Two Decades. Two Licenses. One Purpose: Protecting Chicago Homeowners.
I’m Ernie Raulli, owner of Realistic Realty and Chicago’s first Hybrid Agent, a Realtor who’s also a licensed Home Inspector.
For 20 years, I’ve helped buyers and sellers across Jefferson Park, Norwood Park, Portage Park, Harwood Heights, Norridge, and Edison Park make smarter real estate decisions by seeing what others miss.
My mission is simple
To help you move confidently without surprises, regret, or wasted money.
How It All Started — From Frustration to Innovation
When I first became a Realtor, I thought knowing the market was enough.
But time after time, I’d watch my sellers lose thousands after a buyer’s inspection report came in.
Deals would collapse. Repairs would pile up. Price reductions would drain equity. Future plans delayed or destroyed.
I realized I was standing by helplessly while inspectors and buyers held all the power while my clients were left reacting instead of preparing.
That didn’t sit right with me.
So I took action.
I studied, trained, and earned my State of Illinois Home Inspector License- not to add another title, but to protect my clients from the blind spots that derail most transactions.
What a “Hybrid Agent” Really Means
A Hybrid Agent is a real estate professional who combines two specialized skill sets:
The strategic expertise of a Realtor
The technical eye of a licensed Home Inspector
It’s not a marketing gimmick, it’s a smarter way to buy and sell homes in an older city like Chicago, where every property tells a story behind the walls.
For Sellers — Win Both Negotiations
Most sellers only prepare for the first negotiation, the offer.
But the second negotiation comes after the buyer’s inspection, when repair lists and price reductions hit.
As a Hybrid Agent, I help you:
Uncover issues before they become buyer leverage
Prioritize repairs that truly increase value
Avoid last-minute price cuts and inspection drama
Result: My sellers save an average of $8,000–$15,000
For Buyers — See What Others Miss
Most agents see what looks nice. I see what matters.
With an inspector’s trained eye, I help buyers:
Spot foundation issues, roof wear, and water damage early
Understand true repair costs
Negotiate with confidence and clarity
You don’t just get a home, you get peace of mind.
What Clients Say About Working With Me
“Ernie isn’t just a Realtor — he’s a problem-solver. He saved us from buying a home that would have cost us $30,000 in repairs.”
“He knew exactly what the buyer’s inspector would say. We fixed those issues first, and the sale went perfectly.”
“You can tell he genuinely cares about protecting people, not just closing deals.”
20 Years of Chicago Experience — Rooted in the Northwest Side
I’ve lived and worked in Chicago’s Northwest neighborhoods my entire career helping families buy, sell, and invest across:
Jefferson Park | Norwood Park | Dunning | Harwood Heights | Edison Park | Portage Park | Norridge
I know the homes, the contractors, the inspectors, and the quirks of this market.
From century-old bungalows to 1970s ranches, I’ve seen it all and that knowledge means fewer surprises for you.
Why Clients Hire Me
(In Their Words)
“Because he finds what others overlook - before it costs me money.”
“Because he tells the truth, even when it’s not what you want to hear.”
“Because he treats your house like it’s his own investment.”
“Because he’s not just selling - he’s protecting.”
A Straightforward Approach — No Fluff, No Scripts
I don’t show up with canned presentations or stock PowerPoints.
You get honest conversations, expert evaluation, and practical strategies for your exact situation.
When you work with me, you get both experience and inspection insight. A one-stop professional who truly understands Chicago real estate inside and out.
Celebrating 20 Years — and What’s Next
In December 2025, I’ll celebrate 20 years in real estate.
That milestone means more than longevity, it represents hundreds of families protected, millions in equity preserved, and a reputation built on results.
As Realistic Realty grows, the mission stays the same:
Protect clients.
Prevent surprises.
Deliver real value…not just transactions.
Ready to Work With a True Hybrid Agent?
Let’s make your next move smarter, safer, and more profitable.