A Lasting Influence
Before Julie began her career in real estate, she approached Bonnie Adams at church with a simple request, to work for her for free while learning the business and earning her license.
What she didn’t yet realize was that Bonnie was one of the top Realtors in the country.
During that time, Bonnie set a standard that has stayed with us ever since. She led with high expectations, always did what was best for her clients, and believed in being honest and real in every interaction.
She also built a remarkable business that supported her family and reflected both hard work and resilience. Through her example, Julie learned not only how to succeed in real estate, but how to carry herself with grace through both the highs and the challenges.
Bonnie has since passed, but her influence continues to shape how we show up for our clients every day.
We are incredibly grateful for her impact.
The Right Foundation
Belgravia is one of Chicago’s most respected developers, and our connection to their team played a meaningful role in shaping what Busby Group is today.
During Julie’s time leading the resale division at Belgravia, she experienced firsthand how the right team, working together with intention, can create a level of service far greater than any one individual. That philosophy became a cornerstone in building Busby Group.
It was also at Belgravia where the importance of doing the next best right thing was instilled, a standard we continue to carry forward in every client experience.
Working closely with Liz Brooks and the Belgravia team also provided a deeper understanding of construction, craftsmanship, and what truly defines quality. That knowledge continues to guide how we advise our clients today, helping them make confident, well-informed investments.
We are incredibly grateful for that chapter and the lasting impact it has had on our business and our clients.
A Partnership Built to Last
GE Construction has been a trusted partner of Busby Group for nearly a decade, and time and again, they have stepped in when it matters most.
They have personally helped prepare Julie’s home for market, and have supported nearly every member of our team with projects on their own homes, which speaks volumes about the trust we place in their work.
More importantly, they have played a critical role in many of our transactions. From sourcing one-of-a-kind Carolina hardwood no one thought could be matched, to tracking down discontinued materials to avoid costly renovations, to even driving to Wisconsin for lumber during shortages, they consistently find solutions where others cannot.
They are also an invaluable resource for our clients. Whether helping buyers understand renovation potential with thoughtful pricing and availability, or guiding sellers on strategic updates that often return multiples of their investment, their work directly impacts outcomes.
Simply put, they have saved the day more times than we can count, and we are incredibly grateful for this partnership.
A Chicago Gem
The Lincoln Park Zoo is one of our favorite places in the city, and a true gift to the community.
It is one of the few zoos in the country that is completely free, and it offers incredible experiences year-round, from ZooLights in the winter to Fall Fest in the autumn.
Over the years, it has also become a meaningful place for us personally. We have hosted behind-the-scenes tours for clients, both in person and even virtually during Covid, and celebrated special milestones, including both of our daughters’ first birthdays.
Beyond the events, it is part of everyday life. A place to go for a walk, get fresh air, meet neighbors, or start a weekend morning before heading to the nearby farmers’ market.
It is more than a destination; it is a place that brings people together, and we are so grateful to have it in our city.
Beyond Chicago
While Chicago is home, our reach extends far beyond.
Julie has built a trusted network of top brokers across the country, including a curated group of leading women in real estate spanning major markets. Since 2020, this group has shared ideas, supported one another, and collaborated on behalf of clients, creating not only strong professional relationships but lasting friendships.
This network has become a true extension of Busby Group, allowing us to seamlessly support clients as they move beyond Chicago, while ensuring they receive the same level of care and expertise they expect from our team.
We are also proud to be Chicago’s exclusive partner for SportStar Relocation, a national network of top brokers specializing in serving athletes and sports professionals. Through this relationship, we collaborate with some of the best in the industry to deliver a high level of service across markets.
These partnerships allow us to continue elevating our concierge and white-glove approach, both locally and nationwide.
Chicago’s Sweet Tradition
Sweet Mandy B’s is a true Chicago staple and one of our favorite ways to celebrate our clients.
With locations in Lincoln Park and Streeterville, they create what we believe are some of the best cupcakes, cookies, and pies in the city. Their desserts have become a small but meaningful part of many Busby Group moments.
We often incorporate Sweet Mandy B’s into our client experience, whether it is birthday celebrations, closing gifts, or simple thank-you surprises along the way. These thoughtful touches help turn milestones into lasting memories.
Over time, their desserts have become part of our own traditions as well, something our clients recognize, enjoy, and look forward to.
It is a simple gesture, but one that reflects how we approach every relationship. Thoughtful, personal, and centered around the people we are fortunate to work with.
Where Friends Gather
Range has become a true neighborhood favorite and a place where many meaningful moments for our team and clients have taken place.
We hosted our very first client appreciation event at Range, and the response was incredible. The turnout exceeded expectations, with guests flowing into additional rooms as more people joined throughout the evening. It was one of those moments that reinforced the importance of bringing people together.
Since then, Range has continued to be a go-to setting for Busby Group. From team holiday parties to client celebrations and neighborhood events, it has been the backdrop for many of our favorite memories.
Their thoughtful hospitality and willingness to customize each experience have played a meaningful role in helping us deepen relationships with our clients and stay connected to the communities we serve.
It is more than just a restaurant. It is a place where relationships grow, conversations happen, and friends gather.
We celebrated the $1 Billion mark at Range!
Home Away From Home
Club Lucky has long been a special place for Busby Group. Located in Bucktown, where many of our clients live and where our office and several of our team members are based, it truly feels like a home away from home.
Club Lucky is a beloved Chicago staple known for its classic Italian food, welcoming atmosphere, and legendary martini list. From the moment you walk through the doors, the team makes you feel like family.
Over the years, Club Lucky has played an important role in many Busby Group moments. We have hosted community presentations, client appreciation events, holiday celebrations, and team gatherings there. Whether we are celebrating a milestone, hosting clients, or simply meeting for a casual happy hour, Club Lucky always provides exceptional hospitality.
Because of its location in the heart of Bucktown, it has become a natural gathering place for our team and many of our clients. It’s one of those rare places where business conversations easily turn into meaningful friendships.
For Busby Group, Club Lucky isn’t just a restaurant — it’s truly a home away from home.
Places like Club Lucky remind us that the relationships behind the business are what truly make Busby Group special.
Partners in Impact
Busby Group is incredibly proud to partner with Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, widely recognized as the world’s leading rehabilitation hospital and a truly world-class institution.
Shirley Ryan AbilityLab is at the forefront of medical innovation, combining groundbreaking research with patient-centered care to help individuals recover, regain independence, and return to the lives they love. Their team of physicians, researchers, and therapists is among the best in the world, and the outcomes they achieve are nothing short of extraordinary.
Through this partnership, Busby Group is honored to support its community in meaningful ways, including:
• Complimentary real estate seminars and webinars
• Concierge-level relocation assistance for employees
• Personalized real estate guidance and consultation
• Sponsored educational and community events
Beyond our professional collaboration, we have also had the opportunity to volunteer alongside their incredible team. Witnessing the strength, resilience, and progress of their patients is deeply inspiring and a powerful reminder of the impact this organization has every day.
Shirley Ryan AbilityLab represents the very best of Chicago and the very best in healthcare worldwide. We are grateful to support their mission and honored to be part of their extended community.
“I am always impressed with Busby Group and the services they provide. I have never seen a real estate group offer such robust support and resources for its clients. We are proud to have this partnership.”
— Katie Hartoin
A Lasting Glow
Buying or selling a home can be emotional and, at times, overwhelming. We believe it is the small, thoughtful touches that can make the experience feel more personal and memorable.
One of those touches has become a Busby Group signature candle.
Our signature candles are handcrafted locally by Gabe Nunez of Gabriel John Candles, who also happens to be a past Busby Group client. What started as a simple idea has grown into a meaningful part of how we stay connected with our clients long after the transaction is complete.
The inspiration behind the candles was simple. We wanted to create something that helps turn any house into a home while offering a small moment of everyday indulgence. Each candle is made in small batches using premium ingredients and is thoughtfully crafted with care.
They are also assembled locally in Chicago, supporting hardworking moms in our community, which makes each candle even more meaningful.
Over time, this small gesture has become something our clients truly look forward to. Each year, we send a new candle with a unique scent and message, and we love hearing how much they are enjoyed in our clients’ homes.
It is a simple reminder that our relationship does not end at closing. It continues in the homes our clients create and the lives they build there.
“I always loved working with Julie, and it means a lot to now be her partner and be part of their concierge-level services. Our candles are made with love, which reflects Busby Group’s genuine care for their clients.”
— Gabe Nunez