In 2008 when so many homes were facing foreclosure, Paulette Hollingsworth recognized the need for property preservation and built a business to address it. Operating as a general contracting vendor for mortgage banks servicing pre-foreclosure properties, Hollingsworth played a crucial role in maintaining and preparing those properties to ensure market readiness. She enjoyed significant success, but as the market changed, so did she.
“As the real estate landscape evolved and pre-foreclosures became REO properties, I strategically shifted focus,” Hollingsworth remembers. “Understanding the potential in facilitating the sale of these properties, I transitioned to the sales side of the market, which allowed me to leverage my extensive experience and industry knowledge to effectively sell homes.”
Now a broker at Baird & Warner, Hollingsworth finds a special joy in guiding first-time homebuyers through the start of their real estate journey. She also excels at listing properties for sale, drawing on her experience to market homes for optimal exposure and value. She is known as an effective negotiator for sellers and buyers alike. Clients consistently praise Hollingsworth’s dedication, expertise and personal service, describing her as knowledgeable, trustworthy and attentive to their needs. In addition, she says, “My hands-on experience in investing, property preservation and sales equips me with a holistic perspective that sets me apart.”
Her familiarity with the neighborhoods and areas she serves is deeply rooted in personal experiences that enable Hollingsworth to offer informed perspectives and tailored solutions to meet the diverse demands of the region. “Through living in various neighborhoods and maintaining connections with family and friends residing in those areas, I’ve gained intimate knowledge of their unique characteristics and dynamics,” she explains.
Hollingsworth’s personal accomplishments also lie in real estate, with her most recent being the completion of her first fix and flip, which received multiple offers even before its completion. She also serves on the board of the Better Boys Foundation, where she works to empower and support the youth of the North Lawndale community, and is active in the National Association of Realtors.
