The Palmolive Building offers many options in luxury real estate in Chicago. (image from flickr/artefaqs)

While real estate in Chicago has much to offer by the way luxury condo buildings, one stands out among them: the landmark Palmolive Building at 159 East Walton.

The Palmolive Building was built in 1929 as a prestigious office building and highlighted as a premier example of art deco architecture. The building has undergone a transformation in the last decade to expand the base-level retail space and create luxury Chicago condos at a prime location.

The Palmolive Building offers chic, sophisticated condos with top concierge services such as a door person, exercise room, sauna, steam room and party room. If you’re planning an event, use the Palmolive’s space or have the concierge book you at the Drake Hotel across the street. Condos in the Palmolive Building are also a quick elevator ride or walk away from the finest shopping options in the city: Louis Vuitton, St. John, Gucci, Mont Blanc, Michael Kors, Bloomingdale’s, Max Mara and Chanel are all within a block of this prestigious piece of Chicago real estate.

Upscale buyers hunting for an exclusive, luxury condo now have an opportunity in the Palmolive Building, with 9 unique 2- or 3-bedroom properties currently listed:

Unit 13B
Square footage: 1,867
List price: $1,150,000
This spacious two bedroom features custom-designed mahogany walls along with sprawling lake views, and combines the vintage style of the building with modern warmth and elegance.

Unit 8D
Square footage: 3,014
List price: $2,250,000
With new interior construction, this 3-bedroom condominium offers exquisite finishes, large windows, 9 ½-foot ceilings, hardwood floors and two parking spaces included in the price.

Unit 12A
Square footage: 2,832
List price: $2,295,000
Also with recently reconstructed interiors, this Chicago condo includes white oak floors throughout, high ceilings, fireplaces and leading appliances.

Unit 5C
Square footage: 3,672
List price: $2,350,000
This 3-bedroom boasts generous space, wood floors and north, east and west views in this interior new construction condo.

Unit 13A
Square footage: 2,832
List price: $2,375,000
This Palmolive 2-bedroom-plus-study combines the historic building’s old-world charm with everyday technology. It offers exquisite finishes and neutral backgrounds so any buyer can make the space their own.

Unit 15A
Square footage: 2,832
List price: $2,595,000
A designer residence, this 3-bedroom Chicago “smart home” features a gourmet kitchen, lake and city views from every living space and lavish décor and finishes.

Unit 10FG
Square footage: 3,300
List price: $2,695,000
This one-of-a-kind condo in the Palmolive includes two bedrooms plus a study and is one of only six building units that feature 14-foot ceilings. This stunning unit also includes custom millwork, hardwood floors and a unique and generous master closet.

Unit 7D
Square footage: 3,157
List price: $4,995,000
World-renowned designer Alessandra Branca designed this unique luxury two bedroom, perfect for a buyer looking for timeless décor and upscale quality down to the tiniest details.

Unit 25A
Square footage: 5,400
List price: $6,250,000
This full-floor Chicago home is highlighted by three generously sized bedrooms, a private elevator entrance and a state of the art kitchen. Unit 25A provides large, open living spaces with a walnut-paneled corner library with a fireplace and wet bar, plus a state-of-the-art kitchen, marble baths and top technology.

If you’re interested in a coveted property in the Palmolive building, please give me a call to find out how long these properties have been on the market and to obtain a complete listing sheet. If you find a property that interests you, I can guide you through the legwork of getting into a sought-after unit in this prestigious building.

With more than 20 years of experience of assisting buyers of real estate in Chicago, I’ll make sure the negotiation process includes information based on cost per square foot, that I’ve done the due diligence on the property’s listing price history, and that we’ve looked at details like finishes and color palettes that could affect the future resale value of your home.

It’s important to make sure you have substantial information about a property, from ceiling heights to floor plan widths, so we can discuss the nuances of horizontal and vertical floor plans. It’s also a good idea to review the meeting minutes from the last six months to a year, plus the building’s 5-year plan so you have a big-picture perspective of buying in the building before we write up a contract.

If you’d like to discuss any of these properties further, contact agent Sheldon Salnick at (312) 264-5853 or ssalnick@rubloff.com.

The assessment cost can greatly affect the resale value and appreciation of your Chicago home, so a reasonable cost is important for you now, as a buyer yourself, as well as down the line when you’re ready to sell. For a high-rise building in a unit with a lot of square footage, assessments over $1500 typically aren’t buyer-friendly.

Combining low assessments with the best finishes money can buy is key, buyers’ want to find things like Viking or Miele appliances, steam showers, heated flooring, Dacor and Wolf appliances. Crown moldings, wainscoting and fireplaces also up the appeal of Chicago homes for sale, both for you as a buyer now, and for the buyer when your home is ready for resale.

Here 13 current listings that offer low assessment fees without compromising upscale features:

2700 block of Midred Ave.
List price: $839,000
This 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath new construction boasts large rooms, a steam shower, heated floor and garage parking with a monthly assessment of $250.

1000 block of W Webster
List price: $849,000
An 1800-square-foot luxury 4-bedroom in Lincoln Park with natural stone baths, heated flooring, a private rooftop deck and more has an assessment of $300.

2400 block of N Racine
List price: $849,900
A luxurious 3,000 square feet of space creates a floor plan more than 30 feet wide, with brick construction, subzero appliances, marble baths, crown molding and wainscoting, all with an assessment of $205 monthly.

2600 block of Southport Ave.
List price: $869,000
With a monthly assessment of $227, this Lincoln Park 4 bedroom spans 2800 square feet on a wide lot with Dacor and Bosch stainless steel appliances, granite counters, marble baths, two fireplaces and garage parking.

2700 block of N Kenmore
List price: $875,000
This 2800 square foot Lincoln Park new construction has 10-foot ceilings, the finest detailed finishes, a pro kitchen with Wolf, Subzero and Miele appliances and a monthly assessment of $285.

1600 block of N Mohawk St.
List price: $899,000
An exquisite penthouse property with an assessment of $194, this 3-bedroom Chicago home includes luxury finishes, custom lighting, and a private roof deck in a boutique building in the Lincoln School district.

2000 block of N Sheffield
List price: $899,000
In the heart of Lincoln Park, this 3-bedroom is in a brick and limestone new construction building with concrete soundproofing between floors, oak flooring, natural stone baths and a custom kitchen. The assessment fee is $282 monthly.

300 block of W Webster
List price$899,000
With a monthly assessment of $300, this contemporary Chicago home offers more than1900 square feet with three bedrooms, a gourmet kitchen with Bosch appliances, a Juliette balcony, 11-foot ceilings, and mahogany floors near Frances Parker School.

1800 block of N Mohawk St
List price: $899,900
This rare find has a monthly assessment of just $186, with 2600 square feet of custom-built luxury, including open floor plans, 25-foot cathedral ceilings, a skyline view and a 300-bottle wine cellar.

2700 block of N Kenmore
List price: $909,900
Seated on an extra deep lot, this 4-bedroom duplex spans 2800 square feet with four parking spaces, a cook’s kitchen with Viking appliances, 2 fireplaces, full-home audio wiring and an assessment of $262.

2700 block of N Pine Grove
List price: $1,099,000
A 3 bedroom with a generous 3400 square feet, this Lincoln Park penthouse has an assessment of just $356 for a Subzero kitchen, 22-foot ceilings, two master suites, 2-car garage parking and much more.

1800 block of N Orleans
List price: $995,000
A historic boutique building with 2100 square feet, this Chicago condo lists a master quite with fireplace, 3 bedrooms with an office, stained glass windows, a gourmet kitchen with granite and stainless steel and an attached garage with an assessment of $339.

2100 block of N Halsted
List price: $1,195,000
With a low assessment cost of $200, this 3-bedroom as 30-foot wide interiors in an intimate boutique condominium building with a private roof deck and garden, spectacular city views and two levels of living space.

If you’re interested in any of these properties or want to find an upscale Chicago home without the added expense of high assessments, contact agent Sheldon Salnick at (312) 264-5853 or by email at ssalnick@rubloff.com.

Chicago's luxury buildings offer concierge services and amenities for your every want and need.

Chicagoans aren’t the only ones taking note of all the city has to offer. Chicago real estate developers are creating even more options in luxury living for those looking for the best amenities and services a big-city residential building can offer. Chicago currently has several buildings that cater to your every need, from treating its residents to the finest wines, to welcoming guests, to setting up events and meetings or getting dinner delivered to your door at 2 a.m. The concierge services in these buildings can indulge most any resident’s wants and desires.

In addition to tremendous services, the staff at these buildings knows how to assist anyone from a Fortune 500 CEO to a Hollywood celebrity to world leaders. They are skilled in dealing with any situation and to handle and respect the privacy of their upscale residents.

These 7 buildings offer the most prestige among Chicago real estate:

Trump Tower: One of the newer examples of luxury among Chicago homes, Trump Tower’s residential condominiums offer a posh lifestyle backed by the Trump name. With services from a white-glove doorman to a dry-cleaning and laundry valet, Trump Tower is a prime location for those ready to be wined and dined right in their own home. Nestled right in downtown Chicago, the building offers both superior privacy and a slew of activity just a few steps away.

Ritz Carlton: Scheduled to be completed in mid-2011, Michigan Avenue’s much buzzed-about Ritz Carlton is expected to be a prominent collection of prominent Chicago condos. The name Ritz Carlton alone ensures that the services will be first-class, much like a private club. This building was so anticipated that one-bedroom units have already sold out, and one has even resold for $100,000 more than the original sale.

The Palmolive: With about 100 luxury Chicago condos inside, this landmark building delivers a panache like no other. The building’s staff ensures services are at your beck and call, and have a keen sensibility and sense of privacy surrounding its residents, as a number of famous people call the Palmolive Building home. The building’s elegance is apparent inside and out, and considered to be one of the finest examples of art deco architecture in the world.

Elysian: This experience in Gold Coast luxury just opened, bringing grand residential Chicago condos paired with fine dining, upscale shopping and the building’s own 14,000 square foot health club and spa. Elysian also combines superior concierge services with the comfort you seek in a home. A simple drive up to the doors of Chicago real estate’s new addition will take you to another world.

800 Michigan Ave.: These North Side Chicago condos are virtually connected to the Park Hyatt Hotel below, allowing residents to take full advantage of all the hotel services. Also part of the Park Hyatt is NoMI, a world-class French restaurant considered to be one of city’s most chic. Valet parking, supreme security features and a world-renowned spa and just a few of the amenities that 800 Michigan Avenue has to offer.

Ten East Delaware: In the heart of Gold Coast, 121 luxury Chicago condos are currently being built to boast classic architecture, coveted interiors and a scores of private amenities and services. The building will offer a residents-only private club, geared to remove you from everyday life and provide unassailable views of Chicago’s skyline. Residents can also take advantage of all the hotel services offered by the neighboring Talbott Hotel.

2520 Lincoln Park: Slated to be the most elegant and prestigious place to live in Lincoln Park, this building will offer spectacular views that rival those of New York’s Central Park. Down to the smallest details, residents’ needs and wants will be answered by 2520’s unmatched amenities and services. If you think a Chicago condo won’t offer enough space for a family, 2520 is a building offering sprawling square footage, as well as a location directly across from Lincoln Park. Lincoln Park 2520 is also a short drive to two of the cities best private schools, Latin and Parker.

If you’d like to find yourself settling into the life of luxury that Chicago offers, contact Chicago real estate agent Sheldon Salnick at (312) 264-5853 or ssalnick@rubloff.com.

But believe it or not, now is a great time to buy. Winter is perfect for taking advantage of real estate deals, plus several right-now opportunities won’t be around forever, such as:

• For first-time buyers, the $8,000 tax credit from the government has been extended, and now a single person can have an income of $125,000 or a couple at $250,000 to be eligible.

• There’s no telling where interest rates will go, and right now we’re looking at the lowest levels in history, making it a great opportunity for buyers. Rates were lowered as part of the Fed’s 2008 program, which is now nearing its end and might not be setting things up so well for buyers in the near future. Before the Fed’s program, rates were well-above 6%. We could certainly return to that rate once that program has ended.

• Chicago home sellers are highly motivated in the winter season to move fast, making it a time best to negotiate a good buy.

If you’re looking at Chicago new construction, it’s also an opportune time to negotiate a deal, as many developers are under bank pressure to sell their properties and a developer’s profit comes from the last 20% of sales on that development. Some new construction properties might also offer closeouts to help the developer sell quickly (which could mean a great value for your new Chicago home).

Sellers are also motivated by buyers who can put down 15% to 20% or close the purchase within 30 days—good negotiating tools for you when shopping for a Chicago home. Those tools will benefit those looking to buy luxury Chicago new construction. A conforming loan on a $1 million-plus property will get you a great deal and if you put 25% to 30% down or close agreeing to a 30-day closing period you’re in an excellent negotiating position in the current real estate market. If you’re looking to pay cash for Chicago real estate, you’re in an even better position to negotiate price if you can close in less than 30 days as well.

This time of year is also a great time for those looking for a Chicago condo, as most associations know what their 2010 costs will be, so buyers aren’t left guessing.

To find your new Chicago home this winter and determine the best negotiating strategy for your situation, contact Sheldon Salnick at (312) 264-5853.

A second home in Chicago will cost less than other major cities—San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York or Washington, D.C. Buying into Chicago’s most exclusive buildings can cost anywhere from $700-$1,200 per square foot. For example, a home in one of the cities most opulent residences, the Michigan Avenue Ritz-Carlton, could only cost about $1,200 per square foot. But that doesn’t mean Chicago new construction won’t offer value later on. The Ritz-Carlton residences are part of a chic, boutique building backed by its name—which plays a big role in the future value of such properties. One-bedrooms in the Ritz-Carlton have already sold out. One has even been resold, and it’s easy to see why. For a second home-buyer, a Chicago condo in a building like this is typically in a walkable neighborhood, near high-end shopping and in the heart of business activities so you’re close to work and play.

If you’re not in the city for business, a second home will make spending time in the city convenient and accessible. Buying a Chicago condo in a dense neighborhood like Lakeview, River North or the Gold Coast, and near the attractions you might frequent makes staying in the city easier than ever. Looking at Chicago real estate as a second home could mean you have a readily available vacation waiting for you anytime you need it.

To find a Chicago home or Chicago condo that could be the perfect vacation home, please contact Chicago real estate agent Sheldon Salnick at (312) 264-5853 or email him at ssalnick@rubloff.com.

Visit Sheldon’s Web site to search online Chicago Real Estate Listings.

But it’s tough to take a gamble hope that a Chicago neighborhood going through changes will turn into a place you want to own real estate. Looking at an area with proven staying power—such as the Gold Coast, Lincoln Park or Lakeview—will ensure that you’re buying a Chicago home that will meet your needs—whether you’re looking for the perfect place to live, the just-right investment, or the ideal big-city getaway.

Gold Coast
The Gold Coast is a dream for Chicago real estate, and is especially an indulgence for architecture buffs. You’ll find canopied streets lined with upscale brownstone homes, many of which boast classic moldings, high ceilings and unique sized lots. Because it’s a well-established area, buying a Chicago home in Gold Coast means you can get to know your neighbors without the potential of losing them to the next high-rise condo building. Chicago homes for sale in the Gold Coast share the neighborhood with upscale restaurants, shopping at Hermes and Louis Vuitton, the famed 19th-century homes on Astor Street and the chic Elysian hotel/condo high-rise. If your real estate budget is about $2 million and above, the Gold Coast is the perfect place to begin searching for your Chicago home.

Lincoln Park
Woven with several key streets lined with gorgeous homes ranging from $5 million to more than $100 million, Lincoln Park has never slowed down as one of Chicago’s best neighborhoods. Hyatt chair and Obama comrade Penny Pritzker built a Lincoln Park home that later went for about $40 million. And while Lincoln Park has endurance for being a supreme place to live, that doesn’t mean there’s no buzz about what it’s bringing to the Chicago real estate table. Lincoln Park 2520 is merely in the ground-breaking phase, but it’s already breaking more figurative ground as a leading building in Lincoln Park than the region has seen in awhile. With access to its own park, spectacular views of Lake Michigan and endless lavish amenities, Lincoln Park 2520 will add long-term prosperity to an already desirable neighborhood.

Lakeview
Even as it’s often more affordable than the Gold Coast or Lincoln Park, Lakeview doesn’t skimp on opulent comfort. The dense neighborhood provides easy access to nightlife, shopping, restaurants, parks and anywhere else your feet can take you. Lakeview’s diversity means you can embrace the eclectic mix of food and entertainment that helps define Lakeview for many of its residents. Chicago homes in Lakeview tend to be on wider lots, so your real estate dollar could go a bit further when it comes to more space. If you’re looking for a tighter knit community, Lakeview is also home to many communities such as Wrigleyville, North Halsted and Lakeview East. Because Lakeview is an affordable but classic neighborhood for many, real estate buyers are turning here to stretch their investments further in an area that just seems to get better and better.

Think these neighborhoods sound like home? Visit Sheldon’s Web site to search online Chicago Real Estate Listings.

To find a Chicago home or Chicago condo that offer the features you’re looking for, please contact Chicago real estate agent Sheldon Salnick at (312) 264-5853 or email him at ssalnick@rubloff.com.

If you’re considering relocating to Chicago or purchasing a second home in the second city, it’s promising to know that a home purchase here is considerably less than New York, Boston or even California. Chicago offers real estate for nearly every budget — at the low end, the cost per square foot for Chicago real estate could be about $325 per square foot; at the high end, a square foot might cost you about $1,200. Like all real estate, the location and age of the building and the type of home (condominium or co-op) also plays a role in the cost of a Chicago home.

The high end of Chicago real estate might cost $1,200 per square foot, but that will typically buy you into a concierge-serviced luxury building in a fabulous location. That same lifestyle would most likely cost $3,000 to $3,500 in New York or San Francisco. But in Chicago, a home even in the famed Trump Tower offers spectacular views and seemingly unlimited services — and can cost even less than $1,000 per square foot.

Looking for more than just great value in Chicago real estate? Once you’ve settled in to a Chicago home or Chicago condo, you can take advantage of the city’s private clubs. This year, the Club Leaders Forum ranked the Union League Club of Chicago as the No. 1 private city club in the United States. What earned such high remarks was Chicago’s first-class dining, magnificent guest accommodations, a vibrant athletic facility, art collections, staff and involvement with non-profit foundations. The club also ranked on top among all categories of private clubs in Illinois.

To learn more about all the things the Chicago real estate market has to offer, please contact agent Sheldon Salnick at (312) 264-5853 or ssalnick@rubloff.com.

Visit Sheldon’s Web site to search online Chicago Real Estate Listings.

Are buyers returning to the Chicago condo market? While the sales volume continues at very thin levels, there has been a recent uptick in sales activity as prospective buyers are sensing that pricing has now reached levels which are rather enticing. With the discounted pricing now being offered by sellers in the Chicago real estate market along with the first-time home buyer tax credit and low mortgage rates, buyers appear to be more confident in making purchasing decisions. In addition, the rise in the Dow since the beginning of 2009 has helped buyer psychology, as buyers are already witnessing a recovery in the stock market which could help the Chicago housing market.

Buyer Traffic is Up:

On a weekly basis, Appraisal Research Counselors surveys the sales and prospective buyer traffic in a wide range of new condominium developments throughout the city of Chicago, with many located in the Downtown and Near North Side submarkets. Notably, since the spring of 2009, there has been an increase in the number of people visiting these sales centers along with an increase in the number of new sales contracts being reported. On a year-over-year comparison, 2009 started out weaker than 2008, but has surpassed 2008 since May. In general, discounted pricing is playing a big factor in this increase in Chicago home and condo sales, as these buyers are price-driven, looking for the best value opportunities.

Average Buyer Traffic Per Development

The First Time Buyer is Back:

Based upon the transactions which are occurring, it is apparent that the recovery is starting at the entry level segment of the Chicago real estate market. This group of buyers is not burdened with an existing residence to sell, providing them with the freedom to purchase a Chicago home or condo. In addition, demand from first-time buyers is also being strengthened by the government’s first-time homebuyer tax credit, along with the availability of FHA financing with 3.5 percent down payments.

In general, the higher priced Chicago homes and condominiums in the market are experiencing less of this increase in demand; thus, this higher price segment of the market is still waiting for the “trickle up effect” which is beginning at the lower end of the market. With only 15% of the new development sales during 2009 achieved in luxury buildings ($500+ PSF) tracked by Appraisal Research Counselors Downtown Chicago Residential Benchmark Reports, the lower priced product is leading the market in terms of sales velocity. This trend is also seen in the statistics for the Downtown market from MRED LLC (the multiple listing service) with a mix of transactions including both Chicago new construction sales and sales of existing properties:

Condos and Townhomes 6 Month Close

At the current pace of sales for residences reported in the multiple listing service, there is approximately a one year supply of lower priced inventory (under $500,000), with a 1.5 year supply of the $500,000-$999,999 inventory, and a nearly 3.5 year supply of the $1,000,000+ inventory. Even within these price categories, individual buildings and individual locations continue to function independently, with some buildings and locations exhibiting stronger demand than others.

Wave of New Construction Activity Ending:

The Downtown Chicago housing market has doubled in size during the past 15 years, with the tremendous surge of new construction activity which has taken place recently. However, developers are no longer pursuing new development deals nor are lenders interested in financing new construction projects. While 18,500 new Chicago condo units have been completed since 2006 in Downtown, only 600 units will be completed in 2010 and less than 100 units are currently under construction for completion in 2011.

New Condo Unit Completions

We do not expect to see development occur again on any large scale basis in the near term, although the timing will depend upon how rapidly the current unsold inventory is absorbed. At the present level of sales velocity, this will be a slow process, with the Chicago real estate market now adapting to a more moderate level of sales activity than had been experienced during 2005-2007.

Currently, sales velocity is still slow and there is a sizable amount of Chicago homes for sale, including both new and resale residences. However, the supply of new inventory is now capped at what is already delivered or currently under construction, and supply and demand for housing will eventually return to more balanced levels. The Chicago real estate market conditions provide some excellent buying opportunities for informed and patient purchasers who are looking for a longer term acquisition.

For more information on the Chicago real estate market, please contact agent Sheldon Salnick at (312) 264-5853 or email him at ssalnick@rubloff.com.

In this month’s edition of CS, the magazine takes a look at the historical importance and future of Chicago’s Gold Coast. “When compared with the Upper East Side, New York City’s bastion of old money and privilege, the Gold Coast stands up to the competition and, from a personality perspective, does it one better.” This Chicago hot spot has always been a place to see and be seen. Within walking distance to the lake, the Magnificent Mile, and fantastic architecture and parks, it’s no wonder the Gold Coast has continued to grow all these years.

As CS writer Amalie Drury points out,

“Like any neighborhood, the Gold Coast is always evolving, but a walking tour of its grid—particularly the area south of Division Street, north of Chicago Avenue and west of Clark Street—reveals a remarkable amount of growth over the past two or three years.”

Some of the changes Drury speaks of include the development of two luxury condos at 30 W. Oak St. and 11 E. Walton St. While these developments veer from the neighborhood’s smaller, street-level buildings, they are still in line with the community’s dedication to luxury. The space at 30 W. Oak St. boasts 10-foot ceilings, Poggenpohl wood cabinetry, Miele appliances, custom millwork, built-ins and a private terrace.

30 W. Oak St.

30 W. Oak St.

The high-rise at 11 E. Walton St., designed by Lucien LaGrange, will rest just above the Elysian Hotel. Each residence will have 180-degree views, two terraces, 10-foot ceilings, gourmet kitchens and spa baths. Residents will also enjoy access to the hotel’s indoor pool, concierge services and valet parking.

11 E. Walton St.

11 E. Walton St.

Other additions to the neighborhood include the restaurant Fred’s just above Barney’s and The Cedar Hotel bar on 1112 N. State St. Rumors are also flying that hotelier Ian Schrager may purchase “State Street’s Ambassador East hotel and its famed Pump Room restaurant, once the stomping grounds of stars like Humphrey Bogart, Lauren Bacall, Judy Garland and Frank Sinatra.” But amid all the rumors, one thing’s for sure, the Gold Coast will continue to be a classic Chicago neighborhood in the years to come.

If you’re interested in purchasing a Gold Coast Chicago condo, please contact Chicago real estate agent Sheldon Salnick at (312) 264-5853 or email him at ssalnick@rubloff.com.

Chicago skyline by Jolyn Hecht

Chicago’s industrial elements, like this unused bridge, are part of what makes our city so unique. These elements transform into elegant architectural elements at night. This portion of the Chicago River, near the Merchandise Mart and Chicago Sun-Times building, is the start of the river’s North Branch. Enjoy close proximity to the river from these available Chicago homes: 333 N. Canal St., 345 N. Canal St. and Kinzie Park.

Chicago River by Jolyn Hecht

The Wrigley Building, one of the world’s most famous buildings, is always bustling during the day. Designed after the Seville Cathedral’s Giralda Tower in Spain, its triangular shape cups the river perfectly. At night, its white terra-cotta cladding is illuminated by the city’s lights, highlighting its architectural features. This building sits on the southern half of the Magnificent Mile, home to some of the best up-scale shopping. Available Chicago real estate near the Wrigley Building and all that the Magnificent Mile has to offer are Regatta Condominiums and Chandler.

Wrigley Building by Jolyn Hecht

Just a few blocks west of Wrigley stands one of Chicago’s newest architectural elements, Trump Tower, designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merril. The building’s sleek and modern design seems to glow in the night’s sky. Around the river’s bend rests Marina City, two corncob-shaped residential buildings by Bertrand Goldberg. Condominiums are available at Marina City for you to take in the night from one of this residences many balconies.

Trump Tower and Marina City by Jolyn Hecht

Chicago’s Buckingham Fountain, designed by Edward H. Bennett, has been a part of Chicago since 1927. It’s a glorious structure even in the day time, but it’s spectacular at night with the city lights serving as a backdrop. This fountain is within Chicago’s Grant Park, which is full of attractions and events year round. If you prefer lake views to river ones, this segment of Chicago is perfect for you. Available Chicago real estate includes: 130 N. Garland Ct., 65 E. Monroe St., 310 S. Michigan Ave., and The Legacy at Millennium Park.

Buckingham Fountain by Jolyn Hecht

Chicago is known for its wonderful entertainment, and the nighttime entertainment at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park is no exception. This structure, designed by Frank Gehry, offers up some of the best architectural elements Chicago has to offer. Its state-of-the-art sound system can go toe-to-toe with any indoor theater while its modern look glistens in both the day and night. Chicago condos within walking distance of this wonderful space include: 340 E. Randolph St., 360 E. Randolph St., and The Heritage at Millennium Park.

Millennium Park by Jolyn Hecht

If you have any questions regarding the luxury Chicago real estate listed above, please contact Chicago real estate agent Sheldon Salnick at (312) 264-5853 or email him at ssalnick@rubloff.com.