With more than six decades of combined experience, Jennifer Ames and Karen Arenson have built one of Chicago’s most respected luxury real estate businesses by focusing on relationships, collaboration and exceptional client service. As co-owners of the Engel & Völkers franchise serving Chicago, the North Shore and Southwest Michigan, they have created a boutique brokerage where accomplished real estate advisors support one another, share ideas freely and celebrate each other’s success.
Recognized as private office advisors, an honor reserved for the top 1% of Engel & Völkers advisors worldwide, Ames and Arenson believe their greatest advantage is the strength of their relationships. Through Engel & Völkers’ global network, they collaborate regularly with trusted advisors throughout the Americas and around the world, creating opportunities for clients while building friendships with some of the industry’s most respected professionals.
“We enjoy working alongside people who are generous with their knowledge and committed to excellence,” Arenson says. “Over the years, we’ve intentionally surrounded ourselves with professionals who share our values, both within our own shops and throughout the Engel & Völkers network. Those relationships make us better advisors and make working in this industry far more rewarding.”
That philosophy shapes the culture of their brokerage. Advisors are encouraged to build successful businesses while enjoying fulfilling careers, supported by thoughtful mentorship, open collaboration and a network that extends far beyond Chicago. “Helping others grow has become one of the most rewarding parts of our own success,” says Ames, a third-generation Chicago real estate professional. “There is tremendous satisfaction in sharing what we have learned and inspring talented people to realize their full potential, both professionally and personally.”
Together with business partner Paul Lazarre, Ames and Arenson continue to cultivate a brokerage where professionalism, generosity and collaboration define the experience for clients and advisors alike.
