Western suburbs condos and townhouses (Chicago, Naperville: new construction, roofing, living)

[ohardin]

I am looking for condo or townhouse in the western suburbs. I would like a single family home but my budget is around 150k or under.


The problem is that I am sensitive to noise. Does anyone know of fairly soundproof condos or townhouses? I am flexible on location.

[MillennialUrbanist]

My situation is exactly the same as the OP's, although I did some research already. OP, can you share your age and marital/family status? It'll help people point you in the right direction on where to look.

For myself (single man, early 30's), I've been looking primarily in La Grange, Lombard, and Elmhurst. Those are old suburbs with vibrant downtowns and Metra stations, that aren't overwhelmingly family-centric.

No idea on soundproofing, sorry. I'd wager a guess that new construction within a block of Metra stations would have some sort of soundproofing in the walls facing the tracks. Most suburbs are quiet, though.

[holl1ngsworth]

Originally Posted by MillennialUrbanist

My situation is exactly the same as the OP's, although I did some research already. OP, can you share your age and marital/family status? It'll help people point you in the right direction on where to look.

For myself (single man, early 30's), I've been looking primarily in La Grange, Lombard, and Elmhurst. Those are old suburbs with vibrant downtowns and Metra stations, that aren't overwhelmingly family-centric.

No idea on soundproofing, sorry. I'd wager a guess that new construction within a block of Metra stations would have some sort of soundproofing in the walls facing the tracks. Most suburbs are quiet, though.

Downtown La Grange and Elmhurst are a big step up from downtown Lombard with regard to vibrancy, things-to-do, and charm. Naperville, Wheaton, and Downers Grove compare nicely to La Grange and Elmhurst.

[damba]

Originally Posted by MillennialUrbanist

I'd wager a guess that new construction within a block of Metra stations would have some sort of soundproofing in the walls facing the tracks. Most suburbs are quiet, though.

Don't ever assume that. Condos in that relatively low price range will most certainly not have the same amenities as higher priced digs. YMMV.

Keep in mind that noise, or more importantly, what constitutes noise, will vary wildly. Some suburbs have less, others will have the obvious noise at regular times. It's just depends on what you feel is adequate and what you end up living next to per se.

[MillennialUrbanist]

Originally Posted by holl1ngsworth

Downtown La Grange and Elmhurst are a big step up from downtown Lombard with regard to vibrancy, things-to-do, and charm. Naperville, Wheaton, and Downers Grove compare nicely to La Grange and Elmhurst.

I know that. But most of my weekend outings take place in the Naperville area or downtown Chicago, with an occasional trek to Schaumburg, and it's usually the same venues every time. I don't want to live in those two areas (too suburban or too pricey, respectively). But the suburbs I'm looking at are an acceptable in-between point, even the less-vibrant Lombard.

Originally Posted by damba

Keep in mind that noise, or more importantly, what constitutes noise, will vary wildly. Some suburbs have less, others will have the obvious noise at regular times. It's just depends on what you feel is adequate and what you end up living next to per se.

I'm aware that it's YMMV when it comes to noise levels. I, personally, don't mind train sounds, but I'm a railfan. Which makes un-soundproof condos near Metra stations more acceptable to me. I wouldn't want to live near a highway, though. Other people might feel differently; I guess this part is safe to assume.

[bellhead]

Check out Wheaton... There are a couple within walking distance of the metro & downtown.