"My ethnic background, language aptitude, professional accomplishments, and passion for social causes are skills I use to help and advocate for my clients,” explains Redfin REALTORⓇ Layching Quek. “Next to getting married and having a child, buying a home is probably the most monumental decision people make. I want to be the person who makes that process easier.”

This perspective is at the heart of Layching’s real estate career, but her story begins thousands of miles away from the bustling streets of Chicago, where she now helps families find their dream homes. Born and raised in Malaysia, Layching grew up in a vibrant, multicultural environment that instilled in her a deep appreciation for diversity. As a first-generation Chinese Malaysian, she became fluent in five languages, including Mandarin, Cantonese, and English.

“Growing up in a melting pot of cultures taught me to respect and value different perspectives,” Layching says. Her grandmother, a petite but formidable woman, was a guiding force in her life. “My grandmother escaped the cultural revolution in China, started a bakery business with my grandfather, and then turned it into a household name in the region. Her work ethic and resilience are qualities I’ve always admired.”

Education was another pillar of Layching’s upbringing. She earned a master’s degree in business, a foundation that would later serve her well in the fast-paced real estate industry. But before she found her calling, Layching embarked on a corporate career as an account executive for an international shipping company. The role polished her organizational and people skills, but it also revealed what was missing. 

“I wanted more control over my life and fewer work-related travel demands,” she explains. “It was a journey of self-discovery before I was able to find my lifelong career.” The first breadcrumb on the path toward becoming a REALTORⓇ came with her experience of buying her own home: “I wasn’t happy with the representation I’d had, and I knew I could do better for others.”

“I wanted to try to help others to realize their dream of being a homeowner,” she continues. “My passion for languages, travel, and architecture also brought me to real estate.”

After obtaining her license, Layching started small with buying, selling, and flipping condos and townhouses. Almost immediately, her decision to become a REALTORⓇ was confirmed.

“I realized this was my calling,” she recalls. “I love helping people navigate the process.”

The early years demanded long hours and a steep learning curve. But, just like when she moved to the US from Malaysia, Layching leaned on her grit and determination, and leaned into the challenge of feeling uncomfortable in an unfamiliar environment. 

“I sacrificed a lot of family and self-care time back then,” she admits. “It took years to learn how to set boundaries and say no. Prioritizing my family time and self-care has made me better at what I do” 

Layching, who has been a top-producing agent for fourteen years, found work-life harmony through giving focused time to a mix of activities, causes, and important relationships in her day-to-day life. Today, she enjoys pickleball, yoga, and gardening, as well as the personal connections she has enriched along the way. 

“The most rewarding part of my job is making friends,” she shares. “Many of my clients become lifelong friends. Learning their stories and helping them achieve their dreams makes me a better person.”

Outside of work, Layching’s life is filled with family, community, and a trio of chirpy cockatiels named Sunshine, Sparky, and Gosha. Married to Paul L. Cheung, Layching cherishes time spent exploring new places and cuisines with her loved ones. You may also find Layching camping under the stars, surprising those who assume her polished appearance precludes an outdoorsy streak. 

“Most people wouldn’t guess it, but I love sleeping in a tent and cooking over a campfire,” she reveals.

Layching’s commitment to community extends to her support for PAWS Chicago, a no-kill animal shelter. “I can’t stand the idea of putting an expiration date on an animal,” she says. Her advocacy reflects a broader philosophy about the importance of compassion in every aspect of life.

As Layching continues to gracefully adapt to an ever-changing market, she looks forward to building her own team and expanding her impact. 

“The industry is evolving rapidly,” she notes. “Staying ahead means constantly learning and pivoting. I want to bring as much value as I can to my clients.” 

Layching’s advice to aspiring REALTORSⓇ? “Don’t do it [real estate] unless you’re truly passionate,” she says. “This job is about trust and relationships. If you’re in it for the right reasons, you’ll thrive.”

“For me, success isn’t just about money,” she says. “It’s about making a difference and taking care of the people I love."