As a Leasing Consultant at Porte Apartments in West Loop, Chicago, Mel is responsible for managing tenant inquiries, conducting property tours, and guiding prospective tenants through the application process. She plays a key role in ensuring the smooth operation of leasing activities and organizing on-site resident events. Additionally, Mel collaborates with the property managers to maintain a high occupancy rate and a positive living experience for all residents.
Before joining The John Buck Company (JBC), Mel spent six years in residential real estate. She began her career with AMLI Residential and worked across their downtown portfolio of luxury high-rises. From there, she moved to private equity at North Park Ventures, where she was brought on to build their leasing department and oversee all leasing operations. This role gave her the opportunity to learn new skills and contribute to larger projects, such as multimillion-dollar condo deconversions and ground-up developments. Most recently, Mel worked as an independent real estate broker before realizing multi-family property management was where her true passion lies, which brought her to JBC!
Outside of work, Mel enjoys all things outdoors, especially when she can include her Siberian Husky, Oslo! She has a great passion for travel and different cultures, as her extended family is spread across North America, Europe, and Australia. Her love for global cuisines, particularly Mediterranean and sushi, is also a big part of her lifestyle. A first-generation Albanian American, Mel cherishes spending quality time with her friends! Mel also enjoys weight training, ice skating, and long walks with Oslo.
IDFPR Licensed Real Estate Broker