There’s a special kind of magic to the hustle of Chicago. The towering buildings, the rush of taxis, the endless train lines — it’s all about doing more in less time. And when it comes to finding a new apartment, we Chicagoans like to get things done quickly. But here’s the problem: Apartment hunting can often feel like a time-sucking black hole. But it doesn’t have to be that way.
If you’re looking to tackle the chaotic apartment market of the Windy City in style (and speed), let’s talk strategy. Here’s how to see 6 apartments in just 60 minutes, all while avoiding the exhaustion of a day-long tour.
Preparation: The Key to Speed
When you’re diving into the Chicago rental market, whether you’re looking for an apartment in River North or Lincoln Park, one thing’s for sure: time is of the essence. You’re not looking to waste an entire Saturday touring apartments. You want to find a place, close the deal, and get back to your busy life. Here’s how to maximize your time and hit the ground running.
1. Map Your Tour Route
Chicago is sprawling, but it’s also a city with neighborhoods packed with apartment options. The key to seeing multiple units in a short amount of time is to plan a route that’s both efficient and effective.
- Stick to one area (or similar areas): Don’t try to hit neighborhoods that are across the city. Stick to one area or adjacent neighborhoods. For example, a mix of Logan Square, Bucktown, and Wicker Park can make a lot of sense for someone looking for trendy spaces with a bit of charm.
- Proximity is your best friend: If possible, select apartments that are within a few blocks of each other. This saves time between viewings. Think of it like a mini Chicago marathon, but with less running.
- Check availability: Make sure the apartments are available for the time slots you’re eyeing. This ensures you’re not showing up to a unit that’s already off the market.
2. Book Multiple Showings Back-to-Back
Gone are the days of waiting for a phone call to schedule a tour. Now, it’s all about making the most of every minute. When you book your tours, do it in quick succession — and give yourself enough time to take notes between showings.
- Opt for quick 10-15 minute tours: You don’t need to see every single nook and cranny. A fast, efficient walkthrough will do the trick. Ask the agent if you can do a fast-paced tour to stick to your schedule.
- Factor in commute time: You might have to zip across the city to get to the next showing, but if you’ve planned your route well, it should be easy to keep on schedule.
3. Be Ready to Make Decisions Fast
Chicago’s apartment market is a beast. Don’t waste time overthinking every little detail. If you see something you like, make a decision, take a picture, and move on. Don’t hesitate too long or you’ll risk losing out on a unit to someone else.
- Have your essentials in mind: Know what you need — are you willing to compromise on space for location? Or is a pet-friendly building a dealbreaker? Stay focused on what matters most to you and be ready to decide.
The Walkthrough: What to Look For in Each Apartment
You’ve planned your route and scheduled back-to-back tours. Now, it’s time for the fun part: the walkthroughs. But don’t just look around aimlessly — have a checklist ready so you can evaluate each place with precision.
1. Check the Layout and Space
Chicago apartments come in all shapes and sizes. Whether you’re eyeing a classic Chicago two-flat or a modern loft, the layout is key.
- Room sizes: Are the rooms big enough for your furniture? Can you picture yourself living there comfortably?
- Storage: Chicago apartments, especially in older buildings, sometimes lack closet space. Take a mental note of storage areas like closets, cabinets, and even built-ins.
2. Neighborhood Vibes
Yes, you’re touring apartments, but you’re also getting a sense of the neighborhood. Walk around and get a feel for the place. Is it quiet at night? Is there a vibrant scene on weekends?
- Public transportation: For those not owning a car, make sure there’s a CTA stop nearby. Chicago is all about convenience — so you need to factor in whether you’ll be able to get around easily.
- Safety: Check the area for well-lit streets, clean sidewalks, and active local businesses.
3. Building Amenities and Condition
Look beyond just the apartment itself. What’s the building like? What amenities are included?
- Building age: Chicago’s older buildings are charming but may require more maintenance. Make sure everything is functioning properly.
- Amenities: Is there a laundry room? Gym? Rooftop deck? Each building will offer something different, so weigh your options.
Timing Is Everything: Stick to the Schedule
The biggest challenge when trying to see 6 apartments in 60 minutes is time management. You have a short window to evaluate each place and get from one apartment to the next. Here’s how to stay on track:
- Be punctual: Arrive early so you can get settled in before the tour starts.
- Set a timer: Don’t get stuck chatting with the agent about every little detail. Set a timer to remind you when it’s time to move on.
Summary: Your Chicago Apartment Tour Cheat Sheet
Seeing 6 apartments in 60 minutes in Chicago isn’t just a dream. With the right preparation and a laser-focused approach, it’s entirely possible. Here’s a quick recap of the strategy:
- Map your route.
- Book back-to-back showings.
- Be quick in your evaluations.
- Have a checklist to spot what matters.
And above all, remember to trust your gut. If something feels right, go for it. If not, keep moving. Your new Chicago home is out there waiting for you!
Visit TourWithAgent.com to schedule curated apartment tours in Chicago with real availability, real pricing, and an expert agent to guide you.
