TLDR: AVOID AT ALL COSTS! This management company is an absolute scam. I’ve rented in Chicago for nearly 20 years and have never been treated by a management company with such disregard and frankly deceptive behavior. They add fake fees onto everything, are intentionally difficult & rude to work with and made up lies to try and keep my security deposit even though I have photographic proof that they were making things up. Whatever you do, do not rent anywhere being managed by these people. It was a living nightmare.

From the beginning, my personal experience has been excellent. Mark’s professionalism and calm approach have made a huge difference, especially when dealing with the unique challenges that come with Chicago investment properties — whether it’s navigating tenant issues, local compliance rules, HOA constraints, or unexpected maintenance dilemmas. His deep understanding of the Chicago market has been invaluable, and he approaches every situation with both expertise and common sense. What stands out most is Mark’s ability to handle dilemmas efficiently and with clarity, providing options, explaining implications, and ultimately helping protect the investment while keeping residents satisfied. That level of balanced judgment is something I consider a core quality of a truly great property manager. For anyone looking for a reliable, transparent, and highly capable team to oversee rental properties, Mark and GC Realty exemplify what a property management company should be. My experience has been overwhelmingly positive, and I would confidently recommend them to anyone looking to invest or maintain rental holdings in the Chicago area.

Great experience so far working with GC Realty. John was so helpful answering my questions super fast. He kept me updated constantly while my unit was listed even through November and December when there really wasn’t even much to update me on. They got my unit rented faster than I expected and I couldn’t be happier with the service provided.

Recommendation: Do Not Use This Company The company presents a strong initial sales pitch; however, execution and follow-through are concerning. 1. Despite being clearly informed that Section 8 tenants were a major concern and the primary reason for engaging a property management firm they attempted to place Section 8 tenants without prior disclosure or approval. Pretty sure that is their business model. If you need email proof, comment your email and I’ll show you the threads before you decide to sign on board with them.

I recently had to look for new tenants to rent out my parents’ house in Chicago. However, the former tenants left the house in terrible shape, and I knew this was more than I could handle. A friend recommended GC realty and couldn’t be happier that I’ve reached out to them. John Rosa, my onboarding manager, went above and beyond in helping us turn it into a rent ready property. It was big project at hand, as he received it in extremely poor condition and immediately put together a thorough scope of work to bring it back to life. He oversaw the remodel, coordinated every step, negotiated pricing on my behalf, and was consistently communicative and transparent. The transformation has been incredible, and the property is now beautifully renovated. This morning, I was informed that a lease has been signed, and I’m extremely grateful for his professionalism and support. I look forward to continuing this partnership and seeing it grow stronger in the future! Thank you John and Team! -Enoch and Family

My experience with GC Realty has been great! I recently worked with John (part of Mark’s team), and he and Mark have been wonderful! We had a challenging situation with the Condo Association and with just hours away from Tenants moving in, John was able to resolve the issue with utmost patience and perseverance. Would definitely recommend GC!

I’m an avid listener of the Straight Up Chicago Investor podcast, and Mark and his guests have been instrumental in helping me decide where to invest. The insights and real world advice shared on the show have been invaluable. Beyond the podcast, Mark has personally taken the time to answer my questions, always responding quickly and thoughtfully, which has helped me make more informed decisions and plan my next moves with confidence. I’m truly grateful for this resource and for feeling part of a wider community of investors. Thanks, Mark, for all that you do!

I want to sincerely thank GC Realty and Development for their quick and thoughtful response to my concern about the building locks. When I first reached out, I wasn’t sure if the issue would be addressed right away, but the team acted promptly and made the change almost immediately. I also want to recognize the person who installed the locks. I spoke with him briefly through my Ring camera while I was at work, and he was very nice and understanding. In addition, the two women who answered my phone calls were extremely professional, provided excellent customer service, and even called me back to follow up to make sure everything had been completed. That level of care really stood out to me. Presca Valencia was on top of it.. She responded back to my email quickly and was so understanding as well.. Thank you again!!! As someone who works in leadership myself, I know what good leadership looks like—and this was a great example. I can tell the new property management team genuinely cares about residents and takes action to make a positive difference. Thank you so much!

TLDR: AVOID AT ALL COSTS! This management company is an absolute scam. I’ve rented in Chicago for nearly 20 years and have never been treated by a management company with such disregard and frankly deceptive behavior. They add fake fees onto everything, are intentionally difficult & rude to work with and made up lies to try and keep my security deposit even though I have photographic proof that they were making things up. Whatever you do, do not rent anywhere being managed by these people. It was a living nightmare.

From the beginning, my personal experience has been excellent. Mark’s professionalism and calm approach have made a huge difference, especially when dealing with the unique challenges that come with Chicago investment properties — whether it’s navigating tenant issues, local compliance rules, HOA constraints, or unexpected maintenance dilemmas. His deep understanding of the Chicago market has been invaluable, and he approaches every situation with both expertise and common sense. What stands out most is Mark’s ability to handle dilemmas efficiently and with clarity, providing options, explaining implications, and ultimately helping protect the investment while keeping residents satisfied. That level of balanced judgment is something I consider a core quality of a truly great property manager. For anyone looking for a reliable, transparent, and highly capable team to oversee rental properties, Mark and GC Realty exemplify what a property management company should be. My experience has been overwhelmingly positive, and I would confidently recommend them to anyone looking to invest or maintain rental holdings in the Chicago area.

Great experience so far working with GC Realty. John was so helpful answering my questions super fast. He kept me updated constantly while my unit was listed even through November and December when there really wasn’t even much to update me on. They got my unit rented faster than I expected and I couldn’t be happier with the service provided.

Recommendation: Do Not Use This Company The company presents a strong initial sales pitch; however, execution and follow-through are concerning. 1. Despite being clearly informed that Section 8 tenants were a major concern and the primary reason for engaging a property management firm they attempted to place Section 8 tenants without prior disclosure or approval. Pretty sure that is their business model. If you need email proof, comment your email and I’ll show you the threads before you decide to sign on board with them.

I recently had to look for new tenants to rent out my parents’ house in Chicago. However, the former tenants left the house in terrible shape, and I knew this was more than I could handle. A friend recommended GC realty and couldn’t be happier that I’ve reached out to them. John Rosa, my onboarding manager, went above and beyond in helping us turn it into a rent ready property. It was big project at hand, as he received it in extremely poor condition and immediately put together a thorough scope of work to bring it back to life. He oversaw the remodel, coordinated every step, negotiated pricing on my behalf, and was consistently communicative and transparent. The transformation has been incredible, and the property is now beautifully renovated. This morning, I was informed that a lease has been signed, and I’m extremely grateful for his professionalism and support. I look forward to continuing this partnership and seeing it grow stronger in the future! Thank you John and Team! -Enoch and Family

My experience with GC Realty has been great! I recently worked with John (part of Mark’s team), and he and Mark have been wonderful! We had a challenging situation with the Condo Association and with just hours away from Tenants moving in, John was able to resolve the issue with utmost patience and perseverance. Would definitely recommend GC!

I’m an avid listener of the Straight Up Chicago Investor podcast, and Mark and his guests have been instrumental in helping me decide where to invest. The insights and real world advice shared on the show have been invaluable. Beyond the podcast, Mark has personally taken the time to answer my questions, always responding quickly and thoughtfully, which has helped me make more informed decisions and plan my next moves with confidence. I’m truly grateful for this resource and for feeling part of a wider community of investors. Thanks, Mark, for all that you do!

I want to sincerely thank GC Realty and Development for their quick and thoughtful response to my concern about the building locks. When I first reached out, I wasn’t sure if the issue would be addressed right away, but the team acted promptly and made the change almost immediately. I also want to recognize the person who installed the locks. I spoke with him briefly through my Ring camera while I was at work, and he was very nice and understanding. In addition, the two women who answered my phone calls were extremely professional, provided excellent customer service, and even called me back to follow up to make sure everything had been completed. That level of care really stood out to me. Presca Valencia was on top of it.. She responded back to my email quickly and was so understanding as well.. Thank you again!!! As someone who works in leadership myself, I know what good leadership looks like—and this was a great example. I can tell the new property management team genuinely cares about residents and takes action to make a positive difference. Thank you so much!