Leveraging 10 years of experience as an account manager and TV commercial producer at the advertising firm DDB Chicago, along with a bachelor’s degree in marketing, Julie Sutton has seen her real estate career go far.

A real estate professional with Compass, Sutton provides sellers in the western suburbs of Chicago with her keen eye for aesthetics. In the process, she has earned the nickname “the staging guru” for her ability to present each listing in the best possible light. Her team of interior stylists prepares each room in a home to be photographed for that crucial first showing online, removing interior design elements that reflect the personality and lifestyle of the homeowner and replacing them with items that highlight the home itself. Sutton knows the goal is to help prospective buyers envision living there. “We’ve got one chance to visually invite buyers in,” she says. “Preparation, editing and staging are the critical elements of effective real estate marketing.” She pulls from a large inventory of furniture, rugs, lighting, art and accessories to help sellers visually focus on the architectural elements of the home, such as its layout, room sizes, flooring material, windows and millwork.

Sutton has built custom homes and regularly consults with clients and investors on a variety of projects, including complete renovations, new construction and multiunit developments. Part of that work involves attending architectural meetings and being trusted to make design selections for clients. Sutton is available seven days a week, and her clients know they can count on her.

Sutton and her husband, Will, moved from Lakeview to Hinsdale 10 years ago and have become local experts on schools, the community and what’s happening around town. “We have three wonderful children: Caroline, 13; Charlie, 11; and Jack, 9,” she says. “They keep us on our toes, and we love every minute of it.” Committed to giving back, she regularly supports local schools and community organizations with her time and money.