Jeffrey Baker is CEO of Illinois REALTORS®, one of the largest and most influential trade groups in the state, representing over 50,000 members engaged in all facets of the commercial and residential real estate industry. Illinois REALTORS® advocates at every level of government on behalf of brokers, homeowners, landlords, renters and businesses and promotes the state’s commercial real estate sector to national and international investors.

Baker has been leading the state association for three years, having previously served as the association’s associate general counsel and deputy CEO. He is just the fourth full-time leader of the association in its more than 100-year history.

Under his guidance, Illinois REALTORS® has stepped up efforts to make housing availability and affordability the top issues of elected officials at the local and state levels. Earlier this year, Illinois REALTORS® penned legislative proposals for state lawmakers regarding boosting workforce housing, improving housing stability and spurring more housing construction. Baker has also made it one of the association’s priorities to realize greater diversity in the industry and to provide the highest quality training to members.

Recently, Illinois REALTORS® launched its largest-ever statewide advertising campaign to educate consumers about the importance of REALTORS®. Your American Dream consists of television, print, billboard, social media and streaming services ads. The organization also offers a free app to members that permits them to customize the ads, allowing them to target both buyers and sellers.

Going forward, the association will continue to emphasize the important role of Realtors, Baker says. “Our members sell the value of homeownership, property ownership and business ownership every day, which means our members are unique — there are not many other industries or callings in America where you can say you are responsible for making the American Dream happen.”