LEGACY IN MOTION

At @properties Christie’s International Real Estate, Aly and Justin Tesar of The Tesar Group bring lifelong North Shore roots to refined, strategic representation. Having met as lifeguards at Gillson Beach while attending New Trier, they offer a rare perspective—as locals who grew up here, as parents raising their own children here, and as trusted advisors guiding clients across the North Shore for more than 15 years.

How do you define “exceptional” in today’s luxury market?
Exceptional today goes beyond price point or square footage. It’s the convergence of architecture, craftsmanship, location, and lifestyle. An exceptional home tells a story—through thoughtful design, enduring materials, and an emotional connection that resonates with the buyer. It offers something truly irreplaceable and special.

What trends are shaping the high-end real estate landscape right now?
We’re seeing a strong shift toward color and pattern. Buyers are also prioritizing wellness-driven design, including high-tech health and wellness features integrated into the home. There’s increased demand for legacy properties—homes that feel timeless rather than trend-driven. From a market perspective, off-market opportunities are more important than ever.

How does representing exceptional homes differ from traditional residential sales?
Representing exceptional homes isn’t about treating luxury differently—it’s about treating every client and every property with the highest level of care. Every detail—from pre-market preparation to strategic positioning—must be handled with precision. Marketing is tailored to each property; negotiations are nuanced, and success often hinges on relationships. That same thoughtful, intentional approach guides our work at every price point.

How do you position a premium property to stand out in a competitive market?
Every exceptional property has a distinct narrative. We begin by identifying what makes the home truly rare, then build a tailored strategy around that story—whether through elevated branding, targeted outreach, or private introductions. It’s about creating desire while maintaining exclusivity, not over-saturating the market.

The Tesar Group is with @properties Christie’s International Real Estate Winnetka office, 847-507-2599, thetesargroup.com, @alytesar, @tesar23_realestate.