If you're wondering why so many buyers and sellers choose The Star Home Team, the answer is simple. Since 1998, we've combined experienced REALTORS®, dedicated support staff, innovative marketing, local expertise, and personalized service to help more than 3,000 families successfully buy and sell homes throughout Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin.

Why The Star Home Team Is Different

Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll ever make. Choosing the right real estate team can make the difference between a stressful experience and a successful one.

At The Star Home Team, we believe our clients deserve more than a single agent. They deserve an entire team working together on their behalf.

Since 1998, we've built our business around delivering exceptional service, local expertise, and proven results. Today, we're proud to have helped more than 3,000 families buy and sell homes while becoming one of Illinois' leading real estate teams.

1. A Team Working For You

When you hire The Star Home Team, you don't just hire one REALTOR®.

You benefit from experienced buyer specialists, listing specialists, marketing professionals, transaction coordinators, management, and administrative support working together to help your transaction move smoothly from start to finish.

Learn more about our team approach: What Happens When You Work With The Star Home Team?

2. Local Expertise That Matters

Real estate is local.

Our team specializes in communities throughout:

  • Lake County, Illinois

  • McHenry County, Illinois

  • Kenosha County, Wisconsin

  • Surrounding Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin communities

Because we work in these markets every day, we provide insights on neighborhoods, schools, pricing trends, commuting, and local amenities that online searches simply can't replace.

3. More Than 3,000 Families Served

Experience matters.

Since beginning our real estate business in 1998, we've helped more than 3,000 families buy and sell homes.

That experience allows us to anticipate challenges, negotiate effectively, and guide clients through changing market conditions with confidence.

Learn more: How Many Homes Has The Star Home Team Sold?

4. Innovative Marketing For Sellers

Selling a home today requires far more than placing it on the MLS.

Our marketing strategy may include:

  • Professional photography

  • Drone photography

  • Video marketing

  • Zillow Showcase listings

  • Social media advertising

  • Digital marketing

  • Open houses

  • Home preparation guidance

Every listing receives a customized marketing plan designed to maximize exposure.

5. Guidance From Start To Finish

Whether you're buying your first home or selling your fifth, we believe communication is essential.

Our team keeps you informed through every stage, including:

  • Consultation

  • Pricing

  • Home search

  • Negotiation

  • Inspections

  • Financing

  • Closing

Clients always know what comes next.

6. A Commitment To Education

Broker Owners Jim and Susan Starwalt have been licensed since 1998, and Jim is also a state licensed real estate instructor, helping educate future REALTORS® and experienced agents through continuing education. That commitment to learning benefits every client we serve.

7. Award Winning Results

The Star Home Team has earned recognition among Illinois' leading real estate teams and has been recognized through RealTrends Verified for outstanding production. These accomplishments reflect years of consistent client service and successful transactions.

8. We Believe Relationships Come First

Our goal isn't simply to help you close on a home.

We want to become your trusted real estate resource for years to come.

Many of our clients return when they're ready to move again and confidently refer their family, friends, and coworkers.

Those long-term relationships are the foundation of our business.

Why Buyers And Sellers Continue To Choose The Star Home Team

Every real estate company promises great service.

What makes us different is the combination of experience, teamwork, technology, communication, local knowledge, and a genuine commitment to helping people achieve their goals.

Whether you're buying your first home, moving across town, relocating to the area, or preparing to sell, we're here to help you make informed decisions with confidence.

If you're looking for trusted real estate professionals serving Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin, we'd love the opportunity to earn your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I choose a real estate team instead of an individual agent?

A team provides multiple professionals with different specialties, allowing for faster communication, better marketing, and additional support throughout the transaction.

How long has The Star Home Team been in business?

Jim and Susan Starwalt have been licensed since 1998 and have built The Star Home Team into one of the area's leading real estate organizations.

How many families has The Star Home Team helped?

The Star Home Team has helped more than 3,000 families buy and sell homes.

What areas do you serve?

We proudly serve Lake County, McHenry County, Northern Illinois, Kenosha County, Southern Wisconsin, and many surrounding communities.

Do you work with both buyers and sellers?

Yes. We assist buyers, sellers, first-time home buyers, relocation clients, investors, and those looking to downsize or upsize.

What marketing do you use to sell homes?

Our marketing may include professional photography, drone photography, video, Zillow Showcase, digital advertising, social media marketing, and open houses.

Are you affiliated with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate?

Yes. The Star Home Team is part of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Star Homes.

About the Author

S

usan 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.

What Happens When You Work With The Star Home Team?

Why Buyers Choose The Star Home Team

Why Sellers Choose The Star Home Team

Meet Our Leadership Team

How Many Homes Has The Star Home Team Sold?