So, You Want to Find an Apartment in Chicago? Let's Get Down to Brass Tacks
Chicago, the Windy City, is a place where dreams are made (and rent is sky-high). But fear not, intrepid apartment hunter! This guide will help you navigate the treacherous waters of the Chicago rental market.
 |
| How To Find Apartments In Chicago |
Know Thyself (and Your Budget)
Before you dive headfirst into the world of open houses and broker fees, take a moment to figure out what you actually want. Do you crave the hustle and bustle of downtown, or are you more of a chill, Logan Square kind of person? And most importantly, how much are you really willing to spend on rent? Because let's be honest, avocado toast isn't going to buy itself.
Tip: Read the whole thing before forming an opinion.
The Great Online Apartment Hunt
Now comes the fun part: stalking apartments online. Websites like Zillow, Apartments.com, and Domu are your new best friends. But beware, these sites can be a rabbit hole. You'll find yourself drooling over penthouses with rooftop pools, only to be rudely awakened by the reality of your bank account.
Tip: Let the key ideas stand out.
Pro Tip: Use filters! Want a place with a dishwasher and in-unit laundry? Filter away! Hate paying extra for parking? Filter, filter, filter.
QuickTip: Read actively, not passively.
Open Houses: The IRL Apartment Dating Scene
Open houses are like speed dating for apartments. You'll meet a lot of people (and potential roommates), see a lot of places, and probably leave feeling slightly overwhelmed. But don't worry, it's all part of the process.
Tip: Don’t overthink — just keep reading.
 |
Important: Bring a notepad and pen. You'll want to jot down details about each place, like the layout, noise level, and whether or not the kitchen appliances look like they belong in a museum.
The Fine Art of Negotiating
You've found the perfect place, but the rent is a little steep? Don't be afraid to negotiate! Landlords are people too (mostly), and they might be willing to come down a bit on the rent, especially if you're willing to sign a longer lease.
Remember: It never hurts to ask. The worst they can say is no.
Bonus Tips:
- Check out neighborhood groups on social media: These groups can be a goldmine for information about local amenities, safety, and hidden gems.
- Consider roommates: Sharing an apartment can help you save money and make new friends.
- Don't be afraid to ask for a walk-through: This is your chance to inspect the apartment thoroughly before signing the lease.
How To...
- How to find roommates? Check out roommate-finding websites or apps, or ask friends for recommendations.
- How to negotiate rent? Be polite, firm, and prepared to walk away if the landlord isn't willing to budge.
- How to avoid rental scams? Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true, and always meet potential landlords in person.
- How to choose the right neighborhood? Consider your lifestyle, budget, and commute when selecting a neighborhood.
- How to pack efficiently for your move? Start early, declutter, and use high-quality packing materials.
Good luck with your apartment hunt! And remember, even if you end up in a less-than-ideal situation, there's always the option to move again in a year.
 |
💡 This page may contain affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
