REAL People. REAL Results.
REAL Estate, Done Differently

Real Residential™ was built on the belief that real estate should feel human again. We help buyers and sellers navigate one of life’s biggest decisions with straightforward advice, clear communication, and a lot less pressure.

Whether you’re buying your first home, moving up, downsizing, or selling a place full of memories, our goal is to make the process smoother, simpler, and far less stressful.

We focus exclusively on residential REAL estate and take a personal—not transactional—approach to every client relationship. Our work is rooted in honest guidance, local market expertise, and a commitment to delivering REAL results.

No gimmicks. No runaround. Just clear direction, strong advocacy, and service you can trust.

Meet the Team

Betsy Kestner
Regional Director – Florida Gulf Coast & Central Southwest Florida

Betsy is a seasoned Licensed Realtor with a proven track record in the REAL estate industry and is licensed in both Florida and Minnesota. Her unique position allows her to leverage a global network of experts to effectively meet the needs of her clients.

Betsy resides in both Florida and Minnesota, providing her clients with valuable insight and guidance on navigating the REAL estate markets in two states. She holds a Graduate of Realtor Institute (GRI) designation and is also a Certified Resort & Second-Home Property Specialist (RSPS), showcasing her commitment to ongoing education and professional development.

With over a decade of experience, Betsy has been a dedicated Realtor in Minnesota since 2012 and in Florida since 2017. Her expertise extends to coaching, sales, sales management, team building, and public speaking, making her a well-rounded professional in the REAL estate industry.

Laurie Macko
Regional Director – Twin Cities Metro, Minnesota

Laurie Macko has been a licensed REAL estate broker for more than 20 years, but what truly sets her apart is how she shows up for her clients—honest, straightforward, and genuinely invested in their success.

A lifelong Minnesotan, Laurie knows the Twin Cities market inside and out. More importantly, she understands that buying or selling a home isn’t just a transaction—it’s a major life moment. Whether someone is purchasing their first home, moving up, downsizing, or selling a place full of memories, Laurie believes the process should feel clear, calm, and well-guided from start to finish.

Laurie’s approach is rooted in transparency and communication. She doesn’t believe in pressure or hype—just smart strategy, clear advice, and being available when her clients need her. Her decades of experience allow her to anticipate challenges, solve problems before they grow, and help clients make confident decisions in a changing market.

Over the years, Laurie has built a strong team of professionals who share her values: integrity, responsiveness, and doing what’s right for the client every time. Together, they combine local expertise with modern tools to make the buying and selling process smoother and more efficient—without losing the personal touch.

For Laurie, REAL estate is about people first. The homes matter, but the relationships matter more. And after 20+ years in the business, that’s still what drives her every day.

Jen Gillard
Regional Director – Western Wisconsin

Jen is a results-driven REAL estate professional known for her strategic approach, strong negotiation skills, and commitment to delivering exceptional client experiences. She brings a powerful blend of marketing expertise and REAL estate knowledge to every transaction, helping buyers and sellers make confident, informed decisions in competitive markets across Wisconsin and Minnesota.

A graduate of the University of Minnesota, Jen spent eight years in advertising as a Media Negotiator and Broadcast Analyst Supervisor, where she mastered the art of market analysis, positioning, and contract negotiation. She transitioned into REAL estate with a deep understanding of how to market properties effectively, communicate clearly, and manage complex transactions with precision.

Jen is dedicated to maximizing value for sellers and uncovering the right opportunities for buyers. Her business is built on responsiveness, transparency, and a relentless focus on results. Clients appreciate her organized, proactive style and her ability to simplify the process while protecting their best interests every step of the way.

Outside of REAL estate, Jen enjoys spending time with friends and family, staying active with walking, attending concerts and dancing, and traveling.

REAL Residential™

Your Next Chapter
Begins With Strategy.

REAL estate at this level requires precision, discretion, and expert positioning. Let’s build a strategy tailored to your goals — and execute it with confidence.

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Discreet. Confidential. No obligation.
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