Villager Realty, a Chicago-area brokerage founded in 1991, has officially joined REMAX Premier on Chicago’s North Shore, bringing its full roster of agents into the REMAX network.
The move, led by Broker/Owner Dan Crouch, reflects a decision rooted in trust, professional relationships and shared experience with the global brand.
A Return Grounded in Experience
For more than three decades, Villager Realty operated as a full-service brokerage with a culture of independence and collaboration. The company had operated as a REMAX office before it went independent, that previous experience of having strong tools, a reputable brand and vast network readily available ultimately clarified to Crouch what the brokerage needed to do to grow.
“When we were independent, there were limits to what I could provide,” said Crouch. “I felt responsible for my agents and their success, and I knew we needed the right tools, education and brand support to move forward.”
That sense of responsibility defined the transition back to REMAX. Every active agent chose to make the move together.
“The fact that he didn’t lose an agent speaks volumes,” said Bobbie Fisher, a REMAX Premier recruiter involved in the transition. “They’re independent agents, but they’re incredibly loyal, and that kind of trust is rare.”
Relationships Make a Difference
A big factor in Crouch’s decision was his professional connection with Janice Corley, Broker/Owner of REMAX Premier.
“We already had history,” Crouch said. “We had worked together before, and I’ve always admired her. Janice is a firecracker with the energy of five 20-year-olds! Plus, there was a level of familiarity and trust with Janice and knowing what REMAX stands for.”
That shared understanding helped streamline the transition and align expectations from the start.
Expanding Support for Agents
For Villager Realty agents, the move unlocked access to the REMAX technology platform, educational programs and global network – resources that were difficult to replicate independently.
“The software suite, the education, the office meetings … these things matter,” Crouch said. “Our agents now have the ability to grow deeper, learn from other offices and support each other in real time.”
He added that the REMAX brand resonates with clients, particularly on listing appointments, where name recognition and reputation can make a significant difference.
“When you walk in with the REMAX name behind you, people know what that represents,” he said.
Looking Ahead
The Villager Realty transition highlights how relationships power the real estate industry – from agents and clients to brokers and recruiters – and how the REMAX network provides a foundation that supports those connections at every level.
As Crouch looks ahead, the focus is on rebuilding personal production, creating a team structure, and continuing to support his agents with expanded resources.
“This felt like a homecoming,” he said.
Written by Keri Henke
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