Our home finder in Chicago will help you find your ideal home

Horloge avec un cadre orange
Save time and skip the stress

Main tenant une petite maison blanche avec un toit rouge et une porte bleue.
Rent at real local prices

Icône de bouclier vert avec une coche blanche, symbole de sécurité ou d'assurance.
Secure your new home safely from abroad

Why choose a home finder ?

Reliability of listings
Symbole d'information en cercle bleu foncé sur fond transparent.
Your hunter is there to select the goods, he visits them, alone, with you in person, or with you by video. And above all, he knows how to rely on reliable business partners who only present him with quality goods.
Icône de fermeture (croix)
Market access
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Your hunter can offer you his own goods, he also has access to all the offers published on the market, and even to quite a few off market offers
Icône de fermeture (croix)
Scam risk
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At Remoters, we no longer count the number of French people who have signed a rental contract abroad, without understanding it. Some unscrupulous sellers take advantage of this to insert conditions that are disadvantageous for the tenant. This cannot happen when the contract is reviewed by our hunter.
Icône de fermeture (croix)
Access to local prices
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Quand vous cherchez seul, environ 85% du temps est consacré aux recherches, et 15% aux visites. Avec un chasseur, vous ne faites que les visites
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Application accepted
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In areas where homeowners have plenty of candidates to choose from, they rarely choose foreigners first. Your hunter will use his influence (and his mastery of the language) to put your case before others.
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Satisfaction
Only 20% of satisfied buyers according to the 2018 Crédit Foncier study. For its part, Remoters gets a score of 4/5 or 5/5 in 95% of cases
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Browsing online listings

Weak
Weak
Elevated
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Uncertain
20%

Finding with Remoters

Total
Total
Weak
Very likely
95%
Photo chasseur immobilier - Anna - Chicago

Anna, or another of our hunters in Chicago, will take care of your search

Chicago 700 USD 2,600 USD

Renting in Chicago involves several cost components that international students should budget for carefully:

  • Base rent: Studios in Chicago average around 1,675 USD/month, one-bedroom apartments around 2,250 USD/month, and shared rooms in student-heavy neighborhoods such as Rogers Park can start from approximately 700–900 USD/month per person (sources: Zumper, RentHop, 2024–2025 data).
  • Security deposit (caution): Under the Chicago Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance (RLTO), landlords who collect a security deposit must hold it in a separate interest-bearing account and pay annual interest to the tenant. Many Chicago landlords have moved away from security deposits due to strict RLTO compliance requirements; some instead charge a non-refundable move-in fee. When a deposit is collected, it is typically equivalent to one month's rent.
  • Utilities: Electricity, gas, and water are often not included in the rent. Budget an additional 100–200 USD/month for utilities depending on the season and apartment size.
  • Renter's insurance: While not legally mandatory, renter's insurance is strongly recommended and averages approximately 22 USD/month in Chicago (source: Insure.com, 2024).
  • Application fee: Most landlords charge a non-refundable application fee, typically between 25 and 75 USD, to cover credit and background checks.
  • Broker/agency fees: Illinois law does not cap broker fees; when applicable, they are typically negotiated between the landlord and the broker and are not always passed on to the tenant. Always confirm in writing who pays the broker fee before signing.
  • Local taxes: Chicago levies a lease transaction tax on residential leases; this is generally embedded in the rent and not billed separately to tenants.

Chicago in brief for international students: A world-class student city with universities spread across distinct neighborhoods — Hyde Park (UChicago), Lincoln Park (DePaul), Rogers Park (Loyola), Near West Side (UIC). Rents range from approx. 700 USD/month for a shared room in an affordable area to over 2,600 USD/month for a private apartment in a central neighborhood. Tenant rights are strong under the Chicago RLTO. International students should prepare their rental dossier (passport, I-20, bank statements) before applying. The CTA L train connects all major student areas.

Finding long-term rental housing in Chicago as an international student requires understanding the city's diverse neighborhoods, rental market dynamics, and tenant rights framework. Chicago's rental landscape ranges from budget-friendly shared apartments in Rogers Park and Woodlawn to well-appointed private studios in Lincoln Park and Lakeview. Whether you are enrolling at the University of Chicago, DePaul, Loyola, UIC, or Northwestern's Chicago campus, each institution is surrounded by established student rental markets with a variety of lease options. Most leases in Chicago run for 12 months, and the rental process typically requires a rental application, proof of funds or income, and supporting documents such as your I-20 and passport. Understanding the Chicago Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance (RLTO) — which must be attached to every written lease — will help you navigate your rights and responsibilities as a tenant from day one.

Chicago is a major destination for international students, home to world-class institutions including the University of Chicago in Hyde Park, DePaul University in Lincoln Park, Loyola University Chicago in Rogers Park, and the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) on the Near West Side. The city's rental market offers a wide range of options, from shared rooms in affordable neighborhoods like Rogers Park (average rent approx. 1,486 USD/month) to private apartments in central areas like Lincoln Park (average rent approx. 2,408 USD/month), according to Zumper and RentHop 2024–2025 data. Tenant rights in Chicago are governed by the Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance (RLTO), which provides strong protections around security deposits, lease terms, and habitability standards. International students without a U.S. credit history should prepare key documents — including their passport, I-20, university admission letter, and bank statements — before starting their apartment search. The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) L train and bus network connects all major student neighborhoods, making it easy to live off-campus without a car.

Finding long-term rental housing in Chicago as an international student requires understanding the city's diverse neighborhoods, rental market dynamics, and tenant rights framework. Chicago's rental landscape ranges from budget-friendly shared apartments in Rogers Park and Woodlawn to well-appointed private studios in Lincoln Park and Lakeview. Whether you are enrolling at the University of Chicago, DePaul, Loyola, UIC, or Northwestern's Chicago campus, each institution is surrounded by established student rental markets with a variety of lease options. Most leases in Chicago run for 12 months, and the rental process typically requires a rental application, proof of funds or income, and supporting documents such as your I-20 and passport. Understanding the Chicago Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance (RLTO) — which must be attached to every written lease — will help you navigate your rights and responsibilities as a tenant from day one.

A student rental budget in Chicago typically includes monthly rent, utilities (electricity, gas, water), renter's insurance, internet, and one-time move-in costs such as an application fee and a security deposit equivalent to one month's rent.

Chicago's rental market is diverse, with significant price differences between neighborhoods. Rogers Park and Woodlawn are among the most affordable areas for students, while Lincoln Park and Lakeview command higher rents due to their central location and amenities. According to RentHop (2024–2025 data), the average rent in Rogers Park is approximately 1,486 USD/month, compared to around 2,408 USD/month in Lincoln Park. Sharing an apartment with fellow students remains the most effective way to reduce individual housing costs in the city. When budgeting, always account for utilities, renter's insurance, and a one-time security deposit or move-in fee in addition to the monthly rent.

One of the most common mistakes international students make when renting in Chicago is underestimating total move-in costs. Many students focus only on the monthly rent and overlook the upfront expenses: a non-refundable application fee (typically 25–75 USD), a security deposit or move-in fee (often equivalent to one month's rent), and the first month's rent — all due before or at lease signing.

Another frequent error is not verifying whether utilities are included in the listed rent. In Chicago, most apartments are rented without utilities, meaning electricity, gas, and sometimes water are billed separately, adding 100–200 USD/month to the total cost.

International students without a U.S. credit history or Social Security Number sometimes apply for apartments without preparing the right documentation. Chicago landlords typically require proof of income (or a guarantor), bank statements, a copy of your passport, your I-20 form, and your university admission letter. Preparing these documents in advance significantly speeds up the rental process.

Finally, some students sign a lease without reading the Chicago Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance (RLTO) summary, which landlords are legally required to attach to every written lease. This document outlines your rights regarding security deposits, repairs, and lease termination — always read it carefully before signing.

  • Start your search early: The Chicago rental market is competitive, especially in student neighborhoods. Begin looking at least 2–3 months before your intended move-in date.
  • Prepare your rental dossier in advance: Gather your passport, I-20 form, university admission letter, bank statements (showing at least 3 months of funds), and any scholarship or financial aid documentation. Many landlords require monthly gross income of at least 3 times the monthly rent — if you don't meet this threshold, a guarantor or larger deposit may be required.
  • Read the RLTO summary: Chicago landlords are legally required to attach a summary of the Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance to every written lease. Read it carefully — it outlines your rights regarding security deposits, repairs, and lease termination.
  • Clarify what is included in the rent: Always confirm in writing whether utilities (electricity, gas, water), internet, and parking are included in the listed monthly rent. Most Chicago apartments do not include utilities.
  • Consider roommates to reduce costs: Sharing a two- or three-bedroom apartment in neighborhoods like Rogers Park or Hyde Park is the most effective way to keep monthly housing costs manageable on a student budget.
  • Use university off-campus housing resources: Most Chicago universities — including UChicago, DePaul, Loyola, and UIC — maintain off-campus housing boards or portals that list vetted rental options near campus.
  • Budget for move-in costs: Plan for a non-refundable application fee (25–75 USD), a security deposit or move-in fee (typically one month's rent), and first month's rent — all typically due before or at lease signing.

Fantastic, nothing to add. Mathilde managed to find us an apartment that met all our criteria. Thank you so much for your help and professionalism.

Hannah-Mathilde

Gaëlle provided excellent service. We finally found accommodation that suited us. At first, I was a little pessimistic, but in the end, everything went well.

Sk-Gaëlle

Justine was an invaluable help. She quickly found us a rental that perfectly matched our requirements. Her availability, kindness, and responsiveness are undeniable. I highly recommend her services!

Bérengère-Justine

Thank you to Aude for her availability, follow-up, and smile! A room was found for my daughter very quickly. Thank you for all the information, answering our many questions, and for your support right up to the key handover! I highly recommend her.

Hélène-Aude

Searching for a property in Chicago from abroad is a complex challenge. A property hunter acts as your trusted local expert, saving you time, money, and stress. Here's why it's essential:

  • Local market expertise: A property hunter knows Chicago's neighborhoods inside out — from Lincoln Park to Wicker Park, Logan Square to the Gold Coast — and can identify the best opportunities that match your lifestyle and budget.
  • Access to off-market listings: Many of the best properties never appear on public platforms. A hunter has a professional network that gives you access to exclusive listings before they hit the market.
  • Remote coordination: They handle all visits, negotiations, and administrative steps on your behalf, so you don't need to fly back and forth for every viewing.
  • Legal and administrative guidance: Navigating US real estate contracts, inspections, and closing procedures from overseas can be overwhelming. Your hunter ensures every step is handled correctly.
  • Time savings: Instead of spending hundreds of hours browsing listings and coordinating from a different time zone, your hunter does the legwork so you can focus on your move.

With Remoters, you can connect with a vetted Chicago property hunter who specializes in helping international buyers and renters find their perfect home.

One of the biggest risks of searching for a property remotely is falling victim to scams or making a poor investment due to lack of local knowledge. A Chicago property hunter is your shield against these dangers:

  • Scam detection: Fraudulent listings targeting international buyers are common. A local hunter verifies every listing, landlord, and seller before you commit to anything.
  • Physical property inspection: Photos can be misleading. Your hunter visits properties in person, assesses their real condition, and reports back with honest, detailed feedback — including video walkthroughs.
  • Neighborhood safety assessment: Chicago's neighborhoods vary significantly in character and safety. A hunter provides an unbiased, on-the-ground evaluation so you choose the right area for your needs.
  • Price negotiation: Without local market knowledge, international buyers often overpay. A hunter knows fair market values and negotiates firmly on your behalf.
  • Contract review: Lease agreements and purchase contracts in the US contain specific clauses that can be costly if misunderstood. Your hunter ensures you fully understand what you're signing.

By using Remoters to find a certified Chicago property hunter, you gain a professional ally who protects your interests at every stage of the search process.

A Chicago property hunter provides a comprehensive, end-to-end service tailored to your needs as an international buyer or renter. Here is a breakdown of what they do:

  • Initial consultation: They take the time to understand your requirements — budget, preferred neighborhoods, property type, must-have features, and timeline — to build a precise search brief.
  • Active property sourcing: Unlike a traditional agent who waits for you to browse listings, a hunter proactively searches on your behalf across all available channels, including off-market opportunities.
  • Property visits and reporting: They visit shortlisted properties and provide you with detailed reports, photos, videos, and honest assessments so you can make informed decisions remotely.
  • Shortlisting and recommendations: Based on your criteria, they present only the most relevant options, saving you from information overload.
  • Offer and negotiation support: They advise on the right offer price and negotiate with sellers or landlords to secure the best possible terms.
  • Administrative follow-up: From coordinating inspections to liaising with attorneys and closing agents, your hunter manages the entire process until you have the keys in hand.

Remoters connects you with experienced Chicago property hunters who are fully dedicated to making your remote relocation smooth and successful.

The cost of hiring a property hunter in Chicago varies depending on the scope of the search and the hunter's fee structure. Here's what you need to know:

  • Typical fee structures: Property hunters generally charge either a flat fee, a percentage of the purchase or annual rental price (usually between 1% and 3%), or a combination of both. Some offer tiered packages depending on the level of service required.
  • Rental searches: For rental properties, fees are often equivalent to one month's rent or a fixed amount agreed upon upfront.
  • Purchase searches: For property purchases, fees are typically a percentage of the final sale price, paid upon successful completion of the transaction.
  • Is it worth it? Absolutely. When searching from abroad, the cost of flights, accommodation for multiple scouting trips, and the risk of making a costly mistake far outweigh the hunter's fee. A skilled hunter often negotiates savings that more than cover their cost.
  • Transparency with Remoters: On Remoters, each property hunter clearly outlines their fees and services, so you can compare and choose the professional that best fits your budget and needs.

Investing in a Chicago property hunter is not just a convenience — it's a smart financial decision that protects your investment and ensures a successful relocation from abroad.

Google
4,8 / 5
★★★★★

How does it work?

1

First contact:Your home finder offers a free call to understand your needs.

2
Quote: If you’re ready to move forward, you’ll receive a personalized quote via Remoters.
3
Mission start: Once approved and paid, the housing search begins.
4
Support: Your home finder assists you through to the lease signing and your arrival.
5
Feedback: Share your review — your satisfaction is our priority !
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Remoters continues to grow!
We are recruiting new home finders everywhere, do not hesitate to apply
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