This blog will hopefully provide information for those seeking homes for rent or sale in the gayborhoods of Chicago --
I write "gayborhoods" because there are actually several...
The most notable is Boystown -- Recognized on a global scale, Boystown is THE destination for the LGBT community. There are numerous LGBT focused bars, restaurants, shops, and much, much more ;-) Fresh to Chicago 10 years ago I decided it was best to call Boystown my home, and for 4 years I did...
The next largest gayborhood would be Andersonville -- over the years this gayborhood has expanded and refreshed its look. Andersonville has amazing antique shops, restaurants and several top bars.
The greatest part about Chicago is that we have a huge LGBT population and our "family" can be found all over Chicago. Yes, it's true there are higher concentrations of businesses that draw more of the community, but I would argue almost all of Chicago is very LGBT friendly and it would be strange to encounter anyone who thought otherwise.
For example; The intersection of Broadway and Lawrence in Uptown is now home to a handful of LGBT owned and focused businesses; in Edgewater Beach near Broadway and Granville; and there is a significant presence of LGBT folks. I've spent the last 6 years in these neighborhoods and have never had any problems...despite some bad apples here and there...
There are other LGBT focused business scattered about the city...and no matter where you ultimately choose to live there will be something to do and plenty of family nearby :-)
I moved to Chicago in 2003 and have never looked back. This is the most amazing city with something for everyone. I've been to almost all major cities in America and for me nothing compares to Chicago. I've recently assisted renters/buyers who were relocating to Chicago and really wanted to live in the "gayborhood", I discovered that I had a knack for working with clients from out of town.
I've lived and breathed the gayborhoods for 10 years --I love where I live and I'm more than happy to help you or anyone you know. This blog will be dedicated to the LGBT community and specifically those relocating to our wonderful city of Chicago. I loved Boystown for the first few years, but as I became more comfortable I stretched my legs moving away from the primary gayborhood. I couldn't imagine starting by living anywhere else, especially for those who are not out or just coming out, which was my case.
I'm happy to discuss my experiences further and would be ecstatic to help you find your next home in one of our gayborhoods :-)
If you are looking to rent; most agencies in Chicago are paid by the landlord and helping renters find a home is a free service to the potential renter. Agents are often paid by Sellers and services to Buyers is often complimentary -- however depending on the purchase price some Agents charge a nominal fee to cover their costs if the commission paid is insufficient.
Who you choose as an agent is crucial -- I do this all day every day -- I want you to be my client for life, not just my next paycheck :-) I also want you to refer me more business... if these are my goals what level of service do you think I would provide? If for some reason I am not able to help you, then I will help you find someone who can.
I look forward to writing more about our gayborhoods and hopefully providing you with some helpful information about relocating to Chicago's Gayborhoods. Feel free to email me and let me know if this is helpful or if you want a blog on a specific topic.
Real Estate Consultant
3824 North Broadway Street
Chicago, IL 60613
Office/Fax: (773) 672-7406
IL License No. 471.017772
--Realtor since 2007--Real Estate Agent 4 Life