Meet Mari
Hi, I’m Mari Van Meter, an award-winning REALTOR® with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices American Heritage Real Estate. I proudly serve Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Palatine, Wheeling, Mount Prospect, Schaumburg, Rolling Meadows, Elk Grove Village, and communities throughout Chicago’s Northwest Suburbs.
Since 2021, I have helped buyers, sellers, and homeowners move through some of life’s biggest transitions with confidence, compassion, and a clear plan.
Whether you are buying your first home, preparing to sell, relocating, downsizing, or facing a major life change, my goal is to make the process feel informed, organized, and far less overwhelming.
Real Estate Guidance That Considers the Whole Picture
I believe real estate is about much more than contracts and closing dates. Every move has a story behind it, and every client deserves guidance that considers both the practical details and the personal journey.
My approach combines thoughtful education, strategic marketing, strong communication, and genuine care. You will understand your options, know what comes next, and feel supported throughout the process.
Awards and Professional Designations
I am proud to have received recognition for both my real estate work and my commitment to client service, including:
- Top 10 Illinois Agent
- Best in Real Estate award recipient
- Top-Producing Agent at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices American Heritage Real Estate
- Leading Edge Award recipient
I also hold professional designations that reflect my commitment to continued education:
- C2EX — Commitment to Excellence
- ABR® — Accredited Buyer’s Representative
- SRES® — Seniors Real Estate Specialist
- PSA — Pricing Strategy Advisor
- CNE — Certified Negotiation Expert
Leadership, Education, and Industry Involvement
Since 2022, I have served on the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee for the Mainstreet Organization of REALTORS®, and I serve as Vice Chair for 2026–2027. Through this work, I help support a more welcoming, informed, and inclusive real estate profession.
I also provide training and education for fellow REALTORS®, sharing practical guidance, professional insight, and tools that help agents serve their clients with greater clarity and care.
Connected to the Communities I Serve
Community involvement is an important part of my life. I serve on the board of Music for the Ages, volunteer as a program leader for its intergenerational music and movement programs, and serve on the Worship Council at Countryside Church Unitarian Universalist in Palatine.
I am also involved in my own Arlington Heights neighborhood as a Northgate trustee and welcome committee member, and I support local nonprofits, community programs, and organizations through volunteering, sponsorship, participation, and relationship-building.
I believe strong communities are built when people show up for one another, create opportunities for connection, and help others feel welcome.
See My Community Involvement →
Life Beyond Real Estate
When I am not helping clients, you may find me volunteering at a community event, facilitating creative movement programs, dancing at local drum circles, cheering on Chicago sports teams, or discovering a great local restaurant.
Creative movement and dance have been part of my life for many years. My involvement in the belly dance community became quieter after the pandemic, but that creative connection continues today through movement, community events, and local drum circles where I have been invited to help encourage people to participate, move, and become part of the experience.
I also enjoy spending time with family, friends, and my black Lab, Buddy.
Connection, kindness, curiosity, and showing up for people shape both my life and the way I work with clients.
Here When You Need a Trusted Resource
Whether you are ready to buy or sell, planning for the future, or simply exploring life in Chicago’s Northwest Suburbs, I am here to be a trusted resource long before you need a REALTOR®.
You do not have to have every detail figured out before you start. Sometimes the most helpful first step is simply understanding your options and what deserves your attention now.
I would be honored to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
