At 23 years old REALTOR® Shaun Raugstad decided to become a REALTOR®. The decision was an easy one. It wasn’t based on a desire for wealth, or an ambition to be a top agent, it was born from the realization that he was not excited to become a special education teacher and pursue his degree. He will never forget the exact moment he made this decision, “It was the obvious choice and so incredibly clear” he recalls.  

Shaun spent his entire childhood around construction, watching his father and grandfather build homes. During his college years, Shaun worked in the trades for various independent owners learning different trades. Becoming a REALTOR®, he thought, might just be a way to combine his construction knowledge and his love for working with people.

In 2004, armed with his newly minted real estate license, Shaun stepped into an industry he was still getting to know. The market was fast and furious, and he was willing to go anywhere, work around the clock, and do anything for his clients. He found an amazing mentor and role model at his Coldwell Banker office, who, to this day, is still his best friend in the industry. “I couldn’t have gotten luckier. My life would have been drastically different had I chosen to work anywhere else,” states Shaun.

Today, twenty years later, Shaun still considers himself young, but he can’t believe how different things are now compared to when he started: GPS wasn’t yet mainstream, and navigating listings meant printing MapQuest directions. He remembers bringing a TV, complete with antenna, to Sunday open houses to watch Bears games—something that unexpectedly allowed him to connect with potential buyers on a human level. Shaun quickly learned that success wasn’t about the sale; it was about building relationships, even if that meant stepping outside conventional norms. 

“I’ve never thought of myself as a salesman,” he reflects. “I’ve just always wanted to meet new people, be myself, and work with people who wanted to work with me.”

That quiet humility has defined Shaun’s career from the start. For him, success isn’t measured by luxury cars, extravagant vacations, or designer clothing. His approach is rooted in living within his means and valuing relationships over material gain. In fact, to Shaun, the client relationship is so important that he has never considered having an assistant. “When people want to work with me, I want to make sure that I am their only point of contact throughout the entire deal,” he affirms.

Shaun’s down-to-earth nature and practical mindset have set him apart in a fast-paced, often flashy industry. Whether he’s personally helping clients with labor tasks at the eleventh hour or coordinating a team of trusted professionals to tackle last-minute repairs, Shaun isn’t afraid to roll up his sleeves and go the extra mile. “Clients remember the little things forever,” he says. 

In today’s market, where inventory is tight and challenges are ever-present, Shaun relies on the relationships he’s built over the years. His business is largely referral-based—a testament to the trust he’s earned by putting people first and giving everyone the personal attention they deserve. 

Despite his achievements, Shaun remains deeply grounded. His brother, who lives nearby, has become a near-daily presence in his life, and Shaun speaks of his nieces and nephews with pride.

When he’s not working, Shaun’s happiest moments often involve having a fishing rod in hand. “For me, there's nothing quite like the tranquility and connection to nature that comes with time spent fishing,” he shares. “There's something incredibly calming and therapeutic about it.” 

Shaun is also a dedicated softball player, spending several nights a week on the field. One of the leagues he plays in is a nonprofit that supports several charitable causes in Glenview, his hometown—a perfect reflection of his commitment to contributing in meaningful ways, both personally and professionally.

Shaun’s advice to other REALTORS® aligns with his values: prioritize authenticity, knowledge, and financial responsibility. “First and foremost, stay true to yourself and your unique approach,” he emphasizes. “Being genuine will resonate with clients and fellow REALTORS®, and that leads to stronger connections. Equally important is understanding your product inside and out: familiarize yourself with every aspect of homes, but especially the properties you represent. This level of expertise should be expected from everyone in this industry because it not only saves clients time and money, but also establishes trust and credibility.”  

As Shaun continues to be true to himself, his commitment to meaningful relationships and unwavering dedication to his clients remain at the heart of his work. Whether rolling up his sleeves to solve a last-minute issue, casting a line in the lake, or connecting with loved ones, Shaun’s thoughtful approach defines his life and career. In a fast-paced industry, he stands out not by chasing the next big thing, but by staying grounded in what truly matters: making an impact, one genuine connection at a time.