Every year, thousands of real estate professionals across the country are evaluated through the RealTrends Verified rankings, one of the most recognized performance benchmarks in the real estate industry.
The rankings measure real estate teams and agents based on verified transaction sides and sales volume. For consumers, these rankings can provide insight into which teams consistently help large numbers of buyers and sellers successfully navigate the real estate market.
In the 2026 rankings, The Star Home Team was recognized as the #3 Mega Team in Illinois based on transaction sides, helping hundreds of families buy and sell homes throughout Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin.
While rankings are certainly an honor, many consumers wonder what actually separates top-performing teams from the average real estate experience.
What Is RealTrends Verified?
RealTrends Verified is a national ranking program that independently verifies transaction data submitted by real estate professionals and teams.
Unlike marketing claims that can be difficult to validate, RealTrends rankings are based on documented production and transaction records.
The rankings recognize top-performing agents and teams across multiple categories, including:
• Number of homes sold (transaction sides)
• Total sales volume
• Team performance
• Individual agent performance
For buyers and sellers, this provides an objective way to identify experienced real estate professionals who have demonstrated consistent results.
Why Team Structure Matters
Many consumers don't realize there is a significant difference between working with a solo agent and working with a real estate team.
A solo agent may be responsible for every aspect of the transaction, including:
• Lead generation
• Showings
• Marketing
• Contracts
• Negotiations
• Administrative work
• Closing coordination
By comparison, a team structure allows specialists to focus on specific areas of the transaction.
At The Star Home Team, buyers and sellers benefit from a collaborative approach that includes agents, transaction coordinators, listing specialists, marketing professionals, client care staff, and management support.
This structure helps ensure that clients receive timely communication and consistent service throughout the process.
Learn more about our approach in Why Buyers Choose The Star Home Team.
Benefits Buyers Receive When Working With a Team
For home buyers, having access to an entire support team can make the process smoother and less stressful.
Benefits often include:
• Faster response times
• Expanded showing availability
• Multiple team members available for support
• Consistent transaction management
• Access to local market expertise
In today's competitive market, speed and communication can make a significant difference when submitting offers and negotiating contracts.
If you're preparing to purchase a home, our guide to Home Buying Timeline in Illinois explains each step of the process.
Benefits Sellers Receive When Working With a Team
For sellers, a team structure often provides more comprehensive marketing and support.
This may include:
• Professional photography and videography
• Social media promotion
• Digital advertising campaigns
• Open house coordination
• Transaction management
• Ongoing communication throughout the listing period
Because responsibilities are shared among multiple professionals, sellers often receive a higher level of service than a single individual can realistically provide alone.
Experience Creates Better Outcomes
One of the greatest advantages of working with a high-producing team is exposure to a wide variety of market conditions and transaction scenarios.
Teams that handle hundreds of transactions annually encounter situations involving:
• Multiple-offer negotiations
• Inspection issues
• Financing challenges
• Appraisal concerns
• Contract disputes
• Unique property situations
That experience often helps clients avoid costly mistakes and navigate challenges more effectively.
What Buyers and Sellers Should Look For
When choosing a real estate professional, rankings should be just one factor to consider.
Consumers should also evaluate:
• Local market knowledge
• Communication style
• Client reviews and testimonials
• Marketing capabilities
• Availability and responsiveness
• Track record of successful transactions
The right real estate partner should combine experience, expertise, and personalized service.
Our Client Testimonials page provides examples of what past clients have shared about working with our team.
Looking Ahead
The real estate market continues to evolve, but one thing remains constant: buyers and sellers benefit from experienced professionals who understand their local market.
We are honored by our recognition in the 2026 RealTrends Verified rankings and grateful to the thousands of families who have trusted The Star Home Team with their real estate needs over the years.
Whether you're planning to buy, sell, invest, or simply explore your options, our team is here to help.
To learn more about the communities we serve, visit our Grayslake Neighborhood Guide or contact our team directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is RealTrends Verified?
RealTrends Verified is a nationally recognized ranking program that independently verifies transaction and sales volume data submitted by real estate agents and teams.
What does Mega Team mean?
A Mega Team is a large real estate team that completes a significant number of transactions annually and includes multiple agents and support staff.
Why do real estate rankings matter?
Rankings can provide consumers with objective information about an agent's or team's experience and production history.
Is a team better than a solo real estate agent?
Not necessarily in every situation, but teams often provide broader support, expanded availability, and specialized expertise.
What are transaction sides?
Transaction sides refer to the number of buyer and seller transactions completed. Representing both the buyer and seller in one transaction counts as two sides.
How many families has The Star Home Team helped?
The Star Home Team has helped more than 3,000 families buy and sell homes throughout Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin.
What areas does The Star Home Team serve?
The team serves Lake County, McHenry County, Kenosha County, and many surrounding communities throughout Illinois and Wisconsin.
How can I find out what my home is worth?
You can request a complimentary market analysis through our Home Value Request page.
About the Author
Susan Starwalt, Broker Owner
Susan Starwalt is the Broker Owner of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Star Homes and The Star Home Team, serving Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin. Licensed since 1998, Susan works alongside Jim Starwalt and the company’s management team to support one of the region’s top-producing real estate organizations.
The Star Home Team has helped more than 3,000 families buy and sell homes and is recognized as one of Illinois’ leading real estate teams. The team serves buyers and sellers throughout Lake County, McHenry County, Kenosha County, and surrounding communities, providing expert guidance, local market knowledge, innovative marketing, and personalized service.
