The baseline definition of ‘luxury’ in today’s competitive real estate landscape is hazy at best, and constantly shifting. New developments almost universally include the term in its marketing materials, while legacy co-ops along Lake Shore Drive leverage their architectural history, pre-war craftsmanship, and premier lakefront views to attract luxury buyers.

But what ‘luxuries’ are prospective buyers actually looking for? According to market reports from regional aggregators like @properties Christie’s International Real Estate and Baird & Warner, as well as local data from search portals like Redfin and Zillow, condo and co-op buyers across Chicagoland consistently prioritize functional ease, physical wellness, and lifestyle integration over ornamental extras. While features like in-unit laundry and dedicated outdoor space remain perennial must-haves, newer demands—such as electric vehicle (EV) charging and secure micro-mobility storage—are quickly moving to the top of buyer wishlists. Here’s a quick overview of what Chicago-area buyers are willing to pay a premium for today, and what industry watchers expect them to demand tomorrow. 

Top In-Unit Features - It’s All About Daily Conveniences

When evaluating individual units, prospective buyers prioritize features that solve spatial constraints or help manage the realities of Chicago's distinct seasons:

In-Unit Washer/Dryer: In-unit laundry consistently ranks as the single most-searched feature among Chicago condo buyers. In older vintage buildings and pre-war co-ops along the lakefront, where original plumbing infrastructure historically led to board bans on in-unit washers, residences with approved or grandfathered hookups command immediate price premiums.

Private Outdoor Space: Whether a modest balcony in a modern South Loop mid-rise or an expansive terrace in a Gold Coast penthouse, dedicated outdoor space remains a non-negotiable filter for buyers who want a private retreat during the warmer months.

Dedicated Work/Flex Spaces: Hybrid work models have cemented the need for dedicated home offices or adaptable floor plans. Local brokers report that buyers routinely pass on standard one-bedroom units in favor of layouts that offer a clear "nook" or second bedroom to accommodate a desk setup.

Built-in Storage & Mudrooms: Storage space remains a primary sticking point in high-density urban living. Deep walk-in closets, custom kitchen pantries, and deeded basement storage units or bike lockers routinely top buyer priority lists.

Top Shared Amenities - It’s About Lifestyle & Services

While tasteful decor in common areas is appreciated, local realtors report that service-oriented and practical shared amenities consistently outperform ornamental resident lounges:

Full-Service Staff & Heated Garage Parking: A 24-hour door staff remains a hallmark of security and package management in Chicago high-rises. However, as online grocery and meal-kit deliveries continue to rise, refrigerated package storage has become essential. Additionally, in a market where winter temperatures plunge well below freezing, deeded or assigned spaces in a heated garage remain one of the highest-sought building amenities.

Integrated Co-Working Facilities: Dedicated co-working lounges equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi, private phone booths, and quiet conference rooms have largely replaced traditional, underutilized media and screening rooms.

High-End Wellness & Year-Round Amenities: Fluorescent-lit basement fitness rooms with basic cardio equipment no longer suffice. Buyers look for sunlit fitness centers, yoga/Pilates studios, and year-round indoor pools or spa suites with saunas and steam rooms.

Pet Amenities: Chicagoland residents treat their dogs like family. Dedicated pet spas, indoor dog relief areas for harsh winter days, and private on-site dog runs add substantial value to pet-friendly buildings.

The 2027+ Outlook - Emerging Trends & Next-Gen Amenities

As building infrastructure adapts to municipal mandates, environmental shifts, and evolving resident habits, industry watchers project several emerging trends will shape buyer demand in 2027 and beyond:

EV Charging Infrastructure: Driven by Illinois climate goals and Chicago building code updates regarding EV readiness, deeded parking spaces equipped with Level 2 EV chargers are transitioning from a novelty to an essential requirement for car owners.

Integrated Sustainability & Air Filtration: In response to heightened environmental awareness and strict energy disclosure ordinances, more buyers are paying closer attention to building mechanicals. Features like all-electric heat pump systems (VRF), centralized hospital-grade air filtration (MERV 13+), and smart home energy-monitoring systems are set to become significant differentiators.

Sound-Attenuating Architecture: Noise control is a major selling point in high-density, transit-rich areas near L tracks or busy arteries like Michigan Avenue. Triple-glazed acoustic windows, quiet-plumbing insulation, and sound-dampening floor underlayments are increasingly highlighted in listings.

On-Demand Micro-Mobility Storage: As e-bikes and electric scooters become popular for daily commutes, fire-rated, secure storage rooms equipped with dedicated lithium-ion charging stations are becoming a high priority for risk management and resident convenience.