If you think your First Apartment Checklist is just “bed, couch, Wi-Fi,” I’ve got news for you. After years covering Chicago housing — from Lincoln Park high-rises to garden units in Albany Park — I’ve seen more rookie renter mistakes than snowplows on Lake Shore Drive in January.
This isn’t the Pinterest checklist. This is the First Apartment Checklist nobody hands you before you sign a lease, wire a deposit, and realize you forgot about electricity deposits and renters insurance.
Let’s do this the right way.
The Real First Apartment Checklist: Before You Even Apply
Most renters focus on the photos. Granite counters. Skyline view. Exposed brick in Wicker Park.
Here’s what matters more.
1. Total Move-In Cost (Not Just Rent)
Chicago landlords typically require:
- First month’s rent
- Security deposit (often equal to one month) OR move-in fee ($250–$750 in many high-rises)
- Application fee ($50–$100 per adult)
- Pet fees (if applicable: $250–$500 non-refundable + monthly pet rent $25–$50)
Example:
You rent a $1,800 one-bedroom in Lakeview.
- Rent: $1,800
- Move-in fee: $500
- Application: $75
- Pet fee: $350
Total upfront: $2,725 — before buying a single fork.
Your First Apartment Checklist should always calculate 2–3x monthly rent for move-in readiness.
2. Credit and Income Requirements
In Chicago, most landlords require:
- Income = 2.5x to 3x monthly rent
- Credit score 650+ preferred
- Proof of employment or offer letter
If you’re relocating to Chicago, have documentation ready. HR emails are not documentation. Formal letters are.
3. Commute Reality Check
It looks close on Google Maps. But is it close at 8:15 AM?
Test:
- Walk to the nearest CTA stop
- Check rush hour travel time
- Look at bus frequency
Living near the Chicago Transit Authority can save you hundreds per month in rideshares and parking.
What to Inspect During the Tour
Here’s where most first-time renters get dazzled.
Do not.
Bring this First Apartment Checklist with you physically or mentally.
Check These Closely:
- Water pressure in shower and kitchen
- Window insulation (Chicago winters are not forgiving)
- Radiator noise or HVAC condition
- Cell signal strength
- Laundry situation (in-unit vs basement vs laundromat down the block)
I once toured a “luxury” River North unit that looked incredible. But the bedroom fit a twin mattress and a prayer. Always measure.
Ask These Questions
- How are maintenance requests handled?
- What utilities are included?
- Is renters insurance required?
- Are there move-out fees?
- What’s the renewal increase history?
If they hesitate on answers, that’s your answer.
The Hidden Costs Nobody Mentions
Your First Apartment Checklist must account for these.
Utilities in Chicago (Monthly Averages)
- Electric: $60–$120
- Gas (winter spike): $80–$200
- Internet: $60–$90
- Renters insurance: $12–$25
Winter heating bills in vintage walk-ups can surprise you more than a Cubs ninth-inning collapse.
Furniture Reality
Even modest setups cost more than expected.
Basic starter setup:
- Mattress: $400–$1,000
- Sofa: $600–$1,500
- Kitchen supplies: $250+
- Cleaning supplies: $75+
Budget at least $2,000–$4,000 for initial furnishing unless you’re inheriting a cousin’s IKEA collection.
Lease Details You Must Read
This part of the First Apartment Checklist separates the confident renters from the regretful ones.
Key Lease Clauses
- Early termination penalties
- Subletting rules
- Guest policy limits
- Noise rules
- Move-out notice requirements (usually 60 days in Chicago)
Missing a notice deadline can cost you thousands.
Neighborhood-Specific Considerations
Chicago is a city of neighborhoods. Renting in Logan Square feels different than South Loop. Prices, building types, parking, and safety patterns vary block by block.
Example Price Ranges (2026 Estimates)
- Studio in Uptown: $1,100–$1,500
- 1BR in West Loop: $2,000–$2,800
- 2BR in Lakeview: $2,200–$3,200
Your First Apartment Checklist should include researching crime stats, grocery stores, parking permits, and noise levels.
Move-In Day Essentials
Do not learn this the hard way.
Bring:
- Photo ID
- Certified funds (if required)
- Move-in reservation confirmation (for high-rises)
- Basic toolkit
- Shower curtain
- Toilet paper
Yes, toilet paper belongs on a serious First Apartment Checklist.
For Buyers and Relocators
If you’re relocating to Chicago:
- Visit in person if possible
- Avoid wiring deposits without verified showings
- Consider guided tours
For buyers transitioning from renting, this checklist mindset carries over — inspections, fees, association rules — just at higher dollar signs.
Summary: The Checklist That Saves You Money
The real First Apartment Checklist isn’t aesthetic.
It’s financial.
It’s practical.
It’s preventative.
Calculate full move-in cost.
Inspect everything.
Read the lease carefully.
Budget for hidden utilities.
Plan for winter.
Chicago rewards prepared renters and punishes the casual ones.
Visit TourWithAgent.com to schedule curated apartment tours in Chicago with real availability, real pricing, and an expert agent to guide you.
