RentalBeacon.com

Suburban Life Publications interview with CEO - Ron Stefanski

Elmhurst, IL -- Spotting a piece of paper shoved under the door of his high-rise apartment sparked an idea for Ron Stefanski, who is an Internet marketing manager and teacher with a master’s degree in business administration. He realized technology could improve on the building’s archaic communication system. The Elmhurst native is president of RentalBeacon.com, conceived as a customizable, online announcement board that offers perks to building management and residents. Robert Gruber of Elmhurst is a partner in the venture.

How does RentalBeacon.com work, Ron?
It is a website using modern day technology — computers, cell phones and tablets — to make communication between tenants and their (landlords) much more efficient. It alerts people in real time. (We serve) unit owners, unit managers and unit renters. Our staff realized from first-hand experience that communication between tenants and property managers was, for lack of a better word, terrible. The rental community is still relying on outdated communication methods such as a community corkboard, announcements posted in the elevator, and papers being slid under tenant doors. Our goal is to help property managers save time and money by letting tenants receive messages using technology that they already have. In addition, we have created resident software (that) includes features like the online building marketplace, building reviews, document storage.

Apartments and sustainable gardening – do they really go together?

We tend to think in threes: ‘This, that and the other’… ‘Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness’… ‘It’s as easy as one, two, three’… and so on. In general, humans are known to be logical… well some of them. This is how we set ourselves apart in the animal kingdom. Logic, or reason, is usually based on linear thinking. A-B-C; one-two-three, do-re-mi (thank you Jackson Five). We tend to think of these things when we think of steps in a process, or the means by which we reach an end. If we do these things, then this will happen, leading to this result. But when we think of things in conjunction, or as simply two parts to a whole, we often describe them as it ‘going together like object 1 and object 2.’

Now, I had to start there, to get to my point… so pardon the philosophical progression that just took place, albeit shrouded in brevity. I have one BIG question this week… Do peas and carrots really go together?

Forest Gump alluded to it directly, when he spoke of his love, Jenny.

Salt and Pepper go together (the spices, not the 90s hip hop group, because it had 3 members)… Tango and Cash… Kid and Play… Jordan and Pippen…

I wrote an article some time back about rooftop gardening and urban gardening, and I talked about how apartment and condo properties in Chicago and around the world are embracing agriculture in their high-rises. I think it’s great. Do apartments and gardening go together like peas and carrots? Not intuitively, but I guess that’s the point. As a society we have grown and found creative ways to make the world a “better” place. The idea of putting a heavy focus on sustainable gardens atop high rises could be a novel approach to a serious problem (Starvation) and for many it would end up saving a few bucks.

The reason that I think we often eat and enjoy foods in conjunction is because they tend to come into season together – Peas and Carrots can be grown together, both in proximity and by season. It’s likely that this is the primary cause for eating them together. I guess you don’t have to be a particle physicist to figure that out.
I speculate we wouldn’t really think to put the two together otherwise – it’s an odd contrast really. Much like gardening atop a large rental property. I like to think I have an artistic mind, but meh, I’m not really impressed by the orange/green juxtaposition. Now corn and carrots, or even corn and peas (I know, crazy), that’s a contrast I can sink my teeth into.

Tell us what you think and don’t forget to add us on Facebook and Twitter!

-Bob

Why do property managers need to be licensed?

Like many other employment opportunities out there, property managers are required to spend time studying and understanding what is required of them as Property Managers. But the question remains, why do property managers need to be licensed? First off, depending on the state, they may not need to be licensed at all. Every state is different in terms of what license(s) they require, although most states do require either a real estate license or a CPM (Certified Property Manager) license.

Let’s go back to why property managers need a license. To answer the question of why property managers need to be licensed, let’s use me as an example. I graduated with a 4.0 in my MBA program, I teach courses part-time as a professor, but I have NO IDEA how to manage multiple properties. Like every other profession out there, being a property manager takes a certain degree of knowledge, skill, and specialty that I personally don’t possess. I would prefer that the property managers be certified because I have had to deal with a nightmare when renting from a condo owner. While living there, they had me use a broken fridge for two weeks and they tried to steal my security deposit. With numerous idle threats about “lawsuits” I was able to get the individual to do what was required, but I can say with confidence that a good property manager would never let these situations go on for as long as they did. Property managers learn skills

The good news is that when studying to become a Certified Property Manager (CPM), it is a pretty flexible experience. Retrainingcenter.com states, “CERTIFIED PROPERTY MANAGER (CPM) is the designation awarded by IREM to outstanding professionals in the real estate management field. It is considered to be the industry's premier real estate management credential; research shows that investors and owners prefer the CPM designation to any other real estate credential.” Classes are available as self-study, online, and in the classroom. All of this depends on your best way of learning. If you are interested in becoming a property manager and making a salary (on average) in the $40-$60k range, go to the website Retrainingcenter.com and find more information. Good luck, and enjoy the weekend.

-Ron

How does the Colorado shooting impact security in Chicago?

His friends commented that he was quiet, strange, and talented. “A clean-cut, doctoral student”.

James E. Holmes made his first court appearance Monday, where prosecutors are asking for the charge of Murder in the First Degree. The shootings that took place in Colorado earlier this month are hard to bear and quite disturbing. One wonders what really drove Holmes to this. Apparently Holmes had been planning this event for months, and even rigged his apartment with explosives – so the concept of premeditation seems to be overtly evident (which is what constitutes a form murder-1 VS manslaughter or negligence). During the court hearing on Monday, he seemed as though he was in a different world. He was seen with his eyes bugging out, squinting, and he was even described as having to be nudged by the Public Defender to stand when the Judge addressed the court. He had called himself “The Joker” to police.

Is this extreme fanaticism on the behalf of a movie series alone, or is this something psychological or neurological? Scientists (in the last few years) contend that they have discovered the psychopathic gene, which neuroscientist James Fallon says can be traced to the brain. Basically, to simplify it, the part of your brain that controls anger, aggression, and appetites is “shut off.” This can happen either through injury or during birth.
Therefore, the area of the brain that drives behaviors like rage, violence, eating, sex and drinking is left unchecked. However, not everyone who has this trait is a murderer – why not? Scientists say that a lot of your behavior is based on your upbringing. If you had a traumatic childhood and the gene, you’re more likely to be a murderer than if you have the gene and were brought up in a “positive” way.

What does this mean for movie theatre security, Airport security, or High rise building security in Chicago? Does it mean anything? A city like Chicago or New York has much more densely populated regions than Colorado, and terrorism is a constant fear (no matter where the “terror” is coming from). While I don’t know if there are millions James Holmes characters in the world, one wonders if there is any possible way this could have been prevented. I don’t think we all need to panic, but I think it is our duty to investigate intelligent ways that we might prevent these sorts of incidents in the future. Should that include security in movie theatres? More security at Airports? It will be interesting to see how Chicago and the rest of the nation react to the anomaly that is James Holmes. Unfortunately, the old adage “One bad apple spoils the bunch” applies and I am certain we will begin to see more unnecessary security measures across the nation.

Don’t forget to add us on Facebook and Twitter!

-Bob

Where does Jonathan Toews live?

Chic, modern, and full of hockey memorabilia, I guess this is the type of place you would expect from one of the NHL’s most talented Centers and captain of the Chicago Blackhawks, Jonathan Toews. Yep, Toews isn’t doing too bad for himself right about now. This place is similar to where Derrick Rose Lives, but this post actually has pictures with it furnished as the Blackhawks captain was gracious enough to let someone from the Trib come inside and poke around. Although I am unable to find the actual address of the building that Toews lives in, I can tell you that it is a pretty nice pad in the sky.

(Photos Courtesy of the Chicago Tribune)

Not too bad of a view for the Chicago Blackhawks center. My favorite part is how he has a bunch of hockey sticks lined up against the wall. I do have to say, why on earth would he keep those at his place? I have to assume that the Blackhawks would MAYBE let him leave them at the United Center. I will just assume he does something cool like take slapshots against the wall or something.

I can tell here that Toews is my kind of guy. The only organization I can divulge from the photo is the sports jerseys in the corner. Otherwise, the closet is full of randomly hung shirts, sports memorabilia, and a few hats.

The kitchen is “baller” in every sense of the word. Granite countertops, Stainless steel appliances, an island in the middle of the kitchen. If I could create a perfect kitchen, I assume it would look very similar to this.

This is what shows why underneath it all, Toews is a normal dude. He could have gone with some very minimalistic “modern” couch that goes really well with his place, but instead he choose for a comfortable couch where he can it around all day and chill-out if he’d like. To be candid it’s very similar to my own place….except more expensive.

You probably wondered where the “really cool” room was, and this is it. Although the pictures were somewhat limited, this looks like it is a pretty neat area in his place. To add my own commentary, I am glad he is playing ping pong as it improves his hand eye coordination. I guess that helps to explain his ridiculously good skills with a hockey puck.

Toews seems to have a minimalist approach to his bedroom even though he is making millions, but definitely still very nice.

So there you have it, now you know where the Chicago Blackhawks Center, Jonathan Toews, calls home. I am confident in saying that most of us Chicago Renters or Chicago condo owners don’t have as nice of a place. Not too bad for a 24 year old kid that was born in Canada, eh?

Don't forget to add us on Facebook and Twitter!

-Ron

How much do Chicago Apartments cost?

In the last few years, the economy has been in “recovery” mode and while this has been happening the rental market has also been at an all-time high. The reason? When the U.S. entered the recession, or dare I say…Depression, many people were far too worried about committing to a new mortgage as everyone was at risk of getting laid off. So what happened? Renting, and a lot of it. Because of this, people start doing research in big cities and wonder how much a new apartment will cost in an amazing city like Chicago. But before we get into how much Chicago apartments cost, let’s focus on some extra costs you need to consider.

First off, Gas prices. Chicago is notoriously known for consistently having the highest gas prices in the nation. As of this post, the average in the city is hovering around $3.80 a gallon. Keep that, and an additional $200 a month for parking in mind if you move to Chicago and own a car. Now that we have that out of the way, realize that buying anything in Chicago will cost you big. According to Wikipedia (which actually is a pretty legitimate resource now for citations because they have staff on hand to check data) “The city of Chicago has the highest total sales tax of all major U.S. cities (9.5%).” Lastly, throw in some Renter's Insurance and you are good to go. So now that you know about these other costs, and are aware that you need a “buffer” when coming to the city, let’s talk what you can expect to pay as a Chicago Unit Renter.

According to Domu.com, a Chicago-only apartment listing website, here are the average prices for rentals in Chicago from August of 2011. Is the data a year old? Yes. But, I can assure you that prices haven’t changed that drastically in the last year so this is a good barometer of how pricey things really are.

So there you have it, the prices of apartments in Chicago. Obviously these are just averages and not a guarantee of what a place will actually cost, but it gets the point across.

What are your thoughts on the prices? Ridiculous? Reasonable? Let us know! Oh, and don’t forget to add us on Facebook and Twitter.

-Ron

Do you prefer Hot coffee or Iced coffee?

Downtown Chicago is a place where the coffeehouse is ubiquitous – there are literally thousands of shops that serve coffee, ranging from the mom-and-pop shop to the quintessential Starbuck’s (with probably another Starbuck’s right across the street). A quick search in Yahoo will yield over 1,500 shops alone that are exclusively coffee-related… if you’re leaving your apartment on your way to work, chances are there’s somewhere on the way to work where you can grab a cup.

I wrote an article several weeks back about enjoying the Chicago summer, and how the weather in this city is simply unpredictable. Extreme winters… Extreme summers.
Let’s leave all else constant, including flavorings, creams, sugars and toppings and so on… What’ll it be?
Hot coffee or iced coffee?

I personally find that it depends on the weather, and I think most people would agree. If it’s hot outside, you go with iced coffee, and if it’s cold, you get that hot cup of Joe to go. Leaving aside the obvious reasons for choice in this case, I think there’s a nostalgic aspect to choosing which coffee to enjoy, depending on the season – Oh, and there’s also that hyper-commercialism led by the major coffee players, leading you to your choice. Regardless of your choice, there are those who think there is no choice; some people just don’t like the other version. I have family members that think iced coffee is some monstrosity of the coffee world… How dare we evolve the coffee beverage!? There are also some who have changed who just simply can’t change back. Then there are those odd folks out there who have never experienced the majesty of coffee… or they “just don’t like it.” I feel sorry for you people.

On a side note, I wonder how long it took the photographer of the picture with this post to create that smiley face in the coffee...

Let us know what you think and don't forget to follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

-Bob

Chicago Dog Parks – Where they are and what you need to know

Yes folks, it’s that wonderful time of year again in Chicago. It’s SUMMER. You know what that means? Well, aside from sweating your weight in water every blistering day above 100 degrees, it also means that it’s time to grab your furry friend and bring them to the parks. As a Chicago renter or Chicago condo owner you might be wondering “What parks can I bring my pooch to?” Well, we are here with some answers.

First off, did you even know that the Chicago Park District requires you to buy a permit to use these “Pet Friendly Areas”? I know I didn’t. As I found that out, I know I murmured “I can’t believe the city is trying to stick us with yet another ridiculous permit!” But actually, it really isn’t that bad. The total cost for the Permit and tag is only $5.00. In my opinion, the biggest pain of the whole thing is that you have to go to a Chicago Veterinarian to pick one up. If you are wondering why you would need a permit and tag, the Chicago park district says; “Pursuant to a regulation issued by the Administrator of the Cook County Department of Animal and Rabies Control, all dogs entering a DFA must have a permit and registration tag from a licensed veterinarian. People bring dogs into a Chicago Park District DFA must have both a permit with them and a registration tag for each dog. The registration tag must be on the dog’s collar or harness. The permit and registration tag may be used at any officially sanctioned Chicago Park District DFA.” If you are wondering who enforces these rules and what happens if you don’t have a tag, this is what I found from the Chicago Park District website; “The Cook County Department of Animal and Rabies Control will enforce DFA rules and regulations and issue tickets to violators. Violators, along with the Chicago Park District, will face a possible fine of $500. Dog owners must carry their permits at all times when attending DFAs. Each DFA will have a sign posted at the entrance stating all DFA rules and regulations.” As if the cost of rent in Chicago wasn't enough...

Alright, now that we have established how the city tries to make some extra cash off of dog parks, let’s talk about where some good dog parks are. Below is a list of dog parks that I scoured the internet for.

1) Challenger Park
1101 W. Irving Park Road
Chicago, IL 60613
(312)742-7802
Just North of Irving Park road, along the western side of the tracks

2) Churchill Field Park
1825 N. Damen Avenue
Chicago, IL
(312)742-7554
Located on the SOutheast side of the park

3) Coliseum Park
1466 S. Wabash
Chicago, IL 60605
(312)747-7640

4) Grant Park
S. Columbus Drive near 9th Street
Chicago, IL 60605
(312)742-7648

5) Hamlin Park
3035 N. Hoyne Avenue
Chicago, IL 60618
(312)742-7785
Located towards the southwest corner of the park

6) Lake Shore East Park
450 E. Benton Place
Chicago, IL 60611

7. Margate Park
4921 N. Marine Drive
Chicago, IL 60640
(312) 742-7522
Southeast end of the park.

8. Montrose Beach
Wilson Avenue and the Lake
Chicago, IL 60640
(312)742-5121

9. Grace Noethling Park
2645 N. Sheffield Avenue
Chicago, IL
The entire park is dedicated to dogs. (DOG PARTY!)

10. River Park
5100 N. Francisco
Chicago, IL
(312)742-7516

There you have it folks. Now that you have a place to bring that fur ball, get outside and run around with them. They will love you even more for it..

Don’t forget to add us on Facebook and Twitter
-Ron

Smart Phones – property managers be ready…

The smart phone industry is consistently on the rise, and engaging with clients, customers and businesses is becoming more and more commonplace on the go. I remember a time when it used to be weird to shop for things online, or engage in “chat” sessions with customer service reps… but will this soon be a secondary approach to transacting business?

Back in February, Forrester Research ran a study that surveyed over 3,500 business decision-makers, which indicated a telling forecast for the impact of smart phones on businesses around the world. The industry is estimated to grow to over $56 billion by 2016, with an estimated 1 billion smart phone users worldwide. Currently in the US alone, more than 50% of all cell phone users utilize a smart phone of some kind, according to a May 2012 study… that’s impressive!

Whether you use your phone for email, scheduling events, games, social networks, or even hailing a cab in downtown Chicago, the smart phone boom is following a generation of tech-babies who cannot envision a future without mobile modes of transactions. Businesses need to think big about how the future will affect the way they do business… collecting data about how users buy, geographically and habitually, will tell businesses more and more about how to market and strategize for their products and services.

Rental Property managers should start considering products and services that are mobile-friendly, given the trend expected to prove true over the next four years. This means mobile sites for bill-pay, information sharing, and maintenance requests. Tenants are hungry for quick, relevant information, and will more and more bring the demand for quick and easy ways to put in requests and pay their rent (and other bills).

Property managers be ready… smart phones, in the very near future, are going to be THE way to manage your tenants.
Don’t forget to like us on Facebook and to follow on Twitter!
-Bob

Chicago Urban Bicycling

According to cityofchicago.org, “Chicago currently has 117 miles of on-street bike lanes, more than 30 miles of marked shared lanes, many miles of off-street paths (including 18.5 mile Lakefront Trail), more than 12,000 bike racks, and sheltered, high-capacity bike parking areas at many CTA rail stations.” Bicycle races or charity rides, and more of the like, hit the road in Chicago every year in high volume and with plentiful participation, which certainly does put it near the top of the list of major US cities with a great bicycling community. But riding a bike in Chicago doesn’t have to be a charitable thing. In fact, most people riding bikes are doing it out of necessity, or of simple indulgence.

Whether you are commuting to work, grabbing groceries, or simply getting some exercise, there are great benefits to riding in the City. There’s less pollution, less wait time for traffic, and many claim it is a healthier and quicker way to travel than simply walking. Though, it’s not all fun and games.

There is a scary reality to biking in the city of Chicago; the Illinois Department of Transportation states that between 2007 and 2009, there were 4,931 reported bicycle crashes in the City of Chicago! While it might be the easiest, quickest, or most convenient way to get to work or back to your apartment, this statistic shows it might not actually be the healthiest.

If you are a renter or unit owner who rides your bike in Chicago, please be safe. Be sure to wear the proper safety gear, especially a helmet. Pay attention to other vehicles, bystanders, and pedestrians. Another big piece to riding is being able to hear what’s going on around you – so while it may be satisfying to wear headphones and jam your favorite tunes on your commute, recognize that it might be an unsafe practice to undertake.

Are you a bike commuter? Let us know what you think!

-Bob

Are Fire Extinguishers and Carbon Monoxide detectors required in apartments?

We were recently contacted by someone who provided an interesting inquiry. Her question was, “Is it required for apartment buildings to have fire extinguishers somewhere on the property? If not, do they have to provide carbon monoxide detectors in the units or should go buy one?”

As much as we would like to give a simple, “yes” or “no” answer, the truth is that it depends. before we even start, let me suggest you seriously consider renter's insurance. Some cities/towns that provide housing for renters require that complexes have “Sufficient safety equipment” which typically means a fire extinguisher. Rarely do you come across a situation where a building is required to have Carbon monoxide detectors installed throughout.

As for Chicago, fire extinguishers are NOT required in all apartment buildings. However, there are some important things to note:

Exit Signs / Fire Alarm Section
"The Exit Sign/Fire Alarm Section is required to inspect all new and remodeled construction installations of exit signs and fire alarm systems. When a general inspector suspects irregularities with an exit sign or fire alarm installation, a member of the Exit Sign/Fire Alarm Unit will be sent out to ensure compliance with the Municipal Code.”

Pump Section
"Fire pumps utilized for standpipe and/or sprinkler systems are required by the Municipal Code to be tested annually. The Municipal Code requires this test to be performed by contractors from the private sector and witnessed by a member of the Fire Pump Section. The test is not valid unless witnessed and approved by the Fire Prevention Bureau.”

New Construction Section
"The New Construction Section monitors the construction or rehabilitation of buildings within the City of Chicago. These buildings, where required by Code, are monitored for proper fire safety at the construction sites. Work on sprinklers, standpipes and fire pumps are monitored to make sure that they are installed in accordance with plans and permits that have been approved by the Department of Construction and Permits and the Fire Prevention Bureau. This unit determines if the building has complied with all required fire safety procedures necessary for the building to obtain its certificate of occupancy.”
Source: http://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en/depts/cfd/provdrs/prevent.html

So what does this mean for Chicago tenants? Well, first off, absolutely no mention of Carbon Monoxide detectors. If you want that, you need to get it yourself. Secondly, the city isn’t a big fan of letting buildings burn down…...as it tends to have a pretty bad history of doing so. Rest assured that if a fire is detected within the residence, the building is required to have a sprinkler system (that is inspected frequently to ensure it works) to put it out.

If you live in the burbs and aren't really sure, we highly suggest searching on Google for something like "CITY NAME apartment fire extinguisher laws"

Don’t forget to add us on Facebook and Twitter!

-Ron

Smoking bans making their way into private housing

I recently posted an article about the potential benefits of using an e-cigarette for smoking cessation, if you’re already addicted to nicotine. Well, there might be another reason for making the switch, or quitting altogether, apart from the health effects.

Last weekend, the Los Angeles Times posted a news story about how it recently became legal for landlords in California to forbid apartment renters from smoking in their units.
In Chicago, we already have the Clean Indoor Air Ordinance that went into effect in 2008, which covers common areas and public places, within the “15-foot rule,” requiring smokers to stand at least 15 feet from the entrances of public places while lighting up. Landlords are now starting to realize the benefits of banning it altogether in their buildings:

1. The obvious: It’s healthier for tenants

2. Happier existing tenants (who no longer have to smell smoke or feel effects of second hand smoke)

3. Less-expensive for refurbishment (with tenant turnover it can cost thousands of dollars to repair smoke damage in apartments after a tenant moves out)

Other jurisdictions are passing similar laws, and the complaints are loud and clear. Is Chicago next?
Thousands of new luxury condo units along with several high rises are going up in 2012 and 2013 in downtown Chicago due to the rental boom from lack of consumer confidence in the housing market. That said, there will likely be some money-saving techniques employed by owners, including lobbying for such laws to be passed in the city.

But do we really need a law for it?

There are attempts currently for laws to codify smoking bans under the Illinois Condominium Property Act. However, properties already have the right to restrict smoking, just as they would be able to restrict pets, for example.

Let us know what you think! Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

-Bob

How to pick the right Chicago gym for you

If you’re living in a condo or apartment in Chicago, there’s no shortage of gyms or fitness centers to choose from. In a lot of cases, the fitness center is built into your building – which could make the decision easy… but it doesn’t guarantee that it’s the right gym for you. There are dozens of factors that can play a role in your decision… Here are just a few things to consider when choosing your next gym in Chicago:

1. Proximity to your property: As mentioned above, some property management companies have secured workout facilities in the buildings they manage. This is to build in an added perk to renting or purchasing at their building – however, some condo associations and building communities have limited workout resources (selection of equipment, poor hours of operation etc.), and whether you consider it - as it’s commonly advertised - a “free service”, you should know that this money is built into your monthly rent or association fee. If location and proximity are the biggest factors in choosing your gym, then by all means, head downstairs to the fitness center and get your sweat on! If not, consider some other options…

2. Costs: As mentioned already, there are hidden costs associated with using a gym at your property. If you choose to go outside your building, finding the right gym usually means finding a gym that is affordable and which offers fair usage agreements. Don’t get caught up in all the gimmicks offered by gyms – if you’re there to work out, pay for working out! Pay attention to the physical space (Is it small, hot, or loud? Is it comfortable?), equipment quality (Are the bikes falling off the settings and rolling out the doors?), and helpfulness of the staff (Are they paying attention? Are they helpful with the equipment and with disputes?).

3. Specific workouts: Remember, there are so many ways to get involved in physical fitness. If you’re a weightlifter, make sure the gym has the right equipment, like dumb bells, bar bells, and a sufficient capacity for weights. If you’re a runner – make sure there are plenty of treadmills. Practice Yoga? Make sure they offer classes or sessions. The right gym should mean you have the ability to practice whatever your form or forms of workouts may be.

Remember – if the location makes sense, the price is right, and they offer the right services, you might have found your gym.

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Why do apartment complexes have breed restrictions

Why do apartment complexes have breed restrictions?

In my opinion, many places in Chicago and around the U.S. have breed restrictions on dogs (Not cats) for one simple reason. Wait for it………..Ready?

People who do not know how to appropriately train their dogs.

Now I know I am going to get some people who will say “Pitbulls are much more aggressive than other breeds!” While this may be true in some capacity, I am going on the other side of the argument and say that the people who have really aggressive Pitbulls haven’t taught that pooch how to behave. In my own experience, I have met many more small aggressive dogs than large aggressive dogs. The reason? The owners of the large dogs know how to train them properly and the dog knows its place in the dominance hierarchy.

But let’s move back to why apartments have breed restrictions. If a property manager or complex owner has placed a breed restriction on your apartment, it isn’t because they hate your furry friend. Unfortunately, it all comes down to insurance and the safety of Unit Renters and Unit Owners. When (and if) an individual elects to get renters insurance, their dog attempting to eat someone isn’t covered under the renters insurance policy. In fact, not every apartment complex even requires that you buy renters insurance. As a building owner, you would want this restriction because in the off-chance that a dog decides to attack someone you could be held liable for the damages or injuries that it causes. In order to avoid this situation from ever happening, building owners elect to eliminate these larger breeds because if they do attack, they tend to really hurt someone. The reason you don’t hear about Yorkshire Terrier’s being on the breed restriction list is because even if that little fluff-ball went insane, it isn’t going to really do much harm to anyone.

Do I think it is fair that larger breeds (especially Pitbulls) tend to get a bad image because some people don’t know how to correctly train them? Nope. But, as a small business owner I understand where the building owners are coming from. For them, it is better safe than sorry.

Don’t forget to add us on Facebook and Twitter!
-Ron

Should you toilet train your cat if you live in an apartment

Toilet Training Your Cat… Really?

I’m sitting here in my Chicago apartment enjoying a bowl of cereal, and I notice my cat has been missing a while. Not missing, but he seems to have evaded my line of sight for some time now, which felines are built to do, I guess… Before I got the cat, I wasn’t a big fan of them for this reason. With a dog, you can expect that they’ll follow you everywhere, through thick and thin. Obey you without question (assuming proper training), and love you unconditionally (we think… that’s not a scientific statement!). Cats are a bit different – I hated the notion that I have a pet that I barely see and whom I have to worship to obtain any attention.

It has been stated before, “Feed a dog, and he’ll think you’re God. Feed a cat, and he’ll think he’s God.”
Whatever. I’ve found that my male felix domesticus has taken fondly to human attention, and really, won’t leave me alone. I like him – he’s pretty cool. But today… he’s gone. Where did he go?

Scratch, scratch, scratch, scratch… and so on… and so on… Burry it already, man!

He’s in the litter box, and he’s been there for some time now. It smells, it’s annoying, and it’s literally just a couple yards from my cereal… at least a dog goes outside, eh? Property managers and landlords are pretty strict, if you’re renting an apartment or live in a condo, about their pet policies. While a lot don’t allow dogs, they often allow cats, and, it seems to me, both animals can be smelly, messy and destructive.

“Wait, what the heck is that? Is… Is your cat squatting on the toilet?” I astonishingly inquired of a close friend of mine, some time back. “Yep,” he replied, “Toilet trained my cat… pretty awesome.” Now I’m a pretty open-minded individual – but I had to ask why he went through the trouble of toilet training his cat… and further, how he did it. He submitted to me, other than the obvious reasons - cleanlier, less odiferous - that his landlord was pretty happy, albeit a simple satisfaction, that there would be less “dirt” around their apartment.

After some comical interaction, I realized, there might be something to this. It’s annoying to clean up after your cat by scooping the litter and dumping (pardon the pun) the garbage regularly… My cat drags litter all over the apartment, and I’m wiping my feet and vacuuming constantly! Are you telling me, I don’t have to do that anymore? Where do I sign up?

Now if they only had thumbs and could flush (shout out to “Greg Focker”)!

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-Bob

Electronic Cigarettes – A Solution for apartment renters

I’ve been smoke-free now for roughly 8 months. I didn’t use a gimmick drug, I wasn’t strong enough to go “cold-turkey,” and I didn’t have a support group or any other myriad of mind tricks entrenched in unscientific jargon (like hypnosis). I invested my efforts and my money into the electronic cigarette.

I will start by saying I was an “at least pack-a-day smoker” for almost ten years, and, unfortunately, genetically apt to be a habit-seeker. I loved smoking, and became a victim to habit, so much so, that my day was planned around when and where I could smoke. It was pitiful… and while I 100% agree that people should have the choice to smoke or not, I realized that I was limiting my overall potential physically and emotionally due to the nicotine addiction.

I’m obliged to note that the FDA hasn’t officially sided with utilizing the e-cig for smoking cessation. Research published in the International Journal of Clinical Practice, indicates the following conclusion in their 2011 study:
Until we have more evidence on the safety and efficacy of e-cigs for smoking cessation, smokers should be advised to use proven treatments (e.g. counselling and FDA-approved medicines). However, for those who have successfully switched to e-cigs, the priority should be staying off cigarettes, rather than quitting e-cigs. [emphasis added by me]

I’m therefore sticking to the latter statement in my practice and use of the e-cig. I haven’t had a puff of a cigarette in 8 months, and I’m physically feeling better (chest, throat, lungs), running longer in the gym, and I don’t smell like smoke anymore (which is considered one of the largest complaints by both smokers and non-smokers). What’s better, I don’t “smoke out” my relatives or the other individuals in my apartment complex. Renting in Chicago (as I do), or any city for that matter, calls for close quarters. Even smoking outside can drift the smell of smoke to tenants all over the building which raises plenty of complaints to the property management company and landlord.

I’m not a doctor – do your own research… But the e-cig is odorless and has thus far been discovered to offer no harmful effects, other than the chemical, nicotine. Nicotine is highly addictive, and said to constrict blood flow in the body, much like caffeine. Nicotine is why people can’t stop smoking… Other than the addictive properties, according to most of the medical studies that exist, nicotine offers virtually no cause for concern. Other chemicals found in the cartridges for e-cigs are found to be harmless, as they are in very trace amounts.
The notorious “tar” and hundreds of other chemicals in a standard cigarette are the true danger in the practice of smoking.

The e-cig styles and types vary, but the physical structure is virtually the same throughout: There is typically a cartridge containing a liquid (flavored for taste, infused with nicotine levels ranging from 0mg all the way up to 24mg or more). The battery connector fastens to the cartridge, and by inhaling through the cartridge, the battery becomes activated, heating the liquid. Then a vapor is produced and inhaled through the end giving the feeling of smoking, without the dangers of a typical cig. You can purchase refill cartridges, and the cost of the whole apparatus, on average (and I can only speak for myself), is around 20% the cost of smoking regular cigarettes. Some studies show that pack-a-day smokers will save around $1,000-1,200 per year.

I fully recommend trying to quit if you’re a smoker. Your fellow tenants and your landlord will be appreciative, and you’ll spend less time taking breaks, and more time doing the things you want to do. If you’re not already addicted to smoking – don’t start!!! I can’t stress that enough. The e-cig should be considered a device to help quit if you’re captive to the addiction – remember nicotine is considered one of the most addictive chemicals around… but if you’re already hooked, the Electronic Cigarette, in my opinion, is an exceptional solution to quitting.

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-Bob

Why do people still write checks when paying rent?

We find ourselves in an age of technology that, soon enough, will require you to adopt innovative technological advancements to do any business anymore. In most cases, if you rent an apartment in the City of Chicago, you’re paying rent online through the property management company’s website portal, or via some other third party, electronic means. The problem is that there are many rental properties in the city that still only accept personal checks!

Many argue that there are certain demographics, primarily 55+ (here on referred to as the “elder demographic”), that aren’t fully in-tune with new technology. I have a grandmother in her 70s who has a smart phone, an email address, and a Facebook account… so I guess I don’t get the argument. Sure – it used to be more complicated to set yourself up online if you were in the elder demographic, but it’s getting easier. Anyone can learn, as today things are made so darn intuitive! But still, one has to recognize that there’s a sense of refusal among the elder demographic to accept technology.

I submit that of the primary causes attributed to the personal check still being in existence, is the refusal of the elder demographic to learn the basics of computer technology. Other causes could just be fear of change, or laziness (I guess all ways of describing the same thing).

My property still only accepts paper checks… Cable, electric, gas, water, insurance, car payments, credit card payments… and basically ANYTHING can be paid online. In fact, I am moderately certain (apart from various one-off scenarios) that the only checks I ever write are for rent.

I should note out of fairness: I’ve been informed that my property is going to soon adopt web rent payments… But one has to consider the idea that there are people who just don’t want to try to learn how to click a few buttons to pay for stuff (or they’re afraid of it). Well I’m asserting, on the record, that this isn’t and shouldn’t be an excuse anymore.

Are you sick of writing rent checks? Are you sick of processing personal checks?

My message to tenants is to request your property adopt a web-based payment system… and if you’re a property manager still only accepting checks - tell them to "get with the program".
The benefits to switching are endless and hopefully obvious.

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook or Twitter!

-Bob

How to get your security deposit back in Chicago

As a unit renter, sometimes you come across a unit owner that isn’t always 100% honest. Here is an example of something that actually happened to myself about two years ago. The unit owners name is never mentioned but it was quite an experience and I learned that it is pretty easy to make sure you get your security deposit back if you have information to back it up.

I had a studio apartment that I was renting from a condo owner in the River North area. While living in the unit, I took pride in its appearance and treated it as my own. This meant that I never destroyed anything, nor did I have a Dog that tore the place up. I kept the counters and the walls in good shape, and never damaged any of the appliances. When it came time for me to leave the condo, (I didn’t want to renew the lease) I inquired about getting my security deposit back. This was a pretty substantial amount of money as it was a full month’s rent. Of course, I was told by my landlord that I would “get it soon”. Forty-five days passed and after numerous calls/emails I got a “bill” indicating the various charges that were hand-written such as “$100 Maid service” indicating that basically, my deposit was spent fixing up the place after I left. From there I realized that this S.O.B. was going to try to keep my deposit. So, what did I do? I fought, and I won. This is why...

Illinois law states:
(d) The landlord shall, within 45 days after the date that the tenant vacates the dwelling unit or within 7 days after the date that the tenant provides notice of termination of the rental agreement pursuant to Section 5-12-110(g), return to the tenant the security deposit or any balance thereof and the required interest thereon; provided, however, that the landlord may deduct from such security deposit or interest due thereon for the following:
(2) a reasonable amount necessary to repair any damage caused to the premises by the tenant or any person under the tenant's control or on the premises with the tenant's consent, reasonable wear and tear excluded. In case of such damage, the landlord shall deliver or mail to the last known address of the tenant within 30 days an itemized statement of the damages allegedly caused to the premises and the estimated or actual cost for repairing or replacing each item on that statement, attaching copies of the paid receipts for the repair or replacement. If estimated cost is given, the landlord shall furnish the tenant with copies of paid receipts or a certification of actual costs of repairs of damage if the work was performed by the landlord's employees within 30 days from the date the statement showing estimated cost was furnished to the tenant.

I may have not gone to law school, but this information makes it very clear that in the state of Illinois you should A) Get your deposit back within 7 days. B) If there is damage, the landlord needs to send an itemized receipt (within 30 days to the tenant explaining the charges and attaching scanned receipts).

Soon after seeing this information online, I wrote a letter to the owner outlining the information stated above, how much he owes me, and how much MORE he would owe me for all the time I would spend preparing/dealing with the case. Wouldn’t you know it…….the check was sent to me within ten days – no questions asked.
I want to point out that what I dealt with probably isn’t the “norm”. There are plenty of condo owners looking to rent their units that are honest, fully capable individuals. However, if you come across someone trying to take your deposit and you know they are in the wrong, FIGHT. According to a friend of mine that is a realtor, Illinois almost always sides with the renter in most cases. Don’t be taken advantage of!

Have you ever had something similar happen? Was the case a win/lose or draw? Tell us in the comments below.

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook or Twitter!
-Ron

Product Spotlight: Rental Beacon Marketplace

The Rental Beacon Marketplace is a module built-in to your account so that you can buy and sell goods and services with individuals in the Rental Beacon community. The product is similar to craigslist, in that you post the service or product you wish to sell, and then connect offline with those individuals interested in the transaction. However, there are a few things that set the Rental Beacon Marketplace apart from other auction and ecommerce websites:

1. Rental Beacon is a community of trusted users. Everyone is linked to an account with Rental Beacon and built into an existing “club.” If you’re renting an apartment in Chicago, for example, and you would like to sell a couch – you can post to your own building (making the transaction easier on everyone), or to the rest of the Rental Beacon community.

2. Proximity and targeting. For a nominal fee (per post), you can target locations geographically in the Marketplace and push out information regarding a service through the “Premium Service Posting.” In doing so, your service posting will be sent out as an email to every user in your building and posted onto their profile feed. This guarantees exposure far beyond posting something to the cork board by the laundry room.

3. Security. People are (rightly-so) concerned about their security. The nice thing is that your information in the Rental Beacon universe is completely secure and private – you have total control over sharing any contact information with any other user of the Marketplace when it comes to posting or making a purchase. The only thing we share with other users is your registered email address so that you can take your conversations offline.

For more on the Marketplace, register for free today, and click on the “Marketplace” tab in your account.
Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook or Twitter!

-Bob

Do I need renter’s insurance?

One of the last decisions that any apartment renter has to make is deciding whether or not they need renter's insurance. Truth is, it depends on how much you care about your stuff. Here are some pros and cons of renters insurance. Although these points are valid for MOST areas, each state is different. Make sure you read the renters insurance paperwork to determine exactly what your insurance will cover.

Why you should get Renter’s insurance:

-    Got robbed? No problem: One thing that is always covered is if someone burglarizes your place. This is important for obvious reasons and you never know when you may accidentally leave the door unlocked.
-    The fire department was a little late: You smell the smoke, you grab fluffy, and you run out of that place in your underwear. Forty-five minutes later the fire department shows up and your place is virtually gone. But don’t worry; your insurance company will reimburse you.
-    Your friend has fallen and they can’t get up: Your friend stops over after a long day ata Chicago beach and in their drunken stupor; they fall in the bathroom and crack their head on the bathroom floor. Soon after, you realize they have a pretty good sized gash on the back of their head and they need to go to the hospital. If your friend didn’t have insurance, they may try to stick you with the bill. However, if you have Renters insurance, you’re covered!
-    You tend to break or lose your phone, a lot: You may have heard this before, you may have not, but it is possible (with some companies) to cover your cell phone as an item in your renters insurance plan. We would recommend that you talk to the company directly and see if that is possible. In addition, make sure that you check on the deductible you have on your account and how it works with the phone itself. For instance, if you have a deductible of $500 and you paid $20 to cover your phone for a year, you would still have to pay the $500 before the phone would be covered. Not a very good deal at all.

Why you shouldn’t get renters insurance:

-    It’s all about the Benjamin’s: Plain and simple, Renters insurance costs money and there is absolutely no guarantee that you are going to use it. If you are wondering how much it costs, this all depends on how much your stuff is worth and the coverage that you get.
-    Water abound: if you live in an area where floods happen frequently (or could happen), keep in mind that you will almost always need to get flood insurance in addition to renters insurance. Yes, we know it is a pain in the butt….but if your stuff gets ruined in a flood, you won’t regret it.
-    Not required: Renters insurance is almost always optional and because of this, why spend the extra money? If you are living with furniture from 70’s that you purchased through Craigslist that probably isn’t worth more than $100, you may not need renter’s insurance at all.

So there they are folks, the positives and negatives of renters insurance. In our professional opinion, better safe than sorry. Renters insurance is usually pretty cheap and typically costs $100-$200 per year. We know that you might hate to part with the money, but it is much better than parting with all your stuff if something bad happens.

What are your experiences with Renters insurance? Have you ever had to file a claim?

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook or Twitter!
-Ron

When do Chicago beaches open?

It’s finally summer time in Chicago and with the imminent heat wave on the horizon, it’s time to go to a beach! Whether they rent an apartment, or own a condo, Chicago residents love spending a day at North Avenue Beach, Oak Street beach, or one of the many others……..but not everyone knows exactly when they open. To be honest, there really is no date set in stone every year, but the city of Chicago tends to follow a pattern if you look at historical open dates. For the most part all Chicago beaches open mid-late May, right in the middle of the summertime in Chicago. In fact, if the beaches aren’t open by Memorial day, you have a right to be shocked.

For 2012 in particular, Chicago beaches are going to open on Friday, May 25th.

So how long do you have to bask in the amazing Chicago sun? For the most part, you can expect the beaches to close to the public on or right before Labor day in the beginning of September. One other tidbit of information that we think is definitely worth mentioning – pay attention to the flags. The Chicago Park district will place flags near the beach house or on a lifeguard stand. This is Chicago’s way of letting you know if the water is safe to swim/hang out in.

Green - Swimming is permitted. Water is calm and water quality is safe based on current monitoring for E.coli bacteria.

Yellow - A swim advisory is in effect. Caution is advised while swimming. Water and weather conditions are becoming unpredictable. Restrictions may be implemented. There may be an increased risk of illness based on current monitoring for E.coli bacteria.

Red - A swim ban is in effect due to severe weather, which may be hazardous.

So Chicago unit renters, Chicago Unit Owners and Chicago Property Managers go out to the beach and spend a few relaxing hours soaking up the sun. But remember to always look for those flags, I can only imagine some of the interesting things you may find in the lakes water when a red flag is present…

For more information about the Chicago beaches, go to: http://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com

-Ron

5 Essential Tips for a Great Chicago Summer

Let’s start by saying we had a nice, mild, uneventful winter (2011-2012). For those reading this that are not residents of Chicago or any neighboring regions, this fact is a blessing. The last few years, we have had “thunder-snow” storms (yes, they do exist, with lightning and thunder) and blizzards that left thousands of vehicles stuck on main roads for, sometimes, days. We’ve had business closures, apartment and condo residents stuck in their buildings due to piles of snow, public transportation shut downs, and a myriad of other complications due to extreme winter weather. Power outages have been realized by hundreds of thousands of residents in Chicago over the past couple years, due to snow!

We’ve had some warm weather our way the past couple months, and many are preparing for a pleasant, warm “Chicago Summer” – In my opinion, the city at its finest. If you rent an apartment or condo, start preparing your decks and balconies for cookouts and parties, and make sure there’s enough structural support to hold that keg!
Here’s the Rental Beacon field guide for the summer – 5 things we find essential:

1. Stay cool, find a pool. If your rental property or condo building has a pool, sweet! There’s nothing like a cold beverage alongside the pool – if you don’t have a pool, phone a friend and get to the nearest swimming hole; it’s essential.

2. Walk. It’s free. Chicago is a beautiful city – take a second to walk around and take in the view. Public transportation can be annoying and crowded, so taking a walk might be the best way to enjoy the summer sun and get where you need to be... Plus, you don’t have to pay to walk, and you get some exercise.

3. Plan ahead. There are so many things to do in Chicago, that even as a long-time resident, you may not ever get to do it all. Take the time to plan out some excursions, and you’ll be able to tackle the things you’ve always wanted to do. There are some great Chicago area resources online to help you find places, price specials, events, festivals and the like.

4. Call your mother. We’re not in school anymore, but there’s something about the summer break that never gets old. Remember, family can be a complicated and frustrating institution, but something about the summer months can put us in good spirits. Take a second to call your family, and see what they’re up to. See if you can rediscover the nostalgia around summertime at home.

5. Be safe… Mostly. “Safety first,” is a great motto to live by, but don’t let it hinder your fun. Remember to be responsible when a situation calls for it, but don’t let the fear of the unknown hold you back from a fun time. Especially do NOT drink and drive, and be responsible while enjoying beer, spirits, and wine – don’t spoil the good time for others, and be safe.

And that’s it! We hope this short guide to a Chicago Summer is enough to get you started, but if you have more in mind, add them here: Be sure to follow us on Twitter and Facebook!

-Bob

Why do Chicago apartments have income restrictions?

So it happened. You went online, searched through various rental properties and found an apartment that you absolutely love. You think in your head about how perfect the layout is, how the rent is surprisingly low, how you are going to buy all new furniture, how you will travel to and from the location to get to work, and then suddenly…..BAM. It hits you, Income Restriction. Sometimes if the apartment rental cost looks too good to be true, it really is.

But why on earth would a Chicago property put an income restriction on a tenant? I mean, logically it would seem that the more someone makes, the more likely they are to pay back their bills. Well, your logic isn’t flawed; the reason for this is “Affordable Housing”. The premise being that some places are set up as low income housing to increase the percent of lower-to-middle income families. This is done to give these types of individuals/families the ability to have a dwelling in a better neighborhood than they might be able to afford otherwise. In addition to that, if a property manager or property management company owns low-income housing and rents it out, they get some pretty nice tax credits. The system really benefits all parties involved.

Chicago is one of the cities in the U.S. that allows "affordable housing" complexes and this is done because certain areas can be extremely expensive and well beyond the financial means of certain individuals. When you see a property that has an income-restriction, it basically means that you can only make a maximum of “X” dollars on a yearly basis. This restriction is put on the property to ensure that those who really need it are able to take advantage of the program. Keep in mind, this means that those who currently live in that building do meet this criteria. With that being said, sometimes it results in having shady neighbors.

You can find out more about affordable housing by visiting the Chicago Housing Authority website at www.thecha.org

-Ron

Chicago Businesses urge residents to dress down

Chicago Businesses urge their Tenants to Wear “protestor-camouflage” During NATO Summit

It seems to me there is a lot of hoopla around the NATO summit this year in Chicago. Dozens have been arrested for aggressive demonstration along with several others injured, and it forces one to give pause. While you may not be totally in-tune with the purposes/causes/actions of NATO, some Chicago businesses feel there’s a need to fear the Chicago NATO summit scenario, and are calling for some preventative measures to be taken.

Downtown Chicago [3rd party managed] building Tenants have encouraged their businesses to “dress-down” during the summit, so as to avoid harassment by protestors, according to Crain’s ChicagoBusiness.com. Some are going so far to avoid any complication that they are urging tenants to stay away from wearing suits and other formalwear, and telling their tenants to “look like a protestor!” Some tenants and their employees are told to avoid wearing corporate logos, or even carrying items or luggage containing any corporate insignias or branding.

There doesn’t appear to be any data associated with dress code and attacks by protestors in Chicago… it is seemingly a conjured request, rooted in fear. I’m sure employers and property managers alike are simply attempting to operate with the safety of their tenants and employees in mind, but in this case, where do you draw the line between fear and irrationality? These types of preemptive measures only legitimize and substantiate fears that, in all reality, are irrational. Do we really think there is a legitimate fear of protestors, and if there is, should there be?

Let us know what you think on Facebook and Twitter.

-Bob

Where does Derrick Rose live?

Unfortunately, Derrick Rose (due to injury) wasn’t able to save the Bulls from falling to the 76ers in the 2012 NBA playoffs, but lucky for him he has quite the pad to call home. Everyone in Chicago knows about D-Rose and most know that he was born and raised in Chicago’s very own (and incredibly dangerous) Englewood neighborhood, but not many people know where Derrick Rose currently lives. Today we are going to examine where D-Rose came from, and where he currently resides. Let’s start with the house D-Rose grew up in.

And here is a picture of the basketball court where he learned to play ball in Murray Park:

Now that you have seen a little about where D-Rose came from, let’s talk about where he is now. After Rose signed a $96 million dollar extension with the Bulls, Rose then signed a 14-year, $260 million contract to endorse Adidas. Undoubtedly that led to where he currently resides. On the 84th floor of the trump tower (Neighboring the Chicago Blackhawks’ Patrick Kane and only a few blocks from where Jonathan Toews lives) D-rose finds himself living in a palace in the sky.

Living Room #1

Living Room #2

Kitchen

Master Bathroom

Here are some features of the new place:

-3,102 sq. ft.

-$2.8 Million price tag

-Master suite includes a bathroom wrapped in limestone with double sinks, double showers and a deep Jacuzzi tub

-Three bedrooms, four bathrooms, a den and a kitchen with the best appliances available

-A $2,700 monthly assessment that provides access to gourmet room service, 24-hour concierge and daily cleaning crews

Is his new place nice? Undoubtedly. But, what about that old basketball court that D-Rose grew up playing on? Soon after “making it” in the NBA, Rose spoke with the Chicago Park District and used his star power to encourage PowerAde (Yes, the sport drink company) that the old basketball court get remodeled. It did, and many of the schools in the area also got a financial boost.

So there you have it, the home of Derrick Rose. Beautiful, elegant, and extremely expensive. Most, if not all of us will never be able to afford a place like this. However, being an apartment renter in Chicago isn't all that bad....especially if you have a dog and like to take them out to one of the many Chicago dog parks. Is anything more relaxing?

-Ron

What’s your View? Chicago apartment tower to obscure apparel center view

What’s your “View?” Apartment tower to obscure apparel center – among others – Wolf Point Chicago

Ah… the Chicago River; with all its wondrous beauty - the regular flow of gravel barges, the occasional avian species wading through the granule-ridden waters, and tour boat guides vibrating scripted sound waves off the walls of the city’s (some would argue) most beautiful architecture.

Plans for some 80-story rental property are being drafted and proposed by the Kennedy family, that some say, will obscure the river from the views from the Apparel Center and Merchandise Mart at Wolf Point – the section of property currently consisting of a river walk and a parking lot. The shape-shifting doesn’t stop with the landscape; In May, 2012, apparel tenants will be asked to remove themselves from the Apparel Center so that it can be utilized for general offices. The businesses currently in the Apparel Center at Wolf Point, will be forced to swap their view of the beautiful Willis Tower, the Chicago River, and a distant view of the downtown landscape for a view of another large building… directly in front of it.

Along with the plans to build an apartment rental property, current plans seek to add two other buildings adjacent, that would be primarily for commercial purposes – these buildings are estimated to be between 50 and 60 stories. The Apparel Center (home to the Chicago Sun-Times, and many other companies) standing at 15 stories, will be dwarfed by the new construction’s magnitude. Others complain that traffic is already congested, and surrounding rental properties and condominium homes are complaining that their views are also to be obstructed. Part of the reason they purchased these homes is “for the view…”

Leave a comment below letting us know what your view is

-Bob

Your Business is Booming but How is your Service?

While you may have the ability to fill capacity, your customer service will be the key to retaining tenants.

Everyone in Chicago, like the rest of the country, knows that over the course of past several years, we have been living in a recession. From that shocking change to what we had previously enjoyed as a booming housing market, there has been a significant drop in home buying, an increase in foreclosure rates and mortgage delinquency, and a general confusion as to whether to purchase or rent for those who are ready to move. Rental Properties are filling up… especially Chicago rental properties… As we learned in Economics 101, the demand is rising (along with prices), and the vacancy rates are falling drastically.

If you’re a rental property manager, this is great news! You’ll be able to fill vacancy quickly, and generally will be able to get the rental rates you desire. A busier rental market, however, means a more competitive rental market – you will need to set yourself apart to attract and retain long-lasting tenant relationships. The goal for any property management company will be to build a solid reputation as a service provider… This brings me to my next point…

As you should know, tenant turnover is one of the most costly issues facing rental property managers. In a 2011 SatisFacts study, it was estimated that tenant-exit (move-out) costs average around $3,900 per unit! This is due to lost rental income, concessions and other repairs and maintenance that may need to be done on the unit. In another 2010 SatisFacts study, it was estimated that roughly 54% of residents choose to move out of their rental unit due to controllable factors – things like poor customer service and property manager response time. Research consistently shows that tenants want considerateness and professionalism, promptness, and, follow-up when it comes to services.

ChicagoLand Property Managers – your business may be booming… but how is your service?

- Bob

Rental Beacon has officially launched!

It’s been a whole year coming, but RentalBeacon.com is finally up and running. We can’t tell you how gratifying it has been for us to take a (very complex) idea that we had on paper, and tailor it to something that is a viable business model. We wanted to take a minute to say thank you to the individuals who have helped us launch. Whether it be encouraging words, our Rental Beacon logo, web development expertise, or something else…….we owe the city of Chicago a debt of gratitude for motivating us to make a website that will eventually become the standard in rental communication.

For those of you who have helped us out, we give a sincere “Thank You”.

-Ron and Bob (The Rental Beacon executive team)