John and Nicole Oertel, the husband-and-wife team behind The Oertel Group at Compass, turn a simple real estate transaction into an enjoyable process. Working with everyone ranging from first-time buyers in the West Loop to luxury sellers in Lake Forest, John and Nicole have built a clientele based on referrals and repeat customers. Since starting their own team in 2010, the couple have continued to earn recognition as Top Producers from the Chicago Association of Realtors. “Our clients know we go above and beyond and are there for them 100 percent,” they say. “We don’t just open a door and show a property. They know they can trust us to guide them and truthfully help them make the best decision when it comes to buying, selling or investing in a home.”

With Nicole’s two decades of experience selling real estate, first in South Florida’s luxury market before moving to Chicago, and John’s background in marketing, PR and the mortgage industry — there’s no situation they can’t handle. “Even in the midst of the economic crisis, we were able to market ourselves and help clients find and sell unique properties in ways most couldn’t during those times,” they explain.

This year, Nicole and John made the transition to Compass in order to acquire the in-house tools and additional manpower needed to increase their production without sacrificing quality of service. Known for their creative marketing strategies, such as turning an open house into a neighborhood affair with the help of a cupcake truck, Nicole and John infuse their love for people into everything they do. They also hold much-lauded client appreciation parties.

The couple also work hard to give back to their community. Nicole is on the development committee for Stepping Stones Network, a Chicago-based nonprofit dedicated to helping victims of human trafficking. Both she and John volunteer with the organization, in addition to maintaining hobbies such as boating, traveling, and staying active with hockey and yoga.