Guide to Moving to Chicago - How to Find the Best Neighborhoods in Chicago?

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Which Neighborhoods to Live in Chicago?

Moving to Chicago can seem really daunting at first! The city is so large, and you may not know where to get started. Trust me. In 2007 when this rural kid from Wisconsin moving to the big city, I didn’t know where to start either. The prospect seemed overwhelming at the least. I was online searching for neighborhoods, yet didn’t know the lay of the land or where to start.

Luckily, I had a family friend who lived in Chicago find my first apartment that I never saw before I picked up the keys.

Let me be that friend…

Complete Guide Where To Live In Chicago, Neighborhood Map Tour!

North Side Chicago Neighborhoods

The Complete Guide Where To Live In Chicago, Neighborhood Map Tour! North Side Chicago Neighborhoods is our video to assist you in your endeavors. I will personally walk you through the main neighborhoods that we help our clients move to and from. The city may seem large, but once you have perspective, it helps.

 
 

The neighborhoods we will cover:

South Loop - Pilsen / Tri Taylor - West Loop - Loop / New East Side - Near North Neighborhood (River North, Streeterville, Gold Coast, Old Town) - Lincoln Park - Lakeview - Uptown - Edgewater - Rogers Park - Lincoln Square / Ravenswood - Albany Park / Mayfair - Northwest Neighborhoods (Jefferson Park / Forest Glen / Portage Park) - Avondale / Logan Square - West Town (Wicker Park / Bucktown / Ukrainian Village)

For more in depth details on a particular neighborhood, make sure to visit and subscribe to our Youtube Channel . Here we will be posting neighborhood guides, so you can get a better feel for each one!

The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Andersonville

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Exploring Chicago neighborhoods is one of the best things to do, and we are here to fuel your internal fire to do so! This leads us to one of our favorite neighborhoods in Chicago: Andersonville.

If you haven’t walked Clark St or the stunning tree-lined streets in the neighborhood, come explore the area with Samuel Ciochon as he walks the neighborhood and points out his favorite things.

 

Come Walk and Explore Andersonville

 
 
 

Andersonville is a sub-neighborhood of Edgewater and spills over into Uptown. Most would say the borders go from Broadway Ave to the East, Ravenswood to the West, Bryn Mawr-ish to the North and South to Lawrence Ave. Now Andersonville is known as Chicago's Swedish district with relics such as the Swedish Museum, great furniture shops and the iconic Swedish water tower. Over the years, this impeccable neighborhood has attracted tons of the LGBTQ community with its friendly demure - making Andersonville one of Chicago's top LGBTQIA friendly neighborhoods.

In our Youtube video, I'm so excited to walk you through the neighborhood. As an Andersonville expert, my clients have moved to and from this neighborhood for 15 years. There are so many gems to this neighborhood that I can not wait to show you.

Huge shoutout to some of the local businesses that decided to randomly talk with us on the way! The best aspect that I LOVE about Andersonville is the sense of community that the local businesses and the Andersonville Chamber of Commerce create. It really is a small town feel in a large city, and it wouldn't be complete with the hardworking and dedicated people who make this neighborhood thrive!

This includes:

George from Cowboys & Astronauts (https://cowboysandastronauts.com/) - Andersonville has so many great shops owned by residents of the community. Off the main drag of Clark Street, you will find this one of a kind store. Check out their shop for men's apparel, home decor and gifts. Literally one of my favorite shops. Every time I stop in, I find something! They have some of the best brands fit for any male in your life!

Chris Le Beau, owner of GL Home Decor (https://glhomedecor.com/) - This place has some of the best curated furniture pieces that I have seen! Andersonville definitely has a lot of antique shopping, so this store stands out! Chris is also a phenomenal artist, and he showcases art from local neighborhood artists as well.

Joey, the owner of Chicago Magic Lounge (https://www.chicagomagiclounge.com/) - This is just such a cool concept that feeds on Chicago's rich history of magic. Through an unassuming laundry mat, an ode to the former family run business that occupied the space, this magical speakeasy is a hidden treasure to the neighborhood. Serving classic cocktails and extravagant entertainment, this is one thing you don't want to miss. Grab tickets at their website for the full experience or just pop in with no reservations at their front bar.

Thank you for gallivanting the neighborhood with us. There is so much more to this neighborhood that we couldn't fit in this video, so if you are interested, come take a visit. You will definitely see why people fall in love with this area.

In the meantime, if you are looking to make a move to the city of Chicago or Andersonville, we would love to be your local real estate consultant. Reach out to us! Our team has been serving the area for over 15 years, and we would love to be a resource for you!

Samuel Ciochon

Chicago Lifestyle Team with @ properties.

5 Reasons Why to Move to Chicago and Why We Love It!

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Top 5 Reasons Why People Love Chicago

Samuel Ciochon, a renowned Chicago Realtor, recently unveiled a captivating YouTube video outlining the top five reasons why people are enamored with the vibrant city of Chicago. With a wealth of experience and knowledge in the Chicago real estate market, Ciochon sheds light on what makes Chicago a desirable place to live. Let's delve into the top five reasons revealed in the video:

  1. Cleanliness: One of the top reasons to love Chicago is its dedication to cleanliness. The city invests in maintaining a clean environment for residents and visitors alike.

  2. The Lake Access: Chicago's prime location along Lake Michigan offers residents easy access to beautiful beaches, scenic waterfront views, and a variety of outdoor activities.

  3. The Architecture: Chicago is renowned for its remarkable architecture, with iconic skyscrapers and historic buildings that showcase a mix of styles from different time periods.

  4. Cultural Attractions (including the culinary scene): Chicago boasts a vibrant cultural scene with world-class museums, theaters, music venues, and a diverse culinary landscape that caters to all tastes.

  5. World Renowned City with Diverse Population: As a global city, Chicago attracts people from all walks of life, creating a rich tapestry of cultures, languages, and traditions that contribute to the city's unique identity.

Samuel Ciochon's insights into why people love Chicago highlight the city's unique blend of culture, cuisine, natural beauty, and economic opportunities. Whether you're a longtime resident or considering a move to the Windy City, these factors make Chicago a truly special place to call home.

West Loop Concrete Loft - 111 S Morgan St Unit 602

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New To Market

 
 

The Details

2 Bed / 2 Bath

Address: 111 S. Morgan St Unit 602, Chicago IL 60607

HOA: $715

Price: $430,000 Unit + $30,000 Parking

Come Join Our Open Houses Sat. 4/ 20 & Sun 4/21 From 12 to 2

Welcome to the Chicago Lifestyle, where the West Loop's vibrant pulse meets contemporary living in this 2 bed/2 bath concrete loft condo. This urban sanctuary on high offers an unimpeded westward vista, ensuring your living spaces are bathed in the golden hues of the setting sun. The grandeur of the voluminous interiors is accentuated by a soaring ceiling, underscored by sleek hardwood floors and framed by expansive windows. The heart of the home, a well-appointed kitchen, stands ready to inspire your culinary exploits, transitioning effortlessly into an inviting living area. Here, an elegant fireplace provides warmth and ambiance, while modern finishes remind you of the city's pulse just beyond your door. The balcony, your private overlook, remains a hidden gem awaiting your personal touch to create an alfresco oasis. Retreat to the primary bedroom where serenity and storage coalesce, offering a spacious walk-in closet, and an en suite bath adorned with a dual vanity and a discreet linen closet - a luxury in urban living. Bedroom does fit a king size bed and nightstands. Additionally, the unit's A/C and Heating system, replaced in 2023 and 2017 respectably, promises year-round comfort with the efficiency of new technology. The unit also features a fully enclosed 2nd bedroom that is perfect for a guest room or office. Nestled in a high-rise, this low-amenity building focuses on essentials, featuring a 24-hour doorman and included cable and internet in the HOA, allowing for lower monthly fees without sacrificing the luxury of convenience. The West Loop is a tapestry of cultural threads, home to acclaimed restaurants, trendy boutiques, and verdant parks. With transportation a mere whisper away, including the blue and green lines, and Mariano's for your daily needs, the West Loop offers an unmatched cosmopolitan experience. A district renowned for its schools and the electric buzz of Fulton Market, every day is an opportunity to explore and indulge. This condo is more than a home; it's a lifestyle choice for those seeking to marry the excitement of downtown proximity with the comfort of modern, spacious living. Parking is an extra $30k.

 

Let’s Hear From The Sellers!

 

  • Was looking for a spacious home close to all the main attractions of west loop: bars, restaurants, parks, public transportation, grocery stores, etc.

    I also wanted a place that had high ceiling, a fireplace, and a balcony with a view that was just another building.

    Noise was another big attraction. The concrete ceilings prevent us from hardly ever hearing our neighbors.

  • Love the high concrete ceiling, western view, and large living room

  • Entertaining in the home was always great. The living room is spacious enough to host game nights and the kitchen was large enough to cook big meals. We’ve had numerous friends and family members stay in the guest room and they’ve always had more than enough space with the 2nd bath and bedroom.

  • Walking distance to everything! Gym, restaurants lake, river, grocery stores, black hawks and bulls games. People are familiar and friendly especially if you have a dog in the area. More people know the name of my dog than they do me. Great coffee shops all around from Morgan street cafe in the building to Starbucks and ground up right around the corner.

  • We love El Che for their happy hour, Gaijin for dinner and Black Barrel for drink (you can bring your dogs!)

  • The summers the park hosts movie nights where everyone brings appetizers and drinks and watches a movie outside

 
 

West Loop Corner Timber Loft - Welcome to 1040 W Adams St Unit 262

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New To Market

1 Bed + Office / 1.1 Bath

Price: $390,000 plus $25,000 for Parking

Taxes: $7,692

HOA: $725

A Day in the Loft Life: Unwind in the West Loop

Embrace the essence of urban living at No. 10 Lofts in the pulsating heart of West Loop, where history and modernity dance in a space that beckons you to live, work, and play with Chicago's skyline as your constant backdrop.

Morning Serenity in Industrial Elegance

As dawn breaks, the morning sun floods your spacious bedroom, casting a warm glow on the exposed brick walls. The fusion of old and new is a quiet reminder of Chicago's architectural heritage as you start your day. Slide into your slippers and make your way across the polished hardwood floors, each step resonating with the stories of the past.

Culinary Delights in Your Chef's Corner

Step into your kitchen, where the gleam of granite countertops and top-tier stainless steel appliances inspires the chef within. Whether it's a quick espresso from the sleek machine or a full brunch spread, your kitchen—with its modern conveniences and industrial flair—is the heart of your home.

Afternoons Al Fresco

The West Loop sun beckons you to your private balcony, an urban sanctuary where you can savor a good book or dine alfresco, surrounded by the open views of the bustling neighborhood.

The Work-Life Blend

Transition back inside to your flexible office space, where a state-of-the-art murphy bed stands ready for guests but tucks away for your Zoom calls and focus sessions. With custom Elfa closets keeping your space clutter-free, productivity feels as natural as the light streaming through your windows.

Evening's Entertainment

As twilight descends, your loft transforms. The open-plan living space, with its rich textures and contemporary comforts, sets the stage for memorable nights. The half bath, revamped for your guests, mirrors the sophistication found throughout your abode.

No. 10 Lofts: Your Lifestyle Hub

The amenities at No. 10 Lofts are an extension of your home—refined and ready. From the renovated fitness room to the vibrant communal terraces, every corner of the building is designed for resident enjoyment.

West Loop: Your Playground

Beyond the loft, the West Loop is a treasure trove of experiences. It's in the clink of glasses along Restaurant Row, the green expanse of Mary Bartelme Park, and the buzz of Madison Street shops. Here, a simple Saturday can include a rooftop pool session at Soho House or a culinary journey from the Mediterranean flavors of Athena to the Japanese fusion of Nobu.

 

Yes, you can tour it here:

 

Hear it from the owners:

  • This home stuck out to us just because of the size. It was a lot larger than the other one beds we were seeing in the area. The tall ceilings and the timber really captured us with the charm.

  • We host a TON! Having the guest bath and the murphy bed allowed us to function with others in the home, but the balcony and the huge island allowed us to entertain!

  • We entertained a lot! Even last year, we hosted about 25 people for a holiday party here. It was so much fun, and it did’t feel crowded Honestly, we always hung out around the counter tops.

  • Clearly we love italian food…. Travoli Tavern, Forno Roso and Monteverde

Opportunities in the 2024 Chicago Real Estate Market!

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As we step into 2024, the Chicago real estate market continues to present a variety of opportunities for both buyers and sellers. Despite the chill of winter, the market is heating up with possibilities that cater to different needs and aspirations.

For Buyers: Building Equity over Renting

The ever-evolving landscape of Chicago's real estate market in 2024 is a fertile ground for buyers. While rents may appear marginally lower, buying a home in Chicago remains a smarter choice for those looking to build equity over time. The city is expected to see baseline price appreciation, rivaling most markets in the United States, making it an opportune time for buyers to invest.

One strategy for potential homeowners is to consider properties that require some work. These homes often come at a lower purchase price, providing an opportunity to enhance value over time through renovations and upgrades. Additionally, exploring various lending options, including first-time homebuyer programs and adjustable-rate mortgages, can lead to significant savings and affordability.

Location remains a key factor. Buyers are encouraged to research and consider different neighborhoods, keeping an eye on areas with potential for growth and development.

For Sellers: Maximizing Returns

Sellers in the Chicago market have a unique opportunity to capitalize on their home equity, assisting in the transition to their next property. With thoughtful pricing strategies and home presentations, sellers can attract a broad range of buyers. Creative financing options, such as rate buydowns, can also be a powerful tool to maximize the pool of potential buyers, making homes more affordable for a wider audience.

In 2024, the Chicago market demands a nuanced approach from sellers. Understanding the current market trends, pricing homes competitively, and utilizing effective marketing strategies will be key to success.

As we continue to navigate these exciting times, our commitment to providing you with the latest insights, trends, and personalized guidance remains steadfast. Let's embrace the opportunities of 2024 together, making informed decisions that pave the way for a prosperous future in Chicago's dynamic real estate market.