I signed a lease for a new apartment this week.  Yatta!  I thought I'd stay in my current building longer, but things happened: 1. I met a great geek guy.  2.  My place was freezing cold this past winter, despite mild temps.  3.  There weren't enough shelves for my action figures.  ...I'm not going to tell you which of those I consider most important.

Finding a home for two geeks was surprisingly trying.  I asked a few readers who are also searching, and it's unanimous; we have needs .  Here's what I learned.   The perfect geek apartment should come with...

A large living room.  Wide open space means lots of bookshelves, and custom furniture arrangements on board game night.  After the crowds leave, you'll have ample floor space for hobbies.

Built-in shelves.   You have statues, ships, models, maquettes, etc.  They all need to be on display.  Some older Chicago buildings feature built-in hutches or china cabinets.  Even better, look for an updated kitchen with an island- the perfect surface for your 400-dollar LEGO Super Star Destroyer!