Aquilo is one of Chicago’s most successful condominium conversions in East Lakeview. The 252 unit building located at 2930 North Sheridan is in the middle of an area known for exciting entertainment, great food, and an excellent neighborhood feel. This luxury high rise offer units that range from $200K-$400K.

Aquilo’s first floor is dedicated to retail, which makes shopping a snap. Attached garage parking and 24-hour security add a safe vibe to this building, which also includes elevator access. Residents of Aquilo enjoy incredible views of the city and Lake Michigan from their expansive windows.

If you choose Aquilo as your new home you have the option of several upgrade packages available. Standard features of all units, however, are premium hardwood floors, floor-to-ceiling windows, new appliances, and washer/dryer hook-ups. Residents also have access to a fitness center and a fabulous rooftop deck that is perfect for relaxation or entertaining.

Interested in a tour or more information on Aquilo? Contact us today!

Learn how you can save money when you use CONDODOMAIN!

Aquilo

East Lakeview is the place to be if you want high-rise living at affordable prices, and Aquilo can help accommodate that goal.

Offering units priced between $200K and $400K, Aquilo offers such amenities as views of the city and Lake Michigan, retail shops on the first floor, garage parking, 24-hour security, a fitness center, a rooftop deck, available upgrade packages, hardwood flooring, in-unit washer and dryer hook-ups, new appliances, and floor to ceiling windows.

The location is prime, too. Located in the heart of East Lakeview, near busy Belmont Avenue, Aquilo offers easy access to retail and nightlife. It’s near the lake, near the trendy Lincoln Park neighborhood, and not very far from historic Wrigley Field.

Getting downtown or to other neighborhoods is a breeze, as well, due to the proximity to several public transit stops, including the busy Belmont stop.

Park land is just steps away–Lincoln Park isn’t far to the south. Whether it’s the zoo, the softball fields, or the nature museum, there are plenty of appealing things to do.

Looking for a place in Lakeview? Then take a peek at Aquilo before it’s too late!

3255 N. Paulina

Lakeview continues to be one of Chicago’s strongest neighborhoods, and buyers who are shopping in this North Side haven might want to check out 3255 N. Paulina.

Located near the Belmont/Ashland/Lincoln intersection, this building puts residents close to bars, restaurants, lots of local retail, and a Whole Foods. It’s also easily accessible to the Brown Line, and it’s not too far from famous Wrigley Field and Chicago’s glorious lakefront.

The building itself offers rooftop decks and private balconies, upscale kitchens with stainless steel appliances, oak flooring, stone counter tops, Grohe bathroom fixtures, and whirpool tubs. Don’t forget the heated garage parking.

West Lakeview has become an appealing–and less crowded–alternative to Wrigleyville and East Lakeview. It’s an area that provides easy access to neighboring North Center and Lincoln Park, and residents can quickly get downtown due to the Brown Line’s proximity.

Prices for this Jameson building run from $650K to $900K.

Take a look today!

Are you looking for the best condo to fit your lifestyle and personality? It can be overwhelming to search through the huge number of condos available in Chicago, so here are some quick snapshots of five condo developments you should check out!

1. R + D659 – West Loop

R + D659 offers more than twenty different condo layouts that exhibit contemporary finishes and open floorplans. The carefully designed open units are enhanced by glass, stone, and stainless steel. Modern finishes create an atmosphere of comfort and vitality within each space. R + D659 offers convertibles, one bedroom plus den, two bedroom, and penthouse units. Amenities include a private fitness center, rooftop pool, and professional business center. R + D659 also boasts a trendy residents-only lounge for for relaxing and entertaining. The bustling West Loop location also means that residents of this modern building have access to fantastic food and ample entertainment only a short walk from their beautiful home. Developer: Mesirow Financial Real Estate, Inc.

 2. Vision on State – South Loop

 Vision on State is  just a half block from Grant Park, and within walking distance of the Museum Campus and Soldier Field. This development offers 253 units—both one and two bedroom homes. The kitchens in this building are equipped with GE appliances, granite countertops, hardwood floors and 42” cabinets. The master baths in Vision on State are outfitted with marble countertops and ceramic tile floors and shower surrounds. Every unit is enhanced by a large private terrace, and many include beautiful skyline, lake and park views.There are many amenities afforded to the residents of Vision on State. The development features a 24-hour doorman service, modern fitness center, central air conditioning, and a dog run. Developer: Leopardo Companies, Inc.

3. 740 West Fulton – West Loop

 740 West Fulton is 14-floor, 132-unit building in the West Loop area of Chicago. Homes in this spacious development feature high ceilings (11’ and 18’ high), stainless steel appliances, exposed duct work, floor-to-ceiling window panels, and granite counters. Modern finishes like painted cement ceilings, internal drywall, oak hardwood floors, traditional baseboards, and cozy fireplaces enhance the contemporary, chic feel of 740 West Fulton. Amenities include a private fitness center, a business center with high-speed internet access and satellite television, and a 24-hour concierge service. Developer: Thrush Companies.

 4. 828 West Grace – Lakeview

 828 West Grace is a new condo development by Sedgwick Development Corporation that is located in the popular Lakeview area of Chicago.There are several different floorplans in the 17-story building. Residents of 828 West Grace can choose one or two bedroom units, with a choice of one or two bathrooms. Each home includes a fabulous array of stainless steel appliances, 42” cabinets, hardwood floors in all living areas, and granite countertops. 828 West Grace offers amenities like two high-speed elevators and a 24-hour doorman.  The excellent Lakeview location also provide residents with amazing shopping, dining, and entertainment just minutes from their door. Developer: Sedgwick Development Corporation.

 5. Fairbanks at Cityfront Plaza – Streeterville

Fairbanks at Cityfront Plaza is known as “a city within a city” because of its great mix of residential and retail spaces. One of the main features in Cityfront Plaza is the 9th floor Sky Deck, which features an owner’s club, stadium style screening room, outdoor cafe, health club facilities, pools and lush gardens. Fairbanks at Cityfront Plaza offers both residences and lofts that showcase wood flooring in living areas, luxury grade carpet in bedrooms, floor-to-ceiling windows, washer/dryer hoop-up, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances. Further amenities include concierge, maid, and laundry services, indoor parking, a dog area, and a 24 hour doorman. Developer: Centrum Properties.

Interested in these properties? Contact us today for more information or to set up a tour!

Learn how you can save thousands when you use CondoDomain!

3133 North Lakewood

Buyers looking for a place in Wrigleyville might do well to consider a unit at 3133 North Lakewood.

Located just south of busy Belmont Avenue and only blocks from historic Wrigley Field, this 25-unit, four-story building offers residents 15′ floor-to-ceiling windows and private decks. Indoor parking is available and pets are allowed in the building. Prices start at about $250K.

The neighborhood can’t be beat. Besides being close to Wrigley Field, the building is close to plenty of nightclubs, bars, and restaurants. The Southport Corridor–which includes plenty of high-end retail shops–is right around the corner.

Public transit is also close by–CTA buses and trains are just steps away.

Of course, Wrigley Field is a big draw, and some units in this Jameson building will have views of the ballpark, while others will overlook downtown.

Even if sports isn’t your thing, Wrigleyville offers plenty to do–and it’s not too far from downtown.

Whether you’re into baseball, shopping, or eating out, this location is for you. And so just might be 3133 North Lakewood.

Take a look today!

Cornelia Court Chicago

One area of the north side that has been quietly redeveloping is the far west portion of Lakeview, near Western and Addison. New developments abound, and the area’s quiet residential nature might appeal to young families or maturing singles who like the nightlife but want to move to a shady spot just minutes away from the action.

Located at 3001 W. Cornelia, Cornelia Court Chicago is development from Anchor General Construction that has 63 three-story townhomes, ranging from two to four bedrooms. Units have 2.5 or 3.5 bathrooms, and the largest units have just a tick more than 2,900 sq. ft. Amenities include hardwood floors, carpeted bedrooms, nine or 10 foot ceiling heights, granite counters, Canac cabinets, stainless steel appliances, and marble or limestone bathrooms.

There is a 10,650 sq. ft. courtyard in the middle, and Cornelia Court gives residents a private community feel in the middle of the big city. There are nearby amenities, such as the Addison Square Mall and California Park.

Prices range from $450K to $650K.

Take a look at Cornelia Court Chicago today!

828 West Grace

Looking to live in a new building? Looking to live near Wrigleyville and Boystown? 828 West Grace might be your place.

This new construction building is located at Broadway and Grace, just a few blocks from Wrigley Field. Lakeview nightlife is also only steps away, as is the lakefront itself.

There are 140 units in this 17-unit building. Residents will be able to choose from one and two bedroom units, with one or two bathrooms. There will be a 24-hour doorman, 42-inch cabinets, stainless steel appliances, hardwood floors, and granite counter-tops. All rooms will be pre-wired for cable and high speed Internet, and deeded parking spaces will be available in the garage for $29,900.

Lakeview offers plenty of nightlife, easy access to CTA buses and trains, and plenty of sun-soaked afternoons at the ballpark. The diverse mix of 20- and 30-something residents, along with young families, makes this neighborhood a fun place to live and play. And buying a newly constructed unit means no worrying about fixing a previous owner’s mess.

Check out 828 West Grace today!

A Lakeview Collection Condo

Not everyone looks for a high-rise condo in the Gold Coast or along the lake in Lincoln Park. For some, moving a bit further from the lake holds a strong appeal.

The Lakeview Collection is situated near the busy Belmont/Ashland/Lincoln intersection, which means there’s plenty to do at night, as the neighborhood continues to grow in popularity. There’s also plenty of nearby shopping, such as a Whole Foods. The proximity of such a busy intersection and a nearby Brown Line stop also gives residents plenty of transportation options.

The Lakeview Collection is a new six-story building that has 130 units, with prices in the low $300,ooo range.

Not only are the bars and shops of Roscoe Village nearby, but Wrigley Field is a short drive to the east, and Lincoln Park is just to the southeast. For someone who is looking for an alternative to the population crush of Lincoln Park and Wrigleyville that’s still close to the North Side nightlife, this new building could be work a look.

Click here for further details!

Chicago Skyline

A story in today’s Chicago Tribune highlights a condo building that will be changing from a prestigious Lake Shore Dr. address to a slightly-less-prestigious Oak St. address. Reason for the change are unclear, but it’s got residents upset, even if it may not mean much for re-sale values.

So the question is, how much does the cachet of an address mean to you? Does Lake Shore Dr. sound better than a neighboring side street? Does Oak Street mean more than Michigan Avenue? How about State Street?

For that matter, how much does the ZIP code or city name mean to you? We’re not talking about what those factors mean for property values–those are measurable factors. What we’re referring to is the emotional cachet. Does living in 60614 mean more to you, personally, than 60613 or 60657? If all other factors are roughly equal, will you forsake a perfectly good condo because it’s in the wrong ZIP code or in Evanston instead of across the street in Chicago?

Or do property value, purchase price, school system, and other concerns matter more than what address your friends will be addressing their holiday cards to?

Feel free to weigh in with your comments.

[Source: Chicago Tribune]

North Side

When condo shopping, especially on the North Side, there are plenty of options. There are lofts, walk-ups (both new construction and rehabs) and lakefront high-rises. What’s best for you?

If you are looking for space, particularly if you want high ceilings, lofts may be good for you. And there are parts of Lincoln Park and Lakeview that used to house factories which have now been converted into condos. But if you’re shopping on the North or Northwest Sides, you’re mostly likely going to be looking at walk-ups or high-rise buildings.

This author recently went through the same search, before settling on a high-rise unit. As might be expected, the two types of condos are quite different, and you’ll have to find what works best for you. In my case, a need for parking for my car led me to look at high-rises, since most have garages. There are walk-up units with off-street parking, as well, but the numbers are lower.

High-rise buyers will find themselves paying more for assessments, since most high-rise buildings have maintenance staffs and doormen whose salaries need to be paid somehow. Walk-up units can be appealing due to the lower assessments, but during my search, I noticed that the average price of a unit in a walk-up or low-rise multi-unit dwelling seemed to be a bit higher than that of comparable high-rise units.

Finally, you’ll want to consider the community make-up of the building itself. In a walk-up, you’ll have only a few neighbors. On the one hand, the small amount of people could give you a sense of  community, on the other, it makes it hard to escape your neighbors should there be a beef. Living in a high-rise is like living in a mini-city, there are plenty of people to meet, and its easier to retreat should you not see eye-to-eye with a neighbor. Also, many high-rise buildings offer perks like a gym, pool, party room, or marketplace.

During my search, I looked at both types of buildings. In the end, I picked a high-rise because of the view, the available parking, and the lower purchase price. But my experience, like every other buyers’, is unique. You’ll need to take some time to go over your own needs and wants, and then make the call.

Valentine’s Day is swiftly approaching and I know there are some of you out there who haven’t made plans yet, but there’s no need to panic! Whether you’re looking to find a nice deal or splurge on your sweetheart, one of these dining options is sure to please.

Ecclectic Experience

Carnivale is a lively restaurant in the Warehouse District that features cuisine from Brazil, Puerto Rico, Cuba, and Colombia. This exciting environment boasts a jewel-colored skylight, seven-foot high light fixtures, and a second story wine wall. Specials like fried oysters and prime rib for two augment the regular menu for Valentine’s Day. On Sunday, a stilt-walker will hand out complimentary flowers and Los Guitarristas will set the mood with wonderful live music.

Delicious Cuisine

Some say that Paris is the most romantic city in the world, and they certainly have excellent food. You can sample delicious French dishes without leacing River North, though, at Brasserie Jo. This acclaimed restaurant is one of my personal favorites, and features a beautiful dining room and attentive staff. Their Valentine’s Day menu is a four course dinner that includes foie gra and oxtail terrine, winter greens sals, Atlantic salmon, and almond chocolate cake for only $49!

Relaxing Rendevous

If you’re someone who doesn’t want to go somewhere super fancy for dinner, DMK Burger Bar is the place for you. This upscale burger joint caters to the kid in all of us. Their Valentine’s Day prix-fixe menu features deviled eggs, lobster “love” soup, your choice of burger, truffle fries, and Three Floyds Gumballhead drafts. For dessert, you and your beau can get cozy over a shared strawberry milkshake and two cupcakes. This classic date spot is in bustling Lakeview, which is only minutes from beautiful homes, easy transportation, and endless entertainment.

Early Bird

Salute in River North offers a three-course dinner with optional wine pairings ($20 extra) that is only $40 if you dine beweetn 4 and 6 p.m. This wine bar and Italian restaurant exudes romanic Victorian-era charm that is sure to please. Intimate seating, Italian charm, and an impressive wine list are all staples of this River North restaurant. Salute is located in the heart of the River North community, which boasts great eating, shopping, and entertainment.

Extravagant Dining

L2o is an elegant, haute-cuisine restaurant in Lincoln Park. This Valentine’s Day you can break the bank by taking your honey to a 10-course luxury dinner for $245, with wine for an additional $110. For those looking to spend a bit less, there is a 12-course dinner menu available for $165 (wine pairings $90 extra). Celebrated chef Laurent Gras, who earned fame in France and top restaurants in America provides guests with a unique and extravagant dining opportunity only minutes from their homes in popular Lincoln Park.

 If you like the sound of these restaurants, you’ll LOVE the homes in River North, Lincoln Park, and Lakeview. Take a look, and discover how you can save money with CondoDomain.com.

Is the Chicago real estate market getting better?

Now that a month and a half of 2010 is in the books, is the market getting better? According to CNNMoney.com, the home price forecast in Chicago is down 2.7 percent. That number looks bad, but it’s an improvement over what we saw in 2008 and 2009. The good news is that prices are expected to hit bottom in the second quarter of this year, which means a rebound could be happening right as the summer sales season begins.

What this means for buyers is that now is the time to go shopping, before the market begins to recover and the prices begin to climb. While there is no guarantee that the market will recover, and it’s unlikely to return to 2007 levels, the market will get better, and perhaps sooner that we think.

if you’re buying, look now. If you’re selling, take heart–you may be able to get more than you bargained for.