I accepted a position at Northwestern Hospital in Lake Forest and relocated our family from out of state. We actually found Nicole on Instagram while researching what it would be like to live in Lake Forest — looking for things to do, neighborhoods, and a sense of community. From our first conversation, we knew we were in the right hands. We purchased our home remotely and closed in mid-January — during one of the coldest weeks of the year. The day we arrived after driving all day with our young children, it was -10 degrees outside. Nicole had already gone to the house early, turned up the heat, and was there waiting for us. She had even set out a full spread of food, knowing we and our kids would be exhausted and hungry. It was also the first time I had ever seen the home in person. Walking into a warm, welcoming space instead of a freezing, empty house meant more than she will ever kno…
I accepted a position at Northwestern Hospital in Lake Forest and relocated our family from out of state. We actually found Nicole on Instagram while researching what it would be like to live in Lake Forest — looking for things to do, neighborhoods, and a sense of community. From our first conversation, we knew we were in the right hands. We purchased our home remotely and closed in mid-January — during one of the coldest weeks of the year. The day we arrived after driving all day with our young children, it was -10 degrees outside. Nicole had already gone to the house early, turned up the heat, and was there waiting for us. She had even set out a full spread of food, knowing we and our kids would be exhausted and hungry. It was also the first time I had ever seen the home in person. Walking into a warm, welcoming space instead of a freezing, empty house meant more than she will ever know. Nicole didn’t just help us buy a house — she helped us land as a family. Her professionalism, thoughtfulness, and care are exceptional. We are incredibly grateful she guided our move to Lake Forest.
We were relocating out of Lake Forest and needed a trusted advisor who understood the North Shore luxury market at a high level. Nicole exceeded every expectation. Her pricing strategy was thoughtful and data-driven, and she positioned our home beautifully from day one. She handled negotiations with confidence and discretion, and we always felt she was advocating for us — not just facilitating a transaction. Nicole operates like a true consultant. She anticipates challenges before they arise and manages details most agents don’t even see. If you are selling in Lake Forest and want someone who protects your asset and delivers with integrity, Nicole is that advisor.
Nicole's deep knowledge and passion about Lake Forest were so evident when we worked with her! She educated us on the schools, neighborhoods, and even all the fun local spots! We found our dream home, thanks to Nicole! We would highly recommend her to any family looking to buy in Lake Forest! Thank you!
Nicole recently rented out our loft in the West Loop while finding us our "forever home" in University Village. They were an absolute pleasure to work with through the whole process! They were knowledgable about both neighborhoods and honest in their feedback and advice through the whole home-hunting process. Our WL loft was leased up quickly due to their expertise in getting the right people in the door. I am sure the Dom and mimosas didn't hurt either! Thank you, Nicole and the Oertel Group, for making what can be a stressful process so easy and even fun!