If there’s one word that defines Stewart Ramirez, it’s perseverance.

Long before he became a trusted North Shore real estate professional, Stewart was the kid selling newspapers on the corner at eight years old, and buying Christmas gifts for his family with the money he earned. He’s carried that same grit and heart into every chapter of his life since.

Today, Stewart is a well-known REALTOR® and runs his own brokerage, E-Signature Realty, in Gurnee, helping buyers and sellers across the North Shore and Chicagoland find their place in the world. But his path to real estate wasn’t linear—and it wasn’t easy.

Born in Bogotá, Colombia, Stewart moved to Chicago with his family when he was just a year old. He grew up on the north side, but has lived all over the city and many suburbs. His upbringing wasn’t always stable, but it taught him to be independent, resourceful, and relentless.

"I never really had anyone to look up to," he says. "But I learned early that if I wanted something, I had to go out and make it happen."

By nineteen, Stewart had already purchased his first home. His work ethic and entrepreneurial drive showed up early: he was managing stores, working car sales, owning businesses, and holding more jobs than he can even remember. After burning out in car sales, he shifted into real estate in 2006, drawn by his love for properties and investing.

The timing couldn’t have been tougher. Just as Stewart was building momentum, the 2008 financial crash hit—all while he was navigating a devastating divorce that left him emotionally and financially drained.

"It was brutal," he says. "I had to rebuild everything—my career, my finances, my life."

But true to form, Stewart didn't quit. He adapted. He leaned into his creativity, marketed himself with almost no budget, and pushed forward with the support of his now fiancée and business partner, Jodie Eich.

Today, Stewart runs his business with a deeply personal touch. Whether it’s staging a listing, fixing a broken fence, or connecting clients with the right contractors, he’s known for going the extra mile.

"My goal is to make every experience as easy and stress-free as possible," he says. "I want clients to feel taken care of from start to finish."

He’s passionate about getting homes sold for more than clients expect, and about helping buyers find not just a house, but a true sense of home. “My home is filled with love and laughter," Stewart says. "I want that for every family I work with.”

That personal philosophy extends to everything Stewart does. He and Jodie are a team in every sense—working together, traveling together, and embracing “lake life” at their new home by the water. Their days are filled with boating, fishing, home projects, movie nights, and reality dating show marathons (their unofficial couples therapy, they joke). Their pack also includes three dogs—Bruno McGoo, Moomin Myrtle, and Prince Mochi—whom they admit are treated more like children than pets.

"I’m a huge softie when it comes to animals," Stewart says. He proudly supports Orphans of the Storm animal shelter and even offers to sponsor adoptions for his clients.

When he’s not working, Stewart loves relaxing by the pool, sneaking in afternoon naps, golfing, working on cars, or diving into his favorite guilty pleasure: UFC fights. He’s also proudly earned his unofficial “Spa Prince" title, thanks to Jodie’s influence. "Massages, facials, mani/pedis, microneedling—I’m all in," he laughs. "Whatever helps me decompress and stay sharp."

Success for Stewart isn’t about awards or accolades. It's about impact.

"To me, success is making a meaningful difference," he says. "Helping someone find a home where they feel safe. Helping someone sell and start a new chapter. Those moments mean everything."

Looking ahead, Stewart plans to keep deepening his relationships with clients and colleagues—offering hands-on service, staying sharp, and leading with heart. He’s also passionate about changing perceptions of the real estate industry, reminding people that true agents aren't just salespeople: they're advocates, guides, and protectors.

His advice for new agents? "Never stop learning. Stay connected. And for the love of God, answer your phone," he says, laughing. "That’s the number one complaint I hear from clients."

Stewart’s story is a testament to grit, growth, and heart. It’s proof that no matter where you start, or how hard life hits, you can build something extraordinary.