A real estate broker at the @properties Christie’s International Real Estate Winnetka office, Jaime Braasch ensures that all her clients — whether their budgets are big or small — know they are her priority. “I pride myself on really listening to what it is they are looking for and finding the ‘perfect’ home for them, even if they don’t know it yet,” she says.

Braasch walks her clients through every step of the transaction process, helping them navigate a major life decision in the city, on the North Shore or in the western suburbs. “Even the most seasoned homebuyers still need a refresher,” she explains. “It helps them feel comfortable and confident with the process and my abilities.” She gives her clients a personalized gift basket at closing, follows up once they’ve settled in and stays in touch over time. Forging these lasting relationships has helped her build a business based mostly on repeat and referral customers.

Braasch has sold real estate for more than 10 years and knows her territory well. She grew up in Elmhurst, worked in property management in the city and is now raising a family near her husband’s hometown of Winnetka. Living in her territory enables her to help clients determine which area best suits them based on criteria such as school district, commute times and proximity to family.

While in her 20s, Braasch left her role as a sales manager at Nordstrom to pursue a career in real estate. She sold a few homes before pivoting into property management, where she advanced from sales consultant to sales manager, mentored other consultants and earned several top sales awards. After a four-year parenting break, she returned to real estate and never looked back. “I love getting to know clients and what they’re looking for,” she shares. “It’s so satisfying to see their excitement and happiness once we reach that finish line.”