Daymonster Needs a Home

This post is short and lame and with no pictures. I don't have much time today but I really need your guys' help.

I am in the market for a new apartment. I looked at about 4 places yesterday and I am looking for some help. I greatly value the opinions and thoughts of the distinguished KofC members, (not so sure about that Playboy character, but I am willing to listen).

Basically I am look for a one Bedroom for less than 1200 / month. I found one older 1 bedroom that allowed dogs and had plenty of room but some girl was already applying for it when I walked in to take a look. I applied for it anyway and told her that I hoped she had bad credit as I left.

I found another brand new 1 BR that has a balcony and a separate kitchen with all new appliances, counter tops and cabinets. The building has a decent fitness center and its located across the street from a grocery store. The one problem is I would be about 400 meters from the nearest El stop and it's a bit farther north than I would normally want to be. It's about 5 blocks away from Wrigley field and it's just under 1k per month. But the worst part is, there is no Air Conditioning. I could put in a massive window unit but that would kind of a pain in the ass.

My other option is a much much smaller one bedroom that also has a new kitchen but no dish washer. It's right across the street pretty much from the El stop and is about 2 blocks away from Wrigley field. The main living room is really small and I can't imagine how I could fit stuff in a way that would make all my shit fit. There is also no balcony or air conditioning. But the rent is like 150/month cheaper.

I'll keep you updated on my progress but I wanted to know what you guys thought about these places. I appreciate the help.