Pasquesi Realty LLC, Roscoe Village, Chicago

Joe Pasquesi

What was your first job in the realty industry?
My first job was working with my brother, Mark, when he was a sole proprietor. I learned how to be a successful real estate agent while working to build and launch Pasquesi Realty LLC.

Who inspires you?
My parents; they came to America from Italy speaking very little English but managed to raise five children and put us all through college.

What is your favorite free-time activity?
Golf

How did you learn the business?
I learned a lot from shadowing my older brother, Mark. I also made a point of trying to emulate the methods of other successful real estate professionals.

What was your most difficult sale, and how did you succeed?
The most difficult sale I’ve had was working with a potential buyer who was renting but wanted to buy her first home. She was very nervous about buying even though she was financially stable and could easily afford the mortgage payment. I showed her dozens of condos that fit her criteria, yet she would always find an excuse not to submit an offer. I ultimately had to play the role of Realtor, friend and psychiatrist to get her to submit an offer. She now loves her condo and whenever I see her she thanks me for my patience and persistence.

What is the most difficult aspect of your job?
The most difficult aspect of my job is juggling all the different roles that come with being a real estate agent and the managing broker of my company. I have to manage my clients as well as the day-to-day operations of a small business. It can be stressful at times, but it is very rewarding.

What was your worst job, and what did you learn from it?
Washing dishes in the kitchen of a fraternity house in college. I learned that even a job like dish washing can be fun if you’re working with good people and you have the right attitude.

Where do you go to network and meet new clients?
I find that small, intimate social events are the best places to network. People are more receptive in this type of setting compared to larger gatherings.

What has been your greatest accomplishment?
Having the courage to leave the security of a steady job to help launch Pasquesi Realty.

Where would you like to be in five years, professionally?
I plan to be managing an office of 10 to 15 agents in Chicago. I also plan to be in the early stages of establishing a Pasquesi Realty office in the northern suburbs.

What was the last good movie you saw or book you read?
“Devil in the White City” by Erik Larson

What is your favorite restaurant?
Piazza Bella in Roscoe Village

Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Chicago?
The Wrigley Building, especially at night when the south façade is lit up

What kind of car do you drive?
Acura TL

BlackBerry, Palm or paper?
Palm

What is your favorite city after Chicago?
Florence, Italy

What is your personal motto?
“There’s no time like the present.”

In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry?
Listen to your clients and address all of their concerns.