Testimonials

Michele Celozzi


Hello, my name is Michele Celozzi, a Realtor like you, and I'd like to share with you the great experience I've had at CRR. I've been with CRR for about 4 years and last year was one of my best years as a Realtor. Having another full time job, and not to mention being a single parent of two, working under the CRR model is perfect for my lifestyle and I love to share that with others. In fact, I know a hard working woman who also has another full time job and is a mom of two and would like to change real estate offices. I think CRR is the best place to be and she'd like to learn more about CRR and possibly join. I look forward to sharing with her the advantages of being a Charles Rutenberg Realty broker.


Dave Chally


Hi, I'm Dave Chally, a Realtor like you and I've been in real estate for over 32 years. I joined Charles Rutenberg Realty for one reason, to gain control of my real estate business. I've always been the creator of my business but now... I keep the commission dollars I earn!

If you've been splitting your commissions with a lot of people, or if you are paying monthly fees, here is your chance to make a business decision that will result in a big pay raise for you! If your business generates 15 sales per year or more, you will love the Gold plan that pays you all of the commission less only $50 per check after the first sale each month!

I suggest you call Charles Rutenberg Realty today... joining CRR is the best move I've ever made: a lot more money in my pocket... professional, friendly advice when I need it... and the happiest office in real estate!


Ben Rivera


Ray, I have spoken with Tracy and Monika on several occasions. Every single time you and your staff has been amazing! The Yahoo Groups and info you add to it is great and appreciated how you try to share useful information. This is by far the best company I have been with in my years as an agent. Your staff continues to impress me.

Ben, thanks for the note. That is very nice to hear. It is especially appreciated that you took the time to share your thoughts in writing. We're looking forward to working with you in the coming years. -Ray

Ray, you have many of the elements of pieces that make a great company! I look forward to working with you guys as well. You run this business like an MBA would! An amazing business model, great technology, the leadership is evident and support staff is utilized very well. Anyways, thanks and I know you're busy so have a great day!


Agent Review


<iframe src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/394306436" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; fullscreen" allowfullscreen></iframe>


Reviews of Charles Rutenberg Realty
Coming Back to CRR
5/2/2017
Marianne H. says: Ray was very welcoming when I had an unpleasant situation with another brokerage. I learned about a couple of new business tools that will be available very soon that will make running our own business easier. Thanks, Ray! Marianne H
Yan Birkett
3/30/2017
Yan B. says: Mar 29, 2017 I was meeting Ray. He is a very professional and knowledgeable. He also very clear with all the policies of the company. Also I like his idea the interests of the agent first than company. I am waiting for work with him. Yan Birkett
Meeting with Ray
2/23/2017
Bruce H. says: He was very professional and really showed an interest. I wish all meetings went so smooth.
Meeting with Ray.
2/7/2017
Eron M. says: I had a great meeting with Ray and he provided a great overview of the company. Ray also provided some great information as that I can use to help my clients. I look forward to working with CRR in the years to come.
Informative Meeting with Ray
10/13/2016
Susan Z. says: I was so pleased and impressed to learn of the level of support and resources that Charles Rutenberg Realty offers its' agents. Ray's vast knowledge of real estate and his passion for the company was evident from the onset of the meeting. Ray has set up an extensive system to share information and learn from others in the group-a great way to work independently, yet have the backing of a proven and recognized company. Ray was very informative and very personable! Thank you- Susan Z.
Very Informative and Relaxing
10/12/2016
Fran M. says: Ray, did a superb job and was quite informative. I contacted him over a year ago and at that time was not able to make the change. He never bothered me and let me wait for the right time, which I appreciated. Hoping to be on board very soon
Interview to Join
6/1/2016
Stella B. says: As a newly licensed agent, Charles Rutenberg gave me great insight as to what I need to expect managing my Real Estate Business, the business model is unique and appealing. I have explored so many of the resources Ray informed me of during our meeting and I am pleased with the resources provided. The Agent group is very resourceful and is a great way to lock arms between agents for questions and business support. The office staff was pleasant and Ray was great with our time, I really enjoyed our time. I look forward to working with Charles Rutenberg.
Initial Meeting with Ray
3/26/2016
Eleanor M. says: My initial meeting with Ray was Awesome and very informative. He was so pleasant to talk with and made me feel so comfortable. I was impressed with his professionalism and so passionate about the concept of his company. I've been searching for just the right company to work for and my search is over, Charles Rutenberg Realty is the perfect fit for me, joining in April 2016. Thank you Ray!! Eleanor
Joining Charles Rutenberg
3/18/2016
Sam P. says: Ray was able to fit me in in his busy schedule on a short notice. He was very attentive and answer all of my questions. I am a newly licensed and I interviewed many of the major companies on the market. I think that Charles Rutenberg is the Best fit for me. If you are newly licensed or you are not happy with your current brokerage, you should definitely talk with Ray from Charles Rutenberg.
Meeting on sharing educational information
2/24/2016
Arlene P. says: Ray was professional and easy to talk with. He was attentive and open to different ideas that I presented. I look forward to working with him.
Broker interview to Join
1/30/2016
Tim P. says: I arrived early to meet Ray and found him very friendly and Accepting. He answered all of my questions and then some I didn't even think to ask. Fee structure was perfect for my Goals for the new year. I joined on the spot after having interviewed other Brokerages, this was a great fit for my business model. Thank you Ray for the interview it was truly eye opening. Tim Pruitt
Professional & Informative
1/28/2016
Miriam K. says: It was a pleasure meeting with Ray. He took the time to explain in great detail the benefits of joining the Charles Rutenberg team. To my surprise there were no hidden fees and the benefits far exceeded the competition. I left our meeting feeling enthusiastic and confident and look forward to a succesful real estate investing career with Charles Rutenburg Realty. Thank you kindly Ray!
Interview to join
1/23/2016
Jim N. says: Very impressed with Ray's professionalism. Answered all my questions in detail. I can't wait to make the change. Jim Novak
Interview to join
11/21/2015
Justine Y. says: My interviewer was Ray. It lasted about 1 hour, I have learned not only about Charles Rutenberg, I have also learned great tips about being a real estate broker.
1st meeting with Ray
10/29/2015
Katie H. says: A wonderful experience. Ray was very easy to speak with and answered all of my questions. I look forward to working with him! Katie Hastings
Friendly and Professional!
10/14/2015
Katie K. says: Ray was very informative and friendly. I enjoyed talking with him and will be working with him again in the future!
Informative and Professional
9/11/2015
Maribeth T. says: My initial meeting with Ray was not only extremely informative, but very relaxed and enjoyable. Ray is very obviously well educated in the field and answered most of my questions before I even had the opportunity to ask...following up with responses to the others I had. For an agent who is truly independent and runs their own business CRR is an excellent fit and the fee structure is unbeatable! There was absolutely no pressure and I left feeling very excited about my future. I am very excited to transition to CRR. There is NO doubt that it is the right move for many reasons. Ray is not only a professional but a gentleman as well...I entered in the pouring rain and he was kind enough to walk me back to my car with an umbrella...now that's class! Thank you Ray! Looking forward to our next conversation!!
Came Back!
7/22/2015
Tom Q. says: Hard to believe Realtors still give such a significant portion of their income to their brokers. The model for so many national brokers fails the individual agent. The fact that there are so many brokers out there just drives it home - it's the individual agent that makes the real connection to the consumer, not the big brand. It's the individual agent making the connection, establishing rapport, doing the deal, and facilitating the whole process. None of the money I paid my last broker did ANY of that. I came back to CRR after a short period with another broker, but the experience proved I should never have left. Ray is supportive, accessible, knowledgeable (about ALL property types), and provides some great tools to get it all done.
Interview with Ray
7/8/2015
Pamela C. says: My appointment was perfectly on time and Ray explained everything I needed to know. I sounds like a wonderful fit for me. I sounds like a great place to work.
Interview to Join
6/25/2015
Pam M. says: The meeting was informative, moved at a good pace, and material presented was constructed well and easy to understand. I look forward to working for the company. Thank you!
Initial Interview
6/22/2015
Ron R. says: After retirement from 35 years of industrial commodity sales I passed the state test, took the advice from a real estate pro ( my wife), and set up a meeting with Charles Rutenberg. My interview with Ray was very enjoyable - he listened as I explained my thoughts on contributing to a team sales effort, and then he pointed out how meainingful support is available from the Rutenberg systems and professional office staff. All this at a sensible and contemporary commission structure. I'm very excited about the future - Ron Long
Agent Initial Interview
5/13/2015
Olena H. says: The meeting was informative and open. No pressure to join the company, and most importantly no bad-mouthing of competitors-as it happens often. All my questions were answered. Thank you
Returning to Charles Rutenberg Realty
5/3/2015
Bob A. says: I was a salesperson and gave up my license in 2009 . I recently obtained my Brokers license and I am returning to Charles Rutenberg Realty. Great place to work!
Interview with Ray
4/23/2015
Laura r. says: Felt comfortable. Office super clean. Total different compensation from what I was used to but IT totally made sense to me! Love it! It's like being in business for yourself but not by yourself. ...thank you Ray.
Interview to Join
4/10/2015
Robert S. says: Meeting with Ray was very comfortable and informative. This business model is ideal. I switched on the spot, and I am looking forward to a bright future here.
Questions
1/20/2015
Ben r. says: Had questions about how to fill out one of our contracts. Ray is always very helpful and knowledgeable.
Agent Overview
12/31/2014
Nicholas C. says: I enjoyed meeting with Ray very knowledgeable and really told me how Charles Rutenberg works, very straight forward. I'll look forward to another meeting.
Everything I Thought & More
10/21/2014
Russ W. says: Ray was straight to the point with precise answers to all my questions. He knows this industry and I left there feeling this is where I want and need to be.
Interviewed to Join
8/20/2014
Bryan B. says: Ray did a great job at explaining the business model. In my opinion this is perfect and unbeatable for real estate agents. I will be making the switch as soon as possible.
Intial Agent Overview
8/9/2014
Crystal K. says: Ray was very informative and gave me all the information I needed and was very clear on how the company operates. I am excited to join the team when the time comes!
New to CRR
7/26/2014
Geoff G. says: I had a very informative, welcoming, introduction meeting with Ray. I love the CRR business model and signed up on the spot.
Website Information and Marketing
7/10/2014
John S. says: Wanted to get Ray's input on marketing as a Buyers Agent and also get some input on the different website options. Always informative and helpful. I have been here just over six months and it is everything as promised and appreciate how well organized the company is. Very pleasant staff and environment.
Great company and people
7/1/2014
Chris K. says: after years in the real estate business and many different brokers, I finally found my home. They are truly a people first business, and as a broker/realtor its MY business, CR respects that and it shows. thanks, now let's go help as many people as we can and make lots of money for our familys!
Exceptional
5/25/2014
Jacqueline P. says: My meeting with Ray was exceptionally well. He was very informative about the company and the the vast amount of resources they offer. I was going to put my license in a holding company but after speaking with Ray and being made aware of all the tools that I can use to be efficient as a broker gave me a change if heart and made me want to become a member of Charles Rutenbergs firm. Jacqueline Pearce
Meeting
5/24/2014
Bernadeta s. says: Great company to be with, Ray and office staff are very helpful and professional.
Interview to Join
4/22/2014
Uda P. says: My interview with Ray was extremely informative about the ethics, customer relationships and interactive tools of CRR. I am excited to be part of a work environment that has been voted as the best place to work for a mid-size company! It speaks of caring for their people and great support. Uda P

Interview to Join
3/27/2014
James B. says: My interview to join provided me with confidence, clarity, and direction. Sitting down with Ray to discuss joining this company was a pleasure. Ray made me feel comfortable in asking questions, and provided me with the basic tools I needed to start a career as a real estate broker. Ray is an extremely knowledgeable asset in this industry, and his commitment to professionalism and business ethics is indisputable. I feel that after having attended this interview, I am now equipped with the resources I need to get started on this career.
Interview to Join
3/24/2014
Rose P. says: I was ready to join CRR about 5-6 years ago but my Broker at the time persuaded me to stay, which I truly regret. My meeting with Ray went smoothly not to mention how easy he made the transition! I was REALLY impressed with the technology made available by CRR and am looking forward to a long and happy relationship! Rose P
Thanks for All your help
3/11/2014
Jan K. says: I have been with CRR since 2005. I want to thank Ray for all the courteous time he provided for me. I had a problem and he found the time to lead me in the proper direction. It has been fun working with Ray, Tracy and Megan. Great Leader Jan Koester
Initial sign-on meeting with Ray
1/24/2014
Terry F. says: I was extremely impressed by the thoroughness of every aspect of Rutenberg Realty. My meeting with Ray was great - he seems to have thought of everything to make the transition process as simple and clear as possible. I feel I have very good support moving forward.
Interview to join
12/18/2013
Ross g. says: Ray did a great job covering everything I needed to know and it looks like I will join asap
My 1 Year Review
11/10/2013
Anne V. says: Yes, believe it or not, I am soon coming up on my 1 year anniversary with CRR. Just finished reviewing my numbers and I am very happy to be where I am. After being with 2 different large brokers in the past 16 years, I can truly say I am where I will be staying for a long time. I am now fully compensated for bringing in my own business. My fears about not having an office in my neighborhood are gone, and I am comfortable being a mobile agent and servicing my clients just like I always did. Very happy to be here. Anne V
Great experience
10/4/2013
Ruth S. says: As a soon-to-be new agent, I was nervous that Charles Rutenberg wouldn't have the support I'd need. Ray answered all my questions, demonstrated various marketing tools, and put me in touch with a couple of his agents who offer different learning opportunities. I was very impressed with everything I heard!
Meeting with Mr.Ray and Monika on September 23rd,,2013
9/24/2013
Shrishail V. says: Meeting was worth.I am very Thankful to Ray and of course to Monika V.Appreciate their support,,encouragement and they are always there when help is needed.Paperless pipeline and procedures were my main reason for the meeting.With the help,guidance and walk through with Ray and Monika..I walked out of the Office with more confidence.Thanks Again to Ray and Office team!!!!!
Interview to Join
7/5/2013
Min H. says: The interview went very well. Ray clearly explained the company policy, the work environment and the challenge for new licensees. I am looking forward to making a decision soon.
Interview to join CCR
4/21/2013
Jody S. says: My interview with Ray was very informative. He answered all my questions and I was impressed with all the technology available. I am very excited to begin working with Ray and such a fantastic company. With all Charles Rutenberg offers I am confident I will be able to offer my clients so much more.
Initial Meeting With Ray
4/17/2013
Robert K. says: I was very pleased with my initial interview with Ray Zabielski. I had already heard and read very positive reviews of Charles Rutenburg Realty, particularly their focus on customer service excellence and their extensive use of the latest real estate technology and marketing resources. Ray's knowledge, experience and friendly professionalism made me feel very comfortable with my decision to join CRR.
Trish W. says;
2/5/2013
Trish W. says: My meeting with Ray was wonderful. He answered all my questions and made me feel very comfortable with joining this company. Ray was very informative and professional. I look forward to working with this office and with Ray.
Interview to Join
8/29/2012
Bart S. says: My interview with Ray went very smooth and was very informative. I did a lot of research before making contact and the Brokerage exceeded my expectations. There are many useful tools offered and very organized. Ray answered all of my questions, introduced me to the staff and I left as a Realtor working with Charles Rutenberg Realty. I look forward to the future working with this company. Bart S.
Recently Joined
4/23/2012
Alexandra T. says: Really enjoyed meeting with Ray. Love the company's focus on technology and business efficiency. Looking forward to becoming established with the company!
Joined
4/19/2012
Jerry W. says: Our meeting with Ray went smoothly. That's more than I can say for other "big box" brokerages I've been with. Other agent friends that have encouraged this move say I will find being at CRR much more rewarding. Jerry Wolak
Joining Meeting with Ray
4/9/2012
Maria R. says: It was a very pleasant experience to meet with Ray, he gives a good presentation and is knowledgeable. I think Charles Rutenberg has a smart business model and I look forward to working for the brokerage.
Excellant company to work with
2/26/2012
Bonnie M. says: The 1st meeting with Ray is great which makes me decides to join the company right away. The information he present is clear, informative,professional, smooth and the way I feel is this is the one I like to work with. I am very happy of become a member of the company.
Back at home.
12/22/2011
Anthony S. says: Ray it was good talking with you again. It feels good to be back.
I like keeping my checks!
12/13/2011
Mayra P. says: CRR family is the best brokerage in Chicago. They know how hard some Realtors work and this is a brokerage that doesn't find interest in keeping realtors checks! The holiday parties and other events are a great way to network with other CRR realtors. I believe realtors will soon get the picture. Go get your leads, referrals and maintain your contract management skills and you can keep your commissions. The small transaction fee if nothing at all! Call Ray @ CRR today or keep giving your earnings away! Mayra Perdue
Thanks for your input
11/1/2011
Jessie P. says: Ray, thanks for being both supportive and knowledgeable.

Meeting with Ray Zabielski 10/25/2011
Yolanda G. says: My appointment with Ray was awesome! My meeting was informative and exciting.
The technology being used by CRR is phenomenal. I am really looking forward to getting started with Charles Rutenberg. I just hate it took me so long to get here. Yolanda Greer
New agent mtg 10/23/2011
Jo l. says: smooth sailing - Ray's a wealth of knowledge and the technology is magnificent. Can't wait to get started. Jo
Excellent and Informative 6/18/2011
Chandy J. says: Chandy Jacob: Time with Ray was informative and helpful for the future.......Thanks.
Looking forward to joining 5/12/2011
Felicia W. says: I met with Ray and left the office with the warmth and encouragement I sought when I begin my real estate career.
I will be joining in June and look forward to working with Ray and the staff.
I'm BACK!!!!!!! 5/6/2011
John M. says: I'm back to the best, most efficient, customer & agent centric real estate office in the Chicagolands! I focus on representing home buyers in the western suburbs from Hinsdale to Aurora, with Elmhurst, Glen Ellyn, Wheaton and Naperville in between. Miller Makes it Happen! www.GreatPlacesGreatHomes.com John Miller, 630 607 2992
Wonderful 5/3/2011
Erin S. says: Looking forward to joining. It was a boost. I feel motivated again to sell Real Estate.
Very Impressed! 3/15/2011
Christine S. says: Feeling re-energized about my career in an industry that has been really rough in the last couple of years.
This business model fits into the vision of what real estate in the 21st century shoud be.
Interview to join 3/6/2011
Paul P. says: Paul: My appointment went very well. I found Ray to be very easy to speak to and very supportive torwards his agents. After being at a highly technical broker for many years, I found CRR in many ways to be even more advanced and perfectly geared for today's real estate business.
Interview to Join 1/6/2011
Dale T. says: The appointment went well. The model is pretty much as I found on the website, and likely the model of the future in real estate. I will be joining soon.

Tanesha Bolden

Hello! My name is Tanesha Bolden.

When I first got into real estate I honestly thought joining a big-name real estate company would be the only way to attract potential clients. As time went by, I realized that it wasn't the company's name that was attracting clients for me; it was me and my expertise as a Realtor.

When I received information aboutCharles Rutenberg Realty in the mail, I was immediately impressed by the professionalism and the strong presence of the agents that appeared on the cover of the newsletter. As I read further, I realized that the ability to receive 100% of my commission was certainly a plus! I thought about all the money I'd left with my previous company.

Then I talked to Ray Zabielski and I knew I was making the right decision. He offered a secure sense of support and a very professional atmosphere. Since I've joined Charles Rutenberg Realty, I've learned more than I'd ever expected about real estate. And I certainly have more control of my business.

I am able to set my own commission rate base on the circumstances of the deal. With my receiving 100% of the commission, I can negotiate a lower commission rate, if that is what it takes to make the deal, and I still come out dollars ahead in comparison to my previous firm. But most importantly, now I don't work as hard to earn more money and I have more time to spend with family and friends. ThanksCharles Rutenberg Realty for making my life a whole lot easier and profitable!


Marilyn Horton

I was first attracted to Charles Rutenberg Realty by the fantastic commission arrangement they offer. But that isn't the only advantage.

I quickly learned that the company's dedication to the profession and their agents is unmatched. This is just the type of company with which I am proud to be associated.

And I really appreciate being able to ask a question and get an immediate response from my managing broker.


Samalla McClellan

I'm Samalla McClellan, a Realtor like you.

I joined Charles Rutenberg Realty for one primary reason, to gain control of my real estate business! I've always been the creator of my business but now I determine the fees I charge and I keep the commission dollars I earn! I've always developed my own leads.

I work my own deals and now I get to keep it all! You've been splitting your commissions with a lot of people and if you've had enough, here is your chance to make a business decision that will result in a big pay raise for you! Call Charles Rutenberg Realty today.

Joining CRR is the best move I've ever made: a lot more money in my pocket, professional, friendly advice when I need it and the happiest office in real estate!


Elizabeth O'Malley

Moving to Charles Rutenberg Realty was easy and my potential is tremendous.

There is always someone from the “CRR TEAM” available to answer any of my questions and the bottom line is how much NET COMMISSION you can put in your pocket. When you add that it's a well managed, efficient organization, one that's a pleasure to deal with in every respect (both professionally and financially), well.

it's just a great company to be with!


Janet Brandt

Shortly after I joined Charles Rutenberg Realty I finalized my first closing. I was issued my first commission check in the amount of $13,775.00. Not only was my check issued promptly, but Ray, Tracy and the office staff are efficient and friendly.

Moving to Charles Rutenberg Realty was the best move in my real estate career to date, one I can take to the bank. I am looking forward to future closing checks in the months to come.