Realtor Directory

The REKAP Group is a leading Chicago real estate team at Compass, specializing in helping renters transition to homeownership and guiding clients in building long-term wealth through real estate investing. With deep community roots across Chicago’s neighborhoods and suburbs, the team focuses on supporting first-time buyers, young professionals, and investors through every stage of the process with personalized strategies and expert market knowledge.

Led by Michael Kaplan, The REKAP Group emphasizes transparent communication, education, and client empowerment. They offer tailored guidance on neighborhood selection, market analysis, and negotiation, complemented by their educational initiative, REKAP University, which teaches clients about building equity and making informed financial decisions. Leveraging Compass’s technology and marketing resources, the team delivers a seamless experience from initial consultation to long-term success.

Alexis Rios is a knowledgeable and client-focused real estate professional serving the Dallas market. She leverages her extensive local and nationwide real estate expertise, along with her 2023 Luxury Home Specialist certification from The Institute for Luxury Home Marketing, to guide clients through high-stress situations with professionalism and integrity.

With a background in corporate regional sales managing major accounts for brands like Patrón Tequila and Bacardi, Alexis brings strong negotiation skills, financial acumen, and a dedicated service approach. Fluent in Spanish, English, and conversational Vietnamese, she works with the Katie Chu Group at Compass, specializing in new developments and listings to deliver exceptional results and personalized client care.

Caroline Newell is a dedicated real estate professional serving clients across Austin, with an in-depth understanding of the city’s rapid growth and diverse neighborhoods. Her background in interior design and commercial furniture sales, combined with her personal experience as a homeowner and investor, equips her to guide clients through the complexities of Austin’s dynamic market and visualize the potential of each property.

A native Austinite, Caroline transitioned to full-time real estate in 2019 after successfully building her own real estate portfolio. Her design expertise, market knowledge, and commitment to client service make her a trusted advisor for homebuyers and investors alike, and she maintains a strong reputation and referral network within the Austin community. When not working with clients, she manages an Airbnb in Johnson City and enjoys exploring the Texas Hill Country with her family.

Sam Zerarka serves sellers and investors across Silicon Valley with over 25 years of local expertise in Menlo Park and Palo Alto. Since 2004, he has executed hundreds of transactions, leveraging his deep knowledge of the high-end market and a robust network of industry professionals to deliver a seamless, fully supported experience. His approach strategically coordinates every phase of the process to drive efficiency, minimize friction, and maximize success for his clients.

Formerly an engineer at HP, Sam brings a sharp, problem-solving mindset and a calm, steady demeanor to every negotiation and transaction. He specializes in complex deals including trust sales, upgrades, and 1031 exchanges, often guiding clients through remodeling and building projects by connecting them with reliable contractors who deliver on time and on budget. Known for being direct, honest, and discreet, Sam acts as a strategic advisor and long-term advocate, ensuring clients come out ahead while maintaining a personal connection throughout the journey.

Chris Cox serves clients across North Texas with over 19 years of local market experience and a deep understanding of the area's real estate landscape. Recognized as part of one of the top small real estate teams by Dallas Best Magazine and Real Trends, he is a valued member of the esteemed Carrie Himel Group. His approach focuses on helping clients find the perfect home by considering not just the property, but also the surrounding community and amenities.

A former college baseball standout at Davidson College and Lipscomb University, Chris brings a unique perspective to his practice and a genuine desire to help clients reach their dreams. He is a dedicated family man who coaches select baseball and softball teams for top Texas organizations, sharing his passion for the game with aspiring players. Chris is committed to serving his clients with integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to excellence throughout every step of the buying or selling process.

Sophia Russo is a real estate advisor with Compass, specializing in La Jolla, Pacific Beach, and San Diego’s most desirable coastal neighborhoods. She works closely with buyers, sellers, and second-home clients, leveraging her deep knowledge of La Jolla’s micro-neighborhoods, lifestyle preferences, and investment opportunities to guide clients with clarity and confidence.

As a member of The Greg Cummings Group, one of San Diego’s top-producing teams, Sophia benefits from a proven track record of over $100 million in annual sales and the Platinum Level of Excellence Award. Her calm, thoughtful approach, attention to detail, and clear communication ensure a seamless experience, helping clients find or create a life they love in Southern California’s vibrant coastal market.

Diego Valencia is a Miami-based real estate agent specializing in luxury condo sales in the urban core, including Brickell, Brickell Key, Downtown, Edgewater, and Coconut Grove. With over $150 million in individual sales, he has extensive experience in pre-construction and resale units in prominent buildings such as Mandarin Oriental Brickell Key, Brickell Flatiron, and Four Seasons Private Residences Coconut Grove.

Fluent in both English and Spanish, Diego primarily serves clients from the northeastern United States and Latin America. A finance and economics graduate from Florida State University, he is also a real estate investor who enjoys biking, exploring new restaurants, and traveling to over 35 countries.

Craig Gilson is a top-producing real estate agent serving the Austin area, with over $25 million in sales from 2020 to 2022. As a native Texan and Austin resident for more than 14 years, he has extensive knowledge of the local market and a strong commitment to delivering exceptional client experiences during both buying and selling transactions.

With a background that includes degrees in Finance and Accounting, an MBA, and experience as a CPA with Ernst & Young, Craig brings a strategic and value-driven approach to real estate. He prioritizes providing comprehensive support and expertise across Austin and surrounding areas, ensuring clients receive personalized service throughout every step of their real estate journey.

Thai Klam brings over 18 years of business management and operations experience to his real estate practice, currently holding a Broker’s License with the Texas Real Estate Commission. He specializes in asset acquisitions, dispositions, new construction sales, and development, leveraging his expertise to provide clients with added value and develop strong, lasting relationships.

Recognized as a top broker in the Houston area, Thai has received numerous accolades including being named a Top 20 Under 40 by HAR and ranking #7 in transaction volume statewide in 2012. He is committed to continuous professional growth and utilizes the latest technologies to deliver efficient, comprehensive service. Thai actively participates in community service, serving on various boards and supporting charitable causes such as the Texas Children’s Miracle Network and Susan G. Komen foundation.