A Unique Beginning

Founded in April 2000 by Thad Wong and Mike Golden, @properties emerged during the dot-com boom. The founders sought to distinguish their brokerage from traditional firms by choosing a distinctive name that fused the “@” symbol with the word “properties,” reflecting the growing importance of digital communication.

Pioneering Taglines and Community Engagement

In the wake of the Great Recession, @properties aimed to rekindle interest in homeownership. The firm introduced the tagline, “Love where you live,” emphasizing the emotional connection to home. Wong later simplified it to “love” and commissioned local artist Matthew Hoffman to create a mural at the Bucktown office. This mural not only became a social media sensation but also reinforced the company’s brand across Chicago.

Expanding Horizons

Today, @properties Christie’s International Real Estate stands as the largest brokerage in the Chicagoland region, boasting over 3,100 agents across 42 offices in Northern Illinois and surrounding states, including Southeast Wisconsin and Northwest Indiana. Its expansion further includes franchises in various markets, such as northern and eastern Michigan, Madison and La Crosse in Wisconsin, and regions in Texas and Washington, D.C. A notable milestone in 2021 was the acquisition of the Christie’s International Real Estate network, which connects luxury brokerages in more than 50 countries.

A Focus on Relationships

Wong articulated the company’s philosophy: “Our goal from the start was to create a different kind of real estate brokerage, one built on relationships, collaboration, innovation, and the best agent support in the industry.” He emphasized that by investing fully in agents’ growth, the firm has created an environment where success can flourish.

Golden added, “We never say to ourselves, ‘We’ve figured it out.’ We’re constantly looking ahead, trying to figure out what to improve.” Reflecting on this 25-year journey, he acknowledged the shared efforts of agents and staff that have shaped @properties into a successful entity.

Celebrating with the Community

Kicking off the “25 Years of Love” festivities, @properties hosted an anniversary party across all offices last week. The company is amplifying its community-oriented initiative, @ loves local, which aims to spotlight neighborhood businesses. Later this summer, an outdoor gathering featuring live music and activities is planned at the Salt Shed in Chicago, bringing together agents and staff for continued celebration.