MERLE STYER

For more than 35 years, Merle Styer has been one of the North Shore’s top sales associates. She began her career at Kahn Realty, which became Coldwell Banker, and years later moved to Engel & Völkers Chicago North Shore—a high-end boutique that offers cutting edge technology and marketing, along with access to a powerful global network of like-minded professionals. She considers herself a straight shooter and a keen negotiator, eager to help her clients meet their every need. Wherever her clients choose to call home, she will be by their side to serve their aspirations.

What’s most rewarding about real estate?
Real estate is not just about looking at pretty homes. It is a 24/7 labor of love. It requires many skills—reading people, listening, problem solving, unending service with a smile, networking, marketing, developing relationships with colleagues, being trustworthy, negotiating skills, a deep understanding of the market, communication with clients, 24/7 availability, creativity, loyalty, honesty, respecting the fiduciary responsibility to my buyers and sellers, a positive attitude, and a reputation that I possess all the things that I just mentioned!

What do you think separates you from other real estate professionals in the business today?
All of the above separates me from other realtors. When I find the right home for a buyer or the right buyer for a house, I am always elated to have put the puzzle together. I truly could shout a cheer or dance a dance. I am sincerely excited. My team is my client and me. We work together to make it happen. All decisions are made together. Lots of conversations at any hour of the day. They become my family.

If you could help any celebrity client buy or sell a home, who would it be?
Several years ago, I represented a Bear, a Bull, and a Hawk. All around the same time! That was a lot of excitement and fun. I would love to have Taylor Swift for a client. So much fun on so many levels!

Merle Styer is with Engel & Völkers Chicago North Shore, 566 Chestnut Street in Winnetka. For more information, call 847-922-7600 or visit merlestyer.evrealestate.com. You can also follow her on Instagram @Sty.7; on Facebook at merlestyerrealestate; on X @MerleStyer; on Threads @sty.7; or on LinkedIn at Merle Styer.