Professional Biography
George W. Ayling is a trailblazer in the real estate industry with over five decades of hands-on experience, leadership, and innovation. From becoming one of Illinois’ youngest top-producing agents to founding Chicagoland’s pioneer fee-for-service real estate model, George has dedicated his career to empowering both agents and home sellers.
Early Career & Early Success (1973–1980)
1973: Launched his real estate career with K & L Real Estate in Springfield, IL.
1975: Promoted to Branch Management in Chatham, IL. Concurrently became an instructor for the prestigious sales/motivation program, "The Leadership Technique" (Tiger School), traveling nationally to teach closing skills and sales strategies.
1976: Achieved statewide recognition as one of the youngest million-dollar producers in Illinois.
1978: Named Vice President of Sales at K & L Real Estate. Under his sales leadership, the company expanded to 10 offices and 150 agents, becoming the 3rd largest real estate firm south of the Chicago suburbs and accounting for 1 out of every 3 regional sales.
Chicagoland & The "Mega-Broker" Era (1980–1999)
1980: Relocated to Chicago to continue instructing with Tiger School while actively selling suburban real estate.
1986: Took on the role of Sales Manager for Century 21 Harthside in Tinley Park.
1993: Joined Century 21 Dabbs in Orland Park to participate in the groundbreaking Mega-Broker Program, helping shape the modern "team concept" in real estate.
1998: Led one of the top-ranked agent teams in the nation, outperforming 1/3 of all Century 21 offices across Illinois.
?? Industry Revolution: Select A Fee Real Estate System
In 1996, George recognized a major shift in consumer behavior: homeowners wanted control over their real estate transactions and the ability to save on traditional commissions. Listening to seller demand for flexibility, he pioneered an "a la carte" fee-for-service menu.
In 2000, George founded Select A Fee Real Estate System, Chicagoland’s very first flat-fee real estate model.
Proven Track Record
53+ Years in Business
5,000+ Successfully Closed Transactions
$17 Million+ Saved in Client Commissions
96% Selling Ratio in its first three years (averaging 350+ transactions/year)
A+ Rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB member for 15+ years)
How The Model Saves Money:
On a $275,000 home, a traditional 6% commission fee equals $16,500. With Select A Fee:
Seller pays a flat fee (e.g., $995) to list on the MLS.
Seller offers a standard 2.5%–3.0% buyer's agent commission at closing.
Total Savings: Upwards of $6,568+ (or 100% of commission saved if the seller finds the buyer directly!).
Community & Charitable Leadership
Giving back to the local community has been a core pillar of George's career for over 40 years.
Springfield Noon Lions Club: Active volunteer and supporter through 1980.
Easter Seals Organization of Chicagoland: Dedicated widespread efforts in the late 1980s and 1990s, winning top fundraising awards and volunteering on charitable WGN-TV telecasts. Served as the Easter Seals Chairman for all Chicagoland Century 21 offices in 1996 and 1997.
U.S. Marine Corps 'Toys for Tots': Hosts annual toy drives at the Select A Fee headquarters and personally participates in the iconic Toys for Tots Motorcycle Parade dressed as Santa Claus to bring holiday joy to Chicagoland children.
Home Types:
Condo, House, Townhouse, Co-op, Multifamily, Lot/Land, Commercial, Mobile Homes
Years of Experience:
53
Education:
Went to Springfield Southeast High School
