Jane Lee’s journey to becoming one of the top REALTORS® in Lake County and Chicagoland is a testament to vision, determination, and a profound commitment to helping others achieve their dreams. From her early days in China, where intense academic competition shaped her resilience, to leading one of Illinois’s most successful real estate teams, Jane has shown that with hard work and heart, the impossible becomes possible.

Growing up in China in the 1980s, Jane faced challenges that few can imagine. “In my generation, 100 students would take a test to qualify for college, and only 3 percent would be accepted,” she recalls. “It was the only opportunity to rise in society and create a future for myself.”

Her father’s teachings instilled in Jane a sense of responsibility from a young age. “My dad gave me a monthly budget to buy groceries for the family,” she says. “It taught me how to budget effectively, which became invaluable in my adult life and as a business owner.”

Through rigorous exams and fierce competition, Jane secured a spot at Fuzhou University, where she earned a degree in chemical engineering. After two years in the field, she shifted her focus to computer science, earning a master’s degree at Loyola University Chicago.

It was in 1994, while working as a programmer and coder for a bank, that Jane’s path took an unexpected turn. “Buying my first home opened my eyes,” Jane shares. “I hated my job, and real estate looked like something I’d enjoy. I told my husband, ‘I’m going to try this,’ and that’s how it all began.”

What started as a career pivot soon became a calling. Jane quickly discovered that real estate wasn’t just about buying and selling properties; it was about making meaningful connections. “Helping someone find their dream home is incredibly rewarding,” she says. “It’s not just about houses; it’s about building trust and relationships.”

Jane’s determination set her apart from the start. Inspired by local top producers, she told herself, “If they can do it, so can I.” With hard work, consistency, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, she built her business from the ground up. It took six years for Jane to establish the Jane Lee Team, but the wait proved worthwhile. And through her leadership, they’ve weathered challenges like the 2008 market crash and the COVID-19 pandemic with resilience, with Jane ensuring her team’s stability by keeping salaries intact and navigating each crisis with care.

Since 2014, the team has grown exponentially—from just nine members to nearly fifty-five today. “Finding the right people who share the same culture and philosophy is challenging,” Jane admits. “But it’s worth the effort to create a cohesive, results-driven team.”

Central to the team’s success is Grace Yu, the number one top-performing agent on the Jane Lee Team. “Grace brings unmatched expertise, keen negotiation skills, and a genuine dedication to her clients,” Jane says. “She’s not just a closer; she’s a leader who inspires the entire team to strive for excellence.” Together, Jane and Grace have cultivated an environment where mentorship, collaboration, and mutual respect drive exceptional results.

The Jane Lee Team is renowned for its commitment to personalized service and local expertise, delivering outstanding results while maintaining a personal touch. “We’ve built a well-oiled machine,” Jane explains. “Every team member is trained to be an expert in their field, ensuring clients receive the best possible experience.”

Beyond her professional achievements, Jane finds fulfillment in her personal life. Married to John Shang, with whom she shares two grown children, Chelsea and Corey, Jane treasures family time, whether enjoying weekly dinners, traveling, or exploring new culinary adventures. Her mornings begin at 4:30 am with meditation and motivational audiobooks—a routine that keeps her inspired and ready for each day.

Jane’s generosity extends far beyond her business. She actively supports organizations like the Illinois Firefighter’s Association and the Midwest Asian Health Association, reflecting her belief in lifting others as she climbs.

“Success isn’t just about achieving your goals,” Jane reflects. “It’s about helping others achieve theirs. When I help someone find a home, it’s a moment where dreams are realized, and lives are often transformed.”

For Jane, real estate is both a passion and a purpose. Whether she’s mentoring her team, building lasting relationships with clients, or contributing to her community, Jane remains focused on the bigger picture: creating a legacy of trust, excellence, and impact.