Chicago Apartment Realtors

Chicago is a city of 77 core neighborhoods and over 200 sub-neighborhoods with a diverse selection of rental housing options. Today, even with the most advanced digital/mobile search applications, your agent will be a key team member helping you find your ideal home in such a vast landscape. We have the realty experience and the client service know-how to ensure the process is not only seamless but positive, which means we are successful in finding our clients the condo or home that works best for them.

We gather your preferences and create a search based on those criteria, narrowing down the options to a select group of only the most fitting listings. Once you are successfully matched with your ideal home, we will negotiate terms and manage the paperwork on your behalf, to ensure you are getting the most out of your rental experience and lease terms that are fair and in compliance with local tenant-landlord ordinances.
As your personal apartment realtors we are dedicated to finding you that perfect place you can call home for years to come!

Q&A

Do you have questions about the rental process? Call or email us anytime! Here are some frequently asked questions, and answers based upon many years of experience helping clients find a fantastic apartment:

&Q: Why should I choose an apartment realtor?
A: As your personal agent, we can provide a thorough client-centered experience with thoughtful attention to detail. We are truly passionate about what we do and go well beyond the basics.

&Q: Do I need a real estate agent when renting?
A: As a renter, there are no requirements regarding working with a broker or navigating the market independently. However, working with a top-level agent will ensure you get the best price and deal terms. Our project checklist for the rental process includes forty-five (yes, forty-five!) items. From start to finish, it includes viewing properties, negotiating terms, application assistance, and signing the lease. We take great care in helping you to complete an application that is pitch perfect, ensuring your application is accepted straight away and thus, your spot is reserved.
We will also compile all the necessary documents for the client with the cover page, lease, and appropriate recycling disclosure. The recycling disclosure is newly implemented as of January 2018.

&Q: How does The Debra Dobbs Group work with renters?
A: At The Dobbs Group, we specialize in exclusive representation for renters. When you choose to work with us, you’re not just a client; we become a valued partner in your quest for the perfect rental property. We start by having you sign an exclusive agreement, ensuring dedicated attention to your unique needs. Our committed team tailors our services, providing efficient communication and granting access to a diverse range of exclusive rental opportunities. Leveraging our local market expertise and offering personalized attention, we aim to make your rental experience seamless and enjoyable. Opt for exclusive representation with us for a streamlined process towards securing your ideal home. Contact us today to embark on your journey to exclusive rental success.

&Q: What areas does The Debra Dobbs Group specialize in?
A: At The Debra Dobbs Group, our specialization encompasses many neighborhoods in Chicago, ensuring a customized approach to meet our clients’ unique preferences. We proudly serve prominent Chicago neighborhoods on the near north side, such as the Loop, South Loop, Printers Row, Streeterville, River North, Gold Coast, Old Town, Lincoln Park, Lake View, Lincoln Square, Wrigleyville, North Center, Roscoe Village, Ravenswood, Andersonville, Uptown, Edgewater, Rogers Park, West Town, Wicker Park, Bucktown, Ukrainian Village, Logan Square, and Avondale. Our commitment is to find the perfect property for you in your preferred neighborhood.

&Q: Do I have to pay my rental agent?
A: Typically, the landlord or leasing office pays a tenant’s agent through the brokerage firm representing the landlord. When the landlord does not have an agent, he or she may offer compensation to the tenant’s agent. If the commission is not paid by the landlord or agent, you, as the tenant, would pay Compass the sum of ½ of one month’s rent as a commission.

&Q: How many upfront costs will I pay for renting?
A: In general, a tenant in Chicago will pay an application fee (ranging from $50 to $200), first-month rent, and one-month security deposit. Some landlords charge an extra deposit for pets and for additional occupants. Oftentimes, these terms are negotiated by the agent on behalf of the renter (We, of course, help with this!)