While working as a Chicago Public Schools social worker, Karen Ranquist became involved in real estate development and was drawn to the excitement of the industry. After her first project, she moved full-time into real estate. Twenty-two years later, she brings her vast construction experience to her resale business with an emphasis on unique, architecturally focused properties.

Over the last five years, she has moved away from construction and finds the pace of residential real estate is the perfect fit for her experience, skillset and clients. “My years in construction set me apart from many agents,” she says. “I can help guide my clients moving from a one-bedroom condo purchase to a large single-family home.”

“I bring a lot of ideas to the table and aim to execute a stress-free real estate transaction,” says Ranquist, a broker and luxury specialist with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Chicago. Assisting clients for the second, third and even fourth times means everything to Ranquist. “I am humbled and honored to see almost all of my business is by referral,” she says. “I never see a transaction as over when the clients close. I hope to continue a relationship with my clients over time.”

Early in her career, Ranquist became involved in the Women’s Council of Realtors and the Chicago Association of Realtors, where she has been named a top producer. She was named one of Chicago Magazine’s Top Selling Real Estate Agents in 2020 and Crain’s Custom Media’s 2018 Most Influential Residential Real Estate Brokers in Chicago. She also was named to the Berkshire Hathaway Hall of Fame in 2017 and has received the company’s platinum and gold awards in her 10 years with the firm. Ranquist supports PAWS, the American Brain Tumor Association and Jackson Chance Foundation and recently became involved with the GCE Lab School.