Gergana Todorova had worked in customer service for the last 20 years, but when she became pregnant with her third child in 2013 she decided she needed something that offered her a bit more flexibility. She had bought several homes and investment properties herself over the years, and had always been intrigued by real estate, and decided it was the perfect choice, offering her the flexibility she needed, while taking advantage of her entrepreneurial spirit and her people skills.

In just a little more than four years, Gergana has already become a top producing agent in the lucrative Chicago area, doubling her business every year since starting. She has achieved such rapid success by focusing in on a niche market, the Bulgarian community.

After getting her Bachelor’s Degree in Agricultural Business in Bulgaria, back in 2000, Gergana decided to move to the United States to live her “American Dream”. The next year that dream became a reality when she took that 12 hour flight for the first time. She was just 21 years old then. Her dedication to succeed has driven her to study more and pursue an Applied Science Degree in Criminal Justice, which eventually helped her in better understanding the different customs and cultures that are present in this country, which in most cases is a necessity in order to be successful in the Real Estate world.

Gergana has a large presence in the Bulgarian community. She has quickly become the most in demand agent serving Bulgarians, and has done so through several unique approaches. She markets her business in the largest weekly Bulgarian newspaper, and she also writes a weekly column on real estate skewed towards the interests and needs of the community that she serves.  Every couple of months she can also be heard and seen offering her expertise in interviews that broadcast to the Bulgarian community not only in US, but also back in her birth country. She also does educational seminars that touches on things such as real estate and financial planning. She is passionate about helping people attain their “American Dream” by taking the first step, which is buying their first home. She also helps those that wish to downsize or upgrade in their housing needs, as well as those who wish to sell or rent out their investment properties.

Gergana is a Certified Negotiation Expert. Being a specialist in that area offers her clients another distinct advantage. “That’s a designation I’m really proud of, since getting your clients the best deal possible is a key part of your job as an agent. It’s given me the expertise to really consider all options and then put together a deal that is always in my client’s best interest. I am a US citizen for many years now, but my background as an immigrant has also been invaluable. I’m very open-minded and I think coming to a new country has given me a unique vision when it comes to dealing with difficulties that inevitably can rise during a transaction. I don’t give up and always look for solutions.”

Gergana is also a Certified Staging Consultant and offers her expert advice to her listing clients. “I really go all out getting a property “show ready” and then I produce fabulous marketing materials through my company.  Every property gets its own website and then I get them maximum exposure on all the major website and on social media. I also have an extensive database of nearly 3000 people and I target those as well.”

Gergana is very active in her community. Through her brokerage company which encourages charitable contributions and ongoing volunteerism from all broker associates, loan officers and staff, they have donated thousands of volunteer hours and more than two million dollars to a wide array of local nonprofit organizations with a focus on shelters and homelessness, particularly for women and children.

She is contributing to every charity event that raises money for a new Bulgarian school, which will be the first one ever outside Bulgaria that owns their own building.

Gergana enjoys spending time with her husband and three children and taking advantage of all the wonderful things the city has to offer. Today, she lives in Chicago-Northwestern Suburban area with her husband and their children. Her proficiency in Bulgarian, and her ability to communicate well in Russian have been enormously helpful  in allowing her to get closer and help her clients.

Gergana would like to continue to grow her business and couldn’t be more thrilled with her decision to become a Realtor®. “It’s such a rewarding feeling to be sitting at the closing table with happy new homeowners or sellers. This career makes me feel very useful and appreciated. I like where I am and I look forward to where I’m going.”

To learn more about Gergana Todorova, call 773-827-7827 or email gergana.todorova@bairdwarner.com