I want to start by saying the overall review is super positive. I'll get into all of those in a bit. I do want to point out a few items that people may care about that may affect your experience.
First, getting into the unit was difficult for us. The lockbox numbers are so small, we could barely see them. Then, figuring out how to "pop" the box took even more time. If you have slightly bad eyes or if the weather is terrible when you arrive, getting in is going to be miserable. Luckily, after several tries, we did figure it out. Then, you really need to take your time to figure out the lock on the door. It also needs to "pop." It took quite a few tries to figure this out as well. Take a key every single time you leave (even if you just step outside to take out the trash). It locks behind you automatically. Lesson learned.
Second, buy your own toilet paper when you arrive. It says one-ply on the package, but I've never seen paper that thin in my life. It wasn't useable. You're welcome.
Third, the remote control for the TV upstairs doesn't work very well. You can't control the on/off switch nor the volume with the remote. The voice activation works, but the rest of it does not. You can change the channels, but it is slow. It was difficult to get snuggled up, watch a movie, then have to get up to turn the TV off. Yes, first world problems.
All the positives!!!
With all that being said, those are my only complaints. To some people they are minor, to others they may amount to something. Now, here are the positives (of which there are many).
1. We took the train for almost everything we did. The walk from the property to the train is about five minutes. It's super close! Train rides were brief! The best part? You can't hear the train at all when inside the house.
2. The neighborhood is remarkable! We stayed for 10 days and there were a couple of days we had nothing on the schedule. We stayed in the neighborhood. There are so many bars and restaurants within reasonable walking distance. It's also close to a convenient store and a Walgreen's if you forget anything. The people were incredibly friendly. I highly recommend going to Marge's Still one block away. It's the oldest pub in Chicago. It's been there since 1885!
3. The house itself is huge! The only issue was temperature. For normal people, it's fine. If you tend to run hot, it takes a bit to cool down. I know I run hot, but everybody else who stayed with me was absolutely fine. Again, you're welcome. Plan accordingly.
4. When we did have drivers pick us up or have food delivered, they didn't have any trouble finding us at all. Everything was quick getting to us because the location is outstanding! It is only about three miles from downtown, depending on where you are going. One note to help with delivery: let them know to follow the sidewalk up the stairs. They are used to addresses that aren't exactly on the street, but let them know and it won't be an issue.
5. The house itself is located on the backside of the property. When you look at the whole property from the street, the houses are literally connected. This one sits up the steps to the back. The reason I bring this up is because the balcony was so quiet. We spent a couple of days eating and drinking on the balcony and we were all amazed how quiet it was while we were outside. The only noise on Saturday was the soccer games (which are across the street). Those kids play from morning to night! And even that wasn't horrible. It is a bit dark on the balcony at night. The lights are very faint, but we didn't mind sitting in the dark.
6. A lot of amenities were provided, including two hair dryers and a ton of dishes to use. We never had any complaints about anything in the kitchen.
7. USE THE BATHTUB! Seriously, it's divine! It's large enough to fit two people (if that's your thing) or sprawl out by yourself and just soak. That is unique to this house!
Overall, our stay was impressive. Our first impressions got all of us off on the wrong foot, but it did charm us in the end. If they would fix the lockbox situation, it would be a perfect experience. It's worth the value and is perfect for families! The communication with the owners was fairly quick. They generally respond within the hour. It was never an issue. We would definitely stay there again!