As part of a decade spent in the fashion industry, Carrie Plafchan first came to Chicago as a manager of sales and training for one of the largest apparel brands in the country. She quickly fell in love with the city and its neighborhoods, spending time exploring with friends, working on Michigan Avenue and living in Lincoln Park. After purchasing her first condo, a new construction rehab in Roscoe Village, she was inspired to move into the real estate industry.

“I have an educational and professional background in fashion, management and design,” says Plafchan. “My love for home decor, style and running a business made my transition into real estate seamless.”

Now a broker with @properties, Plafchan has been a successful Realtor for over 17 years, with lifetime production of over $100 million. A Five Star Professional, she has been consistently recognized by @properties as a top producer, with annual sales of $5 million to $10 million. Plafchan holds the designation of Real Estate Negotiation Expert and in her long career has assisted a wide variety of sellers and buyers, working with everyone from first-time to luxury clients, as well as investors and relocation customers. She has sold properties in every price range in multiple areas of Chicago as well as in the North Shore and its surrounding suburbs.

Plafchan’s success comes from her market insights, understanding of current and future trends, and concierge-level service for all her clients. She makes sure to be personally involved with every aspect of a transaction, which not only ensures a smooth, continuous process but also provides her with many repeat clients. Plafchan’s background in visual design allows her to stage her listings in a cost-effective way to get the highest possible price. She accomplished this recently with previous clients who listed their luxury home just two years after purchasing it. “My suggestions for moderate but highly impactful updates resulted in a 16% home-price appreciation in just two years,” says Plafchan.