Whether you’re buying a new home for a change in lifestyle, investment purposes or a little bit of both, Jesse McGrath can help find the ideal property to fit your needs while maximizing your returns. With a background in architecture and development, Jesse brings a unique expertise to the real estate industry. He is passionate about Chicago real estate, and he knows how to find great deals.

Prior to becoming an agent, Jesse worked for a notable architecture firm in Chicago and eventually opened his own practice. Enthusiastic about green building, Jesse designed and permitted over 50 projects through the Chicago Green Permit program. Having managed all aspects of McGrath Architects (www.mcgratharchitects.com) as both President and lead designer, Jesse gained business acumen and analytical skills, which shape his approach to real estate to this day. An expert on building permits, inspections, property management and the property tax appeal process, Jesse has created a one-stop shop for his clients’ various real estate needs.

Due to his development background, Jesse truly understands that buying a home can be stressful, and he will go out of his way to create a seamless and carefree experience. A great listener, Jesse’s integrity and problem-solving abilities lead to best possible outcome for both buyers and sellers. Well aware of Chicago zoning laws, he can walk through a property and easily evaluate the quality of the work, estimate the cost of repairs or improvements and suggest remodeling/addition possibilities.

Unable to ignore the draw of the real estate industry, Jesse became an agent with @properties – Chicago’s highest grossing brokerage. He also currently serves as Branch Liaison on the USGBC Residential Green Building Chicago Chapter and Board Member for the AIA Small Project Practitioners Roundtable. His affiliations connect him with numerous real estate professionals, creating strong relationships throughout the industry.

A Chicagoland native, Jesse is outgoing and focused, and strives to make the process of buying and selling a home a relaxing and positive experience. He understands the specific needs of both buyers and sellers, and his strong work ethic means that he is available to clients whenever necessary. Jesse has lived in Bucktown with his rescue dog, Hank, for several years, and when he isn’t working he enjoys playing tennis, racing in triathlons, volunteering, or visiting new restaurants, theatres, and museums with family and friends.

Testimonials:

Jesse McGrath is a very experienced broker. His services were very professional and efficient. He conducted himself with respect and knowledge a winning combination! I will use Jesse with my next purchase and have referred him to others. He is an employee that should be valued and a great addition to your team. Jesse was available at all times to answer our questions. He was very quick in returning calls to answer questions we may have had.

    -Steve and Kathy Chambers

Jesse has a knack for keeping communication flowing smoothly with everyone involved in the long process of buying a new home, from the listing agent to the attorneys to the appraiser to the mortgage broker. Most importantly, he doesn't just tell you, the buyer, only what you want to hear. He really tries to understand your requirements and will not hesitate to offer negative feedback about a place when that's what is called for. Another big plus is his architectural experience, as Jesse can speak knowledgeably about possible modifications/updates to a space, such as moving a bathroom. We once made the mistake of hiring a friend who was only in real estate part time, and our experience with Jesse was much smoother and more professional overall. My wife and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Jesse to first-time buyers or seasoned real estate investors.

    -Don and Gloria Wakeling

 I had a complicated purchase and Jesse helped me a lot -- including after closing when there were still some loose ends to tie up. He knows the business well and was a big help.

    -David Russel

Working with Jesse was extremely easy and enjoyable. Throughout a difficult short sale process he was patient, informative and supportive. We spent months (literally) working on the purchase with the seller's bank while still actively bidding on traditional sales to keep our options open. The additional expertise that Jesse brought as a licensed architect was especially useful to us as we refined our rehab plans for the property with his active input. Overall we'd highly recommend him and feel that he's especially suited to younger buyers looking for their first family home or any buyers with construction ambitions.

  -Michael A. Blanchett-Ruth

My husband and I chose Jesse as a broker after meeting him at an open house. Even though we weren't yet his clients, he offered us insights into the market of our target area that prompted us to contact him months later when we were ready to start a search in earnest. We feel thankful we followed our instincts! Because of Jesse's promptness in submitting our bid and hard work in following-up with the seller, we were able to close on our ideal property. In addition, Jesse's background as an architect enabled us to envision how we could alter the property in the future for the needs of our growing family. We have already recommended Jesse to a number of friends and colleagues, and we will definitely use Jesse for our future real estate needs.

  -Ann and Michael Davenport