Real estate has been a part of Marsha Balsamo's life for as long as she can remember. She grew up in a suburb near the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Airport – so close, in fact, that they bought their first home, tore it down, and rolled it into an airport expansion project. Over the years, she watched Atlanta grow and learned that the value of real estate is dynamic and can be influenced by multiple factors – some of which are within our control, and others which are not. After she was married, their family experienced several professional relocations. With each new move, she worked with real estate brokers in different cities, and she learned from all of them. She was intrigued and grew to love the idea of helping people like her buy and sell their homes. She became proficient in the business side of residential sales, as well as her ability to use her organizational skills to support others. Marsha also discovered a love for the human side -- the opportunity to truly connect with people and make a difference in their lives. She used the experience she had moving so much and picked out the best parts of it to launch her career in real estate. When they built their current home, she was the general contractor. She learned a lot during that process, gaining knowledge in rehab and construction, contractor management, scheduling, and the importance of building a strong relationship with the Building and Zoning Department of our local Village. She also developed a network of skilled tradesmen including painters, roofers, plumbers, electricians, landscapers, custom carpenters, etc. whom she trusts. They can help with any project, and she can help make it happen quickly! It is hard to believe she has now been in residential sales for more than 25 years. Every day and every client is unique, which keeps it interesting. Marsha clients appreciate the depth and scope of her expertise, and her knowledge of the North Shore. She especially enjoys counseling clients on how to stage their home for the best value. She also loves digging below the surface to discover what her clients really want and need, and then working with them to find it. She loves the personal side of real estate, and she sets herself apart, not just with her red hair, but by knowing her market inside and out. Marsha joined Engel & Völkers Chicago North Shore because she wanted to surround herself with advisors with similarly high standards of quality and service. They collaborate and support each other, and she honestly believes that together, they are far greater than if they were on their own. The Engel & Völkers network around the country and the world is also a benefit, as she can help her clients who wish to spend time outside of Chicago. Marsha is heavily involved in our local community and has been a member of the Northfield Caucus for many years. For fun, she loves exploring Chicago neighborhoods, restaurants, and live music events, working on complex jigsaw puzzles, spending time with her husband of 30+ years and traveling together, which they call “Marsha and Phil’s Road Adventures”, and staying in touch with our precious granddaughter who lives in New Mexico.
