| Leafy forest preserves, restaurants, shops, Fortune 500 companies, and condos are part of a vibrant scene in DesPlaines, a city 17 miles northwest of Chicago's Loop. Dubbed the City of Destiny, condos are a large part of the present and future in this city where units of every variety, from new construction high rises to others in vintage buildings, can be found. Condo buyers are attracted to this town in part because it boasts a superior location and plenty of other assets, from golf courses to restaurants. DesPlaines was incorporated in 1869. A railroad was already here providing service between Chicago and Wisconsin. Farmers were drawn to the area by a steam-powered grist mill. But the city's greatest growth spurt occurred after World War II when people flocked to build houses here. The city's proximity to O'Hare International Airport, which was being developed at the same time, was another large reason people came here. The airport, commuter rail service to Chicago's Loop, and access to expressways such as the Tri-State Tollway which takes people to Wisconsin and Indiana, are other reasons why people still are drawn to buy condos here. With DesPlaines as the starting point, it is possible to be at O'Hare International Airport in 10 minutes or in Chicago's Loop in 28 minutes. What better place to start from than a new condo? New developments feature elegant brick buildings with loads of charm. The Waterford Condominiums, for instance, overlook a tree-ined boulevard and feature buildings with architectural interest. They are capped with dramatic turrets. The condominims are located in a landmark site, the city's old library. Some of the library's original elements such as a cupola have been maintained. Rooftop terraces, island kitchens, spa showers are other elements attracting condo buyers. Another new development, Stone Gate Condominiums is a destination for a variety of home buyers, especially empty nesters, young couples, commuters, and single professionals. The four-story midrise buildings embrace a large central courtyard enhanced by lush landscaping and providing lovely views from units. There are 10 floor plans that feature such elements as expansive living and dining rooms and spacious patios or balconies. Condos in vintage high rise units are not being left behind. They frequently have been updated to meet expectations of today's condo buyers. Spacious units, some with more than 1,950 square feet, have such contemporary finishes as hardwood floors and granite countertops. Bathrooms may be furnished with whirlpool tubs as well as separate showers. In-unit washer and dryers, attached parking and other common condo conveniences. For things to do outside their homes, condo dwellers need not look far in DesPlaines. The city boasts two golf courses and a water park. An annual festival, Taste of DesPlaines, puts the focus on the diversity of restaurants in the city offering cuisines from around the world. The future has never looked more promising for condo owners in DesPlaines. The city is focusing on improvements such as the Metropolitan Square Development that is underway in the city's downtown. It is adding a 40,000 square foot grocery store, another 56,000 square feet of retail space, office space, and 135 condominium and loft units. The evidence is there and it shows there is not a better place for condo buyers to be than in DesPlaines. |
