I signed up for the Illinois real estate licensing course as an impressionable & bright-eyed 20-year-old. At the time, I knew next to nothing about this crazy, competitive industry, but I felt desperate for a change. Real estate seemed like it just might be the ticket.
It was all my dad's idea, really.
Over lunch one afternoon, I confided in him about my fear of the future & what I would do after graduation. I was an incoming senior at DePaul University, majoring in journalism & worrying about how I would fit into the ever-changing media world.
"What about real estate?" he offered.
I put my fork down, staring at him. "You think I should become a realtor?" He told me to pray about it, & a few weeks later, I found myself studying for the licensing exam.
That was more than 8 years ago. When I look back, I feel impossibly grateful for my dad: my best friend, my mentor, my inspiration in so many ways. I took his sage advice, & today, I'm the owner of my very own boutique brokerage, I've worked with hundreds of loyal & wonderful clients, & I have the best team in the business.
since the beginning
I am a writer
Since 2019
I am a small business owner
My first love is writing! I've had a blog since I was 13, & I graduated from college with a journalism degree. Today, I write about real estate, my family, my faith, & more.
I opened the proverbial doors to Melanie Everett & Company in January 2019 after spending several years at a large national real estate brokerage. No regrets!
Since 2020
I am a mom
My husband, Andrew, & I welcomed Holly in 2020 & Annie in 2022. I am so, so grateful for this little family of mine. My favorite moments are spent hanging out at home, just us four.
Melanie Everett
Managing broker & founder of Melanie everett & company
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