Sharon Kessel

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

Deerfield, Ill.

What was your first job in the realty industry? 

My first job was as a realtor with Koenig & Strey Realtors in Deerfield. I joined Koenig & Strey because it was a family-owned business. My father was a pharmacist and owned his own small pharmacy. It was important to me to work for a family-owned business.

Who inspires you? 

Helen Keller

Favorite free-time activity? 

It is a draw between sleeping, knitting, volunteering at a hospital and frequenting many stores to purchase things for our 22-month-old grandson, Harrison.

How did you learn the business? 

I went to real estate education classes. My husband is an attorney who specializes in real estate. I thought we’d have more to talk about. That wasn’t the case.

Last good movie you saw, book you read? 

“Matchpoint” was the last good movie I saw. The last good book was “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.” I wanted to see what kids were interested in and was thrilled that kids were reading!

Favorite restaurant? 

D.J. Bistro in Lake Zurich

Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Chicago? 

333 W. Wacker Dr.

Kind of car you drive? 

Mercedes C280

Blackberry, Palm or paper? 

TREO

Favorite city, after Chicago? 

San Francisco

What is your personal motto? 

Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry?

[Have] patience. Your first year is a tremendous learning experience. Watch the top producers and what they do.