Immigrating with her family to the United States from Italy, Domenica Koch remembers growing up with humble beginnings. “I used to watch my father purchase properties for rentals,” she shares. “He did not have a portfolio, but he liked to invest in real estate, which inspired me to get into the business.”

Now a real estate agent with @properties Christie’s International Real Estate, Koch has been in the industry for 29 years. Specializing in single-family homes, townhomes and condos, she represents buyers and sellers in Lake, Cook and McHenry counties, as well as in Wisconsin. She has developed strong market expertise while searching for homes that meet her clients’ needs.

Since most of Koch’s business is referral-based, she understands how important it is to deliver a great experience and be the agent her clients can always trust.

Recognized as an expert negotiator, Koch is e-PRO certified, an Accredited Buyer’s Representative and a holder of the Graduate, Realtor Institute designation. When meeting with a new client, she takes the time to explain how the process of buying and selling works. Her goal is to understand her clients’ concerns so she can reassure them along the way. “I try to make every client feel like my only client,” she explains. “I give them the important information they need to make a wise decision without pressure.”

While real estate has been a lucrative career for Koch, it has also offered her continuous opportunities to improve clients’ lives. “Real estate is more than transactions,” she says. “It’s about trust, relationships and helping people find their place in the world.”