Why Chicago is One of the Best Cities for Young Professionals in 2025

Choosing the right city to launch your career as a young professional is an important decision. When considering moving to a new city, you’re likely thinking about job opportunities, cost of living, the social scene, and overall quality of life. Keeping all of that in mind, let’s dive into why Chicago should be at the … Continued

5 Best Neighborhoods for Long-Term Renting in Chicago

Looking for a neighborhood from which you can venture forth and experience the Windy City’s endless enticements? Perhaps your career has stabilized to the point that future moves are less likely. Maybe you simply love Chicago and all that it offers. Whatever your reason, you are ready to call Chicago home for the long haul. … Continued

Draper and Kramer’s Kevin Cooky Appointed to Chicagoland Apartment Association Board of Directors

Chicago-based Draper and Kramer, Incorporated, a national full-service real estate firm, is pleased to announce that Kevin Cooky, assistant vice president, regional property manager and revenue manager, has been approved as a member of the Chicagoland Apartment Association (CAA) board of directors. His term on the CAA board – which is responsible for oversight of the … Continued

6 Amazing Weekend Getaways Near Chicago

The holidays are winding down, and a vacation from the vacation is much needed for many! If you live in Chicago, you’re in luck. The Windy City is ideally located near great weekend getaways, including historic towns, national parks, lakeside retreats, and much more. Here are a few of our favorite weekend getaways from Chicago: 1. … Continued

Why You’ll Love River North in Chicago

Chicago’s River North area was once dominated by factories and warehouses. Today, more than a thousand modern high-rises contrast with the Victorian-era homes that grace the tree-lined residential streets. It is also the home of the Neo-Gothic Tribune Tower, the century-old Wrigley Building, and the historic Water Tower, circa 1869. Developers repurpose warehouses as trendy venues serving up music and fine … Continued

Draper and Kramer’s 61 Banks Street Receives CAMME Award for Property Excellence

Draper and Kramer, Incorporated is pleased to announce that 61 Banks Street, the firm’s 57-unit ultra-luxury boutique Gold Coast property, has been honored with a 2023 Chicagoland Apartment Marketing and Management Excellence (CAMME) Award for Property Excellence. Located on a prominent stretch of Lake Shore Drive, 61 Banks was designed by award-winning architect Booth Hansen with interiors by … Continued

Draper and Kramer CEO Todd Bancroft Joins Chicago Loop Alliance Board of Directors

Draper and Kramer, Incorporated, a national full-service real estate firm, today announced Todd Bancroft, president and chief executive officer, has been inducted to the Board of Directors for Chicago Loop Alliance, a membership-based organization focused on creating programs that elevate Chicago’s Loop and accelerate economic recovery. Chicago Loop Alliance is a membership organization as well … Continued

5 Tips for First-Time Apartment Renters in Chicago

So, you’re planning on renting an apartment for the first time in Chicago? You’re undoubtedly excited, and you should be. You’ll never tire of things to do during your free time in the Windy City. According to Chicago.gov, the city hosts 36 annual parades, 74 music festivals, more than 40 film festivals, and has over 200 theaters. … Continued

Draper and Kramer’s Bill Van Senus III Named Board Member of Chicagoland Apartment Association

Draper and Kramer, Incorporated, a national full-service real estate firm, is pleased to announce that Bill Van Senus III, assistant vice president and regional property manager, has been approved as a member of the Chicagoland Apartment Association (CAA) board of directors. His term on the CAA board – which is responsible for oversight of the association’s finances, strategic … Continued

Draper and Kramer’s Colleen Needham Named Property Manager of the Year by Illinois Real Estate Journal

Draper and Kramer, Incorporated, a national full-service real estate firm, today announced that Colleen Needham, assistant vice president and regional manager, was named Property Manager of the Year by Illinois Real Estate Journal (IREJ). The honor was presented to Needham at IREJ’s 2022 Real Estate Awards, held July 13 at the Hyatt Regency O’Hare Chicago in … Continued