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 7 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.

Read "My Real Estate Story"
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 an international real estate brokerage. No regrets!

Since 2020
I am a mom
My husband, Andrew, & I welcomed our darling daughter into the world in October 2020. Holly is the sweetest gift from above. There's nothing I love more than coming home to my family after a long day of showings & appointments.
My most important role yet!
With love, Melanie Everett
Managing broker & founder of Melanie everett & company