As a seasoned and prosperous real estate broker and certified residential appraiser, Lisa Foster has not only survived tumultuous markets, but flourished. With 21 years in the industry, she relies upon her passion for the Chicago area. “Even as a child, it was clear that each neighborhood was different and how much location matters,” she recalls. Foster understands most people conduct very few real estate transactions in their lifetime, and she’s proud to bring decades of industry prowess to each deal.
When asked her specialty, she quips, “Closing!” Noting that she has sold just about everything, Foster works primarily with homebuyers and small investors, and broadened her expertise in the industry’s development and commercial side. She’s a continuous learner with a master’s degree in Sustainable Urban Development, and credits technology for helping keep herself organized and focused.
Foster relies heavily on her favorite Apple hardware and robust customer relationship management software system to aid her in meeting clients’ needs. “Remember when tech came onto the scene for our business and everyone was worried it would replace agents?” she asked. “Now the consumer is much more aware, armed with facts, and agents are there to help make sense of the data.” Foster considers everyone involved in her real estate transactions a customer — regardless of which side of the table. This holistic, communicative approach fuels her growth with a healthy base of referrals.
As the pandemic created unfathomable obstacles, Foster seized the opportunity to focus more deeply on her business practices. As a result, she eliminated and enhanced processes, thereby ensuring she was ready for growth upon lifting of restrictions. “COVID-19 restricted my business, but the adjustments allowed me to successfully embrace new market conditions,” she says. Her success in 2021 was rewarded with the @properties Christie’s International Real Estate Road to Rolex commendation — an indication of her sales volume exceeding $10 million within a calendar year.
ChiGivesBack and Milhouse Charities are two causes where Foster loves to lend her time and talents. She also enjoys meditation, art collecting and visiting museums.
