Compass Snags Ottenheimer in North Shore Push

Scott Ottenheimer is having a homecoming on suburban Chicago’s North Shore.

His residential real estate team Ottenheimer Group has re-joined New York-based Compass Inc., strengthening the brokerage’s push into the North Shore, according to a Monday news release.

Ottenheimer is bringing his eight-member team along with him.

Tom Gorges, previously with @properties, is also joining the team to strengthen the Ottenheimer Group’s Glenview and Chicago expertise, according to Ottenheimer. Compass acquired Chicago-based @properties Christie’s International Real Estate for $444 million in 2024.

Ottenheimer’s move is a return after nearly four years at Baird & Warner and also underscores Compass’ aggressive expansion plans nationally. As the nation’s largest residential real estate brokerage, it most recently welcomed Bray Real Estate Group and its 100-agent-strong team into its fold in Texas.

Meanwhile, Baird & Warner, owned by a fifth-generation family, has touted its lengthy history as Chicago’s premier independent brokerage in its bid to differentiate itself amid large-scale industry consolidation led by Compass’ acquisition spree.

Compass credits the Ottenheimer Team with notching over $100 million in sales volume since 2023, adding that his decision was driven by a desire to leverage the brokerage’s collaborative culture, technology, in-office support systems and its nationwide agent referral network.

The North Shore market, with its low inventory and high prices, is a strong seller’s market that is

challenging for homebuyers, particularly first-time homebuyers, according to Joe Pasquesi of Compass.

“I think that now, more than ever, experienced agents who understand how to navigate a market like this will excel,” Pasquesi told The Real Deal. “Having a super experienced, client-focused team like the Ottenheimer Group raises the bar for everyone around us.”

Ottenheimer is a Chicago-native and a graduate of the Indiana University Kelley School of Business, and currently serves as one of four elected trustees for Northfield Township.

“Returning to Compass feels like coming home, but with more innovative tools and collaborative support to fuel our next chapter of growth,” Ottenheimer said.