Listing Rentals in Chicago

[Marek Kowalewski]

Hey BP Chicago! I am about to close on my second rental property in Bucktown. I used an agent to list out my first property but want to list this one on my own to save some $. Was going to use Apartments.com and other public options (craigslist, Facebook marketplace, etc.). Is this an effective way to find good renters in Chicago or would you recommend going through MLS and using an agent? Thanks!

P.S. Am new to BP so looking forward to connecting with investors in Chicago!

[Tim Coppola]

@Marek Kowalewski

Renting your own property is much more cost effective if you have the time to do so. It can be hard to do if you aren't able to work around your normal schedule and does take time out of your day but definitely worth it to save from giving up that first months rent.

I have done both and personally like meeting the people myself so I can see if they are a good fit for the property. I've never used craiglist but have used apartments.com, zillow and zumper. You can also try Domu but you have to pay for that and I've stopped using it because I never received any leads. You do need to pay for Zillow (first time is free) but I've found it is worth it as I received a ton of leads from there.