Renting a property in Chicago
Renting accommodation in a place with so many options can be intimidating. We've broken down the process in three easy steps to get you started.
Look for advertising on the web before your departure and upon your arrival. The best sources of information are:
Once in Chicago, you can check local newspapers which publish real estate ads:
If you already know where you want to live, go for a walk in the targeted neighbourhood. Owners usually put a “For Rent” sign in front of their property. It will be a good way to check the area and see if it has a lot of convenient points of interest.
Work with a real estate agent: real estate agencies are numerous in Chicago, and its best to pick one that is located in your targeted neighbourhood.
Be aware that you will pay no commission to the real estate agent. Indeed, they get paid by landlords to find the right tenant. Therefore you can use several real estate agents at the same time.
Relocation with a company or a governmental organisation:
The lease agreement length is one year in the United States. The largest period of turnover for renting accommodation in Chicago is in October and May-June. Nevertheless accommodation becomes available all year round.
Deposit: You will have to pay a one to two months deposit in addition to the first month of rent. Be aware that if you leave before the end of the lease agreement, you will have to pay for the rent until the end of the one year contract deadline.
1. Research process for renting:
Look for advertising on the web before your departure and upon your arrival. The best sources of information are:
Once in Chicago, you can check local newspapers which publish real estate ads:
If you already know where you want to live, go for a walk in the targeted neighbourhood. Owners usually put a “For Rent” sign in front of their property. It will be a good way to check the area and see if it has a lot of convenient points of interest.
Work with a real estate agent: real estate agencies are numerous in Chicago, and its best to pick one that is located in your targeted neighbourhood.
Be aware that you will pay no commission to the real estate agent. Indeed, they get paid by landlords to find the right tenant. Therefore you can use several real estate agents at the same time.
2. Documents needed to rent
Relocation with a company or a governmental organisation:
- passport, visa, and any official documents stating that you relocate with your company or governmental organisation.
- visa, passport, proofs of credit through one of US major credit agencies or a major credit rating agency from your home country, proof of savings, contact information or proof of your former residence.
3. Lease and deposit
The lease agreement length is one year in the United States. The largest period of turnover for renting accommodation in Chicago is in October and May-June. Nevertheless accommodation becomes available all year round.
Deposit: You will have to pay a one to two months deposit in addition to the first month of rent. Be aware that if you leave before the end of the lease agreement, you will have to pay for the rent until the end of the one year contract deadline.
