What’s on your radar, and what are you paying attention to? Maybe you’re watching indicators of the market to see what might change, or maybe you’re staying up to date on the latest new tech tools, from the newest iPhone and iPad to the Kindle Fire. But this time of year, on my radar are what I like to call “offices to watch” – offices that are not only successful, but also demonstrating how they are staying successful, no matter the market’s climate.

Chicago Agent invited brokerages all across Chicagoland to participate in this issue and tell us why they’re an office to watch. The 17 offices featured in this issue vary in their reasons why they’re an office to watch: some have renowned training programs, like Weichert, Realtors and Weichert University; some have awards, like Charles Rutenberg Realty’s Top 100 Workplaces award from the Chicago Tribune; and some credit their agents with their office’s success. But what it all boils down to is the offices to watch in our cover story are successful due to the instruction, guidance and support from each office’s leadership.

It’s tough to lead and guide people down successful paths in general, but in rougher markets, that becomes quite the challenge. Great leaders – like the managing brokers, owners and directors of the offices featured in this issue – keep agents focused, keep a healthy and upbeat work environment and are continually growing and evolving to stay ahead of the curve.

Take a look at the brokerages on Chicago Agent’s radar, and take note of their tips and strategies for building a successful office.