“It takes a village to grow a business and a family,” says Maggie Diedrick of the Huyck Group. “Homeownership plays a key role in the family formation stage of life. REALTORSⓇ have unconventional schedules, but it’s rewarding to help others create their home base.” 

Maggie’s journey from a Chicago classroom to the competitive world of real estate exemplifies her dedication, resilience, and passion for helping families find their perfect home. A third-generation Chicagoan with deep roots in the city’s northwest side, Maggie has always been drawn to the concept of community. While growing up in the Edgebrook/Norwood Park area, Maggie learned the value of hard work from her parents and grandparents. 

“My grandparents owned an Irish tavern on the west side of Chicago that was a neighborhood staple at the time, and several of my family members worked in different trades,” says Maggie. “I’ve always loved being handy and working on home projects.” 

After graduating from DePaul University with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s in curriculum and instruction, she stayed in the city, immersing herself in its vibrant neighborhoods. Maggie’s years teaching middle school in Chicago Public Schools honed her ability to educate, connect, and problem-solve—skills that later became invaluable in real estate. 

“The former teacher in me loves the educational component of the homebuying process,” she says. “Plus, I’ve always been passionate about design and decorating. Some of my oldest friends remember and sweetly tease me about bringing ‘home decor’ to sleep-away camp to decorate our shared dorm space.” 

It was Maggie’s own experience with purchasing her first home, at age twenty-four, that made her see real estate as a potential career. 

“I loved the process so much that I wanted to help others experience it,” Maggie recalls. 

She obtained her real estate license in 2015 to supplement her teaching income. However, she quickly discovered that her love for sales and client relationships made real estate her true calling. It took time, but she eventually achieved her goal of switching to real estate full-time. Of course, venturing into full-time entrepreneurship required courage and perseverance. Diedrick credits her parents, mentors, and her business partner, Dennis Huyck, for their unwavering support. 

“Dennis introduced me to real estate while I was still teaching,” she says. “He’s been a mentor and partner for over a decade, and I’m so grateful for his guidance.” 

Together, Diedrick and Huyck have built a thriving business, the Huyck Group, that focuses on both the city and suburban markets. The duo’s complementary perspectives—Dennis resides in Bucktown while Maggie lives in the La Grange/Western Springs area—allow them to seamlessly assist clients navigating “the city-to-suburbs transition.” 

“It’s great to share our experiences and help clients decide what’s best for their families,” she says. 

Community involvement is a cornerstone of Maggie’s business philosophy. She and Dennis host events that foster lasting relationships with clients, and support organizations, like Nourishing Hope, that assist families in need. 

At home, Maggie’s life is equally full. She and her husband, Doug, are busy raising their young sons, Emmett (4) and Quinn (2), and are eager to welcome their third baby, due in March. Their Labrador, Archie, completes the bustling household. 

“Our boys keep us on our toes,” she says, laughing. “We love spending time outdoors and going to community events like the La Grange Pet Parade and Gathering on the Green in Western Springs. 

Balancing motherhood with a demanding career is no small feat, but Maggie finds joy in the chaos. 

“Family always comes first,” Maggie emphasizes. “Success, to me, is being the rock of my household while growing a business that helps others establish their dream home base.” 

“Clients need your support around the clock,” she adds. “Dennis and I work when our clients need us. Sometimes that means late-night phone calls about offers or discussing properties after our kids’ bedtime—we don't work nine-to-five like most working folks. I am grateful to have a job where no two days are alike.” 

When she’s not working, chasing after her sons, or working with Doug to expand their personal real estate investment portfolio, Maggie enjoys thrifting, home décor projects, and renovating the family’s lake cottage in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin. 

“It’s our happy place,” Maggie says. “We try to sneak away whenever we can.”

Looking ahead, Maggie is excited about the next growth phase of her family and career. She’s focused on expanding her presence in both the city and suburban markets. She also hopes to inspire other women to achieve their goals of homeownership and real estate investment. 

“Buying a home is the biggest purchase most people will make. I don’t take that responsibility lightly,” she notes. 

Through hard work, a commitment to community, and the support of her family, Maggie continues to excel as a REALTORⓇ and role model. As she puts it, “Everything falls into place with hard work and a little help from your village.”