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A lifelong Chicagoan, Craig Franzen has spent the past 30 years living in neighborhoods across the city — from Little Italy to Ukrainian Village — personally witnessing the transformation of markets like the West Loop and gaining the kind of ground-level perspective no market report can teach. That deep familiarity with how Chicago neighborhoods evolve, combined with his professional expertise, gives his clients a meaningful edge in one of the country’s most competitive real estate markets.
Prior to earning his broker’s license in 2015, Craig was a successful self-funded trader at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange and Chicago Board of Trade. In that high-stress, fast-paced environment, he sharpened many of the skills that now bring direct value to his clients. Undaunted by tight timelines, composed under pressure, and skilled in data analysis, Craig is a tenacious negotiator who steadfastly advocates for his clients’ best interests.
Focused on providing exceptional service, Craig stays current on real estate trends and market data, and holds three advanced certifications: Pricing Strategy Advisor (PSA), Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR), and Seller Representative Specialist (SRS). A clear and effective communicator, he ensures clients have the information they need to make confident decisions at every step. His extensive professional network — inspectors, lenders, attorneys, and tradespeople — is yet another resource he draws on to achieve his clients’ goals. Craig works across the full spectrum of real estate, from first-time buyers and sellers to seasoned investors and developers engaged in land acquisition and new construction.
A strong believer in giving back, Craig has served as a Board Member with the Friends of Mitchell Elementary School and as Vice President of the Mary Bartelme Park Advisory Council. He remains actively involved in youth sports and community life, and currently lives in West Town with his family and bulldog, Ziggy.
With the personal experience, professional expertise, and market knowledge to navigate any transaction, Craig Franzen is the advocate his clients can count on — from the first conversation to the closing table and beyond.
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