Putting together our Who’s Who issue might have been the most exhilarating experience I’ve had with Chicago Agent. While coordinating the busy schedules of 35 of the most influential and exciting members of the Chicagoland real estate community wasn’t an easy task, the outcome made every moment worthwhile.
During our all-day photo shoots at the Sofitel Hotel and the Hard Rock Hotel, (who were both kind enough to provide us with gorgeous locations) we learned tidbits about a variety of different power players in the industry. My favorite might have been hearing Lucien Lagrange discuss his love for Westerns, and he even shared that he owns his own cowboy hat. We also learned that Scott Sarver still has an impressive jump shot, Wade Meitz has an alternative rock band and an extremely large number of real estate folks like to play golf.
From agents to lenders and a ton of stuff in between, we snagged a variety of big names making their mark on the industry. Some of the faces on these pages were big talkers that gave us pages of notes, while others were more direct and to the point. Some people were hesitant to toot their own horn, and others were eager to list their years of experience and accolades – and why shouldn’t they be?
When you thumb through the pages of our Who’s Who issue, you’ll see some faces you know, while others might be new to you. Each Who’s Who focus has a different story to tell, all of them interesting and unique in their own way. These members of the industry have worked hard to get where they are, and now you have the chance to get to know them in a different light.
You might also notice that for the first time in Chicago Agent history (more than 100 issues!), we’ve released a full-color issue. The only way to really capture the spirit and beauty of these industry innovators, both inside and out, was to print the issue in color. It also brought forth a more powerful feel that will make you pause to really enjoy each individual page.
Take a look inside at the fabulous photographs, taken by the incomparable Dan Machnik, and see who is making waves in Chicagoland real estate. If you don’t already know everyone on the pages of this issue, then you know what your task is for the rest of the year. And, maybe it’s time to figure out how you can see your name on our Who’s Who list next year.
I also want to take a moment to thank everyone who attended our extremely successful Fall New Construction event at the W Hotel City Center. The Grand Ballroom was overflowing with networking agents, and we’ve heard some great feedback. Stay tuned for information on our spring event to be held in March!
Zipporah Porton is senior editor of Chicago Agent and Miami Agent magazines. A native of Champaign, she has been writing professionally for more than 10 years. In additon to a Masters in Fine Arts degree in playwriting from the University of Southern California, Zipporah brings both enthusiasm for the real estate industry and rich publishing experience. Send comments and questions to zipporah@chicago.staging312.com.