Bringing dedication and heart to her work as a REALTOR®, Paula Avenaim blends years of industry experience with a strong commitment to her clients. Known for her extensive knowledge in mortgage, title, and escrow, as well as her practical, no-nonsense approach, Paula is a guide as well as a deal closer. She helps her clients navigate one of the most significant financial decisions of their lives.

 

Paula’s role as a trusted guide for her clients can be traced back to the very start of her career. After graduating from Eastern Illinois University, she joined the fast-paced world of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, working with Hammer Trading Company. Much like in real estate, she and her team supported their trader clients through high-stress situations, helping them plan strategically for future moves. 

 

“Working at Hammer Trading Company taught me how to manage time, communicate well, follow up, and keep pushing to get what you want,” Paula shares.

 

Paula’s dedication to her clients and unshakeable work ethic have roots in her upbringing; she was inspired by her mother’s example. Growing up in west Roger’s Park, Paula watched her mom work tirelessly—she never missed a day of work or paid a bill late. “I admired my mom’s amazing work ethic,” Paula recalls. “She never complained, and she arrived early for everything—if she said to meet her at 5 pm, she’d be there at 4:45.” 

 

This sense of responsibility and commitment has shaped Paula’s approach to her career, driving her to show up for her clients with the same reliability and care. Paula's deep industry knowledge is as impressive as her work ethic. After starting her own mortgage and title company, New Horizon Mortgage and Indemnity Title, in 2001, she spent twenty-four years working in title, building the extensive background that sets her apart today as a REALTOR®.

 

Then, before moving fully into real estate, Paula managed Signature Title for several years,  working as a contract mobile closer and escrow officer for major title companies. But after over two decades in the field, Paula felt a growing need to work more closely with clients. 

 

“Being a closer and an escrow officer for over twenty years was amazing,” she shares. “However, I felt the need to work closer with buyers and sellers. I wanted to help them through what is likely one of the most important purchases or sales of their life.” This shift has been, in her words, the most rewarding experience and the best decision of her career.

 

Today, Paula is a global real estate advisor with Jameson Sotheby’s International Realty in Illinois and with ONE Sotheby's International Realty in South Florida. As the team lead of the Avenaim and Platt Luxury Home Group, she leverages her extensive industry background to provide top-notch service for clients in both markets. Her commitment to delivering exceptional service has earned her a reputation as a trusted advisor, someone who genuinely cares about her clients' success and strives to make their real estate experience as smooth and rewarding as possible.

 

Beyond her work with clients, Paula is deeply involved in the real estate community, dedicating her time to various industry organizations. She serves on the board of directors for the Jewish National Fund, NICAR, and the Women’s Council of REALTORS® in Chicago, where she plays an active role in shaping the future of the industry. She also contributes to several NSBAR committees, including YPN, Forms and Policies, BOD, RPAC, and GPIC.

 

But it’s not all business with Paula—she’s someone who embraces life and enjoys simple pleasures outside of work. In her younger days, Paula worked at Walter Payton’s America’s Bar, where she wore a cheerleading outfit and joined her coworkers for nightly floor shows, even dancing on the bar. “It was a different time,” she laughs, recalling those spirited days. 

 

Today, she still brings that same energy to her life, enjoying long bike rides, hiking, live music, and time with loved ones. In particular, she’s deeply proud of her three successful sons. She says that one of the greatest gifts in her life is seeing what good men they have become. For Paula, such moments are essential: they keep her grounded, energized, and ready to take on each new challenge with a clear mind and a full heart.

 

Whether she’s guiding clients through the complexities of a real estate transaction, enjoying a long bike ride, or listening to her favorite musicians, Paula brings the same sincerity and dedication to everything she does. For her, success isn’t just about numbers, it’s about making a meaningful impact in the lives of others and giving back to the community she values so deeply. As she so poignantly puts it, “Be authentic, be sincere, educate yourself, be patient, and give back. It will always be the right way to live your life.”