Where did you grow up? I grew up in Aurora. As an adult, I have moved around a bit: Carpentersville; Moline; Addison; Cary; Mundelein; Hawthorn Woods; Raleigh, North Carolina; Crystal Lake; Lake Zurich; and currently, Island Lake. All locations have helped me grow further.

What is your favorite free-time activity? Reading and several civic work projects.

If you weren’t a Realtor, what would you be? It is hard to think of something else I’d be. I enjoy helping people with their real estate needs. Currently, the money could be better, but the pleasure of helping others is still outstanding.

If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why? Today, it would have to be someone who has the power to have the banks rethink their current lending policies.

Where is your favorite place to hang out? With friends, wherever they are.

How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents? I am friendly, outgoing, kind, helpful and am not afraid to tell the truth.

Where do you go to network and meet new clients? Everywhere. I work on a lot of civic projects and am active in my local chamber of commerce. I talk to everyone who will listen to me. I also do expo exhibits.

What has been your greatest accomplishment? Surviving the ups and downs of life with my humor intact.

What do you love most about the industry? Helping people with their real estate needs.

What is the most difficult thing about the industry? Today, it is having to tell people that their home is not worth what they want it to be worth. That information spoils a lot of dreams.

What was the last good movie you saw or book you read? I read a lot of mysteries and there is something good in all of them.

What is your favorite restaurant? White Alps.

Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Chicago? The Tribune building.

What kind of car do you drive? Toyota Avalon.

What is your advice for someone new to the industry? You will not get rich overnight.