Lagrange's Park Tower (from flickr/chascarper)

When it comes to luxury Chicago real estate buildings, one name stands out above all the rest: Lucien Lagrange. The French-born architect and his firm have made a name for themselves along any angle of Chicago’s skyline. Lucien Lagrange Architects have designed more than 12,000 residential units in Chicago, including Lincoln Park 2520, the Ritz-Carlton Residences on Michigan Avenue, 10 East Delaware, the Gold Coast’s Elysian Hotel and Residences and Park Tower.

Lagrange’s architecture is known for its attention to detail as well as its continued homage to elegant, classical designs. Especially for those with an interest in architecture and design, a Chicago condo in one of Lagrange’s buildings guarantees panache and sophistication throughout. The Lagrange name is associated with a top-quality building, chic design and the use of superb materials for buildings’ facades.

But with Lagrange announcing his retirement in July, the opportunities to get into one of these buildings are limited.

Lagrange’s portfolio alone shows how active his firm has been in designing the best residences for luxury buyers. But we’ve already heard that the queue of Chicago new construction condos is drying up, and compounded with Lagrange’s retirement, there won’t likely be quality new construction available in the foreseeable future. Lagrange’s existing buildings as well as new developments like Lincoln Park 2520 and the Ritz-Carlton Residences will likely increase in value in the next 5 to 10 years—making it a secure investment for buyers in terms of resale value.

Not to mention that these buildings offer the finest in luxury living long before you’re ready for resale. Lagrange’s two final projects have been long anticipated additions to Chicago real estate:

Lincoln Park 2520
This high-rise will offer vistas of the city’s best views: Lincoln Park, the lake, and the downtown cityscape. It will also include a spa and fitness center, dance studio, indoor pool, outdoor terrace and a private park. Lagrange’s attention to architectural detail will be seen in the precast concrete panels above the entry levels of the building’s three towers—he said the look recreates a 1920s elegance and allows for much detail to be done within a defined budget.

Ritz-Carlton Residences
This much-anticipated Michigan Avenue building takes a bit of an art deco approach on the outside. The 86 residences inside will offer residents 15 different floor plans with access to a 2-story club level, with private facilities like a fitness center and spa, screening room, an institutional kitchen and an outdoor terrace.

And, of course, there are Lagrange’s new and existing Chicago condo projects as well:

Park Tower
The Park Tower design offers a bit of history as to how Lagrange became renowned for using precast concrete in his architecture. The precast concrete look was first used when building the Park Hyatt Tower on Michigan Avenue in 1995. The firm determined the material created a high-end look and blended it with stone for a high level of quality and detail. Park Tower is now one of the world’s tallest buildings to be clad with architectural precast concrete—still creating a stone appearance that is desired by many residents.

The Elysian
This new construction building includes a French-inspired, richly detailed motor court on the ground level. There are, at most, 2 units per floor, ranging from 3,400 to 12,000 square feet with lake and skyline views. Amenities include a spa and health club, a ballroom and boardroom, and five-star staff ready to cater to the most demanding needs.

The Pinnacle
With 2, 3 and 4-bedroom residences overlooking the historic St. James Cathedral, the Pinnacle features a French limestone base with architectural precast concrete panels cladding the upper floors. These Chicago condos offer marble entries, gourmet kitchen and floor-to-ceiling windows with an array of amenities and services like a private theater, indoor pool, entertainment suite and more.

10 E Delaware
Lucien Lagrange Architects notes this building as the epitome of European elegance, combining the charm of a country estate with urban luxuries. Curving balconies hug the building’s sand-colored, stone façade, just north of the Loop in Chicago’s Gold Coast. Units are detailed with hardwood flooring, 9- to 10-foot ceilings, Wolf and Subzero appliances, and much more.

To find out more about Lagrange’s condo buildings and the resale value of these iconic pieces of architecture, contact agent Sheldon Salnick at (312) 264-5853 or by email at ssalnick@rubloff.com.

Chicago will soon add two luxury new construction buildings to its real estate options, and both developments are slated to be icons in architecture, service and luxury living. Lincoln Park 2520 in Lincoln Park is in a prime location in a neighborhood setting, and the Ritz-Carlton Residences puts you in the heart of downtown but with absolute privacy.

After recently securing a new $170 million construction loan, one of the most anticipated Chicago real estate projects, Lincoln Park 2520, is on its way to becoming one of the city’s most prestigious luxury buildings. Located at 2520 N. Lakeview Ave., the development has been designed to include a 1 ¼- acre private park, a dog run and a children’s playground.

Architect Lucien Lagrange who is responsible for both of these buildings is known for the facades of his architectural masterpieces and a finite attention to detail. The latest investments to finance the 2520 Lincoln Park building shows the promise and confidence for this Chicago new construction building to be one of the city’s very best. One of the latest investors to deliver on Lincoln Park’s 2520 development loan said, “Lincoln Park 2520 will forever be recognized as the Crown Jewel of Chicago’s magnificent lakefront.”

With deliveries beginning in early 2012, Lincoln Park 2520 is slated to be 39 stories with 229 luxury Chicago condos. Units range from one to four-bedrooms, from 899 square feet to 4,703 square feet, and are priced from $1 million to $5.7 million. Several penthouses are also available, from 3,500 square feet to 8,300 square feet and running the spectrum from $4 million to $11 million.

Making a New Construction Purchase

When buying Chicago new construction, it’s crucial that buyers have an agent who is working for them, rather than walking into a sales center and being represented by someone’s whose interest is vested first in the development. Working with an agent like Sheldon Salnick, buyers can still get all of the information they need with their own agent. Sheldon can set up an appointment to see all of the layouts and finishes of buildings like Lincoln Park 2520 and the Ritz-Carlton Residences.

Sheldon can help potential buyers understand the nuances of which floor plans will work best for their needs and result in the best resale value. He’ll also provide insight as to what questions buyers should ask the developer so that buyers have all the details they need before making a major decision to purchase new construction real estate in the current economic environment. With more than 21 years of experience selling Chicago real estate, Sheldon has represented more than $250 million in new construction, including a $5 million new construction home on Orchard, one of the most prestigious streets in the city.

To get an idea for what is available, you can search some of the units for Lincoln Park 2520 and the Ritz-Carlton Residences on Sheldon’s website. However, this is just a sample of properties being sold in these developments and does not include all units that are available. If you’re ready to see and experience what units are available, Sheldon can provide buyers with a private, personal and confidential tour of each building, which includes seeing the various floor plans, available finishes and custom options a purchaser may desire.

If you want to see firsthand everything that Chicago new construction condos have to offer, contact agent Sheldon Salnick at (312) 264-5853 or by email at ssalnick@rubloff.com.

But one of these things is not like the other. Chicago, and especially real estate in Chicago, is more accessible at a fraction of the price of other high-ranking cities. It is much easier to find and purchase the best Chicago real estate, even in the city’s most prestigious buildings. Depending on the floor and location of a unit, buyers can get into some of the most anticipated Chicago new construction buildings with the most promising concierge services for $750 to $1200 per square foot.

A rendering of the Ritz-Carlton Residences on Michigan Avenue. From theresidenceschicago.com

If you’re looking to be in the heart of urban luxury living in downtown Chicago, the definitive address will be the Ritz-Carlton Residences, which has just come out of the ground. These Chicago condos are scheduled to begin delivery in mid-2011, offering the ultimate privacy in a boutique building. Ritz-Carlton-trained staff will operate and manage the building, guaranteeing the delivery of 5-star service around the clock. Each home has its own personal wine cabinet, Smart Home Technology, and available customizations with finishes and appointments to fit each buyer’s taste. One thing to note–not all properties in the Ritz-Carton Residences are listed, so contact Sheldon to learn what is available in this building.

Trump Tower is a premier luxury option for living in downtwon Chicago. (Image from flickr/Marit & Toomas Hinnossar

Another option for downtown Chicago real estate is Trump Tower. The Trump name puts this building at the top of those with panache and service. The full kitchen in each residence includes Miele, Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, with bathrooms finished with marble or limestone and Kohler fixtures. The building’s services strive to create a convenience for its residents that they don’t have to leave—including in-house dry cleaning and laundry valet, 24-hour room service, a world-class spa and health club, in-home dining and catering and more.

A rendering of the upcoming 2520 Lincoln Park building.

To put yourself close to downtown but with a neighborhood environment, 2520 Lincoln Park puts families, professionals and empty nesters alike near all the activities the famed Lincoln Park has to offer. The building is one of the last projects from Chicago’s renowned (and retiring) architect Lucien Lagrange, who has made his mark with luxury buildings like Park Tower, the Elysian and the Ritz-Carlton Residences. 2520 Lincoln Park is steps from Lincoln Park itself and Diversey Harbor—perfect for boat owners. If you’re a golfer, the driving range is right at Diversey Harbor as well. As with the Ritz-Carlton Residences, not all properties for 2520 Lincoln Park are listed, so contact Sheldon to find out what’s truly available.

Chicago real estate in buildings like Trump, the Ritz-Carlton and 2520 Lincoln Park will continue to deliver on quality and service for a long time to come, thus retaining their value among Chicago luxury condos. With the top services and amenities and cutting-edge architecture, these are buildings that are branded by their name alone and will actually increase in value in years to come.

As I’ve said before, remember that when buying new construction, you need an agent to represent your interests, especially when working with a building’s sales center. To learn how you can make a great investment in Chicago real estate, contact agent Sheldon Salnick at (312) 264-5853 or by email at ssalnick@rubloff.com.

A report from Trulia last month noted that about a quarter of listings on the market had experienced at least one price reduction. Chicago was no exception. There were more properties in Chicago (30% of the city’s listings) that had price reductions than properties in several other major cities, including San Francisco, New York City, Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., with price reductions in the Second City averaging 8%. Luxury real estate (properties priced above $2 million) across the country experienced even deeper discounts—average reductions were around 14% lower than the original listing price.

Chicago also experienced a more mild average price reduction, which shows that the risk for buyers who should also consider resale value down the line. Real estate in Chicago, while certainly not immune to the current market’s conditions, still doesn’t experience the extreme volatility that cities like New York and Los Angeles are subject to. Chicago homes are great investments for the long term.

Getting a deal in Trump Tower is all about the timing--and the timing may never be better. Image from flickr/Bernt Rostad

Just like the stock market, with it’s “Buy, sell, buy—no wait, sell! Buy!” mentalities, real estate purchases are equally difficult to time perfectly. But based on past experience, I can tell you that once interest rates begin to increase, there is typically a rise in home buying which consequently raises prices. And right now, interest rates are the lowest they’ve been in years.

For buyers in the market for luxury real estate in Chicago, a good FICO score and a down payment of 20 to 30% puts you in the driver’s seat. If you’re able to pay cash, especially on properties costing anywhere from $2 million to $5 million, the roadway is clear for deals to be made—especially with developers.

Just a few buildings buyer should consider in this opportunistic market:

A market likes this makes it a great time for buyers to negotiate with developers on new construction, like the upcoming Lincoln Park 2520.

Ritz-Carlton Residences: These Chicago luxury condos have been talked about since it was barely a twinkle in the eye of Michigan Avenue. Some units have already experienced resales, showing the value in these units even in the current market. The price on the few units left won’t get any lower.

800 Michigan Avenue: As one of Lucien Lagrange’s prestigious buildings, units in Park Tower have always turned around to have a great resale value simply because of their luxury and exclusivity.

Trump Tower: Those who bought real estate in Trump Tower during development didn’t have the same opportunities that buyers have now to get into this prestigious building, which is coveted for the Trump name alone—not to mention the services, amenities and privacy that come with it.

The market for prime real estate in Manhattan is already beginning to bounce back, which means Chicago won’t be far behind. Those who know what they want now and can make decisions will certainly reap the benefits by buying before the end of the year. The holidays (between the end of November and the first of the year) have always been a great opportunity for buyers, so in 2010, this could be the sweet spot for buyers go truly get the deal of a lifetime.

To get a feel for the values in Chicago real estate that are available to you now, contact agent Sheldon Salnick at (312) 264-5853 or by email at ssalnick@rubloff.com.

Through January to May of this year, about 40 luxury downtown condos (those priced at $2 million or more) have sold. Since many of these sales were in new buildings like Aqua or the Elysian, buyers actually began negotiating these sales and putting deposits down within the last few years, before the real estate market was hit hard.

The most luxury condos sold so far this year were in the Elysian at 11 E Walton St., with 16 sales of $2 million-plus condos in this new building. According to the article, one sale in the Elysian included a $8.182 million unit. Designed by Lucien Lagrange, this luxury building has units starting at $3 million and boasts the most personalized service and top amenities among Chicago condos. It’s also noted to be a family-friendly building, with a multilingual childcare staff and spa treatments for little ones. The Elysian’s spa and health club creates a haven of relaxation for both male and female residences, and a ballroom and boardroom help residents host the finest events.

Perhaps another reason the luxury condo market continues to do well is that buyers can find anything they need among luxury real estate in Chicago. Whether it’s a specific amenity, a certain amount of square footage, down to particular finishes and appliances in each unit. Finding a piece of Chicago real estate with all of the details you need means buyers can get exactly what they’re looking for and not settle for something that doesn’t deliver.

With a few more luxury Chicago condo projects in the works (like 2520 Lincoln Park or the Ritz-Carlton Residences on Michigan Avenue), there’s still an opportunity to time your purchase and get into these prestigious buildings when delivery begins. You can search new construction properties in Chicago on my website and see what’s available in some of the city’s best buildings, as well as which ones have the amenities and cutting-edge concierge services you may need. The Ritz-Carlton Residences and 2520 Lincoln Park are particularly coveted because they are the last major buildings to be designed and built by architect Lucien Lagrange—who announced his retirement last month. These building will long remain iconic pieces of architecture in Chicago’s skyline.

Contact Chicago real estate agent Sheldon Salnick to learn more about timing your purchase right—at (312) 264-5853 or by email at ssalnick@rubloff.com.

Oak Street has long been the place to be in the Gold Coast—a street lined with luxury boutiques like Prada, Jimmy Choo and David Yurman.

But, as it was reported in last week’s Chicago Tribune, many more high-end shopping spots are quickly filling in Rush Street (adjacent to Oak Street), making this Gold Coast area the latest destination for those looking to indulge on a luxury lifestyle. And the momentum is still going to retailers looking to Rush Street—the Tribune reported Christian Louboutin and Ted Baker are two upmarket retailers who have looked into opening up shop there. Rush Street is also the home of Bentley Gold Coast—a very upscale car dealership that sells names like Lamborghini, Bugatti and (you guessed it) Bentleys.

While many up-and-coming neighborhoods come and go, this Gold Coast strip is only becoming more posh and exclusive. Many are defining the Rush Street area as the Cathedral neighborhood (branded by the presence of the Holy Name and St. James Cathedrals). So where are the best Chicago condos that put you in the center of the action of Rush Street? There have been several developments in real estate near the Cathedral area that have attracted many buyers looking for the finest residences and amenities. Here are just a few:

50 E Chestnut: This premier Gold Coast building consists of 34 full-floor condominiums, promising to be one of the city’s most exclusive places to live. Each condo has its own private elevator foyer, floor-to-ceiling windows, hardwood floors, custom cabinetry, two private terraces and 270-degree panoramic views. At the corner of Chestnut and Rush streets, living at 50 E Chestnut puts you in the epicenter of the excitement on Rush Street, but with all the privacy you could ask for on your very own floor.

The Elysian: At the corner of Walton and Rush streets, the Elysian is a new Lucien Lagrange-designed luxury building with 52 private residences and was recently a much-talked about development in Chicago new construction projects. These Chicago condos are set apart by the exquisite attention to detail throughout the building and the five-star service from the Elysian staff. From personalized laundry service to having dinner made in your home, this building promises to go above and beyond the service of many other Chicago condo buildings.

10 E Delaware: Yet another Lucien-Lagrange building, these new luxury Chicago condo residences are just a half block from Rush Street. Each unit offers a picturesque view via large windows and private balconies with custom-designed wrought-iron detailing. The kitchens are appointed with the finest details such as Poggenpohl cabinetry, granite custom countertops and Wolf cook tops and ovens and Sub-Zero refrigerators. Ten E Delaware also offers a residents-only facility, The Ten Club, featuring a rooftop pool, sundeck and gardens, state-of-the-art fitness center and a private club room.

57 E Delaware: Another highly regarded piece of Gold Coast real estate is The Bristol, a newer building at Delaware and Rush. It’s also listed on our list of dog-friendly buildings in Chicago. Many of the units feature spectacular Chicago skyline views, and residents can enjoy 24-hour doorman service, valet service and a secure resident entrance. Building amenities also include a party room and a health club with indoor pool, sauna and steam room.

When buying new construction in Chicago, I always encourage buyers to work with an agent who’s only representing you. If a prospective buyer walks into the sales center of a new development, the buyer’s interest isn’t being represented by that agent—he or she works for the development first.

Much of my 20-plus years in Chicago real estate has been with new construction developments, and there are certainly ways to get all of the information you need and assist you with questions to ask when we go to the sales center. Representing you as a buyer, we can obtain floorplans, information on the development and association and all the way down to the finishes of each unit while I am representing your interests only, not a developer. Check out my previously-posted checklist, 18 Things to Consider when Purchasing Chicago New Construction.

The new developments along Rush Street, just one block from Michigan Ave, make it a great time to take advantage of current opportunities in Chicago real estate in the area. If you’re interested in seeing Chicago homes for sale near Rush, contact agent Sheldon Salnick at (312) 264-5853 or by email at ssalnick@rubloff.com.

With a view like this, buyers might be willing to sacrifice extra space.

Like any other type of property, one of the things buyers traditionally want in a Chicago condo is enough space. But does size really matter? While the square footage needs vary from buyer to buyer and from lifestyle to lifestyle, many buyers shopping for Chicago condos are willing to rethink and renegotiate the amount of space they need or want.

An article this month from MSNBC says homebuyers are willing to make this trade off—living in the city and sacrificing space versus community from suburbia where square footage isn’t at the same premium. For younger generations, location is often more important than size. While empty nesters are willing to return to the city to live and reside in 2,000 to 3,500 square feet, compared to perhaps a 5,000-square foot home in the suburbs. Those who buy Chicago real estate because they are frequent international travelers in many cases are willing to live in as little as 1,600 square feet.

An important thing to note is that downsizing to a smaller Chicago condo does not mean sacrificing the luxury that many buildings have to offer. Those who are willing to give up space are still looking for sophisticated environments, newer properties, concierge services, and the walkability that comes with city living. Many buyers of real estate in Chicago want to live right off of Michigan Avenue—usually within a block or two east or west of the Magnificent Mile. A great selling point is the magnificent views offered from high-rises in this area—a panorama of Lake Michigan on the east and the city’s skyline all around. Another added plus for Chicago condo buyers are high ceilings (at least 9 feet high) and balconies to take in the aforementioned view.

If you’re looking for luxury but can scrimp on space, here are a few options for Chicago condos that make downsizing worth it:

Olympia Centre (161 E Chicago Ave.)
One and two-bedroom condos in the Olympia Centre might average around $494 per square foot—far more affordable than comparable properties in New York City and San Francisco. A smaller home in the Olympia Centre still gives residents access to the building’s amenities, including a 24-hour door staff, a pool and exercise room, full-time concierge, a party room and a sundeck. Not to mention the Olympia Centre is a ½ block from the posh shopping of Michigan Avenue.

The Park Tower (800 N Michigan Ave.)
This Lucien Lagrange-designed building on Chicago’s North Side is above the Park Hyatt Hotel, so residents can take full advantage of the hotel’s services. Luxury 2 and 3-bedroom units in the Park Tower might average about $960 per square foot and put residents steps from world-class shopping and dining, beaches, museums and theaters. The building is so chic, it touts itself as not only a place to live, but a way of life.

55 E Erie
Mostly one and three bedroom units, 55 E Erie brings residents luxury amenities like a fitness center, steam room and sauna, 24-hour lobby staff, a valet and a hospitality room. Smaller units go down to about 1,000 square feet for a one bedroom, and the building’s units overall carry an average cost per square foot of about $580. Most units include balconies that let residents experience breathtaking views year round.

The Palmolive Building (169 E Walton)
One of Chicago’s most iconic buildings, the Palmolive Building was renovated into condominiums in 2002. With a few one-bedrooms, the building is mostly comprised of 2 and 3-bedrooms with an average price-per-square-foot of about $730 This prestigious building includes concierge services, health club, 24-hour doorman, steam room and sauna, and is steps from Michigan Avenue.

The Fordham (25 E Superior)
This River North building was built in 2003 and includes many 1-3 bedroom condos (as well as 11th floor town homes and executive penthouses). Luxury services at the Fordham range from daily maid service, an in-house wine cellar, room service, spa services, a humidor room and a private theater. The building’s more modest units might cost about an average of $580 per square foot. Plus, your four-legged friends can enjoy the luxury of the Fordham with it’s rooftop pet recreation area.

If you’re interested in finding a Chicago condo with the space you need—or don’t need—with all the amenities you want, contact Chicago real estate agent Sheldon Salnick at (312) 264-5853 or by e-mail at ssalnick@rubloff.com.

The Residences at Riverbend in Chicago's River North (image from www.riverbendchicago.org)

River North: Tucked directly northeast of the Chicago River, River North has much to offer by way of nightlife, fine dining and entertainment. Buildings like the famed Trump Tower, which includes some of the best luxury real estate in Chicago. Backed by it’s name and reputation, Trump Tower residences allow residents to live a life of privacy and prestige in the heart of the city’s activities. For truly spectacular views of the city day or night, the Residences at Riverbend (333 N. Canal) building lies right along the Chicago River and offers every unit an eastern panorama.

The Loop: Bordered the Chicago River and Roosevelt Road (north/south) and Interstate 90/94 and Lake Michigan (west/east), The Loop is the Chicago neighborhood we can thank for the city’s gorgeous skyline. It’s also home to some of the city’s most sensational architecture, both among the business buildings and the residential buildings tucked throughout. When it comes to Chicago real estate in the South Loop, you’ll primarily find high-rise condos and lofts, some with very upscale amenities and services. The Loop’s central location puts you right by any activity imaginable, whether it be an all-day shopping spree, a lakefront bike ride, sightseeing or many other pursuits right out the front door of your Chicago home.

Printers Row: This eclectic South Loop neighborhood just had its Annual Book Fair, which brings booksellers and readers to the community to fulfill their literary desires. Many of the Chicago condos and lofts in Printer’s Row are old printing plants and publishing houses turned into fine real estate options. While one of the city’s smaller communities, Printers Row maintains a quieter neighborhood feel while being just a stone’s throw from the city’s busy atmosphere.

Buildings in Chicago's New East Side Neighborhood include Aqua and 340 on the Park (image from flickr/orijinal)

The New East Side: The New East Side is, in effect, a planned community of new luxury buildings and townhomes. The area includes Aqua, a much-talked-about architectural addition to the Chicago skyline that was even named Skyscraper of the Year. The New East Side offers many wonderful, unobstructed views—views to the south even rival those of Central Park in New York. Another sought-after building 340 On the Park, the first residential tower in the Midwest to achieve silver LEED certification for its green design. The New East Side also includes a six-acre park as a centerpiece of the neighborhood and includes a soon-to-be-developed elementary school in the community’s master plan.

South Loop: Bordered by the bustling loop and the serenity of Lake Michigan, the South Loop has much to offer. Grant Park and Millennium Park are a short walk away and can be enjoyed year round. When it comes to Chicago real estate, the South Loop has many urban offerings of condos and townhomes that allow residents to ditch their commute if they work in the Loop. Old warehouses and industrial buildings are becoming coveted pieces of modern Chicago real estate in the South Loop. An ideal place for both younger generations looking to live in the heart of activity, as well as families with children who want the close proximity of many city activities.

Chicago’s Aqua Building offers luxury living for buyers and renters. Image from flickr/gshowman

If you’re in the market for luxury real estate in Chicago, you certainly have options. You can find a building based on neighborhood, amenities, concierge services, finishes, or all of the above.

Another option for luxury real estate buyers is a condo in Aqua, the architecturally-engaging building in Chicago’s Lakeshore East neighborhood. Lakeshore East, a desired community for its great location, was even named one of Chicago’s best neighborhoods by Chicago Magazine earlier this year. Located at 225 N. Columbus Drive, a Chicago condo in Aqua lets residents walk many of its surrounding attractions and entertainment. The loop, retail areas, the theater district, and a 6-acre public park and the lakefront path are all a short walk away. The building is also near DuSable Harbor and the Chicago Yacht Club.

Designed by architect Jeanne Gang, Aqua’s exterior is reminiscent of waves, with protruding balconies that helped earn the building 2009 Skyscraper of the Year. It was also designed to comply with LEED certification.

But the outside isn’t all that looks good. Chicago homes inside Aqua also offer:

• Views: The panorama from many units includes the Chicago skyline, the Chicago River and key area landmarks.
• Finishes: Wood floors, granite or quartz counter tops and marble and stone baths are just a few of the options available in Aqua’s 264 condos.
• Amenities: Aqua’s two-floor, indoor/outdoor Shore Club features Chicago’s largest outdoor pool and amenity deck. This 80,000 square foot deck includes a garden, track, pool, hot tub, cabanas, wireless internet, barbecue areas and a fire pit. A 35,000 square foot indoor playground features fitness facilities, a basketball court, a game area, a media room and private club suites.

Chicago Luxury Rentals in Aqua
Aqua is also set apart by the building’s rental availabilities if you aren’t ready to buy—it’s the first high-rise building among Chicago real estate that offers both condos and apartments. If you’re relocating to Chicago or want somewhere to stay while searching for a second home, luxury rentals are available.

If renting a Chicago condo is a better fit for your current situation, I can help to make sure any unique requirements or upscale tastes aren’t sacrificed. If you’re looking to rent your Chicago condo, I can help you find a tenant who has that same emphasis on luxury.

To learn more about renting or buying a Chicago condo in Aqua, call agent Sheldon Salnick at (312) 264-5853 or ssalnick@rubloff.com.

A rendering of the Ritz-Carlton Residences on Michigan Avenue. From theresidenceschicago.com

Even with the citywide slowdown in new construction of condos, one building is still creating a lot of buzz and anticipation among real estate in Chicago: The Ritz-Carlton Residences on Michigan Avenue.

Scheduled to begin delivery in mid-2011, the Ritz-Carlton Residences will be the premiere building for a niche group of buyers looking for superior hotel service without sharing amenities with the public or hotel guests. These residences offer ultimate privacy in a very boutique building with amazing services provided by the Ritz-Carton. Because the building will be operated and managed by Ritz-Carlton trained staff, it will require the best service imaginable, at the level of their 5-star hotels.

The developer of this prestigious building has been sure to differentiate the Ritz-Carlton Residences from any other Chicago condo building, ensuring that all 89 units will bring the cachet of the top luxury buildings in New York, San Francisco, London, Toronto and Tokyo.

The unique services offered will set the Ritz-Carlton Residences far and above any other building in the city. Here are a few of the most important reasons why these Chicago condos will be in a class all its own:

Staff services. The staff will be trained to handle the most demanding and unique needs of corporate executives from around the world. A Ritz-Carton trained staff means there is an understanding of privacy—if you are a well-known personality, chairman or financial manager, such discretion is often required. The services offered will also go down to the finest detail, making the building feel like an exclusive hotel.

Business services. The Ritz-Carlton Residences’ private club, The Landmark Club, will include a Grand Salon & Board room with 18-foot-high ceilings that can be reserved for private meetings. These business service areas will include a bar and coffee services with upscale offerings. A screening/media room will allow residents to have business presentations with clients and access the most up-to-date communications equipment, so meetings can instantly span around the globe if needed.

Décor. The décor will have the sophistication of the most understated, elegant spaces that are usually found in luxury buildings in major cities around the world. Each unit can be customized with the finishes and appointments that fit an individual’s taste, whether it be traditional or modern.

Details. Wine connoisseurs will feel at home in the Ritz-Carlton, as each home will have their own personal wine cabinet with a 36-bottle capacity. Owners will have a private key, so only he or she can access their private collection.

Spa Amenities. Spa services will be available from morning until early evening, and can be arranged with ease through the concierge.

Fine Dining. A staff chef will provide seasonal lunch and dinner menus and offer private dining in your unit or in the luxurious dining room from late morning to early evening.

Sophisticated technology. The entire Ritz-Carlton building will include Smart Home Technology, including Internet protocol phones that provide multi-functionality. For instance, residents will have access to the Wall Street Journal, concierge and valet services through these phones located in their kitchens.

Click to enlarge: A floor plan of a 2-bedroom unit in the Ritz-Carton Residences. From theresidenceschicago.com

Agent Sheldon Salnick can provide you with floor plans and take you to the sales center to see the options available for these luxurious units. To set up a personalized, confidential meeting, call (312) 264-5853 or email ssalnick@rubloff.com.