What was your first job in the realty industry? I worked for Naughton, which became Santefort-Naughton, which became Coldwell Banker Santefort-Naughton, which became Coldwell Banker First American, over an eight-year period of time.

Where did you grow up? Harvey.

What is your favorite free-time activity? I power-walk eight miles daily, and I love to travel and play golf.

If you weren’t a Realtor, what would you be? A writer or a producer.

If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be? Gladys Knight!

Where is your favorite place to hang out? Downtown Chicago.

Where do you go to network and meet new clients? I walk in the neighborhoods where I have sold homes in the past and distribute postcards promoting myself. I’m also active in charitable events.

What do you love most about the industry? Helping sellers and buyers realize their relocation goals.

How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents? Customer service and longevity.

What has been your greatest accomplishment? I earned Realtor of the Year in 2010, raised over $75,000 for South Suburban Pads since 2006, and have managed a Pads emergency homeless shelter site since 2008, to name a few from recent years.

What do you do to relax when you’re stressed? Walk on a nearby 12 mile trail winding from Park Forest to Joliet.

What is the most difficult aspect of your job? Getting buyers to initially cooperate with getting pre-qualified.

What is your favorite city after Chicago? Gulf Shores, Ala., near Mobile, then Savannah, Ga.

Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Chicago? I love the buildings in the entire South Loop area, and how that area has transformed.

What is your favorite restaurant? I love buffets, mostly.

What was the last good movie you saw or book you read? I go to the movies every Monday. I see so many, it is hard for me now to remember the ones I really like. I generally read self-improvement books.

What kind of car do you drive? A Saturn and a Pontiac G6. My spouse was given the Pontiac through The Oprah Winfrey Show. She was invited by a friend we met while vacationing in Punta Cana. The friend lives in Philadelphia.

Smartphone or paper? Mostly smartphone now.

What is your advice for someone new to the industry? Find a form of prospecting you enjoy doing daily!

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