Elk Grove Village
“We must become the change we want to see in the world.” –Ghandi
How did you learn the business? I came to this country in 1993 and lived in Chicago. It was the second week of January and I started working with a developer for a high-rise condo development in Chicago. Before I came to this country, I had 14 years of varied experience in India. My past experience has given me the advantage to self-start my real estate career in the United States. My mathematical and analytical skills have helped many of my clients secure the mortgage that fits their needs the best. I was also instrumental in raising funds to purchase distressed properties and achieved my goal to fix them. Once I was working in real estate for three and one-half years, I decided I needed to acquire more knowledge to provide the best service for my clients. I joined Coldwell Banker in Oak Brook under Joanna Underwood. She taught me how to better list and sell real estate. By gaining more knowledge in real estate I have learned how important it is for first-time homebuyers and sellers to have a good real estate agent in order to live the American dream.
Who inspires you? The two people that have inspired me are Gandhi and Swami Vivekananda. The wisdom of Gandhi and the profound words of Swami Vivekananda guided my life when it came time to leave my homeland. I have followed these words through my journey: “We are responsible for what we are, and whatever we wish ourselves to be, we have the power to make ourselves. If what we are now has been the result of our own past actions, it certainly follows that whatever we wish to be in the future can be produced by our present actions; so we have to know how and when to act.”
What is your favorite free-time activity? I am an active member of the Misericordia Family Association. Misericordia helps over 550 mentally and physically challenged children and adults. I try to visit weekly to help them and also donate my time to raise money for this charity, as my son is a resident. I also educate needy children in India. I have always felt that once you have a good education this will give you the foundation for the rest of your life.
Where do you go to network and meet new clients? I predominantly work with the Asian community through my temple and other cultural programs. I am also actively involved in the RE/MAX Sales Advisory Council to gain and share knowledge with people who are ready to buy and sell.
What has been your greatest accomplishment? I focus on customer service, and I strive to make every transaction memorable. This is why 90 percent of my business comes from referrals and repeat buyers and sellers. Helping other families find just the right home to build memories in is my greatest achievement. My work is not what I consider to be work; it is taking care of families, and I hope to be a part of that process for a long time to come. I feel this is the fulfilling experience of my stay in this great land.
What kind of car do you drive? Acura MDX 2009
Blackberry, Palm or Paper? I use an iPhone for all of my business.
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry? Treat others the way you like to be treated.