After nearly three decades in Chicago real estate, Carol Collins, vice president of sales at Jameson Sotheby’s International Realty, has seen just about every market condition, honed her skills and continues to strive to improve with every transaction.

“When I started in the business, I’d volunteer to help more experienced agents with overflow and open houses,” she says. “Today, I love to see new agents who exhibit the same energy and work ethic I have, and I am always thrilled to help them when I can. Real estate has never felt like work to me because I feel lucky to be doing something I truly enjoy.”

And more than the job itself, Collins says, she loves her clients — a feeling that appears mutual, based on her glowing reviews. Clients often remark that Collins takes on their property as if it was her own and operates from a place of connection and empathy that makes them feel calm and protected throughout the process. That practice became a game-changer in 2020, a year that Collins calls “nonstop intense.”

“Working through evolving times with clients makes any agent stronger and better suited to handle tough challenges,” she says of her 2020 journey. “Hearing my clients say that I always had their best interests at heart tells me I’m doing something right.” While still open to learning more, Collins also enjoys the confidence and knowledge that come with the hard work she’s put in over the last 28 years. “I’m on my third time working with many clients, and to me, that is so rewarding,” she adds.

Looking forward to expanding her services and licensing, Collins knows one thing for sure: “Keeping my clients happy is essential to the life of my business and very important to me.”