Chicago Real Estate News & Neighborhood Notes

Built in 2006 The Waldorf Astoria Chicago, located at 11 E. Walton St. is an eye-catching 60-story building.  Designed by one of Chicago’s most sought-after Architects, Lucien Lagrange. Lucien is most famous for his classical style in designing high-end, luxury residential buildings.  His portfolio includes 65 East Goethe, Park Tower, Park Hyatt, 2550 N Lakeview, 30 W. Oak, and The Ritz-Carlton Residences of Chicago to name a few.

The Waldorf Astoria (formerly the Elysian) was built in 2006 by David Physor and has two components, a 188-room 5-star hotel and 55 luxury condo units. It's currently operating under the Marriott Flag. 

Looking at the building from a distance the first thing that catches your eye is the bronze crown that sits above the

If you looking for the best value, coupled with the best location, Newberry Plaza in the Gold Coast doesn’t get any better 

Located at 1030 N. State St. in the Viagra Triangle, famous for restaurants the likes of Gibson’s, Hugos, Carmines (Under Construction), LuxBar, Dublin's Pub (Open Till 3 am), and Maple And Ash It's a foodie and bar lovers paradise.  The building was built in 1972 and stands 60 Stories tall, taking up ¾ of the block (including the townhomes).  As you enter you will notice a grand lobby with a large sitting area, fireplace, and a wall of windows overlooking Mariano Park,  a favorite among residents who like to relax, sip a cup of coffee from Whispers cafe, and people-watch. There are 6 elevator banks to handle the 560 Condo

Among all the supertall, super thin highrise condo towers there is a smattering of townhomes in Chicago’s River North, Streeterville, and Gold Coast neighborhoods.  If you are looking for that treelined suburban sanctuary and a place that feels more like a home than a concrete jungle then you have to stay tuned as we are showcasing 1 of the best townhome communities in the Gold Coast! 

The Oak Club is located across from the majestic Newberry Library and Washington Square Park (one of our top dog-friendly parks) The Oak Club was built in 1995 and consists of 52 townhomes ranging in size from 1200 to 3000+ sq. ft.  The Smaller units are stacked so you have one on the ground floor and one above.  The larger units have 3 private floors so you don't have

Before we get into the rental details let's take a look at a little history of the Iconic Trump Tower.  To begin with, It is situated along the Chicago River on the former site of the Chicago Sun Times.  It was built in 2009, and designed by Adrian Smith of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM).  It stands at 1,362 feet tall and has 96 floors.  It’s Constructed of steel, concrete, and glass and is one of the tallest buildings in the world.

Now let's explore renting a 1 bedroom 1.5 bath apartment at Trump.  The best views are South and East, so good in fact that I would rate this building as one of the top 5 for views in Chicago.  The one beds are large by Chicago standards averaging 1000 square feet.  Each unit has floor-to-ceiling windows, hardwood floors,

History has been made as Chicagoans have patiently waited for decades to have a Casino to call their own.  The Doors at the brand-new Ballys Casino are open with great fanfare.  Located inside the former Bloomingdale's Home Goods Store otherwise historically known as Medinah Temple, (600 N. Wabash) the casino will have 750 slot machines, and 55 table games for players, In addition, there will be two restaurants and a cafe for those who need to recharge with drinks and food.  Hours of operation are 8 am - 4 am.  Its existence is temporary as it will be replaced by a $1.7 billion mega-complex located at the former Tribune Publishing building, 700 W. Chicago Ave.  The new Casino will offer 3,400 slots, 173 table games, an exhibition hall, a 500-room

As they say, go big or go home!  The Tribune Tower Condominiums (located at 435 N. Michigan Ave) are in the BIG category when comes to Luxury living.  This historic and Iconic building has everything you can ask for and more.  Starting with the 55,000 square feet of amenities located on 4 floors It trumps even the most sought-after buildings such as the Park Hyatt, New St. Regis Chicago, and Trump Tower.  Rentals Start at $5,500 a month for a 1 bedroom and top out at around $28,000 for a 4 bedroom. So what does $14,000 a month get you? Let's take a look.  This 2-bedroom 2.5 bath is 2693 square feet and offers an oversized south-facing terrace with stunning views of the plaza, river, Wrigley Building, and the city. Each room offers unobstructed city

1. Finances - How much are there in reserves?  Are there any current or proposed Special Assessments?  Don’t be fooled because it's been built in the last 5 years or looks like a million dollars.  Condo buildings can be riddled with defects or just plain old age can set in.  Replacing elevators, windows, boilers or facade work can be extremely costly.  A good rule of thumb is at least $2,000 per unit per year.

2. Minutes of the Board Meetings for the past 6-12 Months.  The proof is in the puddling! And the minutes are a great place to see what board members and residents are talking about.  Everything from changes in pet policies to lawsuits to possible special assessments can be found there.  Be a good detective and read through

545 N Dearborn - River North
Located in the heart of River North, this building has easy access in and out of the city via Ohio and Ontario Streets.  Located above the Jewel and across the street from great restaurants the likes of Quartios, Steak 48, and Yardbird everything is at your disposal.  Building amenities include an outdoor pool, basketball court, running track, and a full fitness center.  One Bed condos have balconies and amazing views on the higher floors.  Definitely one to add to your list! Search Condos for sale at 545 N. Dearborn

400 N Lasalle (River North)
Located just steps away from Chicago’s new River Walk and popular restaurants such as Chicago Cut Steak House, RPM Seafood, and Prime & Provisions Steakhouse this condo building boasts

If you haven't been there yet, you are in for a real treat!  On the 11th Floor of New St. Regis Hotel Chicago you will find Miru.  An 'All Day" Japanese restaurant operated by the boys from Lettuce Entertain You.  Besides the amazing views of the River, Lake, and City the food is to die for!  Before I move on I must say the Service is even better!  

Along with Streeterville, the Loop, and the South Loop, River North is where renters will find a high density of luxury apartment towers that not only feature modern urban living spaces but also a new-age collection of lifestyle amenities that might include anything from sprawling rooftop sundecks and swimming pools to on-site dog parks and resident lounges complete with golf simulators and co-working space. If River North is your ideal location for a luxury apartment, here is our short list of the best luxury apartment towers to consider in the neighborhood.

Wolf Point West
The sleek glass tower known as Wolf Point West is located in the heart of Chicago's River North neighborhood, offering a quintessential urban lifestyle. With breathtaking