When lenders and agents are aligned, buyers are better prepared, more confident and ultimately more successful.

At a time when the real estate industry is flooded with new tools, louder voices and constant predictions about what’s next, this issue of Chicago Agent magazine brings the focus back to what actually drives long-term success.

As we put 2025 and all of its frustrations — the stubborn interest rates, the lack of inventory, the high prices — in the rearview, it’s fair to ask, will 2026 be any better? According to our reporting, the answer is a resounding “probably.”

It’s been a bumpy year for those in the real estate industry. 

They say that every vote counts, and this year’s Chicago Agents’ Choice Awards — our 20th annual contest — was no exception to the rule.

Whether you’re navigating a fluctuating market or embracing new technologies, this year continues to unfold as a time full of opportunity.

Across Chicago and its surrounding suburbs, new construction is gaining momentum — but not without major shifts in where and how homes are being built.

For agents navigating today’s complex housing landscape, our August issue offers insight on one of the most critical aspects of the job: negotiation.

This issue spotlights a powerful theme: advocacy through associations, and how individual agents can amplify their impact by working together.

“There’s never been a more important time to stay informed and stay connected,” writes managing editor Jacqui Mueller.

Here at Chicago Agent, our only agenda is to serve real estate professionals with accurate, balanced and locally relevant information.

“Real estate news is all about the numbers. That’s what we cover every day at Chicago Agent,” writes Managing Editor Emily Mack, reflecting on the Truth About Agents issue.

I think you’ll find our contributors’ views of the market to be both realistic and optimistic. I think we’ll all be better off if we take that approach.

If you look at the quarterly data, like I do, you’ll see some of the same names consistently delivering top results. How do these top producers maintain their success? We sought their expertise in this month’s issue.

“It’s 2025 — time for a fresh start, a renewed focus and fresh optimism about the possibilities for the coming year,” writes Managing Editor Patrick Regan.

“How did 2024 go? Did I accomplish all my goals this year? It’s also a time to reset and re-energize for what’s ahead.”