Daina Jacobson is a Realtor® based in Wadsworth, Illinois, serving buyers and sellers throughout Northern Lake County and nearby communities in southern Wisconsin. She specializes in homes with land, acreage properties, and homes with private wells and septic systems.
I was born into a Real Estate Family
Some families pass down recipes or heirlooms… mine passed down real estate. My great-grandfather and grandfather sold real estate in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. When I was growing up in the northern suburbs of Chicago, my mom was a REALTOR® and my dad a Property Manager, and eventually my brother and sister got their licenses too. By the time it was my turn, it was clear real estate was in the genes, although I took a winding path before finding my way back to the family business
From Interpreting to Real Estate
After college, I worked as a leasing and sales agent at Chicago’s Marina City. But my love of American Sign Language (ASL) led me to Washington, DC, where I earned a master’s degree in Interpretation from Gallaudet University. For more than 20 years I worked as a RID Certified Sign Language Interpreter, developing the listening skills, integrity, and patience that now serve my real estate clients so well.
Back to the Family Business
Moving to Northern Lake County gave me more than a home with land, it gave me a new perspective. I discovered the freedom of wide-open spaces, the charm of unincorporated living, and the satisfaction of putting down roots in a community that feels connected to nature. Along the way I learned about wells, septic systems, and the quirks of country living. That experience showed me how many others wanted the same lifestyle and needed a REALTOR® who truly understood it. That’s when I knew it was time to step back into real estate and use my background to help others find their perfect place.
I work with all types of clients including first-time buyers, downsizers, families, and sellers of longtime properties, but I have a special passion for homes with land and space. From acreage and unincorporated properties without HOA rules to homes with wells and septic systems, I provide the knowledge that helps my clients move with confidence. I guide people beyond the typical subdivision and into a lifestyle that offers more freedom, space, and connection to the outdoors. For sellers, I know how to highlight these unique features so your property stands out and attracts the right buyers.
Education
Learning never stops in real estate, and I believe continuing education allows me to serve my clients better. I currently hold three professional designations:
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SRES® (Seniors Real Estate Specialist): training to guide older adults through downsizing and housing transitions
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SRS® (Seller Representative Specialist): advanced skills to market and represent sellers effectively
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ABR® (Accredited Buyer’s Representative): specialized training to advocate for buyers and their needs
These designations reflect my commitment to providing every client—whether buying or selling—with the expertise, resources, and support needed to make confident decisions.
Where I sell homes - Illinois and Wisconsin
I am licensed in Illinois and Wisconsin, with a focus on Northern Lake County and Southern Kenosha County. I tend to work from Grayslake north and across the border in Pleasant Prairie, Bristol, and Kenosha.
In Illinois, key areas I serve include Antioch 60002, Lindenhurst and Lake Villa 60046, and Wadsworth and Old Mill Creek 60083. This region offers a mix of neighborhood homes, acreage, and properties without HOA rules, which is ideal for clients who want more space and a lifestyle that blends suburban convenience with country charm.
When I'm not selling homes....
When I’m not working with clients, I love spending time at home in Wadsworth with my husband, children, and our lively mix of pets including a dog, cats, foster kittens, chickens, ducks, and barn cats. Life here is never boring. I also enjoy gardening with native plants and watching the wildlife that visits our pond, from turtles to butterflies.
At heart, I love creating a home and a lifestyle that is connected to the outdoors and community, and I bring that same passion to helping clients find a place where they can feel at home too. You can follow more of our adventures on Instagram at @myowngreenacres.
Before real estate, I also enjoyed sharing my photography at summer art festivals. You can still see a collection of my work at RosemanPhoto.com.
My family loves fostering kittens
Fostering has become a big part of our family life. Over the years we have cared for more than 100 kittens, each one with its own personality and story. In 2023, we co-founded Two Furs Rescue, where I serve as President, helping guide our mission to give kittens in Lake County a safe start and a forever home. Rescue work is close to my heart and reminds me every day that home matters for people and for pets.
Just a few of our former fosters:
Two Furs Rescue Inc NFP
Two Furs Rescue Inc., NFP, is a recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. We are registered as a charitable organization through the State of Illinois.
Two Furs operates entirely on donations and adoption fees. Our mission is to provide a safe haven for orphaned and abandoned kittens in Lake County, Illinois and match them with forever families through responsible adoption.
Follow us on Facebook @TwoFurs OR Follow us on Instagram @TwoFursRescue
If you are thinking of adding a new friend to your family, #adoptdontshopt. Check out TwoFurs.Org or ask me about local animal rescues in Lake County.
