We had a chance to see what Kelly McInerney has been doing since we last spoke almost two years ago. Since the passing of her esteemed business partner and best friend, Carolyn McLaughlin, many things have changed but the most important things have stayed the same.

Once you have had the chance to speak with Kelly, it’s no surprise that she has achieved the many successes in her life. Warm, bubbly, and extremely focused, she shares the trials, tribulations, and triumphs she has experienced as a solo act in the real estate business.

We spoke with Kelly in the newly renovated kitchen of her longtime friends and clients, Patty and Dan Charhut. Patty has always admired Kelly’s keen aesthetic and asked if she would collaborate with her on jumpstarting the creative execution of the big project. The result is a jaw-dropping masterwork blending Patty’s old-world style with on-trend sophistication.

Forest & Bluff: So Kelly, catch us up on the latest.
Kelly McInerney: I recently joined the @properties Lake Forest office. The decision was more of a personal quest and my desire to take my business to a higher level. I thrive on change and love a good challenge—that’s what keeps you growing, right? I enjoy the marketing, technology, and forward-thinking approach to selling homes, and it’s exciting to be among the cutting edge.

So what’s different for you?
I have been able to collaborate with agents in different markets which is very insightful. I’m an out-of-the-box thinker when it comes to helping my clients and I’m able to take this to a new level at @properties due to their incredible marketing resources. Additionally, I hosted a holiday boutique at one of my listings with nine vendors, which generated more exposure for this beautiful property in a fun way other than just traditional open houses and ads.

You mentioned that some things haven’t changed.
My drive to deliver high-quality service to my clients, colleagues and business partners. In this philosophy, Carolyn is always with me. I always think, is this the best I can do, can I do more? Would Carolyn be okay with this? I know that Carolyn would be very okay with all of it!

What do you see for the market in 2017?
That’s the million-dollar question. With the election behind, low mortgage rates, increased consumer confidence, and more transferee activity predicted, the market could experience strong activity. We will finish 2016 with more sales than in 2015 which is a good thing, however increased inventory put downward pressure on pricing and will continue to do so in 2017.
Homes will sell if they are priced correctly for the market and in great condition. Buyers today want a newer look and feel, and there are few that will take on the task of doing any updating or renovations. That means homes have to be updated for “today,” or priced at a great value in order to sell. If you are considering a move now or in the future, I can help make the decisions of what may need to be done to your home before you bring it to market.

Kelly McInerney of @properties can be reached at 847-826-6800, [email protected].