News

The trade association that represents all 48,000 Realtors® in Illinois announced that Ware Realty Group’s principal and designated managing broker will be its 2027 president-elect. Sarah Ware will serve alongside president Debbie Prodehl, treasurer Brandon Shaffer and immediate past president Jeff Kolbus.

Illinois REALTORS® bestowed its highest honor on managing broker Sarah Ware, officially naming her 2026 REALTOR® of the Year. Since the early 1960s, its reserved this annual award for those who have profoundly enhanced the professional image of REALTORS® through personal leadership, industry service and the promotion of civic, community and charitable causes. 

“Early in my career I realized that being in the room where decisions are made isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity. This scholarship removes a financial barrier so under-represented brokerage owners can claim their seat at the table, expand their networks and help reshape an industry that should reflect the diversity of the communities we serve.”

Springfield-based nonprofit Illinois REALTORS® announced today that it would put Sarah Ware forward for its leadership ladder in 2026. The managing broker of Ware Realty Group is slated to join the association’s leadership team as its treasurer-elect.

The managing broker of Ware Realty Group earned “the highest and most coveted award that can be bestowed by one’s peers,” from CAR by demonstrating professionalism, a willingness to mentor others and leadership that has significantly impacted the advancement of the profession. As 2023 president, she will continue to serve the association and its members as immediate past president for the next year.

“Open doors for one another and ensure we continue to strengthen this industry and association. … If we all commit to showing up just as we are, we can work together toward a stronger industry for ourselves, our city and everyone within it.”