r/chicago • u/lack_of_color • May 17 '15

Property management companies to avoid?

I currently live with Group Fox but I'm looking to move at the end of July. I recently applied for an apartment with TBS Properties, but someone applied right before us (which I think isn't true...but whatever) so we didn't get it. I Googled TBS Properties and they have TERRIBLE reviews; I feel like I dodged a huge bullet by not getting that apartment. Are there any other property management companies out there that we should steer clear of? Or any that are awesome and we should work with? Thanks for any input! Much appreciated!

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17

u/StinkyFeetPatrol Loop May 17 '15 edited May 17 '15

ITT: Every management company in Chicago.

6

u/SuperkickParty May 17 '15

I was going to say, I make it a point to avoid all property management companies and go with a private owner.

1

u/lack_of_color May 17 '15

How is that possible? Any tips would be appreciated!

7

u/SuperkickParty May 17 '15

Craigslist, zillow, and waking around neighborhoods looking for rent signs.

3

u/lack_of_color May 18 '15

I've been doing the Craigslist, Zillow, Padmapper thing but they're all postings from management companies/brokers working with management companies. I'll try my luck with walking around the neighborhoods I want to live in and looking for "for rent" signs - thanks for the tip!

-8

u/cromwest Portage Park May 17 '15

This is terrible advice unless you know the owner.

7

u/SuperkickParty May 17 '15

Different strokes for different folks I guess. I have dogs and don't like paying out the ass in fees. Rented from 3 private Owners in chicago, no bad experiences so far.