Busby Group’s Favorite Things: A Curated List from Our Team
We are excited to share something new that has quickly become one of our most enjoyable team projects. Busby Group’s Favorite Things is now live, and it highlights the products, treats, home essentials, kids’ items, and everyday staples our team genuinely uses and loves.
This list grew out of the conversations we have every day as a team. Someone tries a new candle that actually fills a room. Someone else finds a kitchen tool that makes weeknight cooking easier. Another discovers a snack their kids cannot live without. Over time, we realized we had a long list of items we were constantly recommending to clients, friends, and each other.
What You’ll Find on the List
Our Favorite Things collection includes:
Home goods that add comfort and function
Kid-tested items that families love
Clothing and accessories we reach for all the time
Beauty and wellness products that actually do what they promise
Treats and snacks that make the day a little better
Thoughtful gifts for hosts, teachers, and friends
Every item is linked so you can explore or shop easily, and our team will continue updating the list as we discover new products worth sharing.
Why We Created It
At Busby Group, we love helping people find homes, but we also love the small things that make a house feel warm, calm, or simply more enjoyable to live in. These are the products that do exactly that. Sharing them felt like a fun way to connect with our community and offer inspiration beyond real estate.
Explore the List
You can see the full collection here:
https://busbygroup.com/favoritethings
We hope you find something new to love, and we would love to hear what items you can’t live without too.
Busby Group Ranks Top 15 in Cook County for Q3 2025
We’re grateful to share that Busby Group placed #15 in Cook County for Q3 2025 sales volume, according to Chicago Agent Magazine’s latest Real Data report.
This recognition reflects the trust of our clients and the dedication of our team, and we’re energized to carry this momentum into the end of the year and into 2026.
What this ranking means for our clients
Proven results in a low-inventory market. Even as Chicagoland continues to navigate constrained supply, our team delivered strong outcomes across multiple neighborhoods and price points.
Consistent performance. We’ve now earned top-tier recognition from multiple industry sources, including RealTrends 2024, where Busby Group ranked Top 10 in Chicago by sales volume.
Depth across city and suburbs. Our Q3 volume reflects a mix of luxury listings, new construction, first-time buyer guidance, and strategic move-up sales throughout the city and suburbs, including the North Shore and Southwest Suburbs.
A concierge approach. From pricing strategy to prep work, staging, and vendor coordination, our in-house systems help clients list or buy with clarity and confidence.
Highlights from Q3 2025
Strong buyer activity driven by improving mortgage-rate expectations
Higher-than-usual summer and early fall demand in key city neighborhoods
Continued growth in luxury and new-construction representation
Increasing interest from renters exploring ownership as monthly costs converge
Looking ahead
We expect year-end and early 2026 to offer meaningful opportunities for both buyers and sellers. Our team is already preparing clients with updated market data, early access to new listings, and personalized plans to meet next year’s goals.
Thank you
To every client, partner, and neighbor who continues to trust our team: thank you. Your referrals, repeat business, and support fuel our work and allow us to keep raising the bar.
Source References:
Chicago Agent Magazine, Real Data: Cook County Top 20 Agents, Q3 2025 (published 11/10/2025).
https://chicagoagentmagazine.com/real-estate-data/2025-2/3rd-quarter/cook-county-top-20-agents/RealTrends 2024 Rankings: Busby Group, Top 10 Chicago Teams by Volume.
https://www.realtrends.com/team-profile/busbygroup-illinois-compass/
Navigating Schools in Chicago and the North Shore: Expert Guidance from Busby Group & Partners
For many families, choosing a home starts with choosing the right school. Whether you’re considering a move to the North Shore suburbs or exploring options within the City of Chicago, understanding school systems, testing requirements, and enrollment timelines can feel like a full-time job.
At Busby Group, we know that real estate decisions and education planning often go hand in hand. That’s why we’ve partnered with local school experts to share insights that help families make informed choices.
🎓 Expert Insight: North Shore Schools
From Winnetka to Wilmette and Lake Forest to Glenview, the North Shore is known for top-ranked public schools and strong private options. But every district has its nuances—from boundary lines and program offerings to early testing dates.
In this video, our North Shore education consultant breaks down:
How to approach school selection based on your child’s needs
Key timelines for testing and enrollment
Differences between district boundaries and open enrollment
Advice for families moving mid-year
Lauren Hammer, founder of Hammer Education Consulting, leverages a deep understanding of student services and complex school dynamics to support parents with a focus on the North Shore.
🏙️ Expert Insight: Chicago Schools
In the city, families navigate a mix of neighborhood, magnet, and private schools—each with its own application process and deadlines. Our Chicago-based school expert shares strategies to simplify the process.
In this video, you’ll learn:
How the CPS (Chicago Public Schools) system works and what to prioritize
Application timelines for magnet and selective enrollment schools
How to evaluate private and parochial options
What to consider when aligning your school and home search
You can learn more about Chicago School GPS and everything from school selection to the application process on their website.
🧭 How Busby Group Helps Families Plan Ahead
Our team helps clients look beyond the property itself, connecting you with trusted school advisors, relocation specialists, and concierge resources to make each move as smooth as possible. Whether you’re upsizing within the city or moving north for schools, we’re here to align your home search with your family’s priorities.
Planning a move or just starting to explore your options?
👉 Reach out to our team for personalized guidance.
Hospitals & Real Estate: Benefits of Living Near Chicago's Top Hospitals
Living where world-class medical care is just minutes away can have its benefits, and they aren’t just health-related.
Homes near leading medical institutions often hold long-term value. Proximity to top hospitals attracts healthcare professionals, academics, and medical travelers—creating steady demand and neighborhood stability. In Chicago, that means investing in areas surrounded by nationally ranked hospitals that anchor both the city’s economy and its global reputation for innovation and care.
Top hospitals nearby:
Northwestern Memorial Hospital — Ranked #1 in Illinois and #9 nationally by U.S. News & World Report 2025-26, with 11 specialties nationally ranked.
Rush University Medical Center — Tied for #1 in Illinois; top 10 in Neurology & Neurosurgery, Orthopedics, and Cardiology.
Shirley Ryan AbilityLab — #1 Rehabilitation Hospital in the U.S. for 33 consecutive years.
University of Chicago Medical Center — #2 in Illinois and #11 nationally, acclaimed for cancer research and advanced clinical care.
Busby Group is a top 1% real estate team serving Chicagoland and is the preferred real estate partner with many of these institutions. We happen to have a few properties currently available near these hospitals.
950 N Michigan Avenue #2305 – Gold Coast with Lake and City Views
3 Bed | 2.5 Bath | $999,000
Close to Northwestern Memorial, Lurie Children’s, and Shirley Ryan AbilityLab—this residence places you at the center of Chicago’s premier medical and research corridor, as well as the city’s most vibrant dining and shopping district.
1250 S Michigan Avenue #2802 – South Loop with Incredible Views
4 Bed | 3.5 Bath | $1,075,000
Just minutes to Rush University Medical Center, University of Chicago Medicine, and the Illinois Medical District, this home offers quick access to Chicago’s academic and healthcare hubs—ideal for professionals who value convenience and long-term investment potential.
1227 W Jackson Boulevard #1 – West Loop New Construction with Great Outdoor Space
4 Bed | 3 Bath | $1,389,000
Close to the Illinois Medical District, Rush, UIC, and Stroger Hospital. The West Loop location combines lifestyle and investment, near top hospitals, restaurants, and corporate headquarters.
Full listings details available here.
These homes offer both lifestyle and longevity—where Chicago’s world-class healthcare is right outside your door. To schedule a private tour or a call, email scheduling@busbygroup.com.
We’re so excited to welcome Jennifer Lewis to the Busby Group!
Jen comes to us with tons of real estate experience and a true client-first approach, making her an amazing fit for our team. An Illinois native, she’s called the North Shore home for over 15 years. With her deep community connections and wide-ranging industry know-how, she’s going to be an incredible resource for our clients.
Let’s get to know Jen a little better and give her a big Busby Group welcome!
What drew you to the Busby Group?
The Busby Group’s focus on teamwork and amazing client service really caught my eye. After years of running operations and supporting clients behind the scenes, I was ready to join a team that values collaboration and innovation. Plus, I get to put my marketing background to work here, which is something I really enjoy - helping tell the Busby Group story and showcase our listings in ways that truly connect with people. The team is so organized and intentional, and everything we do is geared toward making the process smooth and stress-free for our clients.
You have a unique background in real estate. Can you share a little about it?
I started in real estate 25 years ago, working with top-producing teams in Minneapolis and Ann Arbor before coming back to Illinois. I’ve worked in three states and in both real estate sales and mortgage lending, so I’ve seen almost every side of a transaction. That big-picture perspective helps me stay one step ahead and make sure clients always feel supported from start to finish.
What do you love most about real estate?
A home is where life happens, it’s where we gather and make memories. Being able to help people through that process feels really meaningful, and I love making sure they feel cared for every step of the way.
Where do you call home, and what do you love about it?
I live in Glenview with my husband, our two sons, and our golden retriever, and we’ve been here for over 15 years. I love the strong sense of community here, and I’ve been involved with the schools and local sports programs over the years. It’s been fun to watch downtown Glenview grow, especially with all the new restaurants and businesses popping up - it’s such a great time to be here!
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working?
I love spending time with my family, exploring the North Shore’s parks and lakefront beaches, or cheering on the Cubs at Wrigley Field. We also love trying out restaurants in different Chicago neighborhoods as there’s always something new and delicious to discover!
We’re thrilled to have Jen as part of the Busby Group family. Her experience, thoughtful approach, and client-first mindset are exactly what we look for in a teammate—and we know our clients are going to love working with her!
Check Out Who's Who in Chicago Agent's 2025 List!
Combining top-tier production, strategic leadership and client service that has helped propel them into the top 1 percent of Chicago real estate teams according to the Chicago Association of Realtors, Maggie Yandel and Susan Panozzo are known as powerhouse brokers at Busby Group. With complementary strengths in training, analytics, communication and investment strategy, they are key drivers of the group’s success.
Yandel also serves as director of training, where she leads development of Busby Group’s sales strategy and communication standards. With a background in public relations and social media, she brings a polished, persuasive approach to every interaction and mentors others in the same. Yandel is also a go-to resource for high-profile clients, including professional athletes, as part of the team’s exclusive partnership with SportStar Relocation. Says group founder Julie Busby, “Maggie has been an integral part of Busby Group for almost a decade. As a founding partner, she has managed our professional athlete division as well as enhanced our presence in the South and West suburbs, where she is now one of the top brokers.”
Panozzo brings nearly 15 years of real estate experience and a sharp, investment-focused mindset to every transaction. She is trusted by overseas investors and local buyers for her analytical approach, data-driven insights and deep understanding of market dynamics. Though the homebuying process can be overwhelming, Panozzo is known for making each step clear, minimizing stress and bringing excitement to the journey. As Busby attests, “It’s been amazing to see Busby Group’s investor representation grow with Susan’s expertise and direction. She has a keen eye and an analytical approach that has helped numerous clients make sound investments over the years.”
Yandel and Panozzo both are dedicated supporters of the Special Olympics. Each has helped lead record-setting fundraising efforts for the annual Polar Plunge.
Big Things Are Coming to Chicago’s South Loop
Chicago’s South Loop is about to see some major changes, and the buzz is well deserved. From the creation of the city’s 78th neighborhood to a brand-new stadium for Chicago Fire FC, this stretch of the city is transforming into one of the most exciting areas to watch over the next few years.
Meet The 78
For decades, the 62 acres along the river between Roosevelt Road and 16th Street sat unused. That’s about to change in a big way. The 78 is a massive development designed to become Chicago’s newest neighborhood, a place to live, work, and play, with all the energy and diversity the city is known for.
Here’s what’s planned:
A half-mile of riverfront access with parks, paths, and green spaces.
Shops, restaurants, offices, and homes, blending modern conveniences with a true neighborhood feel.
A new CTA Red Line station at 15th Street, making it easy to get in and out.
It’s not just about buildings, it’s about creating a vibrant new hub that connects nearby communities.
A New Soccer Stadium for Chicago Fire FC
Adding to the excitement, Chicago Fire FC has announced plans for a 22,000-seat, privately funded stadium right at the north end of The 78.
The $650 million project will do more than bring fans together for Major League Soccer games. The design includes a sweeping “victory plaza” that will welcome people from Roosevelt Road down to the river, and the stadium itself will host concerts, festivals, community events, and more throughout the year.
It’s being built to honor Chicago’s character with a mix of brick, steel, and glass all while offering fans and visitors a modern, one-of-a-kind experience.
Why It Matters
This will bring South Loop and the surrounding areas -
A new destination for residents and visitors alike.
Year-round activity, with events and businesses bringing steady energy to the area.
Easy access by train, bus, car, or even water taxi.
Positive momentum for the city, with private investment driving growth.
Looking Ahead
Between the creation of The 78 and the excitement of a new soccer stadium, Chicago’s South Loop is evolving into something special, a place that blends community, culture, and connection. It’s an incredible transformation in the making, and it’s one worth keeping an eye on. From the real estate perspective, it would be smart to move on a property now and have a strong return on investment once the new improvements are in place. Busby Group is a top Chicago real estate team and we have access to on and off-market options in the area. Please reach out for more information.
Welcome to the Team, Roslyn
We’re thrilled to welcome a new face to the Busby Group – please meet Roslyn Parayo! Roslyn is an experienced broker who brings a unique blend of urban expertise and suburban insight. With a heartfelt passion for helping clients find home, she’s a perfect fit for our team. Take a minute to learn a bit more about Roslyn and all she has to offer, and please join in a warm welcome!
What drew you to Busby Group?
It’s a funny story, actually, because Maggie and I go way back because we have friends in common. Over the years, Maggie and I have stayed in touch and I have even helped Maggie with showings in the southwest suburbs. Maggie has always talked about how amazing Julie is as a leader, and how inspiring it is to be surrounded by top-producing agents. I’m so excited to be part of this team!
What do you love most about your real estate career?
Honestly, being a part of someone’s homebuying journey. Homes are so sentimental. For me, I feel like every house I’ve lived in has marked a new chapter in my own life, and I love that I get to help people begin their next adventure. It’s a privilege to be part of that process.
What’s been your biggest professional “ah-ha” moment so far?
It’s the realization that great customer service in real estate is really about the little things. Going the extra mile during a transaction can make a big impact. That is what clients remember.
What are you most excited about in the coming year?
Joining Busby Group, hands down! Being around such a driven, successful team is exactly the kind of environment I have been looking for. There is so much value in mentorship and collaboration, and I know this will push me to keep growing in my career. I’m always excited to learn and evolve.
Where do you live now, and what’s your favorite neighborhood?
I live in Orland Park, but my favorite neighborhood is Frankfort. It has that small-town charm, and is walkable, full of local businesses, and it honestly reminds me of a Hallmark movie. It’s a great place to spend a weekend afternoon.
What do you love doing when you’re not working?
I’m a huge dog lover and have a golden retriever named Zeus, and he’s basically my sidekick. We spend a lot of time at “The Dog Out” in Orland Park, which is one of our favorite spots. I also love doing Pilates at a little studio in Orland called Clearly, and I try to get out and golf when I can at Cog Hill in Lemont. If you are ever in Orland Park, you have to try Tandoori House – it is my favorite spot in the suburbs!
Meet our amazing new client concierge!
At Busby Group, we’re always looking for ways to better serve our clients, not just during the transaction, but well beyond the closing table. That’s why I’m thrilled to introduce Katie Mazzuca, our new Client Concierge.
Katie brings a rare blend of experience to this role: a successful career as a real estate broker, a lifelong connection to the real estate industry, and a luxury customer service background with brands like Neiman Marcus, Henri Bendel, and Splendid. She knows the power of great relationships and the difference that trusted resources can make throughout the homeownership journey.
We are excited about Katie in this role because we see her expanding it even further with her focus on vendor partnerships and providing our clients with true concierge services for life. We are so excited for our clients to experience the wealth of knowledge that Katie brings to the table. Get to know her story below—and join us in giving her a warm welcome to the team!
You've recently joined the Busby Group as a real estate concierge. Can you tell us a little about your background before this role?
Real estate has always been part of my life – my parents have worked together as brokers for over 20 years, so I grew up immersed in the business. It was only a matter of time before I got my license myself, which I did in 2015 and joined my family at the Meyers Group.
My business has always been split between the city and the North Shore. I've lived in Logan Square, the West Loop, Old Town, and Lakeview, so I know the city well! Now I live in Deerfield with my family, and I’ve built a strong network across the North Shore, expanding my already strong network from the city.
What drew you to the Busby Group in particular?
I met Julie years ago at an office meeting in Winnetka and immediately thought, “She’s a go-getter.” She's a fantastic communicator and I was so impressed by the volume her team has consistently done. I think a big reason for Busby Group’s success is the team’s organization. Honestly, it’s one of the most structured and intentional groups I’ve seen in this industry. I was also really impressed with the content on the Busby Group website, and have sent the school information to friends. I can’t think of another group that offers so much valuable information.
You’ve worked in both real estate and luxury retail. How does your previous experience influence your work today?
My background is in luxury retail management at Neiman Marcus, Henri Bendel and then for Splendid, where I managed all the Chicago stores and eventually oversaw operations across the East Coast and Midwest. The customer service and trouble shooting skills I acquired along the way are invaluable in my new role as Busby Group’s client concierge. I learned how to transform what could be a stressful experience into a calm and personalized experience.
What part of your work do you love most?
Two things stand out: First, helping people find their dream home (cliche, but true!). Second, I genuinely love problem-solving. No two deals are the same, and that challenge keeps me engaged every day. I also love the long-term relationships that grow from this work. Real estate is so personal, and that trust is everything.
What’s been your biggest professional ‘ah-ha’ moment so far?
After working with my parents for several years, I will never forget the day my dad said to me, “You know what you’re doing.” That moment stuck with me. It reminded me that even with mentors, the best answers come from your own instincts.
What are you most excited about in your new role?
The concierge role blends everything I love: real estate, problem-solving, and high-level client care. I’m licensed, so I bring a strong understanding of how the transaction works, but I also love taking things to that next level in terms of service.
Where do you live now, and what’s your favorite thing about your neighborhood?
I live in Deerfield with my husband and our two daughters, who are 18 months and four-and-a-half. We chose it to be close to family and for the amazing park district, pools, and overall walkability. Our house backs up to the elementary school our kids will attend, which feels very special.
What do you love doing when you're not working?
In the city, I love being near the lake—beach days, summer dining, and just soaking up the energy of Chicago. Some of my go-to spots are Athenian Room, Sai Café, and Girl & the Goat. I also love shopping on Southport. In the suburbs, we spend a lot of time at a local park district pool (Mitchell Pool) or playgrounds. And the Lincoln Park Zoo is a favorite for our family.
We can’t wait for you to meet Katie and see all that she has to offer!
Q1 Chicagoland Market Recap (Good News!) + 3 Ways to Avoid Renovation Pitfalls
With all of the national and international headlines floating around right now about the stock market, it is only natural that my phone rings several times a day with clients and friends asking how the Chicago real estate market is faring right now. First and foremost, it remains to be true that real estate, especially in Chicago, is a solid investment. And after digging deeper into the current data, I feel more confident in our market than ever. If you’re like me, analyzing real estate data is incredibly fun, interesting and useful – but, if you would rather have me give you the highlights you’re in luck!
Chicago Real Estate Is Still a Solid Bet in
When the stock market wobbles, many people freeze. But seasoned investors know: that’s when opportunity opens up. Real estate has always been more consistent than the stock market, especially when approached strategically. In fact, the average price of detached and attached properties in Chicago increased from $378,343 in March of 2022 to $444,714 in March of this year – that is a 17.5% increase in just three years. And multi-unit properties are on a similar trajectory with a 14% price increase in just three years.
The trick is knowing how to find the right property, and also where to look. As you may have read, Chicago’s inventory is still at historic lows. At Busby Group, this means we are getting creative for our clients everyday. We scour private listing databases, reach out to our networks and contacts, and at this point about 30% of our transactions are with properties that never hit the market.
How to Avoid Renovation Pitfalls
The other big question right now is how all of the new trade policies will impact renovation plans for buyers or current home owners. To me, the best way to avoid the potential long wait times and price increases that new tariff policies may create is to think local, and be really smart about the properties you consider. Here is my latest advice:
Builder-grade cabinets have come a long way! Check out your local suppliers and then pair with custom finishes or updated hardware. Even consider using MDF instead of hardwood, especially if you are planning to paint your cabinets anyway.
Skip the imported quartz and go for local stone, or better yet, use remnants. When I remodeled my home I used remnants in nearly every room and probably saved 60%, plus you get a totally one-of-a-kind look.
Support local tradespeople and small businesses. These are the folks who’ve been hit the hardest by tariffs and material delays—and they’re also the ones doing some of the most creative, high-quality work around.
Of course the other way to avoid renovation pitfalls is to buy a move-in ready home! I always encourage clients to consider properties they can enjoy for a few years, and then figure out how they want to personalize and update. A few of our current listings are perfect move-in ready options!
So whether you’re buying, investing, or prepping to sell—don’t let global noise keep you from making local moves. Focus on what you can control: smart sourcing, smart spending, and real estate that works for you. If you're thinking about making a move, or just want to talk strategy, I'm always here to help you navigate it.