fbpx

Meet the Team

Melanie Everett & Company is composed of seven remarkably passionate, always relatable, & whip-smart brokers. We work unwaveringly to create memorable experiences for M&Co. buyers & sellers.

Courtney Funkhouser
Broker

Melanie Everett
Founder & Managing Broker

Courtney Funkhouser has loved real estate since before she can remember. She grew up going to open houses every Sunday with her mom. In college, she became the go-to apartment-hunter amongst her friends, scouring websites and forums for the best places. Today, finding homes is her career. She loves helping people find their safe haven. It’s not her job to “sell” a client on a home, but to partner with that client to find the one.

As a former CPA, Courtney naturally loves numbers. Studying the market is her other favorite part of this job. She believes there is a fair price for everything, and she fights to get that for her clients on either side of the deal, whether she is representing the seller or the buyer.

Courtney lives in a lovingly restored house in Old Irving Park with her husband, Dan, her son, Finn, and her Frenchie, Rhone. You can find her walking Rhone, working out, or exploring neighborhood gems, like Community Tavern.

Melanie Everett is an award-winning Chicago broker & founder of her boutique real estate brokerage, Melanie Everett & Company. She is a writer, negotiator, thinker, marketer, teacher, reader, & leader in her industry.

Since 2014, Melanie & her team have sold more than $200 million in residential sales & closed over 500 transactions. M&Co. consistently ranks in the top 1% of all brokers in Chicago, & in 2022, Melanie's powerful team landed in the Top 25 for number of transaction. In 2017, Melanie was honored with Realtor Magazine’s national “30 Under 30” title, & from there, she graciously received more local & national acclaim, features, & speaking engagements.

As for her own residence, Melanie lives in a one-of-a-kind vintage home in Lincoln Park with her husband, Andrew, & daughters, Holly & Annie. When she's not dreaming up new ideas for M&Co., Melanie loves hanging out with her family, dressing up for date nights, & writing her heart out.

Beatriz Jensen-Perez
Broker

Candace Altosino
Broker

Beatriz Jensen-Perez has always loved the process of finding the perfect place to call home. Whether that means a vintage condo or new construction, she understands the importance of finding the right one!

Her love for exploring new neighborhoods, interior design, and all things Chicago led her to a career in real estate almost 5 years ago. She’s known for her friendly customer service, attention to detail, and willingness to guide her clients from start to finish.

Originally from San Juan, Puerto Rico, she has made Lakeview her home. She lives in a perfect vintage condo with lots of charm. When she’s not planning the perfect travel itinerary or starting a new DIY, you can find her walking around Southport Corridor with her husband, Eric, daughter, Margot, and Husky, Luna.

Candace Altosino is a true homebody. Her favorite part of being a broker is being able to guide clients through the buying or selling process and experience what home means for them. In fact, this personal connection is what inspired her to begin a career in real estate.

Aside from the relationships built through her work in real estate, she’s also grateful to leverage her marketing background to assist clients. From writing listing descriptions that make a property come to life, to enticing potential buyers through the vast reach of social media, she loves crafting unique engagement strategies.

Candace lives in a gorgeous Wheaton home with her husband, Jimmy, and her French Bulldog, Juniper. Her free time is typically spent soaking in the beautiful views on the Lakefront Trail when the weather is nice, touring the many breweries Chicago has to offer, and cuddling with Juniper.

Joey Gasso

Broker

Monica Donahue Patton
Broker

Joey Gasso knew from an early age that he was going to work in real estate. He grew up with a dad in the business and would frequent open houses with him on the weekends. After pursuing a professional dance career throughout his 20s, Joey came home to Chicago and decided it was time to step into a career that he's loved his whole life.

Joe has a service and relationship-first mindset, and he is passionate about helping his clients find their dream homes. He cares deeply for people and believes that one's home truly is where the heart is.

As a self-proclaimed "old soul" when Joey isn't working you can find him outside enjoying the outdoors, spending time with family and friends, or going to the theater. He is getting married in March and couldn't be more excited to begin the next chapter of his life with his fiancé, Becca.

Monica Donahue’s appreciation of style, design and architecture coupled with her intimate knowledge of all subsets of Chicago ultimately led her to real estate. Her favorite part has been the genuine connections. It is an honor for her to get to know and accompany her clients in their newest chapter of life.

Monica has an extensive customer service background and a true passion for providing an incredible experience for her clients. Monica is known for her innovative and creative approach to everything. Her business as a real estate professional is built on three core values: building and nurturing life-long relationships, being a knowledgeable resource and expert in the Chicago market, and demonstrating integrity with every deal.

Currently residing in the Beverly neighborhood with her husband, Joe, her cat, Booker, and dog, Winnie, Monica typically spends her free time cooking in the kitchen, lounging with her fur babies, or nurturing her green thumb in the garden.

Sarah Emas

Director of Operations

Sarah Emas is passionate about hospitality. She loves nothing more than hosting friends and family around the table and making everyone feel at home. She strives to bring that same spirit to Melanie Everett & Company, making sure each client feels comfortable and confident throughout their purchase or sale.

As a former IT consultant, Sarah is passionate about technology. She manages M&Co.'s CRM, & ensures that even during the busiest seasons, all of the company's deals are moving forward smoothly. She has an appreciation for good processes, and she is always finding new ways to streamline transactions for clients. Finally, Sarah loves any opportunity to flex her creative side. She designs all things M&Co. – from open house flyers to emails to everything in between.

When she’s not answering emails or designing a new marketing campaign in Sketch, you can find Sarah at Pure Barre, trying out a new recipe, or relaxing at home in North Kenwood with her husband, Daniel, and her two dogs, Webster and Molly.