There are tons of reasons to be happy about living and working in Chicago, but this week might be especially exciting for our real estate team. Not only is summer in the Windy City in full swing, ground is about to be broken and construction begun on the Wanda Vista tower, the newest addition to the urban oasis of Lakeshore East.

1. Construction on the Wanda Vista tower begins soon! We can't wait to see this beautiful skyscraper begin to rise up next to the Chicago River.

2. Lollapalooza is happening in Grant Park this weekend, so some of the world's most exciting artists are performing in Chicago as part of the music festival itself and at various venues around the city.

3. The Crosstown Classic match-ups are happening this week - whether

With just about one quarter of the upcoming super-tall Vista Tower already under contract, the newest skyscraper planned for Chicago is home to some of the most coveted real estate currently on the market. And we don't mean just in Chicago - this building is getting buzz and recognition around the globe.

So why is this new downtown development so popular? Let us count the ways...

The Interiors. With exquisite finishes customized to your preferences along with high end appliances and sweeping views of the city, the Chicago River, and Lake Michigan, there's almost nothing else we can say about the interiors of the luxury condos at the Wanda Vista other than that we can't wait to see them for ourselves!

The Exterior. Designed by Chicago

Summer is in full swing in the Windy City, and our Chicago real estate team is loving it. The warm weather, sunshine, Lake Michigan beaches, musical festivals, neighborhood celebrations, and all the other summertime fun is in full swing. If you've never been to Chicago during June, July, or August, you'll have to see for yourself. If you live here, you'll most certainly agree with our top eight reasons why we love summers in the Second City.

1. Live Music Everywhere. From major festivals like Riot Fest, Pitchfork, and Lollapalooza to smaller neighborhood or regional shows to the free concerts in Millennium Park, you can see and hear everything from internationally renowned acts to local up and coming groups.

2. Delicious Eats And Treats. All

An increasingly popular feature of high rise real estate in major cities around the world is the combination of luxury condos and high hotels - and we think that it might be a match made in heaven. Not only do residents get to enjoy their own condo and customized space, they get all the perks of a top hotel, such as...

Fitness facilities. Fantastic hotels usually have equally fantastic gyms, so you'll be able to stay in shape in style.

Spas. There's nothing wrong with treating yourself, and if you live in a high rise that's also home to a premier hotel property, you most likely can enjoy being pampered at an amazing spa without leaving the building. Now that's luxurious!  

Pools. A beautiful pool(s) and/or hot tubs are usually part of the