The best thing about this spring’s New Construction issue is that it’s a sure sign that spring is actually on the way. It’s the beginning of March, which means I’ve fled Chicago for warmer pastures. I’m currently dictating my column to one of my many assistants while sitting poolside, a cocktail in one hand and trade mags in the other. Yes, of course I am aware that post-Super Bowl is when the industry really gets cooking, which is why my assistants are still in town getting the job done. Just because I like my wine spritzers and a great tan doesn’t mean that I leave my clients in a lurch when it gets cold outside and I seek warmth. I probably did more this morning in my swimsuit and sunglasses than many of you have done all week. But enough about me (unless of course you want to hear more about me). Let me just refill my glass and I’ll get to what you came for: gossip!
Now that Dennis Rodkin has moved back to the blustery cold weather, he has decided to return to Crain’s. Some folks find this to be no surprise whatsoever. Whatever floats Denny’s boat works for me. Oh! I should take a boat ride this afternoon.
Jonathan Mullins was named regional manager and senior VP at Guaranteed Rate. He will be overseeing the company’s mortgage lending, sales and operations in Louisiana, Mississippi and south Texas. He’s also going to co-manage those operations and recruiting in Alabama. Say what y’all want about the South, but I bet those states are much nicer to be in right about now.
Coldwell Banker has acquired Countrywood Realty in South Barrington, which used to be known as ERA Countrywood Realty. Bill “Mack Daddy” LaMack, who has been in this industry almost as long as I have, with 35 years of experience, is going to continue running the show over there.
Even though Zillow and Trulia have merged, they would like everyone to know that they are still competitors. I am going to start selling Team Zillow and Team Trulia T-shirts, so contact me with your choice and T-shirt size as soon as you can – mine will say “Team realtor.com.”
For all you KISS FM fans, MJ from Fred and Angi In The Morning was on an episode of “House Hunters.” It’s currently sitting on my DVR to be watched when I get back from my vacay, but I’ve heard it’s a doozy. A friend alerted me to the fact that Fred was drooling over the agent on the radio the next morning, despite her decision to wear a blazer with a strappy, platform wedge sandal. The show was clearly shot during the summer months, but darling, let’s still be professional and leave the strappy wedges for the beach, mmmkay?
Parties! Okay, this isn’t a party, but still worth mentioning. On Feb. 22, BHHSKRRG (so many letters…) hosted a pet adoption event in its Schaumburg office. The company teamed up with Chicagoland Dog Rescue and the KoenigRubloff Cares Foundation to find some pooches a permanent home. It’s probably a good thing that I’m in the Caribbean or I would’ve come home with another pet to join my prize Maltese, Princess. Despite her purebred attitude, she is a former resident of the Chicago Anti-Cruelty Society.
Coming up, CAR will host the 2014 Sales Awards Networking Reception on March 12 at the Drake Hotel. If you’re into networking, then you best get your tickets now. If you’re not into networking, then you’re in the wrong business.
Happy birthday to all you Pisces out there! I knew something smelled a bit fishy. David Cieslak will stage a stellar party for himself on March 7, while Maria Clara Medina will take her three names to her party on March 9. Katrina Schmitt and Landon Harper will both celebrate on March 10 – whose party will you attend? The Queen Bee of CA Marci Sepulveda will turn 29 on March 11. Dan “the Man” McLean will celebrate on March 13, while hockey-loving Sandesh Bilgi will dream of the Ice Capades on March 15. Bob “don’t call me Bobby” Mosky will blow out his candles on March 18.