When you meet Laura Sanders, you quickly realize she’s not just in the real estate business—she’s in the people business. With a contagious energy, an authentic love for connection, and a fierce dedication to service, Laura has built one of the most respected real estate teams in St. Louis. But her journey to success is as grounded in grit as it is in grace.

Laura grew up in St. Louis as one of five siblings in a close-knit, energetic household. “Family has always been the center of my life,” she says. Today, that deep-rooted sense of connection is still a guiding force—two of her siblings now work on her real estate team.

A self-described “social butterfly” from a young age, Laura was always drawn to people. Her early career path reflected a desire to serve and succeed: juggling jobs as a babysitter, waitress, and assistant at her dad’s mutual fund firm—all while raising her first child, Mikey, whom she had at 21. That balancing act instilled the work ethic and tenacity that continues to fuel her today.

“I’ve always had a hustler’s spirit,” she says. “Motherhood gave me my ‘why.’ Real estate became the vehicle to build a life for my kids and create something bigger than myself.”

Laura earned her real estate license in 2008—during one of the most challenging times in the housing market. But in true Laura fashion, she saw it as an opportunity. “If I could make it work then, I knew I could make it work anytime,” she laughs.

That optimism paid off. With guidance from her mentor, Sue Kelly—a phenomenal Compass agent with whom Laura worked with for many years—she laid the foundation for a business grounded in relationships, resilience, and relentless effort. Laura credits Sue’s mentorship as a major influence in shaping the agent she is today.

Fast-forward to today: Laura leads The Laura Sanders Team at Compass Realty Group, where she’s the #2 ranked agent in the St. Louis office. Her team is known for delivering a concierge-style experience that goes above and beyond at every turn.

From trusted vendor connections to expertly managed paperwork, every client feels supported through the entire process. But what truly sets Laura apart? “We care—deeply,” she says. “We treat every deal like it’s our own family’s home.”

Behind Laura’s success is a powerhouse team she describes as “the heartbeat” of her business. Her sister Jenny Spearing, a longtime partner in real estate, brings unmatched organization and problem-solving savvy. Lauren Barry, the “wizard behind the curtain,” ensures every transaction flows smoothly. Jack Stewart, Laura’s brother, is the team’s “Jack of all trades,” beloved by clients for his positivity and can-do attitude.

Rounding out the dream team are agents Karen Rafferty, Tonya Riegelsberger, and Ava Amad—each bringing unique strengths, deep community ties, and a passion for helping families navigate one of life’s biggest milestones.

“We’re not just coworkers,” Laura says. “We’re a family who shares the same values: excellence, kindness, and putting people first.”

Laura’s journey hasn’t been without heartache. In 2022, she experienced the sudden loss of her brother Johnny, one of her closest friends. It was a moment that changed everything.

“It taught me a strength I never wanted to know,” she says. “But it also gave me a new lens on life. I don’t sweat the small stuff anymore. I’m more present, more grateful, and I try to live each day with purpose.”

That perspective fuels how she approaches her business—and her life. Whether she’s cheering on her son Mikey at a lacrosse game, watching her daughter Lola dance, or rooting for her youngest, Johnny, on the football field, Laura pours love into every moment.

And it’s not just family—Laura brings that same compassion to her clients. “My brother’s passing reminded me how important kindness is. This job is about more than homes. It’s about people.”

In addition to being a top-producing agent, Laura holds a Sports and Entertainment designation, serving a unique niche of clients with the same white-glove service her team is known for.

But whether it’s a $200K starter home or a $4 million luxury listing, Laura’s approach remains the same: “I give every client 100%, no matter what. Seeing someone get the keys to their dream home—that never gets old.”

One of her proudest recent moments? Helping a single mom and her daughter move into their very first home. “Her daughter had never had her own room before. Watching her light up—it reminded me why I love what I do.”

With 101 homes sold in 2024 and already 118 closed in 2025, Laura is on track to surpass her own milestones. But it’s not just about numbers—it’s about consistency, service, and striving to raise the bar.

“My goal for 2025 is to grow smarter—not just in volume, but in value. Every client, every deal, every experience—I want it to be the best it can be.”

Laura’s favorite quote is simple but powerful: “The secret to happiness is helping others find theirs.”

That spirit shines through in her business, her family life, and her commitment to community—whether it’s adopting families at Christmas or supporting local sports programs.

And if she could pass one law? “It would be the law of kindness. If we all led with kindness, the world would be a better place.”