A people person who specializes in off-market homes, Sarah Anderson loves connecting with people in her neighborhood to find properties others might not know about. “I don’t care how long it takes to get you a home, I want you to be truly happy in it,” she says. “I love my clients like family and I want them to always feel that way.”

Anderson grew up in Mt. Prospect and has lived in Arlington Heights for the past 14 years. As a former teacher in the northwest suburbs, she’s very connected to the area. “I know pretty much every street, every restaurant,” she says. “Growing up here and knowing the schools, transportation and highlights of the cities means I can fully educate my clients.”

Anderson says there are a lot of traits from her days as a music teacher that she carried into her career as a realtor. “You must be organized and detail oriented, and quick on your feet. You must be able to explain terms and situations to clients in ways they can understand. You must be patient, kind and empathetic,” she says. “Purchasing a house is a huge investment, and I want to be the one to guide them through that process every step of the way.”

Anderson will celebrate her two-year anniversary as a broker in July. “I decided to show my kids that you only live once, and to go for your dreams,” she says. “So here I am, doing what I’ve been dreaming about doing for twelve-plus years.”

In her first year as an agent, Anderson surpassed $6.4 million in sales over 22 transactions, earning the Altitude award from @properties. “I didn’t know what to expect, but I was very thankful for my clients and referrals for trusting me through it all.”