Denise Grassart is a Realtor with Baird & Warner in Gold Coast.

What was your first job in the realty industry? I have always been with Baird & Warner – it’s the oldest and best real estate company in the Chicago area.

Where did you grow up? I grew up in New Jersey, just across the Hudson River and New York City. That’s a fun place to call your backyard.

What is your favorite free-time activity? Traveling and reading, sometimes at the same time!

What do you do to relax when you’re stressed? I’m a huge fan of yoga.

If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why? Jesus or Shakespeare, whoever would be more available to fit into my busy schedule.

Where is your favorite place to hang out? I love hanging out in cafes in France, where I try to go a couple of times a year.

What do you love most about the industry? The people I meet, the places I go and the fact that I learn lots of new things every day.

What’s the most difficult aspect of your job? Keeping all the balls in the air. My juggling skills have improved, but it’s still a challenge to be everything to everyone, all the time.

How do you differentiate yourself from the crowd of agents? I make myself available seven days a week, and when I’m not available, I have a colleague/partner who takes over. Most of all, I listen.

What has been your greatest accomplishment? Giving my four children roots to grow and wings to fly. Watching them fly is the most fun.

What was the last good movie you saw or book you read? I loved “The Way” with Martin Sheen. It inspired me to do the same 12th century pilgrimage in France.

What is your favorite restaurant? I love Le Procope in Paris. There are too many to list in Chicago – I have a penchant for family-owned Greek, Italian and Thai places.

Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Chicago? I love the Tribune Tower, with its pieces from buildings all over the world.

What kind of car do you drive? A Mustang.

Smartphone or paper? The iPhone is the best. I would be lost without it.

What is your favorite city after Chicago? Paris, for sure.

What is your advice for someone new to the industry? Keep an open mind – you never know what will lead to business for you. And listen to what your clients say – if you’re responsive they will be pleasantly surprised.

What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Blackberry app? The Baird & Warner app, of course!