Meet the Team

Several years ago, I started my real estate career after working over thirty years in manufacturing.  I had received my teaching degree from Eastern Illinois University, but only taught 2 years.  I found I was better suited for an office job, and did most of my time in the tank industry – working for two companies that specialized in tanks for the ag business.   After resigning from that, I dabbled in self-employment and other office jobs until I decided to try my hand at real estate sales.  I have never looked back!

 

Having been born and raised within a twenty mile radius of Arthur, Illinois, I have made many connections over the years with many wonderful people and I also have many great relatives that live within the same area.  I started school in a two-room school house (so now you can guess my age !) near Bruce, Illinois, then rode the bus into Sullivan through fifth grade.  Our family moved to Hammond, Illinois where I finished grade school and then attended, and graduated from, high school at Atwood-Hammond.  From there I went to EIU to complete my education with a BS in Science – Early Childhood Education.

 

My husband, Gene, and I have four great, funny, independent children and 4 of the best grandchildren anywhere!  We also have two step-grandchildren and now, 2 fantastic little step-great-grandsons.  We stay pretty busy following all the kids from Pre-school activities through college activities.  Gene still works at the same tank company I resigned from, and travels frequently for that company.  We are blessed to have the opportunity to do lots of traveling with friends, family or alone – we love being on the go!

My goal as a real estate broker is to serve my clients to the very best of my ability.  I work with all of my clients in the most honest and straightforward way.  My biggest real estate thrill is watching the buyers and sellers interact at the closing table as each of them culminates their dream – either selling or buying.  I realize some people don’t believe that a real estate agent is necessary to buy or sell their home, but in reality, most people only do this once in a lifetime, so our experiences can be very helpful and calming to a one-time buyer or seller, or an experienced buyer or seller.  Yes, homes can be bought and sold without a realtor, but I feel that our job is to coordinate, follow-through and be there for every client in order to make this occasion as stress free as possible for all involved.  That is my goal – and as a managing broker/owner, I feel responsible for every client’s experience and intend to bring the transaction to completion in the best way possible for all involved.

Thanks for considering our local company for your real estate needs.  We look forward to serving you!

 

 

Hi, I am Merle Plank, your local hometown Realtor. I have lived in the Arthur-Arcola area all my life. My interest in real estate began in 1987 when I started my own company, M&L Builders, Inc., and I have worked in the building industry since then – building new homes, remodeling, buying/selling houses, and fixing up rental property. In 2012, I got my real estate license. If you’re thinking of buying or selling a home in this area, give me a call or set up an appointment to see if we can help you find that dream house you’re looking for. I look forward to meeting you.

I was born, raised, and have lived in the Arthur area most of my life. My wife, Melissa, and I have 3 children – Brook, 6; Ian, 5; and Jeremiah, 3. Before becoming a licensed Realtor, I worked in the construction industry for 21 years, where I spent the last 11 years in sales. I’m excited about having the opportunity to join Karen Good’s team. I have a passion for real estate – both owning and investing – and I also enjoy helping people. Not only will I be offering brokerage services for buying/selling properties, but also a property management service. My desire is to make buying, selling, and owning real estate as hassle-free as possible.

I have lived in the area for most of my life, and my husband, Jonathan, and I reside in Arthur with our three children.  I've spent the majority of the last eight years dedicating my energy to staying home with my children, but I've always had an interest in the world of real estate.  I turned that interest into a reality in 2015 when I was presented with the opportunity to join the team at Village Square Real Estate.  I know that buying and/or selling a home can be a little overwhelming, and I'm here from start to finish to make the process as straightforward and smooth as I can for you.