Punching a clock in a 9-to-5 role wasn’t for Jeff Bushaw. Determined to work for himself, he left corporate finance for real estate.

Bushaw founded Main Street Real Estate Group in 2014 with a couple of business partners. “Corporate finance taught me the importance of documenting everything and being extremely organized,” the broker-owner says. “It’s much easier to address clients’ needs, work as efficiently as possible and eliminate any confusion on contract terms.”

Most of Bushaw’s clients are referrals on Chicago’s North Side and the northern suburbs, and they range from first-time buyers to luxury clients to investors. Proud his small brokerage, Bushaw provides agents with all the same tools and coaching as a larger firm. “We are always improving our internal processes to allow our agents to work more efficiently and effectively, without the headaches of corporate structure,” he says.

A member of the Chicago Association of Realtors, National Association of Realtors and International Association of Realtors, Bushaw has been recognized by CAR as a top producer for several consecutive years. “I keep it fun and easy while making sure I always keep my clients’ best interests at the forefront,” Bushaw says. “I am a very structured person and stick to the same processes for every client.”

As any broker knows, relationships are key to a successful business. Bushaw consistently reaches out to his clients after the closing, serving as a reliable resource and readily available to answer questions. This simple strategy keeps him at the top of clients’ minds, whether they’re looking to buy, sell, or refer him to a friend or neighbor.

Proud of the work-life balance he has achieved, Bushaw’s main hobby is spending time with his children, Jace and Finley. As they get more involved in activities, he likes that he does, too. He also enjoys exercising, golfing, and watching Cubs and Bears games. To give back, he and his staff volunteer in the community.