Many Chicagoans were disappointed to learn that the retail giant Walmart hopes to set up shop in Lakeview later this year.

For several months concerned citizens and neighborhood activists have been protesting the construction of a Lakeview Walmart, but to no avail. The retail chain announced in a public meeting last month that it intends to move forward with its plans to build a small store near the Lakeview/Lincoln Park border.

In spite of this unfortunate announcement, many of the activists remain undeterred. In fact, they have chosen to look upon this temporary setback as an incentive to redouble their efforts to prevent Walmart from embarking on any more construction projects in Chicago.

Facebook groups like this one have sprung up in recent weeks, and the residents of Logan Square—working in tandem with the residents of several other Chicago neighborhoods—have been working tirelessly to see to it that Walmart’s next construction project in The Windy City meets with more resistance.

Want a real lakeview just off Lake Shore Drive? That’s a big part of Lakeview, just as is the bar-centric area around Wrigley Field. But about a mile to the west, near the border of the neighborhood, it’s more family-friendly, offering plenty of parks and quality schools.

Yet, what’s the one thing available in all parts of Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood? Plenty of luxury living options. Here on CondoDomain, simply search the MLS for Lake View, and you’ll be presented with over 2,000 listings in all price ranges. That search can be narrowed down some, to focus on luxury living priced at $750K and above, by simply changing the search parameters. (That search will yield about 220 results, as of May 4, 2011).

Here’s just a handful of options currently available on CondoDomain. Like what you see? Contact CondoDomain’s Kipp Blackburn at 877-852-6636 to schedule a showing.

579 Hawthorne Place, priced at $3,250,000, is just steps away from Lake Michigan.
This recently renovated single-family home offers a spacious floor plan with over 5,000 square feet of space. In addition to four bedrooms and three bathrooms, 579 Hawthorne also offers a large terrace and a rec room. The home also comes with a range of appliances, including a sub-zero refrigerator, wine cooler, and a variety of stainless steel appliances, just to name a few.

3838 Lakewood Ave., priced at $1,935,00, is located just south of Lakeview’s northern border and is considered a part of the Southport Corridor.
After a price-drop from $2,150,000, this five bedroom, 4.2 bathroom home is a steal. Hardwood floors run throughout the 5,100 square foot home. Just built in 2006, this home also has all sorts of nice amenities in a great part of town.

3535 Paulina St., priced at $1,799,000, is on a spacious lot on the western edge of Lakeview, right near Roscoe Village.
This brick and limestone home offers more than just 4 bedrooms and 3.1 baths. It also features an amazing side yard that few lots in Chicago can boast. The backyard also holds a 5-car garage. Inside 3535 Paulina, there’s vaulted ceilings, four fireplaces, and full wine cellar. And that’s just a few of the amenities.

For more luxury homes for sale in Chicago’s Lakeview, click here.

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]

3140 North Sheffield is an award-winning condo development that houses 51 units over 7 great floors. Located in the Lakeview neighborhood of Chicago, this residence is in the middle of all the city has to offer. If you’re into entertainment, this is the spot for you since 3140 North Sheffield is right across the street from the Vic Theater!

3140 North Sheffield earned a first place Gold Key Award in the Superior Design and Construction category and a second place Silver Key Award for Architectural Design from the Home Builder’s Association of Greater Chicago. What’s better than living in an award-winning building?

Every unit in 3140 North Sheffield features solid oak hardwood flooring, fireplaces, and soaring 10’ ceilings. Chef-quality kitchens and marble baths invite you to cook up a delicious meal or relax in style. The luxurious feel of 3140 North Sheffield extends beyond your indoor space, though. You can enjoy beautiful balcony views from right outside your door, and enjoy the exquisite limestone and brick exterior of your home each time you enter!

Interested in more information or a tour of 3140 North Sheffield? Contact us today!

Learn how you can save thousands when you buy with CONDODOMAIN!

2811 North Bell is located in the popular Lakeview neighborhood of Chicago. Situated in a lovely, semi-private riverfront community, 2811 North Bell is perfect for professionals, families, and everyone in between. Lakeview is a beautiful, hip area characterized by tree-lined streets, excellent dining, amazing architecture, and some of the city’s best public schools.

The designers of 2811 North Bell did not overlook any of the best finishes when designing this development! The extra-wide residences include great kitchens outfitted with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and breakfast bars.

Master suites in 2811 North Bell combine luxury with utility. These lavish suites feature expansive walk-in closets and grand private master baths. Residents who want to avoid the cold Chicago winter can also take advantage of the attached garage parking available, or curl up in front of the fireplaces in their homes!

For more information or a tour of 2811 North Bell, contact us today!

Want to save thousands on real estate? Find out how with CONDODOMAIN!

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!

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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!

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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!