505 3RD St
Okay, I'm about to break all my rules with this place. It's a townhouse, and it's in the suburbs. But! It's still close to an El station (Linden - take the Purple line express), it's a good value, and it's a stone's throw from the lake, which would be awesome.
Inside, it's completely renovated in modern gray and white, and I'm digging all their design choices. It seems spacious and flooded with light. And in back there is an amazing little secret garden of a patio, that somehow has a tropical feel. I can definitely imagine relaxing on a lounge chair with a book and a glass of wine.
Bonus: Wilmette has very highly rated public schools.
2 beds, 1.5 baths, $325k. Somebody buy this house!