“I bring a lot of ideas to the table and aim to execute a stress-free real estate transaction,” says Karen Ranquist, a broker and luxury specialist with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Chicago.

Ranquist first became involved in real estate development while working as a social worker for Chicago Public Schools. She was immediately drawn to the excitement of the industry. After her first project, she moved full time into real estate.

Twenty-three years later, Ranquist brings her vast construction experience to her real estate business with an emphasis on unique, architecturally focused properties. “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.”

Assisting clients for the second, third and even fourth time means everything to Ranquist. This past year, she helped clients she met on their first home purchase before they were married. Almost 17 years, a marriage and three kids later, she sold their current home. “Being involved from the beginning to end and over four transactions is exciting to me,” she says. “I never see a transaction as over when the clients close. I hope to continue a relationship with my clients over time.”

Ranquist was one of Chicago magazine’s Top Selling Real Estate Agents in 2020 and one of 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 at Berkshire Hathaway.

Outside of work, Ranquist supports PAWS, the American Brain Tumor Association and Jackson Chance Foundation. She recently became involved with the GCE Lab School, which helped her realize it’s never too late to change your business model in order to become more successful.