Be forewarned: Equity Residential aggressively and illegally will raise your rent when your lease comes up for renewal.

When the leasing office sends out annual renewal notices, it frequently requests rent increases of several hundred dollars a month or even over a thousand dollars a month. Even if you can negotiate a lower rent, it's likely that you'll still end up paying substantially more than the legal limit.

The best way to fight this is to spread the word about this scam, which is why I felt compelled to share this review. As more and more people report their cases, the more likely it is that we will be able to stop this illegal action against tenants.

On the positive side, we have an amazing tenants' association that has been extremely vigilant and helpful, acting as a check and balance to the property management company.

Also, the building has a history of break-ins to residences and cars alike, at least since I've been here over the past few years. Hot water and elevators frequently has issues. My advice is lock your door and hold on to your lease tightly.