No matter the obstacles life throws at you, moving forward is always possible. Staying positive and focusing on helping others has carried me through tough times, and given me the strength to create a fulfilling, beautiful life.

 

I’ll never forget the year everything changed. Within the span of 12 months, I went through a divorce, lost my younger sister Patricia, and started a new career to help provide for my three children as a single mom. Instead of letting those challenges weigh me down, I saw an opportunity. I wanted to create a life where I was in full control, doing whatever I set my mind to.

 

Becoming a single mom was the most motivating experience of my life. I wasn’t scared of hard work—I knew I had to step up, not just for me but for my kids. It was my job to show them, no matter what life throws at you, you stand tall and push forward.

 

At the same time, Patty’s passing reminded me how precious and unpredictable life is. It drove home the importance of living without regrets, making the most of every moment. I had so much to be thankful for—my boys, my family—and I wasn’t going to let those gifts slip by unnoticed. Her memory became a source of strength and inspiration.

 

I worked two jobs—one during the day and real estate at night and on weekends. My dad helped so much with the kids; he came over every day to watch them and often made sure dinner was ready when I got home. My dad’s dream was to spend more time with my boys. My boys’ bond grew with their papa. My mom and sister also helped. So many blessings for me. This allowed me to focus on building my business. After getting the boys to bed, I’d stay up late, working on deals, learning the ropes of real estate, and hustling to create the career I envisioned. There were so many days I was exhausted, but I knew I couldn’t stop.

 

My boys and I truly became a team. They learned how to cook, clean, and pitch in wherever they could. There were times I’d come home, and the house would be spotless, dinner ready—even if it was just hot dogs, they took turns making their specialty! They’d tell their friends and teachers, anyone they would meet, “My mom is a REALTOR®—she is the best and she can help you!” They took pride in helping because we were all in this together. We grew stronger as a family in facing these challenges together.

 

Of course, there were moments when the pressure felt overwhelming, but that’s when my spiritual journey began. I knew I needed to find a way to stay balanced. I started meditating, turning to it for peace during the most stressful times.

 

Meditation became my anchor, giving me the clarity and focus I needed to keep moving forward. It reminded me of who I was at my core—positive and driven to help others. I incorporated that into my approach to real estate, as well as going on mission trips, supporting others, and volunteering to help people all over the world.

 

Looking back, I’m proud of how far we’ve come as a family. I was able to build a successful real estate career, becoming a reliable resource people could trust through every life change. My boys, now grown and starting families of their own, often tell me how much they admire me, and that means the world to me. 

 

They saw the strength it took to keep moving forward, and they learned what it means to be resilient and work hard for the people you love. The challenges I faced shaped me into the person I am today—someone who approaches life with compassion, determination, and a genuine desire to help others.

 

In my free time, I love spending time with my family including my beautiful grandkids and friends. I enjoy staying active through yoga, meditation, playing my crystal bowls and instruments, walks in nature, pickleball, and being by water. I also enjoy Latin dancing, a passion I picked up years ago that still brings me joy. Traveling is another favorite, giving me the chance to explore new places and new cultures and to recharge.

 

My real estate career is built on a foundation of genuine care and personal connection. I’m not just here to close deals—I’m here to listen, understand my clients’ needs, and guide them through one of the most important decisions of their lives. Each client is unique, and with over two decades of experience, I’ve developed the ability to navigate any challenge that may arise with confidence. I offer creative solutions tailored to each client’s specific situation, ensuring they feel confident and supported every step of the way.

 

What I’m most proud of is the repeat and referral business I’ve built over the years. I’ve earned this by staying committed to my clients’ best interests and ensuring their experience is positive and stress-free. Whether it’s answering questions, navigating challenges, or offering guidance, I am here for my clients from beginning to end and long after the transaction closes!

 

Sincerely,

 

Julie Anne

Broker-Associate

Cell 847.370.4509

Office 847.860.6611

Julie@HomesByJulieAnne.com

www.NorthernIllinoisHomesByJulie.com