Real Estate Guidance That Sees What Others Miss
For most people, buying or selling a home is the biggest financial decision of their life…yet most only have half the professional protection they need.
I’m Ernie Raulli, a Realtor and Licensed Home Inspector serving Chicago’s Northwest side for over 20 years. I created Realistic Realty so my clients never walk into a deal blind or leave money on the table again.
Why I Became a Hybrid Agent
Years ago, I watched too many sellers lose thousands of dollars when the buyer’s attorney hit me back with the buyer’s inspection report. Price cuts followed. Deals collapsed. Future plans jeopardized.
I realized being just a Realtor wasn’t enough.
So, I studied and trained to earn my State of Illinois Home Inspector License to give my clients an advantage no one else could…insight before inspection day.
Now, every client benefits from two sets of professional eyes:
one trained to negotiate value, the other trained to spot risk.
What a Hybrid Agent Really Means
A Hybrid Agent is a Realtor who’s also a licensed Home Inspector.
It’s the best of both worlds - one professional protecting your sale or purchase from every angle.
For Sellers
Identify issues before the buyer’s inspector does
Prevent costly post-inspection price drops
Sell faster and with fewer surprises
For Buyers
Spot hidden problems early
Understand true repair costs
Negotiate smarter, with confidence
In short, it’s one advisor who sees everything that could cost you money.
Your Northwest Chicago Real Estate Expert
Twenty years ago I began serving Jefferson Park, Norwood Park, Portage Park, Harwood Heights, Norridge, and Edison Park, I know every bungalow, two-flat, and 1970s ranch that defines our neighborhoods.
That local knowledge matters.
Older homes have quirks, from outdated wiring to tired foundations, and knowing what’s “normal for the area” versus what’s a dealbreaker can save you thousands.
After two decades, my experience expanded to include all of Northwest Chicagoland.
The Realistic Realty Difference
Most agents only focus on marketing.
I focus on marketing and outcomes.
When you work with me, you get:
20 years of Chicago real estate experience
A licensed inspector’s technical eye
Straightforward, no-fluff guidance
Real data on what’s worth fixing - and what’s not
You’ll never get a canned presentation or a generic sales pitch. You’ll get the truth and a strategy that protects your bottom line.
Success Stories
“Ernie found structural issues that saved us over $12,000 in repairs — before we made an offer.”
“Our home sold without a single inspection surprise. Worth every penny.”
“Finally, an agent who knows what’s behind the walls.”
Choose Your Advantage
Buying a Home?
Buy with confidence — see what others miss.
Selling a Home?
Sell smarter — fix issues before they cost you.
Ready to Move Smarter?
Real estate doesn’t have to be stressful when you have both a Realtor and a Home Inspector in your corner.
Let’s protect your next move from surprises.