Moving During The Coronavirus

A lot of tasks that once seemed approachable can seem more daunting in the current times of extreme uncertainty, namely, moving during the Coronavirus. We’re here to help. Here’s your guide to moving during the Coronavirus, start to finish.

Step 1: Contact an Agent

Your leasing consultant or broker will start by asking you some questions about your search. For instance, your ideal move time frame, price range, whether you’ll be bringing any pets or cars, whether having in-unit laundry is a must-have or nice-to-have, how much furniture you’re bringing, transit or sites you’d like to be near, view and lighting preference, the finishes, color palettes, and amenities you like best, and anything else that is most important to you.

You’ll want to give some thought to these questions so you know what you’re looking for and your agent can best serve you. You can start by making a list of all the things that are important to you in an apartment, location, and lifestyle. Then, sort your criteria into “must-haves” (the non-negotiables) and “nice-to-haves” (the things you like but can do without).

Courtesy of Erda Estremera

Step 2: Evaluate the Apartment Options (Round 1)

After having a conversation about what you’re looking for, your agent will send you options that match your criteria via email. Pick the top options (usually about 2-5) that you’d like to virtually tour and let your agent know of any feedback you have from these options. Is there something else you’d like to see? Did you realize something that is more or less important to you than you initially thought? If so, your agent will send you any additional options.

Step 3: Virtually Tour Apartments & Re-Evaluate Options (Round 2)

Your DAC agent will reach out to the on-site team at each property to request a virtual tour and bring the on-site agent up to speed on what you’re looking for. Your DAC agent will either send you the virtual tours or make sure the on-site agents send them. Then, your DAC agent will help you evaluate each tour and talk through the tradeoffs of each option.

Step 4: Apply For an Apartment

Once you’ve chosen the best option, your DAC agent or the on-site agent at the building will send you a link to the online application. These applications are usually conducted through a third party. You’ll want to have the necessary materials ready for income verification. Although managed high rise apartment buildings in Chicago don’t typically ask for a security deposit, there are typically application and administrative fees around $50 and $450, respectively. Some buildings will waive or credit back the administrative fees if you apply within 24 or 48 hours of your virtual tour.

Step 5: Schedule Your Move

Each apartment building has their own protocol for scheduling a time to reserve an elevator for your move in. You’ll want to ask the on-site team member you’ve been working with during the application process about how to schedule your move.

If you’re looking for a fully furnished apartment, you can ask your agent about furniture rental options so you can schedule furniture deliveries, as well.

Step 6: Enjoy Your New Apartment!

For more information about virtual tours, moving during the Coronavirus, or luxury apartments for rent in Chicago, contact us today to get your questions answered by one of our leasing specialists.