If you read reviews, you only need to scan the page to know that Karen is an amazing hostess. She offered many communications before I traveled and even while I traveled as I hadn't stayed on the South end of Chicago before and got a bit turned around. Karen was on it in minutes and helped me navigate the best route. (She offered fab directions for departure too.)
If you enjoy architecture and Chicago history, this is the place. Karen's place is in an amazing 1920s building filled with old school charm. Views from her living space are relaxing and refreshing. Plenty of space to relax, unwind, and contemplate after a day of travel or exploring.
I was at first apprehensive about the location (not downtown) since I was solo but never had a problem. I traveled by the 6 Express bus several times in and out of the downtown. As I was attending a lecture at the University and the weather was nice, I even walked the Lake Shore trail to Hyde Park on Saturday. Beautiful.