About George
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.
Transaction History
- 1 Year
- 2 Year
- 5 Year
Areas George is Experienced In
George's Listings and Deals
George's Recent Active Listings
Recently Sold
Awards and Designations
- NAR - National Association of Realtors
- ABR - Accredited Buyer Representative
Other Experience
George's Reviews
8/31/23tom osran
George is easy to work with and offers a good value for the price. He will put your building on the MLS for a very low percentage.
8/17/22M OB
I've been working with George over 12 years buying and selling 6 different properties. He has always been great to work with. Very responsive when I need something done quickly. I've always been able to reach him and he gives honest advice. I plan on using him for 2 other sales I have coming up. Highly recommended.
8/10/22Mary ortiz
I have known George Ayling of Select a Fee Real Estate for over 25 years. Over the years, I have worked with him closely and have witness his dedication to the RE profession along with his experience, knowledge, and his progressive technical skills. He is a pleasure to work with and I highly recommend him!
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is George Ayling, and what is their real estate background?
How many homes has George Ayling sold in Chicago, IL?
What is George Ayling's track record representing buyers?
What is George Ayling's track record as a listing agent?
What areas does George Ayling serve?
How can I contact George Ayling?