After enjoying success in retail management on Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, Carla Walker built a loyal clientele at the helm of several popular retail operations. Walker then expanded into real estate, at the suggestion of a client who was also a broker and recognized her potential. In her first year, she was named Rookie of the Year at her firm, and she has continued to flourish ever since.

With a marketing mix that reaches all types of clients, from those who rely on social media to those who respond best to direct mail, Walker leverages the value of the many techniques she has picked up over her 25-plus years in the business. Her clients also benefit from the strong, collaborative relationships she has with fellow real estate professionals. “I don’t consider anyone competition,” Walker says. “We all have our strengths and our own unique style of working.”

In addition to her market expertise in the Gold Coast, Streeterville, Lincoln Park, Lakeview, South Loop and Evanston, clients appreciate the easy, trustworthy demeanor and transparency she brings in discussing their options and preparing them for the road ahead. “I like to empower my clients by sharing my knowledge so that they know they are making the right decision,” she shares.

As forthright and skillful as she is at educating clients, Walker believes her ability to truly listen to them is most instrumental to their success together. As she says, “In real estate, if you cannot hear what your clients are saying and understand what is important to them, they won’t be your clients for long.”

Walker enjoys being active, golfing, travelling or having a great meal out with friends. She serves on the boards of the Gold Coast Neighbors Association and House of the Good Shepherd, the latter of which is a safe haven for victims of domestic violence.