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 since 2020, after 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. Baker currently serves on state task forces and work groups that are tackling the inventory crisis across the state. Earlier this year, Baker helped author and lobby for legislation that would boost workforce housing and improve housing stability.
“It’s never been more important for everyone, from state leaders to our neighbors to appreciate the value that Realtors bring to the table,” Baker said. Realtors connect consumers to the American Dream and are the driving force behind one of the largest economic engines in the entire state. Under his leadership, Illinois REALTORS® has developed one of the most sophisticated advocacy operations that can reach from the state Capitol to nearly every city in the state. That operation was on full display earlier this year when Baker’s team led the effort to beat the “Bring Chicago Home” initiative at the ballot box.
Advocating for Realtors and the real estate industry is why the association exists, Baker says. Baker says that being a Realtor means you’re part of an organization that benefits more people than almost any other in the state. “We fight every day for Realtors, to protect their ability to serve their clients and doing that, the association’s work benefits every homeowner, landlord, and renter too,” he says.
