Chicago Real Estate News & Neighborhood Notes

Planning to be in the market for a luxury condo this spring? If so, these luxury condo towers around Chicago all have a penthouse unit that JUST hit the market…

The Montgomery

The completely renovated, top-floor penthouse at The Montgomery that just hit the market is about as good as it gets. The views are spectacular, the location is superb, and the Kristy Yarbrough-designed living space features all the bells and whistles. Oh, and there’s also a 1,000 square foot outdoor terrace with a built-in bar and grill as well.

Asking Price: $4,995,000

Lincoln 2550

As one of 4 penthouse condos at Lincoln 2550, this spectacular 4 bedroom, 4.5 bathroom residence features traditional finishes and views that are simply unmatched. In fact, you’ll even enjoy

According to a recent report from Crain’s, the co-founder of Chicago-based Vivid Seats has applied for a construction permit that would allow him to combine six units inside Water Tower Place—one of Streeterville’s most luxurious condo buildings.

As noted in the report, Mr. Vassilatos purchased the six units individually between 2010 and 2016, and the estimated cost to combine these units is somewhere in the $8.5 million range.

The condos are situated on three separate floors inside the building, and combined, offer more than 14,000 square feet of living space.

If actually finished, the newly revamped mega-space would likely become one of downtown Chicago’s most expensive residences.

No. 9 Walton has been one of downtown Chicago’s hottest buildings over the past couple years, and some of the Windy City’s premier celebrities and CEOs have all purchased a unit inside the building since construction wrapped up last year.

According to a recent report from The Real Deal, the building’s newest buyer is John Groetelaars, CEO of Chicago-based hospital bedmaker Hill-Rom Holdings.

As mentioned by The Real Deal, the unit was purchased from a trust for nearly $3.5 million and has right around 2,700 square feet of total living space. The Tribune also ran a story that the 3-bedroom, 3.5 bathroom condo was purchased directly from JDL Development and was originally listed for $3.65 million back in November.

With so much interest in the building, some

Chicago celebrities Bill and Giuliana Rancic have sold their 19th century brownstone on Bellevue Place, according to a recent report from Crain’s. The television personalities and co-owners of RPM Steak and RPM Italian first listed the 7,200 square foot home back in March for $6.8 million, and later reduced that asking price to just under $6 million.

The new buyer, who is still unknown at this point, has apparently paid $5 million for the property, or right around 73 percent of the original asking price.

As noted by Crain’s, the Rancic’s paid $2.15 million for the Bellevue Place property back in 2013 and have since done extensive renovations, which included adding onto the home, which as mentioned, now includes 7,200 square feet.

Not surprisingly, the

In a city like Chicago, award-winning restaurants and mouth-watering eateries aren’t hard to come by when it’s time to grab breakfast, lunch, or dinner. But when its date night and the pressure’s on to impress that special someone, choosing the right place can make or break the evening. So in recognition of the upcoming Valentine’s Day celebration, here’s our short list of Chicago’s most romantic restaurants:

Tango Sur

This cozy, candlelit Argentinian steakhouse has been a Southport Corridor staple for year. There’s no denying that Tango Sur’s hearty Latin American menu is tops in Lakeview, and the atmosphere is perfect for a quiet Valentine’s Day dinner with that special someone.

Geja’s

Geja’s Café is known throughout Chicago for its romantic

From brand new, high-profile projects coming through the pipeline to established high-rises with insane views and lifestyle amenities, here's our top picks for where to search luxury rentals in 2019. 

One Bennett Park 

With one- to four-bedroom floor plans to consider, One Bennett Park offers plenty of options for renters. The luxury units include upscale finishes and high-end appliances, as well as some amazing views of the lake and the city.

61 E. Banks

In comparison, 61 E Banks offers up a number of different delightful floor plans for renters to choose from. With apartments on the upper floors and two-story townhomes on the lower levels, the property also includes a fitness room, a roof deck and extra storage space. 

Aqua

One of

If you're finally looking to make the transition from renting to owning in 2019 but also want more bang for your buck so-to-speak, take a closer look at what's currently on the market in several of Chicago's top up-and-coming neighborhoods. 

Avondale 

Found on the city’s northwest side, the Avondale neighborhood celebrates more of a working class vibe. Known for everything from its traditional Polish supper clubs to its more affordable housing, this trendy area is definitely on the up-and-coming list. 

Uptown

Another option is Uptown, on the city’s north side. This diverse area is filled with ethnic dining, lively entertainment and a mix of housing, including some new development, as well as newly refurbished businesses and residences. 

The Fulton Market District may be one of Chicago’s most recognized dining hot spots, but the restaurants of Logan Square are quickly gaining their own attention. Priced out of the area by soaring rent prices, some small, independent restaurants went looking for a more affordable location, and found it along Diversey Avenue.

The up-and-coming dining destination is quickly attracting new restaurants, cafes, bars and shops. You won’t find some of the larger restaurants in the area, but you will find plenty of great options. This includes an Indian-inspired restaurant opening soon, plus an eclectic café that just opened a few months ago.

There’s also a wine shop featuring unique selections from across the globe, a cocktail bar and a café that transforms into a

There are plenty of options and opportunities when it comes to buying a loft in Chicago. But right now, several buildings standout as being top locations to consider heading into the busy spring market.

The Ronsley

For New York-style loft living in River North, you’ll want to take a second look at The Ronsley. The property is home to around 40 lofts, complete with large windows and high ceilings.

Ontario Street Lofts

Found at 411 W Ontario, the Ontario Street Lofts include access to a rooftop deck, fitness center and a bike room. The property currently offers up a number of one-, two-, and even three-bedroom units for buyers to choose from.

Haberdasher Square Lofts

Once the site of a clothing factory, the Haberdasher Square Lofts now

Chicago’s newest and tallest rental building is going to be hard to miss, rising up 76-stories above the downtown skyline. Set right along the southern edge of Grant Park, the soaring NEMA Chicago tower is quickly gaining attention not only for its spectacular design, but also for what’s inside.

The property serves up an indoor lap pool with incredible city views, plus more amazing views of the lake and the park from the private residences. As well, there’s also an outdoor deck with another pool, a demonstration kitchen, fitness center, a golf simulator, plus there’s a basketball court and squash court. All of this compliments the addition of spa treatment rooms, conference rooms, and even a Kids Club and Pet “Spaw” for four legged family members living at