What was your first job in the realty industry? As an agent at ERA Jensen & Feinstein.

Where did you grow up? All over. I was born in Germany and came to live in the U.S. as a young girl. I spent most of my youth in St. Charles.

What do you enjoy about working with new construction? I think it’s wonderful working with customers and finding them a home that fits their tastes and their budgets. With new construction, they can pick and choose the way they want things. It gives a homebuyer a chance to suit their house to their lifestyle.

How many different new construction projects have you worked with? Over 20.

What do you do to relax when you’re stressed? I hang out with my three grandchildren. I also like to read and love to travel.

If you weren’t a Realtor, what would you be? A kindergarten teacher.

If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why? Gandhi – I would love to see and experience that peace and kindness firsthand.

What is the most difficult aspect of your job? The current market conditions are really making it difficult to finance new construction homes.

Where do you go to network and meet new clients? I belong to several professional associations that have interesting events.

What was the last good movie you saw or book you read? “The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo” series.

What is your favorite restaurant? My son just started cooking at Perennial, so that would be my new favorite!

Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Chicago? The Monadnock Building. It was the first tall building in Chicago and the walls are 15 feet deep.

What kind of car do you drive? Mercedes R350.

BlackBerry, iPhone or Paper? BlackBerry and paper.

What is your favorite city after Chicago? London.

In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry? Be sincere in wanting the best for your clients.