store.

Cocktails: No need to show off…. You don’t need to purchase every bottle of liquor to have a fun time. Stick to one main drink! It can be your “signature” drink. And the rest can be assortments of beer. You’ll be amazed at how much money is saved here!

Decorations: No need to go overboard here. Decorations are expensive and unnecessary. Create an array of food/drink dishes…

Food: Like we mentioned above, try to visit a Costco to buy in bulk and save! Assign your guests to different food/drink options to help eliminate budgets. Your guests aren’t looking for a three course meal and they will not be disappointed! Create a list and buy a few appetizers for the main show. Sometimes hosts go overboard and buy way too much! Be creative, smart and plan ahead!

Renter Spotlight: Williampaid “Where paying rent pays you back”

Did you know? The number one dispute amongst roommates is about collecting and paying the rent and utility bills on time! That’s why Chicago Signature Properties is a fan of WilliamPaid.com, “Where paying your rent pays you back”

What is William Paid? “It’s the quick, easy way to automatically pay your rent online, on time, with more flexibility then you’ve ever had before” It’s great for the forgetful types, or the ones who are never home! William Paid uses an automatic rent pay system that will avoid late fees and help you build credit. Use your bank account, credit card or any other combination and William Paid will do the rest! (You don’t even need your landlord).

Courtesy of WilliamPaid.com

• Automatic rent payments
• Build your credit
• Easily create a group for you and roomies to split the rent accordingly
• Flexibility- Pay your rent how you choose!
• Save time and money by avoiding late fees

Cost: $1.75 per month

Also, for $9.95 a year, sign up for the roommate agreement. Don’t get tied into ugly legal battles or unnecessary drama, be safe and sign an agreement!

For more information, visit WilliamPaid.com and don’t forget to visit their blog! They include financial, apartment, roommate tips and more.

Fun Facts by William:

“71% of tenants still handwrite a check to their landlord each month”

“The #1 dispute amongst roommates is about collecting and paying the rent and utility bills on time”

The Chicago real estate market has led to a boom in luxury apartment rentals. With foreclosure activity in Illinois ranked number nine in the U.S. (and that number expected to increase) it’s a great time to consider renting. Chicago Signature Properties is breaking things down for you (by neighborhood that is.) Interested in renting with us? See which of the Chicago neighborhoods is best for you below.

Gold Coast

With both historic homes and new developments, striking views and effortless access to the city, unparalleled shopping, dining and entertainment options, the Gold Coast offers the finest of Chicago for those who live there, making it some of the premium real estate available.

Visit the Gold Coast neighborhood page here.

Average Rental Range: $1000-$4000

Check out available Gold Coast apartments here.

Lakeshore East

Lakeshore East is a brand new community located in the northeast corner of the Loop. Residents take pleasure in modern, top-of-the-line living spaces typically less than 5 years old. Surround yourself by Lake Michigan, the Chicago River, and Millennium Park for unbeatable views.

View the Lakeshore East neighborhood page here.

Average Rental Range: $1400-$4000

Check out available Lakeshore East apartments here.

The Loop

Residents of the Loop get the full Chicago experience, from an easy commute to work to the liveliness of the city streets, plus the ability to move around the city and into the suburbs conveniently via CTA and Metra Rail lines. The Loop attracts millions from all over the world! So much to do, so little time…

Visit the Loop neighborhood page here.

Average Rental Range: $1100-$4000

Look for Loop apartments here.

South Loop

The South Loop is one of the fastest-growing areas of real estate development in Chicago. Long a favorite destination for the culturally inclined, the South Loop takes pleasure in the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium, and Art Institute all being in their back yard.

Visit the South Loop neighborhood page here.

Average Rental range: $1100-$4000

See South Loop apartments here.

River North

With many new high-rise buildings on the rise, River North is growing by the day! With its location just north of the Loop, it’s a convenient place to live to balance work and play. And of course, you can’t beat the river view!

Visit the River North neighborhood page here.

Average Rental Range: $1200-$3700

Find River North apartments here.

Click the links below for information on:

• Bucktown/Wicker Park
• Lincoln Park
• Streeterville
• West Loop
• Lakeview/Wrigleyville

When looking at both furnished apartments and unfurnished, you might have questions about which is the best pick for you. What can I expect looking at furnished apartments in Chicago, and what are things to watch out for when renting one? Chicago Signature Properties is getting to the bottom of these very questions! Take a peek below toview the pros and cons of both sides. And feel free to share your opinions, we love hearing from you.

Furnished Apartments:

Many renters in Chicago prefer furnished apartments, but they’re not without risk. Here are some things to think about before making the choice to rent a furnished space:

Pros:

• If you don’t already own furniture, you’ll save time and money.
• Furniture rentals can be customized by the collection that fits your taste.
• You won’t run into any design conflicts. Furniture rentals are customizable and trendy (current fads and trends) that you can easily rearrange at any time.
• If you plan on staying for a short period of time, it will be the most cost effective option (with no moving expenses, etc).
• Flexibility – easily pick the number of pieces you need and want.
• Get free design advice.
• Rental companies take care of the delivery so you are worry free!

Furniture Rental Pick: Brook Furniture Rental

“Brook Furniture Rental offers a fullline of residential and office furnishings for temporary use for individualsand changing corporations in a highly mobile society. High quality furniture,combined with impeccable service tailored to personal taste, characterize thecompany in its continuing drive toward 100% customer satisfaction”

View Brook Furniture here for current price/design options and follow them on Twitter for rentaltips.

“Energetic team, easy to work with and stunning pieces”

-Arin, Marketing Assistant, Chicago Signature Properties.

Cons:

• Obviously, your rent is going to be higher each month
• The golden rule still stands for furniture, “If you break it you, you buy it” Some of these pieces can cost you an arm/leg if you don’t take proper care of it (Which can essentially cost you more than buying your own furniture)
• If you have some of your own furniture, it may clash in design. It also may be a little too much. We all have enough clutter in life, why create more?

UnfurnishedApartments:

Unfurnished apartments are much more common than furnished apartments, but they may not be the right choice for you. Is unfurnished right for you?

Pros:

• Freedom! If you have an unfurnished apartment, you can truly do whatever your heart desires! Get creative, go shopping and have fun.
• You don’t have to worry about damaging furniture and the fees associated
• You will save a lot of money on furniture shopping (if you already have the correct pieces)
• You’ll feel more “at home” with your own pieces. Sometimes renting can make you feel like you’re living at a hotel. Create memories with your furniture.

Cons:

• Not having the necessities of furniture may leave you extra tired and depressed
• Shopping for new furniture can get frustrating and expensive. Make sure you go into shopping with a goal, budget and plan of attack
• Feeling unorganized can lead to extra stress which may affect your daily work, lifestyle routine

Trends on furnished vs. unfurnished apartments vary according to your taste and style. If you’re busy, and have the finances, a furnished apartment may be right for you. But if you’re creative and like to take control, I’d recommend an unfurnished apartment (along with your furniture pieces).

For apartment style tips, check out our style section.

And don’t forget to follow Chicago Signature Properties on Twitter and Facebook.