While she started her career as a fourth-grade teacher at the Chicago International Charter School in Bucktown, Kelsey Mayher always knew that real estate was in her future. “My father was a land developer and homebuilder in the southwest suburbs,” Mayher says. “I grew up on job sites and frequently helped him with open houses, and I ended up falling in love with homes and the building process.”

Expanding the family business even further, Mayher’s sister has followed in their father’s footsteps. “My sister is now a developer and builder, too,” says Mayher. “I worked with her on selling a subdivision in Plainfield, Illinois. She’s currently building single-family homes in Logan Square, which I helped in finding the land and am now selling.”

Mayher launched her career in real estate at Dream Town Realty. “I was a key member of the team,” she says. “From new construction and luxury resales to developments, being thrown into the mix and learning negotiations from some of the top producers gave me a huge leg up.”

Mayher’s experience as a teacher helps her as a Realtor. “Teaching helped me be very empathetic and patient, and recognize the importance of good communication,” Mayher says. “I’m very attentive with my clients, and when I’m with them, I’m solely focused on their needs.”

Not surprisingly, most of Mayher’s clients come from referrals. “I pride myself on referrals, as I know my clients’ needs are satisfied if they are referring me to a friend,” Mayher says. “I also am a hustler, so I’ll always work open houses and coordinate events with lenders to drum up new business. I like to be in front of people and build relationships, as opposed to standard print ads. I find it more valuable.”

Both a fitness fan and a foodie, Mayher has run in several races, including half-marathons, and is always up to date on openings of new restaurants or cocktail bars.