The Chicagoland area has always been home. I was raised on the northwest side in Old Irving Park, where I learned the value of truly knowing and caring for your neighbors. Over the years, I’ve lived in Northbrook, Champaign-Urbana—where I earned a finance degree from the University of Illinois—Lincoln Park, Lake in the Hills, and Geneva. These experiences have given me a well-rounded perspective and deep familiarity with a wide range of communities and lifestyles.
I transitioned into real estate after a career in finance because I believe a better future starts with a safe place to call home. I don’t just see houses—I see families, security, and opportunity. Whether helping clients buy or sell, my goal is to guide them through meaningful transitions with clarity and confidence, always focused on both their immediate needs and long-term success.
My greatest passion is helping people find solutions that truly improve their lives. In real estate, that means taking the time to understand each client’s unique situation and delivering thoughtful, strategic guidance every step of the way.
Aligning with Engel & Völkers was a deliberate choice. I was looking for a global platform that matched my ambition and values—one rooted in leadership, selectivity, and a highly personalized client experience. The advisor-driven culture at Engel & Völkers allows me to elevate my service, focusing on tailored strategies rather than transactional relationships.
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign graduate has earned his B.S. in Finance, and worked for several years in financial sales before making the switch to real estate. Some of his former employers include Chase, GE, and Household Financial, selling financing to high-level managers at car dealerships across the country. His conversion to real estate came from a desire to work more closely with clients, helping them realize their own financial goals in the purchase of a home or investment property.
Chris has earned the industry’s coveted designations of e-pro, Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), and Certified Investor Agent Specialist (CIAS) since entering the business in 2009. Chris resides in Geneva, IL, and serves clients across the Chicago metropolitan area and is well-versed in Chicago and many suburban markets.
When Chris isn’t working, he remains active playing on competitive softball and football leagues, or can be found at the friendly confines catching a Chicago Cubs game.
More about Chris Vernald:
Holds industry-coveted designations of:
E-pro
Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE)
Certified Investor Agent Specialist (CIAS)
Member of the Chicago Association of REALTORS® (C.A.R.) and a Major Investor and supporter of the REALTORS Political Action Committee (RPAC)
Serves on the C.A.R. Professional Standards Committee
Earned his B.S. in Finance from the University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign
Home Types:
House, Condo, Commercial, Townhouse, MultiFamily, Lot/Land
Years of Experience:
18
Education:
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
