Pete Wolfgram

I currently live in Logan Square not far from your condo and we pay $1150/mo for a 2br 1bath. Granted ours is a rental and the rehab is nice (dishwasher, whirlpool tub, fireplace, a/c, etc) but I wouldn't call it "condo" quality. I would just emphasize the theater, trains, restaurants, and location of Logan. I would guess that you could fetch somewhere around $1250-1450 depending on the layout and utilities included. Best of luck! Renting at this point is definitely not a bad idea.. - Wed Jun 4 2008, 21:53

Hi Dawn,
Commissions are negotiable, but typically range from 5-6% for a full service agent . Agreed that "getting what you pay for" usually holds true. But as a partner in a discount brokerage firm, I have to say our clients have actually asked why we don't charge more for our service. Simply put, we believe sellers should have the option to trade their needed capacity of service for savings.
For example, instead of a commission we charge a couple hundred dollars to put our clients on the MLSNI and other popular websites, where we feel they will get the most effective exposure. Along with contract negotiations, a yard sign, and continued communication, we have helped many sell and save thousands of dollars. I will admit, out service isn't for everyone. Our clients tend to be proactive, show their own property, or at least have interest in playing a larger role in the process.
Bottom line, with the help of an attorney review, our clients feel confident in getting more involved. Many sellers are seeing the financial rewards in this type of agency, but do what you're comfortable with, just know that there are many options. Best of luck!! - Tue Apr 8 2008, 21:05

Hi Jessica,
I would love to help you reach your real estate goals, within your price point and desired neighborhood if you are seeking some assistance! My email address can be found on our company website or profile, otherwise I would be happy to suggest some options over the phone. Searching through property on Craigslist and/or Realtor.com are also great ways to give you a better understanding of what is out there. Best of Luck! - Sat Dec 15 2007, 22:30

Looking for a sound structure to rehab using green materials would probably be the most economical. Whether your reasoning is for investment or a personal green living philosophy, re-using the existing building is a pillar of sustainable architecture and least environmentally damaging.
The first place to start is identifying what type of building would work for your project or locating a vacant space. (Classifieds, Craigslist, Tribune, Reader, or the help of a Realtor) There is a ton of material available regarding green homes, so I would start there to get a better idea of what you will need. Still, using an architect is a very wise choice to help smooth the process and ultimately make your investment worth more in the end. A friend, Jeffrey Sommers of Square Root, specializes in sustainable/green architecture if your looking for a reference. He would be an excellent person to answer some initial concerns. - Sun Dec 2 2007, 16:08

Hi Denise,
I have usually found Craigslist and Chicago Reader to have the most listings available for rent. Just FYI, the Gold Coast isn't the most "dog-friendly" neighborhood for renters either, largely in part from the number of high rises with # and weight restrictions. When dealing with more than one dog, you may want to expand your search area if at all possible.
I did run a pretty generic search on the MLS too and found about 50 listings, however your price range and BR count would obviously influence that number. I'd be happy to send you some leads if interested though. Best of luck! - Fri Nov 23 2007, 12:40