Gaines & Puljic LTD

I’ve used Ivan and his team for a total of five real estate transactions over the course of about nine years. He and his team have always been thorough, helpful, and fast. They are friendly to boot. Highly recommended.

2.75- Ivan knows the law and responds quickly. However, he's not the best when it comes to countering the other side. If a confrontation arises, Ivan is the type to press you to see and accept the other side's viewpoint, than to zealously advocate for you- even when the other side is wrong. As an attorney, myself, I found this particularly concerning, as this is often the reason people are seeking representation in the first place- in the event that something goes awry or against the plan. For example, both sides had agreed to a particular closing date, but the initial contract did not reflect that date. We needed to get through attorney review more quickly, so all agreed via email (including the lender and Ivan) that the final contract would note the correct date. Ivan dropped the ball on this though and it didn't get put into the final contract. Later, when the issue resurfaced closer to the closing date, opposing counsel acted as if this had never been mentioned and insisted that the sellers should not have to hold any money in escrow for damages if they were going to "graciously" agree to an "earlier" closing date. Rather than review our email history, which showed everyone was aware of this, Ivan pushed me to accept the opposing counsel's narrative. Ultimately, the sellers acknowledged our agreement for an earlier closing date, but got away with the better end of the bargain by not having to leave money in escrow for damages. And, of course, you guessed it- they damaged the unit after the fact, and I was left with no recourse. I admit I was a bit unlucky to have the facts play out the way they did. Had I looked through the email chain sooner maybe I would have realized I shouldn't agree to no escrow. Then again, that is what I thought I was paying Ivan to do. All in all, though, I will say if you know you have a cookie cutter deal, then Ivan and his team could be an adequate and cost effective option for you. Just be ready to read through everything twice to make sure everything you agreed to is actually there!

We used Ivan and his team for the purchase of our condo in 2019 and recent sale of it in 2024. The entire team is thorough, efficient, and friendly to work with. Highly recommend them!

As a first time home buyer, Stephanie did an outstanding job in ensuring we were well-informed about every step of the home-buying experience. We really felt that she had our best-interest in mind and helped to alleviate a great deal of stress from the process. Her rates are also very reasonable. I would hire Stephanie and this law office again in a heart-beat!

We've engaged Ivan Puljic and his team over many years on two home sales and one home purchase in Cook and Lake counties. This experienced and efficient team is engaged, proactive, always on our side, effectively identifying and negotiating on our behalf items big and small, expertly picking up the ball even when the other team drops it, skillfully getting everyone to the finish line. In the end, the complex process feels like a breeze. We feel confident at all times they are looking out for our best interest and are protecting our investment. If you have a chance to work with Ivan Puljic, Stephanie Cerf, and the rest of the team, you will understand the difference. Whether you’re buying or selling, this is the team you want on your side.