Kate is a wonderful host who was polite, professional, and accommodating. She provided great info on how best to use the public transit and what special events were happening Downtown. The Orange line metra is about a 10-15 minute walk but there are Divvy bikes and buses even closer if you prefer to use those to get around. My girlfriend and I enjoyed the short walks to the station before getting on one of the lines that takes you right to the Loop downtown. Super easy! The neighborhood is safe and people were walking their dogs even when it was dark out. Kate is also a veteran so if you like to support veterans than her guest suite is a great choice (thank you for your service, Kate!)
There are a couple downsides to this stay and one is the lack of noise isolation. Conversations can be heard between floors, so light sleepers and people concerned about privacy should consider this. Also, the low ceilings in the basement guest suite aren't tall people friendly. I am 6'3" and bonked my head a few times in the bathroom. If you're taller than that than watch out.
All things considered, this is a good place to stay and I would recommend it to people wanting to stay in a quiet neighborhood when not touring the big city. My girlfriend and I did not utilize many of the amenities provided but we simply didn't need to, and it's a plus they are available as options. It'd also be very difficult to beat Kate as a host, she is personable and accommodating. Thank you again!