May 2020 | Chicago Luxury Condos for Sale | Luxury Living Chicago Realty

Buying a House During COVID

Posted on May 28, 2020August 3, 2020 by LLCR Staff

While the world may be experiencing a lot of changes, you don’t have to put your home buying dreams on pause.

Thanks to technology and our team’s rapid response during COVID, Luxury Living Chicago Realty is making home buying a reality during heightened precautions and social distancing.

If you’re in the market to buy a home right now, discover what our home buying process looks like amid the Coronavirus:

GAME PLAN: The very first step to finding your dream home is setting up a virtual consultation. We’ll use Google Hangouts or Facetime to connect over a video chat. During this meeting, we generate a custom plan to help you achieve your real estate goals. Afterward, you can expect a follow-up email with the plan and a timeline.

⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

HOME SEARCH: Once we lay out the game plan and everyone is on the same page, we will send you listings that match your criteria the moment they hit the market. One of the benefits of looking for a home in a large city like Chicago is that new properties are frequently listed.

VIRTUAL TOURS: See a home you like? We will share and conduct virtual video tours of any homes you like. Our experienced brokers are available to walk you through the video tours in real-time, so we can answer your questions and point out the benefits and features of each listing. When permitted, we can Facetime you from the listing as well. There may also be instances where we can still physically tour a property, but those are determined on a case by case basis.

OFFERS & SIGNING: This can all be done electronically, and usually is!⁣ Once you find a home that you’re ready to buy, your broker will send you all the pages of the contract and addendums. You’ll sign them using an electronic-signature system, which is then sent back to the appropriate party.

ESCROW DEPOSIT: To secure your purchase, you can submit your deposit via wiring, or one of our team members can pick up a check for you⁣.

INSPECTIONS: Our inspectors will send all documents digitally, including detailed photos and descriptions so you 100% know every inch of the property.⠀

CLOSING: A mobile notary will bring the closing to YOU! ⁣⠀

KEY TIME! We will hand-deliver your keys to you so you can officially move into your home!

Luxury Living Chicago Realty is committed to helping you safely find your dream home. If you’re ready to begin your home buying process, connect with one of our experienced team members today!

Top Dog Parks in Gold Coast Chicago

Posted on May 26, 2020May 28, 2020 by LLCR Staff

The Gold Coast neighborhood is an amazing place for you and your furry friend to call home.

Discover the pet-friendly dog parks in Gold Coast, Chicago

Indoor and Outdoor Dog Parks

You can your canine can spend the day at one of these top dog parks in and nearby the charming near North Chicago community:

Goudy Square Park– 1249 N Astor St- Located in the heart of Gold Coast, this public park is open to locals and canines alike. In 1991 the Chicago Park District created a custom-designed playground for this Gold Coast Park. It includes ornamental metal fencing, period light fixtures, brick paths, and a limestone and bronze drinking fountain.

Washington Square Park– 901 N Clark St- While there isn’t a designated spot for your dog to run around, this is a great outdoor area to walk your four-legged friend around on a leash. This gorgeous park remains a registered historic landmark that is better known by its nickname Bughouse Square. It was the most celebrated open-air free-speech center in the country as well as a popular Chicago tourist attraction.

Ohio Place Dog Park– 360 W Ohio St- This little gem of a dog park is located less than a mile from Gold Coast in the neighboring River North area. It is one of the largest designated dog parks in the city. Your pup can enjoy the long outdoor space, as well as a drink from the running water fountain. You can also find free street parking around the park.

Nearby Dog-Friendly Areas

After spending the day at one of the Gold Coast dog parks, bring your four-legged friend to one of the many dog-friendly neighborhood joints.

Here are a few of our favorite spots to hang with your pup:

Juniper Spirits & Oysters: Claridge House, Gold Coast’s dog-friendly hotel, recently debuted this delicious seafood restaurant with a 25-seat patio. Humans and canines alike are welcome to enjoy the space and the excellent happy hour options.

Somerset: Take your pup to this swanky restaurant with a 90-seat patio and enjoy country club vibes with seasonal, All-American bites. The brunch scene is hard to beat here.

Bistronomic: After a stroll with your pet, treat yourself to some Sangria and baguettes at this authentic French bistro. When the weather permits, you and your furry friend can take advantage of the sidewalk seating and enjoy a relaxing afternoon.

With the weather warming up, it’s never been a better time to visit the pet-friendly dog parks in Gold Coast, Chicago.

Where to Find the Best Gold Coast Chicago Restaurants

Posted on May 18, 2020 by Katie Dickemann

Just blocks from Michigan Avenue, this neighborhood is filled with upscale restaurants for date night, casual eateries for you and your friends, and affordable, yet delicious, bites. Check out some of our favorite restaurants in the Gold Coast area!

Best restaurants for casual dining with friends

Somerset is a swanky restaurant filled with art deco designs and mid-century modern furniture, just right up the street from Mariano Park. Making brunch reservations is a must here, with an unbeatable ambiance, array of food and drinks, and highly-praised service, this spot books up fast! Another great restaurant for a casual day enjoying apps with friends is Luxbar. This two-level pub features outdoor patio seating and an upstairs lounge. At the corner of Rush and Bellevue, Luxbar is truly a great place for catching up while enjoying breakfast pizza or salmon sliders. Eduardo’s Enoteca is a cozy restaurant and wine bar serving Italian dishes that will easily impress your friends. Make sure to share a charcuterie board and crostinis while browsing their extensive wine selection during happy hour. This little slice of Italia just blocks from Lakeshore Drive is a must in Gold Coast!

Best date night restaurants in Gold Coast

Nothing beats date night in an intimate and old-school setting like Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse. A wealth of history and a great atmosphere, this timeless restaurant offers food and service that is top-notch, just steps away from the happenings on Oak Street. The pianist keeps the mood and energies high, the atmosphere so grand it takes your breath away, and the oysters, lobsters, and steaks will make your mouth water beyond a doubt. Right up the street from Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse is Maple & Ash. With over 3,000 – 4.8 star reviews, Maple & Ash is another perfect spot for a night out with your significant other. Full of sleek and modern decor, attentive service, and complimentary cocktails, this pick is truly exceptional. If you’re looking for a little classic Italian, look no further than Carmines. This lively supper club is famous for its hearty portions of pasta and a vast selection of meats. In this cozy club, the Chef personally greets every table, leaving you with the most intimate and personal experience. After dinner, walk a few blocks down to Oak Street Beach for a stroll along Lake Michigan.

Best affordable restaurants along State Street

If you’re looking for a fairly priced taco joint, make sure to try Velvet Taco. After hitting Michigan Ave, this unique twist on the traditional taco restaurant is a go-to for many locals. Right up the street from Velvet Taco is Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria. This pizza and pasta hub is known for its friendly service, great atmosphere, and affordable prices. Their pies have the perfect ratios of cheese, sauce, toppings, and crust… and will fill you up for days as one reviewer said “One deep-dish slice and you’ve been fed for a week!” Across the street from Lou Malnati’s sits Goddess and Grocer, a not-so-ordinary sandwich spot. Goddess and Grocer feature a fresh and creative menu full of sandwiches, wraps, salads, soups, and baked goods. The menu here has something for everyone, with selections inspired from regions all over the world.

Best Bars in Gold Coast

Posted on May 13, 2020May 13, 2020 by LLCR Staff

Right by the Lake Michigan shoreline, Gold Coast is known for being picture-perfect with its vintage homes, charming boutiques and dynamic bar scene. This historic area has everything from summer rooftop bars to cozy lounges to local spots with killer happy hours. Check out some of these Gold Coast go-to’s when looking for a fun night out!

Rooftop Bars in Gold Coast

If you’re looking for a beautiful rooftop spot with impeccable skyline and lake views, Devereaux is the place. Enjoy time with friends or lounge out and take in the city views by the swimming pool. Locals say Devereaux is one of the best spots if you’re not in the mood for a large crowd. Out and about shopping along Michigan Avenue? Make sure to check out Drumbar. This moody, yet energetic cocktail-focused rooftop bar sits atop the Raffaello Hotel and sheds astonishing views of Lake Michigan and the Hancock building. On a breezy summer day, head over to 3 Arts Club Cafe to chill out and enjoy the ambience. One of the most beautiful dining environments, this place gets an A+ when it comes to an unbeatable atmosphere. It has the look and feel of Restoration Hardware, making this a go-to intimate outdoor cocktail space. Oh, and make sure to request seating by the fountain!

Cozy Bars and Lounges

The Berkshire Room is a quaint spot, nestled in the first floor of a hotel. This super classy and cool bar lets you create your own cocktail based on your flavor profile. It’s dimly lit with an elegant design, making it the perfect starting spot for date night. If you’re looking for more of a low-key vibe with an upscale twist, check out Eight Bar and Patio. This elevated bistro has an array of wines and signature cocktails that do not disappoint. Zebra Lounge is a fun little piano bar with live music and a great atmosphere. A perfect night cap, this hidden gem is deemed as a Chicago classic by locals. If you’re looking for good vibes and bartenders who know their craft, Le Bar is your place. Rewind from the day on the couch next to the fireplace after ordering from their extensive whiskey selection or elegant cocktail menu.

Best Happy Hours in Gold Coast

Small, dark, and vintage — this next pick gives you all the “speakeasy” vibes. Sparrow is an intimate bar with vintage music and boasts some impressive happy hour deals. On Monday-Friday 4-7pm, get 1/2 off wine and drafts and enjoy $5 daiquiris every Monday! Luxbar is also another great spot when it comes to searching for a Gold Coast happy hour. Order yourself a $5 wine with a side of truffle fries because what’s a better combo? Also, make sure to peruse their specialty cocktail menu too, as locals say those are a solid pick. Reasonable prices can sometimes be hard to come by in Chicago, but Doc B’s proves that statement wrong. This is a frequent happy hour spot by Gold Coast residents because of its modern and fun vibes. Located near Michigan Avenue, this spot is very convenient to enjoy some food and drinks while not breaking the bank in downtown Chicago.

Work Out at the Top Gyms in the Loop Chicago

Posted on May 1, 2020May 4, 2020 by LLCR Staff

As the hub of downtown Chicago, the Loop is highly concentrated with any amenity you could think of, including gyms.

From state-of-the-art fitness centers to boutique yoga studios, you can easily find a gym to fit your fitness preferences.

If you’re looking for of a spot to workout, discover the variety of studios and gyms in the Loop, Chicago:

Lakeshore Sports & Fitness– 211 N Stetson Ave- Located right between the Chicago River and Millennium Park, this fitness center offers the traditional gym experience. Members have access to a variety of fitness equipment and workout space. The center boasts a large pool, basketball court, racquet courts, golf simulator, and climbing wall, and an impressive kids center.

Equinox– 200 W Monroe St- This high-performance fitness club, situated on the west side of the Loop, delivers the ultimate workout environment. You can expect a fully equipped gym, steam room, saunas, luxury locker rooms, laundry serves, group fitness classes, and much-needed massages.

Orangetheory– 155 N Michigan Ave- If you’re looking for a structured and high-intensity workout, consider joining orangetheory. This boutique fitness studio franchise, at the northwest corner of Millennium Park, specializes in 1-hour, full-body exercises, focused on your own individual heart rate zones. Before committing, you can also try a free one-hour workout.

CorePower– 100 N La Salle St- As one of the most popular high-intensity yoga in the Windy City, CorePower delivers the perfect combination of mental and physical endurance. Whether you’re looking for a detoxifying hot yoga class or a beginner-friendly full-body flow, members can choose between a variety of classes. The Loop location does not require appointments beforehand- just be sure to arrive 15 minutes before a class if you’re a new member.

SoulCycle– 111 W Wacker Dr- Situated near the northwest corner of the Loop, this in-demand fitness center boasts high-intensity cardio indoor cycling classes. Members ride together for 45 minutes as a pack in candlelit studios to the rhythm of one-of-a-kind playlists. Classes can fill up fast, so be sure to sign up at the beginning of the week.

First Ascent Climbing and Fitness– 108 N State St- Located within Block 37 on the fourth floor, this climbing, yoga, and fitness center offers a dynamic workout experience. Whether you’re an experienced climber or a first-timer, First Ascent provides a wide range of bouldering routes, as well as regular climbing classes.

Get your sweat on at one of these top gyms in the Loop, Chicago!

Month: May 2020