Hello, I’m Riley Hextell, a real estate agent serving Chicago and the greater Chicagoland area. I’m proud to share that in 2024 I was honored with the Rookie of the Year award by the Chicago Association of REALTORS®. This recognition is more than just a milestone in my career—it represents the dedication, long hours, and commitment to client service that have defined my journey since day one.
When I first entered the world of Chicago real estate, I made a promise to myself and to my clients: every interaction would be built on trust, responsiveness, and a genuine focus on people over transactions. I spent countless hours learning the market, immersing myself in Chicago neighborhoods, and making sure I could answer the questions that matter most to buyers and sellers. I knew that to stand out as one of the best real estate agents in Chicago, I had to go beyond the basics and provide an experience that was both professional and personal.
Winning the Rookie of the Year award didn’t happen by chance. It was the result of showing up every day with energy and determination, embracing challenges, and viewing every hurdle as an opportunity to improve. There were plenty of lessons learned along the way—from navigating pricing strategies and negotiations to understanding the unique personalities of Chicago’s neighborhoods. Each client I worked with taught me something new, and that collective experience helped me grow faster than I ever expected.
This award also reflects the guidance and support I received from mentors, colleagues, and the broader real estate community here in Chicago. I believe real estate is never a solo effort. It’s a collaborative process that involves agents, lenders, attorneys, inspectors, and, of course, clients who put their trust in us. Being recognized among my peers as Rookie of the Year reinforces my commitment to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, ethics, and client care.
For clients, this recognition serves as reassurance. If you’re searching for a top real estate agent in Chicago, you want someone who has proven credibility, who understands the fast-paced and competitive nature of the Chicago housing market, and who is willing to put in the work to deliver results. This award highlights that I’ve already demonstrated those qualities early in my career, and it motivates me to continue raising the bar.
Looking ahead, I view this recognition not as a finish line but as a starting point. I’m doubling down on my mission to be a trusted advisor, not just a transaction facilitator. That means staying on top of evolving market trends, sharpening my expertise in neighborhoods like Lincoln Park, West Loop, Gold Coast, and Lakeview, and investing in digital tools that make buying or selling a home in Chicago more seamless than ever. Most importantly, it means continuing to treat every client like family, because real estate isn’t just about property—it’s about people and their futures.
To everyone who has supported me so far—my clients, mentors, and peers—I can’t thank you enough for being part of this journey. And to anyone who is thinking about buying or selling in Chicago, whether you’re looking for luxury condos, single-family homes, or investment properties, I’d love the chance to guide you through the process with the same care and dedication that earned me this recognition.
If you’re ready to make a move and want to work with a Chicago real estate agent who combines proven results with fresh energy and a client-first approach, let’s connect. This award may have my name on it, but the real victory is helping clients achieve their goals—and I can’t wait to see what we accomplish together.
