Carolyn Barnes

**Meet Carolyn Barnes - Your Trusted Real Estate Expert** Licensed in both Illinois and Indiana, Carolyn Barnes is a seasoned real estate professional with a passion for helping people achieve the dream of homeownership. With over 20 years of experience in the mortgage industry helping first-time buyers get approved for the financing they deserve, Carolyn made a seamless transition into real estate--quickly becoming one of the most trusted and top-performing brokers in the area. Her outstanding performance and commitment to excellence have earned her recognition by the Chicago Association of Realtors as a Top Realtor and leader of a Top Real Estate Team. She was also proudly featured in Chicago Agent Magazine as one of the Top Realtors in Chicago, a testament to her industry impact and client-focused approach. As a dedicated Team Leader, Carolyn not only serves her clients with care but also mentors and guides new real estate agents, helping them build confidence, develop their skills, and grow successful careers in real estate. She holds both the ABR® (Accredited Buyer's Representative) and RENE® (Real Estate Negotiation Expert) certifications, further showcasing her expertise and advocacy for her clients. Whether she's helping a first-time buyer navigate their first purchase or coaching an agent through their first transaction, Carolyn is known for her integrity, knowledge, and unwavering support. _"I chose to become a real estate agent because I love helping people turn their dreams into reality. There's nothing better than seeing the joy on a buyer's face when they find their perfect home or helping a seller close an important chapter in their life. I also appreciate the flexibility of the profession and the opportunity to work closely with people from all walks of life."_ Carolyn is known for her **first-class customer service**, going above and beyond to guide clients through every step of the buying or selling process. Her clients can count on her honesty, strong negotiation skills, and deep market knowledge to get them the best results possible. She holds a BS/BA in Business Administration from Roosevelt University and has an impressive background that includes owning and operating her own mortgage brokerage firm and property preservation companies , as well as working as an independent real estate investor for over two decades. When she's not helping clients or mentoring agents, Carolyn enjoys reading and spending quality time with family and friends. Whether you're buying, selling, or just exploring your options, let Carolyn put her experience, insight, and dedication to work for you --you'll be glad you Closed with Carolyn!