JoAnn Sworan   

Baird & Warner, Hinsdale

What was your first job in the realty industry? 

I worked for Coldwell Banker, Water Tower office.

Who inspires you? 

This week, it is my 78 year old client who is selling her home in Hinsdale to move to a condo building in Old Town! She is extremely excited about the move.

What is your favorite free-time activity?  

Golf

How did you learn the business?  

Every week I would download the Tuesday Broker Tour, map out my walk and view about 12 to 20 condos. Because of it, I now have the building characteristics data etched in my brain.

What was the last good movie you saw or book you read?  

“Blink” by Malcolm Gladwell

What is your favorite restaurant? 

Tiparos Thai Cuisine and Noodle Boutique at 1540 N. Clark is my favorite restaurant. I call it my “good luck” food.

Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Chicago?

1500 N. Lake Shore Drive

What kind of car do you drive? 

Don’t laugh… I drive a black Town & Country mini van. I love it!

BlackBerry, Palm or paper?

I use a Palm and several notebooks. You just can’t use the Palm when you are on the phone with someone. Every page gets dated, very much like a journal. I had one Palm lose all my info, and my husband has had his notebook computer and Palm stolen.

What is your favorite city after Chicago? 

New York

What is your personal motto?

If you want something done, give it to a busy person.

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

Get involved or volunteer with the Chicago Association of Realtors.