If you need assistance, please call 217-359-7971
Meet Creg McDonald and his wife, Liz — the dynamic duo behind The McDonald Group! Since 2009, they have dedicated themselves to creating an exceptional real estate experience for buyers and sellers alike in beautiful Champaign County and its surrounding areas.
What sets The McDonald Group apart? It’s not just Creg and Liz — it’s a talented team of highly skilled REALTORS® who are passionate about making your real estate dreams a reality. Alongside top-notch administrative staff and dedicated inside sales agents, they work seamlessly to ensure you receive the best service and professionalism every step of the way.
John Gilman
Broker
217-369-2665
john@cregmcdonald.com
John is originally from Decatur, IL and graduated from Millikin University . He moved to Champaign/Urbana in 1988 and was with American Family Insurance for 20 years as District Sales Manager. John acquired his Real Estate Broker license in 2010. He and his wife Tina have been married for 29 years and have two daughters; Morgan and Logan. Both live in Nashville, TN. John attends St. Matthews church and enjoys golfing, hunting, and travel. He is active in Young Life and has been on the board of directors for 10 years.John is a prior school board member for Montessori Schools in Savoy and he's an avid St. Louis Cardinal and U of I sports fan.
Katie Harlan
Broker
217-840-3990
katie@cregmcdonald.com
Katie was born and raised in Champaign and now lives in Mahomet with her husband, three kids, and two golden retrievers. She's been in sales for 12 years and is thrilled to put her knowledge and expertise to work in the world of real estate. In her free time, Katie loves to travel, read, eat, and spend time with her friends and family.
Rachel Lamb
Director of Operations
217-359-7971
217-766-9192
rachel@cregmcdonald.com
Rachel, a proud Mahomet native, has made Champaign her home for many years. She embarked on her real estate career in 2014, working with a top team as the closing manager, where she guided buyers and sellers through the critical journey from “under contract” to “SOLD.” Her passion for helping clients achieve their real estate dreams was evident from the start.
In 2020, Rachel expanded her expertise by joining a marketing company that specialized in supporting real estate agents across the United States. In this role, she managed social media platforms and lead generation campaigns, ensuring agents received maximum online exposure while connecting them with potential clients.
In 2022, Rachel transitioned to The McDonald Group, where she now serves as the Director of Operations. In this pivotal role, she plays a key part in shaping the strategic direction of the company while overseeing all operational facets, working endlessly to enhance efficiency and drive success.
With her extensive background and commitment to excellence, Rachel is dedicated to making a positive impact in the real estate industry and remains passionate about helping clients navigate their journeys with confidence.
Creg McDonald
Managing Broker/ Owner
217-359-7971
217-493-8341
creg@cregmcdonald.com
Creg is a University of Illinois graduate and loved living in Champaign so much that he never left. He has had a long and successful business career in Champaign, developing real estate and businesses over the last 30 years. Creg created The McDonald Group Real Estate Company in 2009 and has had the # 1producing real estate team in Champaign-Urbana for the years of 2012,2013,2014. While his real estate knowledge is extensive, his commitment to hard work, honesty and caring for the needs of his clients is what sets him apart.
Creg has deep ties to the C-U Community. He believes that “giving back” is of the utmost importance. He has been a member of various charity boards over the last 30 years and most recently has begun donating his time and talents as an auctioneer to charity events and has raised over $500,000.
Creg is very proud of his two daughters, Mia and Kelley. He is married to his amazing wife, Liz, who just so happens to work with him. He will admit that he is the second best Realtor in the family. Creg enjoys golf, boating, The St. Louis Cardinals, University of Illinois and high school sports.
Liz McDonald
Broker
217-359-7971
217-649-8471
liz@cregmcdonald.com
A graduate of The University of Illinois, Liz has been a resident of Champaign County since 1985. She grew up in Grayslake, a northern suburb of Chicago. She has helped buyers and sellers in Champaign County for over 25 years. Liz specializes in buyer representation, working with a wide variety of clients ranging from U of I faculty to first time home buyers. She has earned designations from GRI and ABR.
Liz is married to husband, Creg, and together they have 2 daughters, Mia and Kelley. As a family they enjoy U of I sports, boating, golf and travel. She has been involved with many community organizations including First Presbyterian Church of Champaign, Copper Creek Church, Don Moyer Boys and Girls Club, Champaign County YMCA and various Unit 4 Schools organizations.
Mike Nelson
Broker
217-840-9013
mike@cregmcdonald.com
Mike was born and raised in Champaign. He's extremely passionate about the area and loves to call Champaign home. Mike became a licensed real estate agent in 2014. He has a 20 year career at the United States Postal Service in Champaign.
Mike is extremely familiar and knowledgeable with the Champaign area. He takes a lot of pride in helping others make great decisions in real estate purchases.
Please call Mike if you are looking to buy or sell real estate in Champaign County area.
Taylor Redeker
Broker
815-471-8257
taylor@cregmcdonald.com
Taylor joined The McDonald Group after specializing with home buyers for 2 1/2 years at another local real estate company. Taylor joined the community several years ago, receiving a bachelors degree in Media Studies from The University of Illinois in 2015. She is excited to bring her competence, knowledge, enthusiasm, and passion for helping clients with both the buying and selling aspects of real estate.
Paula Shurtz
Broker
217-202-2733
shurtz2111@sbcglobal.net
Paula Shurtz has over 40 years of experience in the local real estate industry. Paula specializes in residential homes and lot sales throughout Champaign County. Her philosophy is that buying a home is one of the largest financial investments you'll make - so you deserve the attention, knowledge and service of a full-time professional.
Paula was awarded a Certificate of Excellence acknowledging her #1 status in Individual Sales in April of 2016.
Jeff Van Buskirk
217-520-9468
jeff@cregmcdonald.com
After working in the automotive service industry for over 40 years, Jeff has decided to change career paths and begin the wonderful real estate journey! Connect with Jeff today to achieve your real estate goals.
Tracy Wilson
Transaction Manager
217-359-7971
217-840-4021
tracy@cregmcdonald.com
With a deep-rooted passion for real estate since August 2012, Tracy brings a wealth of experience to the table. She has been assisting in every facet of the real estate transaction process, regularly working with clients, attorneys, and lenders. And that's not all—Tracy has also served as a Property Manager, handling everything from collecting rent to managing repairs and preparing leases for renewal.
A little about Tracy's background: she was born in Germany and made her way to the United States when she was just nine months old after her dad completed his service in the Army. Growing up in Champaign, she attended Robeson Elementary, Jefferson Middle School, and Centennial High School. Currently, Tracy resides in Covington, Indiana, where she shares her home with her partner and two lively German Shepherds.
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