If you've ever wanted to say you've been to Harvard, this is your chance. In fact, the city of Harvard, Illinois was actually named by three men who purchased it and named it in honor of the oldest University in the United States, Harvard University in Massachusetts.
Harvard isn't exactly a suburb of the closest big city -- Chicago
If you've ever wanted to say you've been to Harvard, this is your chance. In fact, the city of Harvard, Illinois was actually named by three men who purchased it and named it in honor of the oldest University in the United States, Harvard University in Massachusetts.
Harvard isn't exactly a suburb of the closest big city -- Chicago. In fact, Harvard is closer to Wisconsin (seven miles) than it is to the Windy City (63 miles). But, in reality, all you have to do is to jump on Chicago's commuter rail/bus system, the Metra/Pace, and it gets you to Harvard in a snap!
Harvard will give you a plentiful number of rental opportunities with a nice mixture of both owner and renter occupied housing. The decent vacancy rate percent opens up possibilities that owners may be willing to negotiate with you to give you what you really want in terms of pricing and amenities. So when you're renting an apartment in Harvard, make sure to ask for the amenities, rather than assuming that what's advertised is all that's available. (You know what happens when you assume!)
The Market for Rental Housing in Harvard
About a third of what is available in Harvard is housing for rent. This would include row houses, small apartment buildings and some hi rises. Renters looking for serviced apartments in particular may find that Harvard only provides a minimal number of choices.
None of this means that if you're looking for home rentals you won't be able to find them. Quite the opposite. You just have to be willing to go beyond the typical advertisements. Remember: ask follow up questions! With some research and patience, you can find the right house to rent or rental apartment.
Ready to Negotiate
If your heart's desire is to rent a house, chances are high you will need to negotiate with a private owner. Don't let this intimidate you! Negotiating has many pros if you are cautious in how you undertake the process. First, understand what's in the lease. Is this all bills paid, or are you responsible for your own utilities? Second, spell out what the owner will do to maintain the space. Are you going to be asked to make repairs, or will you always wait for the owner?
Extra Tips
Summers are going to be really hot and humid in Harvard so please do yourself a favor and don't move in the summer. What about the winter, you ask? There's snow, so you should probably avoid it, too. All this leaves you with two options -- do we need to tell you that, too?
Although Harvard is connected to Chicago by commuter train, it's probably not accurate to say it's going to have the same culture. So getting a read on Chicago or its suburbs won't tell you much about what being in Harvard will be like. There are three neighborhoods that tell the story of Harvard:
Hartland: You'll find both medium and large homes and townhouses in this area, but most of them are occupied by the owners. Rental opportunities will be available, but get out a shovel because you'll need to dig for them. Leisure is available with the Oak Grove Golf Course, and Plum Tree National Golf Club.
City Center: This is a good place to start your search if you're apartment hunting in Harvard. You'll find small and medium homes as well as apartment complexes, including high-rises. There is a nice mix here of both owners and renters.
Big Foot Prairie: Small and medium homes along with small apartment buildings populate this area. You'll find the area's major hospital (Mercy Harvard) as well as the library (Harvard Diggins).
Top Apartment Complexes
Northfield Court Apartments: This is where you'll find both studio and 3-bedroom apartments. Amenities include heating and air, 24-hour maintenance and an indoor pool that's open all year long.
The Autumn Glen Apartment: Here you'll find a good supply of 2-bedroom apartments. Heat is included with rent here, so don't worry about leaving it on all night long when the winters gets cold. Another perk is complimentary underground parking, so you wheels are always protected from the elements.
Harvard has a fair variety of restaurants as well as unique things to do for people of all ages. Both the Royal Oak Farm Orchard and Ben's Christmas Tree Farm are available for families to have fun in outdoor activities. There is also Starline Gallery and Studios -- a stop more suited for adults. Further, Ravenstone Castle is an eclectic mix of entertainment and food from people of all ages.
For more food options, check out Bravo Pizza, Heritage House (people love the pork here), La Trinidad Restaurant and Kelly's Restaurant will fill you up with delicious dishes.
