"Chicago's first original condo building — 50 years of harbor living."
Ratings Breakdown
Upper Level's exclusive rating for Chicago winter survivability — indoor parking, pedway access, CTA proximity, and wind exposure.
The Rundown
Harbor Point holds a unique place in Chicago real estate history: completed in 1974, it was the first original condominium building in the city of Chicago. Before Harbor Point, the condo concept was largely unknown in Chicago. It pioneered the model that every building in Lakeshore East — and most of downtown — would follow.
At 54 floors with 742 units, it's the largest building in Lakeshore East by unit count. The amenity stack is impressive for a 1974 building — indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts, racquetball courts, and a full fitness center. The views are excellent: harbor, lake, and skyline from the upper floors.
The honest reality: it's a 50-year-old building. The bones are solid, but the systems, hallways, and common areas show their age. HOA fees are high and have been subject to special assessments. Some units have been beautifully renovated; others are original 1974. The price-per-square-foot is the lowest in Lakeshore East, which reflects both the age and the opportunity.
Who Lives Here
A true mix — long-term owners who've been here for decades, value-oriented buyers attracted by the price-per-square-foot, and some investors. The building has a diverse demographic that reflects 50 years of ownership turnover. You'll find retirees, young professionals who did the math, and everything in between.
The Neighborhood
Harbor Drive is the quietest address in Lakeshore East — you're at the eastern edge of the neighborhood, directly on the harbor. The lakefront path is your backyard. The park is a short walk. The Loop is a 10-minute walk or short L ride.
What You Get
Elevator Experience
Upper Level Intel
Special Assessment History
Harbor Point has had multiple special assessments over the years for capital improvements. Before buying, request the HOA financials, reserve fund study, and meeting minutes. Ask specifically about any pending or planned assessments.
Historic Value Play
Harbor Point offers the lowest price-per-square-foot in Lakeshore East. For buyers who want the neighborhood's location and harbor views at a significant discount to newer buildings, and are comfortable with a renovation project, it's a compelling opportunity.
Tennis Courts Are Rare Downtown
Harbor Point has two tennis courts — an amenity that almost no other downtown Chicago building offers. If you play tennis, this is a genuine differentiator.
The Good & The Not-So-Good
Wins
- ✓Historic significance — Chicago's first original condo building
- ✓Lowest price-per-square-foot in Lakeshore East
- ✓Dual pool setup (indoor + outdoor)
- ✓Tennis and racquetball courts — rare downtown
- ✓Harbor and lake views from upper floors
- ✓Large unit sizes for the price
Watch Out
- ✗50-year-old building — systems, hallways, and common areas show age
- ✗HOA fees are high and have had special assessments
- ✗Unit condition varies widely — some original 1974 finishes
- ✗No EV charging
- ✗Management reviews are mixed
The Verdict
Harbor Point is Chicago's original condo building and still one of the most interesting value plays in Lakeshore East. The age shows, the HOA fees are real, and the systems need attention. But the price-per-square-foot is the lowest in the neighborhood, the views are excellent, and the amenity stack — including tennis courts — is genuinely rare. Best for buyers who want Lakeshore East at a discount and are comfortable with a renovation project.
Getting Out of Chicago
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