More than halfway through her third decade in real estate, Carol Collins is known for exceeding expectations at every possible juncture. “I consistently go above and beyond to make the buying and selling process easier for my clients,” says Collins, a vice president of sales at Jameson Sotheby’s International Realty. “I aim to make it a five-star experience.”
As a longtime resident of Chicago, Collins has a local’s knowledge of the markets in which she works, including Gold Coast, Streeterville, Lincoln Park, West Loop, Lakeview, River North, Wicker Park, Old Irving Park and North Center. As a parent, she is well versed in the city’s school systems and extracurricular offerings. “I know so many neighborhoods and continue to branch out where I am willing to work,” she says. “Whatever the question, when it involves families, I’ve got it covered!”
Approaching each transaction as if she were buying or selling her own home, Collins delivers individualized solutions to best fit her clients’ needs, regardless of their income-bracket, demographics or prior real estate experience. Through her 26 years in the industry, she’s accrued a referral-based business and maintains a roster of approved vendors that are available to provide excellent and efficient service.
Adjusting to buyer demands, Collins places a heavy emphasis on presenting homes in move-in condition. “Sellers who trust in my knowledge of correct pricing, combined with an eye for staging and how to improve what they already have in their homes, have found that following my advice pays off,” she says. To ensure maximum reach, Collins advertises listings through Sotheby’s many marketing options, the Top Agent Network, social media, targeted emails, Haven Lifestyles magazine and Crain’s Chicago Business.
Collins volunteers at Fourth Presbyterian Church, LaSalle Language Academy in Old Town and her son’s schools. She often tunes in to Bravo for “Million Dollar Listing” or HGTV for “Windy City Rehab” and tries to hit the gym at least three times per week. She spends as much time as possible with her family and loves it when they can all have dinner together.
