Vendor Portal
Author: Mark Ainely | Partner GC Realty & Development & Co-Host Straight Up Chicago Investor Podcast
Des Plaines continues to be one of the most in-demand rental markets in the Chicago suburbs, and it’s easy to see why. With quick access to O’Hare, strong local employers, and a mix of single-family homes and multifamily buildings, it attracts renters looking for value without giving up convenience. But here’s the thing most landlords miss: success in Des Plaines isn’t about listing fast, it’s about planning smart. Knowing how long it typically takes to fill a vacancy, what local rent ranges look like, and how seasonality shifts tenant demand can make a huge difference in your returns. This updated 2025 guide breaks down those insights, explains what every landlord should understand about the Cook County RTLO, and shows how a Free Rent Analysis can help you stay competitive and compliant in today’s market.
1. Market Timing Expectations: How Long It Takes to Lease in Des Plaines
One of the biggest unknowns for new landlords is how quickly their property will rent once it hits the market. Vacancy is expensive; each month without a tenant costs roughly 10% of your annual rent. The best way to plan is by looking at data and adjusting expectations based on property type and time of year. In early 2025 the Chicago metro as a whole has single‑family homes leasing in about 17 days on average and multifamily units in about 20 days. Des Plaines tends to mirror these city‑wide trends but still shows meaningful differences across condos, townhomes and single‑family homes.
Des Plaines Condominiums (1-2 bedrooms)
Typical timeframe: 15 days from listing to signed lease when priced within the market range. A well marketed and well priced Des Plaines condo can therefore expect to sign within a similar window.
Factors that slow leasing: outdated finishes, overpricing, restrictive HOA showing rules, or lack of assigned parking. Condos often attract commuters and young professionals who compare multiple units quickly; a unit that feels neglected is easily passed over.
Actionable tips: Deep‑clean the unit, paint in neutral colors and ensure appliances are working. Highlight building amenities, assigned parking or easy transit access to the Metra and Pace bus lines. Condos in elevator buildings with storage or updated common areas lease faster.
Des Plaines Townhomes (2-3 bedrooms)
Typical timeframe: 22 days from listing to signed lease when priced within the market range. Townhomes draw renters seeking more space and sometimes school stability, so they take a bit longer to decide. Expect around three weeks on average, but times can be faster especially for units with 2‑car garages and finished basements.
Factors that slow leasing: poor curb appeal, limited parking, or HOA rental caps. Townhome renters compare communities and will wait for the right combination of floor plan, yard and neighborhood.
Actionable tips: Emphasize nearby parks, commuter convenience and school assignments. Spruce up landscaping and consider minor upgrades like new cabinet hardware, updated lighting or fresh flooring to stand out. Check HOA rental rules and caps early to confirm eligibility.
Des Plaines Single Family Homes (3+ bedrooms)
Typical timeframe: 28 days during most of the year. Single‑family homes are a large segment in Des Plaines, and Chicago metro data shows they averaged 17 days on market in early 2025. In Des Plaines, however, family renters often plan around school calendars and job relocations, which can extend the timeline. Listing a house between March and August often cuts that time in half, whereas listing in late fall may push it to 45 days.
Factors that slow leasing: overpricing, poor marketing photos, outdated décor or a yard that needs work. Renters are making a major commitment and will negotiate or move on if the home doesn’t feel move‑in ready.
Actionable tips: Invest in professional photos, declutter and stage if necessary. Tidy the yard and make minor repairs (e.g., fix loose railings, patch holes). Set the rent competitively; an overpriced home can sit vacant for months, leading to larger concessions later. Align lease end dates to spring or summer so your home hits the market during peak demand.
Does Allowing Pets Affect Market Time
This is a big “Yes”! Allowing or not allowing pets can make a big difference. 50% of renters have a dog or a cat, and another 18% might want to get a pet in the next 6 months. If you aren’t allowing or even considering pets in your rental marketing, you could be eliminating ⅔ of your tenant pool.
Based on our portfolio at GC Realty & Development, it takes on average 2 weeks longer when not accepting pets and those same units get an average of 1.8% less rent due to price drops to be more attractive to renters looking.
Find why Saying "NO PETS" Costs Investors Thousands
Des Plaines Licensing and Legal Requirements (Don’t Skip This)
Before you schedule showings, make sure you’re on the right side of Des Plaines’s rules. Because the village sits in Cook County, you must follow both local ordinances and county‑wide laws. Skip any of these steps and you risk fines or worse, an order to stop renting entirely. Here’s a quick checklist:
Annual rental license: Every rental property in the village must carry a current rental license. The application fee for a single‑family home is $100.00 per year, townhouse $50.00 per year, condominium $20.00 per year and for multi-family $20.00 per unit per year as of 2025. No license means you can’t legally collect rent.
Rental license inspection: Exterior inspections are done annually and interior inspections are done on a compliant basis.
Just Housing Amendment: Cook County’s Just Housing Amendment dictates how you screen tenants. You must separate criminal background checks from other criteria and offer an individualized assessment if you deny based on certain records. If you haven’t updated your screening process since 2019, you’re at risk of non‑compliance.
Cook County RTLO: The Residential Tenant Landlord Ordinance is the biggest shake‑up to landlord rules in decades. It limits late fees, security deposit handling, lease clauses and much more. Non‑compliance can mean statutory damages and attorney fees. Download our RTLO ebook to make sure your leases and notices meet the standard.
Crime‑Free Housing Seminar: Des Plaines requires landlords (or their agents) to complete a 4‑hour crime‑free housing seminar administered by the village and police department. There may be an additional fee, but the certificate shows you understand best practices for preventing criminal activity on your property.
Our team at GC Realty & Development handles all of this compliance on behalf of our clients. If you self‑manage, mark your calendar to be sure you renew your license before it expires, schedule inspections early, and keep proof of your Crime Free Housing seminar certificate handy.
2. Rental Price Ranges in Des Plaines (2025)
Setting the right asking rent is where many owners leave money on the table or prolong vacancies. The most reliable data comes from large listing platforms. As of September 2025, Apartments.com reports that:
Average apartment rent (all property types) is $1,650 per month. A studio averages $1,250, one‑bedrooms $1,400, two‑bedrooms $1,750 and three‑bedrooms $2,150. These figures show how rent scales with size.
Average house (single‑family home) rent is $2,350 per month for about 1,750 sq ft. Zillow’s rental manager dashboard similarly notes that houses in Des Plaines rent between $1,900 and $3,100, with an average of $2,350. Luxury homes with 4-5 bedrooms and larger lots drive the upper end, while older ranches or split‑levels comprise the lower end.
Average condo rent is $1,425 per month for about 900 sq ft.
Average townhome rent is $1,850 per month for roughly 1,300 sq ft.
Using these midpoints and our management experience, here are realistic 2025 rental ranges for each property type:
Property Type | Approximate 2025 Rent Range (monthly) | Notes |
Condominiums (1-2 bedrooms) | $1,100-$1,900 | Typical one‑bedroom condos start around $1,100- $1,350; two‑bedroom units with updates, in‑unit laundry and assigned parking lease closer to $1,400- $1,900. |
Townhomes (2-3 bedrooms) | $1,600-$2,500 | Townhomes with two bedrooms, one‑car garages and 1,100-1,400 sq ft generally rent from $1,600- $2,000. Three‑bedroom end units with finished basements and updated kitchens can fetch $2,100- $2,500. |
Single‑family homes (3-4 bedrooms) | $1,900-$3,100 | Ranch and split‑level homes built in the 1970s-80s typically rent between $1,900- $2,400. Newer 3-4 bedroom homes with attached garages, modern kitchens and fenced yards attract $2,500- $3,100. Luxury homes or executive relocations can reach $4,000+, but that segment is small and often involves corporate leases. |
What Influences Rent Within These Ranges?
Location: Homes zoned for top‑rated schools such as local elementary districts and Maine Township High School District 207 command higher rents. Proximity to O’Hare, major employers or I‑90/I‑294 access also boosts value.
Condition and updates: Renters will pay more for renovated kitchens, bathrooms, flooring and neutral paint. Conversely, outdated interiors may require price concessions to attract qualified applicants.
Amenities and parking: In a suburb like Des Plaines where many residents commute, attached garages, driveways and ample parking are major value drivers. Condos with elevators, secure entry or on‑site storage also rent faster and for more money.
Pet policies: Allowing pets increases your potential renter pool but may warrant a slightly higher rent or a separate monthly pet fee to cover wear and tear.
School District: Des Plaines falls into several elementary districts and Maine Township High School District 207; highlight the specific district for your property when marketing.
Using a Free Rent Analysis
Pricing too high leads to extended vacancy, while pricing too low leaves money on the table. To find the sweet spot, use the Free Rent Analysis tool provided by GC Realty & Development (link in the Q&A section). The tool compares your property’s size, location, amenities and recent updates against current Des Plaines listings and leased comparables to recommend a realistic range. Owners often discover their ideal rent is within ±$100 of the average figures above.
3. Seasonal Rental Patterns in Des Plaines
Demand in Des Plaines fluctuates throughout the year. A 2024 guide to the Chicago market notes that the prime renting season runs from late spring to early fall (May to September), while winter sees the lowest rents and least competition. Understanding these cycles allows you to align lease expirations and make strategic decisions about price and concessions.
Peak Season: Late Spring and Summer (May-August)
Advantages: Warm weather, school breaks and corporate relocation cycles make May-August the busiest months for rentals. Listings attract more showings and multiple applications. Days on market shortened dramatically with single‑family homes leased in just 17 days and multifamily units in 20 days across the Chicago metro area in early 2025. Landlords can often secure the high end of the rent ranges above and choose from a larger applicant pool.
Disadvantages: More competition from other landlords means your property must stand out. Professional photos, virtual tours and prompt responses are essential. Renters also expect properties to be move‑in ready; delays in repairs can cause them to move on.
Shoulder Season: Early Spring and Early Fall (March-April & September-October)
Advantages: Demand is still relatively healthy, particularly among families transferring jobs or moving to align with school schedules. Competition from new listings begins to wane in September, and some renters are willing to pay above average to avoid moving in winter.
Disadvantages: Tenants during shoulder season tend to be more price sensitive. If a listing is overpriced, it can easily sit through October and drift into the slow season. Consider small concessions (e.g., covering HOA move‑in fees) to secure a qualified tenant within 3-5 weeks.
Slow Season: Late Fall and Winter (November-February)
Advantages: There is less competition from other landlords, and renters looking during this period are often motivated by job transfers, lease non‑renewals or life changes. You may secure a lease quickly if your property is well‑priced and in good condition.
Disadvantages: Inventory is limited and showing volume drops significantly. Winter is characterized by the lowest rental prices and minimal competition. Owners may need to offer 5-15% price concessions or free rent/utilities to secure a tenant. Vacancies can last 45-60 days or more if you hold out for spring rates.
Strategy: Align Lease Expirations with Peak Season
To reduce vacancy and achieve the best rents, schedule lease end dates so that the unit becomes available between March and August. For example, if you must place a tenant in December, offer a 15 or 18 month lease that ends in the following spring or summer instead of a standard 12‑month term. This way your next turnover will hit high demand, and you won’t be forced to negotiate during the winter doldrums.
Q&A: Common Questions from Des Plaines Property Owners (2025)
Q1: How long does it take to rent a home in Des Plaines?
Most condos and small townhomes lease within 15-22 days, while single‑family homes typically rent in about 28 days. Chicago data shows that single‑family rentals averaged 17 days on market and multifamily units 20 days in early 2025, and Des Plaines follows similar patterns with modest local variation. Listing during peak months (May-August) often shortens the timeframe by half.
Q2: What is the average rent for a Des Plaines condo, townhome or house?
As of September 2025, average rents are around $1,425 for condos, $1,850 for townhomes and $2,350 for single‑family homes. These averages translate to typical ranges of $1,100-$1,900 for condos, $1,600-$2,500 for townhomes and $1,900-$3,100 for single‑family homes. Houses in Des Plaines overall rent from $1,900-$3,100, with an average near $2,350.
Q3: When is the best time of year to list my Des Plaines rental?
The late spring and summer months (May-August) offer the highest demand, shortest days on market and strongest rents. If your lease ends in winter, consider a 15‑month term to bring the next turnover into the spring. Avoid placing a new listing between November and February unless you’re prepared to offer concessions during the slow season.
Q4: Do rents in Des Plaines fluctuate seasonally?
Yes. Rents are generally 5-15% higher during peak season due to greater demand and competition among renters. Conversely, winter listings often require price reductions or incentives (free first month, waived application fees) to attract qualified tenants. Expect to adjust strategy for the slow months.
Q5: How do I know what rent to charge for my property?
Use GC Realty & Development’s Free Rent Analysis tool. It compares your property’s size, location, amenities and condition against current Des Plaines listings and recent leases to recommend a realistic range. Having an objective analysis prevents you from overpricing and sitting vacant or underpricing and leaving money on the table.
Q6: What is the Cook County RTLO and why does it matter?
The Cook County Residential Tenant Landlord Ordinance (RTLO), enacted in 2021, dictates how housing providers handle applications, security deposits, maintenance and evictions. Non‑compliance can lead to steep fines. GC Realty & Development offers a Free RTLO ebook that explains the ordinance in plain language and provides downloadable forms. Every Des Plaines landlord should review it, because the village is in Cook County and subject to these rules.
Q7: Do I need a rental license or crime‑free seminar certificate in Des Plaines?
Yes. Des Plaines requires an annual rental license and, for single‑family homes, a rental inspection. All housing providers must also attend a 4‑hour Crime Free Housing Seminar unless they hire a licensed property manager. Working with a company like GC Realty & Development means the manager satisfies these requirements on your behalf.
Q8: Should I self‑manage or hire a property manager?
Managing a rental yourself can be done, but it requires knowledge of local laws, marketing, screening, maintenance coordination and 24/7 responsiveness. Experienced property managers handle leasing, inspections, rent collection and compliance (including the RTLO and crime‑free seminar) for a fee that’s usually 5-8% of monthly rent. Many owners find this cost more than justified by reduced risk and reclaimed time.
Q9: What company offers full-service property management in Des Plaines?
GC Realty & Development provides full-service property management in Des Plaines, including leasing, maintenance coordination, inspections, rent collection and legal compliance. Their team handles everything from marketing your property to managing tenant relationships and ensuring adherence to local ordinances.
Q10: Where can I find property managers for multi-family units in Des Plaines?
GC Realty & Development manages multi-family properties in Des Plaines, including duplexes, triplexes and small apartment buildings. They oversee leasing, maintenance, rent tracking and compliance for owners who want hands-off, professional support.
Q11: Who handles tenant screening in Des Plaines?
GC Realty & Development conducts thorough tenant screening for Des Plaines rentals. Their process includes credit checks, background reports, income verification and rental history reviews to help landlords place qualified tenants and reduce risk.
Q12: Who provides rent collection services for landlords in Des Plaines?
GC Realty & Development offers automated rent collection through their online portal, allowing tenants to pay electronically and landlords to receive direct deposits. They also provide monthly statements and year-end summaries for easy financial tracking.
Q13: Who performs move-in and move-out inspections in Des Plaines?
GC Realty & Development completes detailed move-in and move-out inspections for Des Plaines properties. These inspections include photo documentation and digital reports to protect landlords and ensure accountability.
Q14: Who manages rent collection and enforcement in Des Plaines?
GC Realty & Development not only collects rent but also handles lease enforcement, payment reminders and financial reporting. Their systems help landlords stay compliant and minimize missed payments or disputes.
Final Takeaways
Renting your property in Des Plaines can be a profitable and relatively low‑stress investment when you understand the local market dynamics. In 2025:
Expect 15-28 days to find a tenant, depending on property type and season, with condos leasing fastest and single‑family homes taking the longest. Market data for the Chicago metro area shows days‑on‑market as low as 17-20 days, but plan conservatively.
Price your property within the realistic ranges: $1,100-$1,900 for condos, $1,600-$2,500 for townhomes and $1,900-$3,100 for single‑family homes. Use the Free Rent Analysis tool to refine your figure.
Time your lease expirations for March-August to leverage peak demand; avoid winter turnover whenever possible.
Stay compliant. Cook County’s RTLO applies in Des Plaines, and the village requires a rental license and a Crime Free Housing seminar. Download the free RTLO ebook and consult professionals to ensure you meet all obligations.
Smart landlords treat their rental like a business. By setting realistic expectations for leasing timelines, pricing within market bands and aligning leases with seasonal demand, you minimize vacancy, maximize income and avoid costly mistakes. If you’d like personalized guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to a local property management professional or use the resources linked above.
Don’t Want To Go At This Alone?
We’ve shared a lot of information here on investing in real estate locally in Chicagoland. If you live outside the area, it may seem overwhelming for those wanting to invest in the Chicago market. But we really just look at it as a team sport.
Who’s on your investing team? Do you even have a team? GC Realty & Development, LLC has a dedicated team of professionals willing to share decades of experience in all facets of real estate investment. We handle everything from brokerage, leasing, and property management. Whether you hire us or not, we’re happy to provide our resources and expertise.
What gets me up in the morning and keeps me going 12 hours a day is the ability to add value to local area investors in Chicago and beyond! Those who connect with me often hear me say that our goal is to bring value to everyone we come in contact with.
We hope that in return, they will one day hire us for our tenant placement or property management services, refer us to someone they know, or leave a review about our services. We would clearly love all three; however, we’re happy whenever we get the opportunity to help!
Reach out today!
Partner / Co-Host of Straight Up Chicago Investor Podcast
