89% of buyers use real estate agents or brokers, and 85% of sellers believe agents can get a higher sale price for their homes. This highlights the importance of professional help in real estate.
Buyers and sellers rely on real estate companies for their market knowledge, negotiation skills, and ability to manage complex paperwork. However, these services come at a price. Real estate agents typically charge a 5-6% commission on the sale price, which can be $24,000 for a $400,000 home.
Given the substantial fees, choosing the right company is important. From full-service brokerages to cutting-edge tech platforms, here are the top real estate companies in Illinois.
Best Real Estate Companies for Home Sellers in Illinois
Here are the best home-selling companies in the Prairie State.
1. Houzeo
Houzeo.com is America’s #1 real estate company with nationwide coverage. It offers a combination of maximum savings, excellent customer support, and advanced technology.
The company provides affordable listing packages to Illinois home sellers. You can list on MLS through Houzeo and save thousands in commissions while reaching a wide buyer audience.
2. RE/MAX
RE/MAX is a global real estate company with a network of over 140,000 agents. Founded in 1973, it operates in over 110 countries.
The company provides specialized support for sellers and holds a strong market share in both residential and commercial real estate. Clients benefit from a range of resources, including market data, valuation tools, and a user-friendly search platform.
3. Dream Town Realty
Dream Town Realty is a Chicago-based real estate company known for its expert agents and personalized service. With a team of over 400 agents, the company helps clients sell homes in the Chicago area.
Dream Town Realty offers customized marketing plans, professional photography, and detailed neighborhood guides. It also provides virtual tours and online transaction management.
Best Real Estate Companies for Home Buyers in Illinois
Here are the top home-buying companies in Illinois.
1. Coldwell Banker
Coldwell Banker is a well-established real estate company with a global presence. Founded in 1906, it operates in over 40 countries with a network of more than 100,000 agents.
The company offers comprehensive marketing strategies, advanced digital tools, and personalized support. Coldwell Banker covers residential, commercial, and luxury real estate, offering clients diverse options and top-notch service.
2. eXp Realty
Founded in 2009, eXp Realty is a rapidly expanding, cloud-based real estate brokerage. It operates in all 50 US states, Canada, and several other countries.
eXp Realty offers a wide range of services for buyers, including residential and commercial real estate transactions. Their technology-driven platform includes tools for virtual showings, transaction management, and marketing support.
3. Baird & Warner
Baird & Warner is one of the largest independent brokerages in Chicago and surrounding areas. It has over 2,300 real estate brokers and around 29 sales offices.
Baird & Warner agents assist buyers from pre-approval to negotiations, providing comprehensive support throughout the buying process.
3 Best Real Estate Companies to Work for in Illinois
When choosing a real estate company as an agent, consider factors like commissions, training, equity opportunities, and technical support. Here are the top 3 options in Illinois:
1. eXp Realty
eXp Realty is a fast-growing company known for its great work environment, boasting a 4.3/5 rating on Indeed.
• Commission Split: Agents keep 80% of their commission, with 20% going to eXp. After reaching a $16,000 cap in their anniversary year, agents retain 100% of their commissions.
• Revenue Share: Agents can earn extra income through eXp's Revenue Share Program by sponsoring other agents.
• Agent Equity: eXp offers EXPI stock shares as rewards for achieving specific performance goals.
• Training Program: New agents participate in a two-week Fast Start training program, rated 4.8 out of 5 by attendees.
• Technical Support: eXp provides advanced tools to help agents streamline their transactions.
2. Keller Williams Realty
Keller Williams Realty is one of the largest residential real estate firms in the U.S., ideal for both new and experienced agents. It has a 4.3/5 rating on Indeed.
• Commission Split: The commission is split 64% to the agent, 30% to the KW Market Center, and 6% as a franchise fee (capped at $3,000). After reaching the cap, agents keep 100% of their commissions.
• Profit Share: Agents can earn from KW's Profit-Sharing Program by referring other agents.
• Training Program: Keller Williams offers comprehensive training on building a successful real estate business.
• Technical Support: KW Command, a CRM software, helps agents manage transactions from start to finish.
3. Compass
Compass is a licensed real estate brokerage known for blending top talent with innovative technology, earning a 4/5 rating on Indeed.
• Commission Split: Commission splits at Compass are negotiated individually, so they vary among agents.
• Training Program: Compass Academy offers a range of educational resources, including modules and live training sessions.
• Technical Support: Compass provides tools like the Marketing Center, Compass CRM, and Compass Markets to enhance agent efficiency.
Each of these companies offers unique advantages. Choosing the right brokerage depends on your career goals and personal preferences.
Bottom Line
The top real estate companies in Illinois offer unique benefits, such as cutting-edge technology, extensive agent networks, and specialized expertise. It's important to prioritize companies that provide maximum property exposure and responsive customer service for a smooth and profitable transaction.
Whether you're aiming to sell quickly or find your dream home, these top-rated companies can guide you through the real estate market with ease and efficiency.
