Chicago Signature Properties

Apartment hunting can be a grueling process! Taking precious time to search through apartment listings, find correct pricing, playing phone tag, scheduling appointments, touring… (To only find out the pictures don’t even closely resemble the listing!) Nightmare! That’s why Chicago Signature Properties is here, to make your life easy, and your apartment hunt even easier!

We know your time is valuable, let us take over. (We’re a free service!)

What do we do?

• We find apartments that fit what you’re looking for (or, you can search yourself using our innovative search tool),
• We’ll drive you to view the units you like,
• And you’ll move in!

Apartment hunting has many components to it, such as:

• Neighborhood preference (See our listing below)
• Price range
• Unit size (studio, 1 bedroom, etc)
• Amenity preferences (do you prefer a pool? A workout facility?)
• Do you need parking?

Whatever is important to you, Chicago Signature Properties will ensure that’s what you view on the day you tour. Prior to your showing, we’ll send you building information, slide-shows, and amenity information so we don’t waste your time.

Perks to apartment hunting with Chicago Signature Properties:

• Move-In packets with the closest services
• Concierge Service — Anything you need, we’re at your service! Just click here and we’ll have an answer right away.
• Signature Reward Card — As a valued client, your reward card will gain access to the best Chicago has to offer, such as: Entertainment, health & wellness, private promotions and special events!

Neighborhood Guide:

Did you know? Chicago is home to over 100 neighborhoods. View some history below:

Bucktown/Wicker Park Properties

Gold Coast Properties

Lakeview/Wrigleyville Properties

Lakeshore East Properties

Lincoln Park Properties

The Loop Properties

River North Properties

South Loop Properties

West Loop Properties

Streeterville Properties

Listing of the week: Streeterville 2 bedroom!

This building has an amazing workout facility, stunning newly renovated lobby and the location is unbeatable.

Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter and Facebook!

(Don’t forget to enter our contest, two more days until we pick a winner!)

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!

Up, up and Away: Apartment Rents are Rising
By: Arin Agase

As the foreclosure crisis continues, millions are being forced out of their homes looking for new places to live. And the millions that moved back home from 2005-2010 are ready to get back to the rental world, resulting in an economic shift. In the hottest rental markets, 2011 will see the largest rent increase in history! (Last year at this time, rentals were decreasing a mere 4%, what a difference a year makes!). (Via CNN) With fewer rentals on the market, prices will sky-rocket.

People have seen too many friends/family undergo a lot of stress and heartache with the downsides of home-ownership causing them to rent instead of purchase.

But Chicago isn’t alone, New York has seen an increase of 8% (averaging to $2500 for a studio apartment) and San Francisco projects an increase of 20% in 2011. (Via Crains)

Looking for an apartment? Don’t stress, let Chicago Signature Properties take care of all the work! Our agents are natives of the city and very familiar with downtown residential living.

River North 2 Bedroom

South Loop 2 Bedroom

Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter and Facebook!

A Slice of Luxury in the Windy City! (A few of our Favorite Listings)

1) Newberry Mansion Condo in Gold Coast

Built in the 1870’s, this 2,200 square foot condo is spread out over three floors that include: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and a rooftop with stunning skyline views. Also includes: renovated kitchen, luxurious master bath with a separate shower and soaking tub, custom closets, fireplace, hardwood floors and so much more! This contemporary fix has only been on the market for 2 days! (Located at 839 N. Dearborn Street, Unit D) [Koenig & Strey] Priced at $915,000

2) Penthouse in the Chandler (Lakeshore East)

A 6,000 square foot condo has our eyes lighting up! This 33rd floor unit has a $500K price reduction and includes 4 bedrooms and 6 ½ baths! Pamper yourself with unbelievable views, 12 ft ceilings, custom library, gold fireplace, over-sized master bedroom with spa like bathrooms, two steam rooms and so much more! The Magellan Development 35-story high-rise has been on the market since December 2009 (noting the price drop) currently priced at $4.8 million, but worth every penny! (Located at 450 E. Waterside Drive #3301) [Remax]

[Remax]

3) Designer Gold Coast Condo

Nate Berkus in front of his Gold Coast Property

If you’re familiar with interior designer, Nate Berkus then you’re in for a treat! He’s listing his very own 3 bedroom, 4 bathroom condo at $2.7 million! Previously published in Chicago Magazine and Elle Décor check out: The completely rehabbed master bath with a custom English tub, reconfigured master suite, kitchen backsplash and appliances, parking space, storage and more! Check out what he told Elle Décor here
(Located at 1325 N Astor Street #8) [Coldwell Banker]

It’s that dreaded time again, moving! Instead of being the usual superhero you are and taking on the world… why don’t you let a moving service do all the work for you? Moving services are affordable and they save you a load of hassle! See what Chicago Signature Properties picked for a Chicago moving service below. And don’t forget to let us know who you’ve used before, we always enjoy a great referral company.

Midwest Moving and Storage, Inc.

“We move on Your Schedule, Not Ours”

888-722-6683

We always recommend Midwest Moving and Storage because of their customer service and personality. They are also experienced and have been in action since 1983. Midwest Moving also accommodate several situations such as:

• Local Chicago Movers
• Long  Distance Chicago Movers
• Chicago Apartment Moves
• And more!

The Illinois Commerce Commission has zero complains against Midwest, and endless testimonials, including:

“Everyone was very careful, respectful and courteous, nice to work with.”
–Catherine Hagey

“The crew was extremely professional, friendly, and worked very hard the entire time. They should be commended.”
–Robert De Vita

To view more testimonials, get a quote or to read more about Midwest Moving and Storage services, view their website.