Originally Posted by Amazonia

Many, many thanks to all of you on your wonderful recommendations. We've pretty much made the decision to leave CA, the timing just pending an interview I'm hoping to score with a firm based in Chicago that I'm crossing my fingers would include paid relocation. Next weekend we'll drive about and check out the areas you've all mentioned thus far.

One other question: anyone have any recommendations on rental agents? Or, is it best in Chicago to go on one's own (via Craigslist, etc.)? It's been many, many years since I've had to look for new digs, so I'm not sure what's the best way to go about it these days.