Last year was a record sales year for Jessica Jakubowski, a broker with @properties Christie’s International Real Estate. She was named No. 1 Individual Agent in the Orland Park Office and No.1 @Properties Christie’s International Real Estate Broker in Frankfort. She credits her success to an in-depth understanding of the local market. “I invest a great deal of time in accurately pricing homes and continuously analyzing market inventory and trends,” she explains. “I also understand that it’s not just about responding to the market — you have to actively create it and generate demand for each property.”

Jakubowski lives and works in the communities she serves and believes it’s important for brokers to be local market experts. She considers herself fortunate that many of her clients come from referrals. She meets with new clients in person, providing them with a basic overview of the process followed by a discussion of the clients’ goals.

“I get to know my clients throughout our homeselling or -buying journey,” Jakubowski says of her business style. “I am so fortunate that many have become close friends, and I love seeing how they are thriving in their new home and new community. I would say I am business with a side of humor. You must keep perspective and sense of fun.”

Jakubowski specializes in residential real estate in the southern suburbs of Chicago, including Frankfort, Mokena, New Lenox, Manhattan, Tinley Park, Orland Park, Homer Glen and Lemont. In an age when most agents rely on texting, Jakubowski prefers to communicate either in person or on the phone when able. “I don’t think I am successful,” she says, “until you are thriving in the house, location and community.”