Logan Square

Everything you could need or want is within walking distance. You're steps from the train and bus, close to food and shopping, and situated in the heart of one of the city's most vibrant areas -- what more could you want?

Well, for starters, soundproofing.

You will get to know your neighbors, um, intimately -- even if you've never had a conversation with them. On the upside, my upstairs neighbor listens to great music, so there's that.

The announcements from the train and bus can be heard at… all hours, and bands blast music at nearby Township until 2:00 am some nights. You'll hear conversations from people stumbling out of The Boiler Room, and chatter from people waiting on the bus. It's one of the drawbacks from living in such a vibrant area. Despite the resulting noise, living close to the police and fire stations makes me feel safe.

It's a vintage building that has probably gone 40+ years without any sort of facelift. Prices are good for the area, but know what you're getting before moving in. The basement, where our laundry facility is located, looks like something out of a horror film. There are leaks and poor ventilation, and a glance up will show exposed wiring and a rotted subfloor for the first level. I don't know when the management team acquired this property, but it is in dire need of repair!

On the upside, my interaction with Saccone and Sons has been overwhelmingly positive. When our refrigerator broke, they replaced it the next day. They manage quite a few properties, which may lead to oversights -- this is an older Chicago building, but again know what you're getting into.

Even with the quirks, if I were interested in having roommates for another year, I'd probably stay. It isn't perfect, but it's a way to live in a stellar part of Logan Square on a budget. Read More