First-Time Condo Buying in Chicago: What You Need to Know

Buying your first condo in Chicago involves more complexity than renting an apartment and different considerations than buying a single-family home. After helping hundreds of first-time buyers navigate Chicago's condo market over 20+ years, I've learned that success comes from understanding what makes condos unique, and avoiding the common mistakes that create buyer's remorse.

Here's what matters most:

Total cash is typically 12-20% of purchase price. Down payment (10-15% for most first-timers in quality buildings), closing costs (2-4% of purchase price), and post-closing emergency reserves all add up. On a $400K condo, plan for $48K-$80K total cash needed. First-time buyers consistently…

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Most Expensive Condo Buildings on Michigan Avenue Chicago

While Chicago's Magnificent Mile is certainly known for being one of downtown's premier commercial and shopping districts, it's also a wonderful place to call home as well. Set amongst all the upscale stores, luxe fashion boutiques, and five-star restaurants along Michigan Avenue are a number of the city's most expensive condo towers, including the shortlist featured below: 

Ritz Carlton Residences Chicago

It doesn't get any classier than the Ritz Carlton. Downtown Chicago's iteration of the world-renowned hotel chain is no exception. From the moment you walk in, you'll immediately be impressed by the exquisite architecture and attention to detail. Elites traveling from every part of the world consider this place a home away from home. But what…

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Streeterville Condos With The Best Amenities

Streeterville is one of Downtown Chicago's most lively and energetic neighborhoods. Home to the Magnificent Mile, as well as countless cultural, restaurants, and tourist attractions, there's certainly plenty to see and do all throughout this essential part of the Windy City, also making it a top destination if you're looking for the ultimate urban setting to call home as well. And in case you're looking for a condo building that offers much more than just your average living space, consider these amazing address that all have some of the best building and lifestyle amenities of any building in town. 

One Mag Mile 

One Mag Mile is about as fabulous as Streeterville condominiums come. Its 50 floors of large-windowed suites look out onto the…

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