“I specialize in making people happy. To me, that is what it is all about,” says Cara Buffa. Buffa grew up in a farmhouse in historic Riverside, Illinois, where she became fascinated by architecturally significant homes and developed a natural appreciation for the permanence of real estate. Having worked in the industry for the entirety of her 30-year career, there is no scenario that is unfamiliar to her.

Buffa represents buyers and sellers at all price points in Chicago and its suburbs. “I believe everyone deserves to be represented by a competent and skilled broker,” she says. When clients work with her, they feel protected and know everything is taken care of. She has an uncanny ability to look at a property with fresh eyes and help a seller once again see beauty in it that may have waned over the years.

Known for being a compassionate yet fierce negotiator, Buffa guides the real estate process with expert prowess. A testament to her lighthearted side, she dresses up as the Easter bunny each spring and visits her clients who have children. This underscores why her business is entirely referral-based and validates her ranking among Crain’s Chicago Business’ most-influential brokers. She’s also consistently earned President’s Circle Platinum status with her company and proudly employed her strategic skill to help clients navigate the trying times of the pandemic. “Having a successful business is great but what really counts at the end of the day is how I impact people’s lives in a positive way,” she says.

A health and fitness enthusiast, Buffa makes a point to work out daily—a personal ritual that helps her assist clients in achieving their goals. She also enjoys time with her two beautiful dogs, Leroy and Linus, and entertaining clients and friends in the beautiful garden at her home.