About us!

The O'Brien Team: A Story of Passion, Partnership & Peoria

Real estate isn’t just our business—it’s our story.

After working toward a degree in sales and marketing, I (Aubrey) took the leap and earned my real estate license in 2006. That same year, fate stepped in—Jared and I met, and he just so happened to be my very first client!

Jared, a skilled steamfitter by trade, spent 13 years in his field while supporting my growing real estate career. In 2013, after overcoming a tough battle with Lyme disease (a victory we are beyond grateful for), Jared decided to take a new path, earning his real estate license. And with that, The O’Brien Team was officially born.

Together, we’ve built not just a business, but a family—both at home and in our community. We’re the proud parents of three amazing kids, and when we’re not helping clients, you’ll find us outside enjoying nature or traveling whenever our schedules allow.

In 2020, we took another exciting step and opened the Jim Maloof Loft branch, thrilled to be part of the revitalization of Peoria’s Riverfront and Warehouse District.

Our different strengths make us a dynamic duo. The ongoing joke? Jared talks more clients out of homes than he sells! With his deep knowledge of construction and home systems, he’s always looking out for our buyers, making sure they invest wisely. That expertise has helped me grow as a Realtor, allowing us to guide our clients in saving time, money, and headaches.

Meanwhile, my marketing background means I focus on how to best present and sell each listing quickly and effectively. Every home has its own story, and we love crafting the perfect way to showcase its standout features to attract the right buyers.

At the heart of it all, we believe in relationships, integrity, and making the home buying and selling process as smooth (and fun!) as possible. Whether you're buying, selling, or just looking for advice, The O’Brien Team is here to guide you every step of the way!

Sara McDaniels, Your Peoria Area Real Estate Agent

Sara is a customer-service-oriented real estate agent who helps home buyers and sellers in and around the Peoria area. If you're looking for an agent with patience, perseverance, and a passion for helping people, you've just found her!

Sara graduated from Richwoods High School. She moved on to receive her B.S. from Illinois State University and her M.A. from Concordia University Irvine. When Sara is not helping her clients, she enjoys reading, swimming, and spending time with family and friends. Sara and her husband Patrick are both officers of their local Elks lodge, and active members of their community.

Born and raised right here is the Peoria area, Sara knows the area well. This benefits the home buyer in several ways. With an in-depth knowledge of the local housing market, Sara can help you find a home and community that meet your needs. Sure, it's important to find the right house. But the community around the house is equally important. Sara will help you find the right match!

Buying or selling a home can be exciting. But it can also be stressful. It's particularly stressful for first-timers and those who have a short timeline. Sara knows this firsthand, because she’s been there herself. That's why she works extra hard to keep all of her clients informed, and makes the process as smooth as possible.

If you have any questions about her real estate services, or what she can do to help you, please don't hesitate to ask. She looks forward to hearing from you!