5 Tips for Finding an Apartment in Downtown Chicago


Tip #1: Not All Square Footage is Created Equally

There are many factors to consider when searching for the right apartment. One major factor that makes or breaks the deal is the size of the apartment or amount of square footage. Square foot size is not and should not be the ONLY criteria used as the standards vary from company to company, from state to state and from country to country. We still encourage you to check out apartments that may appear not to have the right size. We have encountered thousands of people who ended up in units that were slightly smaller than their standards, but were laid out more efficiently.


Tip #2: Start your Search by Picking a Neighborhood 

Instead of searching for ‘apartments downtown Chicago’, try selecting a neighborhood first. This is especially valuable for new settlers to the downtown Chicago area. Things to consider include access to public transit, parking availability, noise level, outdoor space, and amenities. Too many people get distracted by the small details of the apartment and they end up living in a neighborhood where they are not happy. 

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Tip #3: Timing is Everything

Summer is the busiest moving season of the year with an estimated 80% of all moves occurring between April and September. This is also prime time to look for apartments in downtown Chicago for students. There tends to be more available, but also a lot more competition. This may also mean higher prices, which makes it harder to find downtown Chicago apartments under $1,000. If you can hold off until autumn or winter, you will have less competition and perhaps even better rental prices too. 

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Tip #4: Know What You are Paying - Even After You Move In

Even when you are not investing in apartments in downtown Chicago for sale, it is good to be aware of the cost of renting instead. Stay in the know about the average rental costs. See if the deal that is being given is the best deal for you. The only way to get peace of mind is to do the research yourself. If you plan on searching our site for ‘2-bedroom apartments in downtown Chicago’, then start looking a couple months before your moving date. This way you will be educated and informed on what an acceptable rate is. And that’s not just before the purchase. This principle applies well after you signed on the dotted line. 


Tip #5: Come Prepared for Apartment Tours with Questions.

When you make the step to advance your search to the next level – booking a tour of the apartment   – you may wish to consider printing or typing up a list of questions to ask the property manager or landlord. Such questions may include:

  • What are the lease terms? 
  • What are the minimum income requirements? ‘
  • Are the utilities included? If not, what are the average monthly costs of utilities? 
  • Is there storage space in the building or unit? Is there an extra charge?
  • Are pets allowed? If so, is there an extra charge?
  • Is renters’ insurance required?

To be approved for an apartment, you must show that you are a credible tenant. That generally means having a strong credit score, a stable income that is 3x the monthly rent, and good references.

I you fail to meet those requirements you'll likely have to get a guarantor to co-sign for the apartment or be willing to put down a deposit.

About ApartmentLove – Rental Homes USA 

Here at ApartmentLove.com, our team is committed to helping you find the apartment of your dreams; one that suits your lifestyle and budget. Renting has never been easier.

We don’t offer short-term downtown Chicago apartments like Airbnb. Instead, try searching our site for ‘condos for rent downtown Chicago’ or ‘Studio Apartments downtown Chicago’ and compare thousands of long-term rentals directly on our website. Our vast database of listings guarantees you will find what you are looking for. There will be no need to look further for apartments for rent in downtown Chicago on Zillow or other rental websites. 

But remember that the first step to finding your perfect home is to understand what’s important to you and finding a reliable source that can make the process easier.


Published: May 23, 2021