Ames' self-branding business plan has led her to be recognized as a top-producing agent in Chicago, and the nation.

It’s no secret that the average Realtor gains the majority of his or her business from client referrals; however, Jennifer Ames, one of the nation’s highest ranked and top-producing real estate agents, believes that the best approach to real estate involves a more traditional business plan, where brand strategy is key to success.  The Chicago-based agent will be speaking about the importance of self-branding this weekend at the National Association of Realtors (NAR) in Anaheim, California.

Ames’ unique business approach has proven that a strong brand identity and a likewise personable reputation can draw in a wealth of business outside the realm of client referrals.  But what exactly does Ames’ unique approach entail?

Ames reportedly runs her business like a Fortune 500 company. She maintains exceptionally high standards in every area of business from customer service and communication, to marketing, branding and team management. Ames is also the creator of Live & Play Chicago magazine, a printed and digital publication featuring news, events and also her personal listings in the Chicagoland area.

Her methods have led her to be recognized by the Chicago Association of Realtors as one of the city’s top ten residential agents every year since 1997, and also by The Wall Street Journal as one of the top 100 sales agents in the nation in both 2009 and 2010. Ames has also been interviewed by the Chicago Tribune, Chicago magazine, Crain’s Chicago Business, and People magazine, and has appeared on CNN, “Fox Thing in the Morning,” ABC 7 Chicago and the Fine Living Network.

Ames attributes the success of her self-branding business plan to the fact that she knows exactly who she is and what she can offer each of her clients. Apart from her knowledge on branding, Ames is considered an expert on proactive and inexpensive staging of clients’ homes, and hosting events to solidify client loyalty.

To learn more about Jennifer Ames, you can visit her personal blog and digital magazine Live & Play Chicago here.