Katie Deeley is a broker with CONLON/Christie’s International in Roscoe Village
What was your first job in the realty industry? I was an agent at Jameson Realty in 2000. I really miss those times. We were like a family. At Conlon we also have a close-knit group, which is rare indeed.
Where did you grow up? I grew up in a few towns in Arizona. We ended up in Phoenix.
Growing up, what did you want to be? I actually wanted to be a nun until I was nine (I would have brought the convent to a halt). My father said I would be the first female president. I decided that “happy” was a good goal – my favorite phrase is “I complained I had no shoes until I met a man who had no feet.” I encourage everyone to really think about that.
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed? I like to read, and enjoy a drink or two.
If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why? Robin Williams. I love being around people who say crazy things without pretense.
Where is your favorite place to hang out? It depends on my mood. I like the Lincoln Park Zoo, and a good bar from time to time.
What do you love most about the industry? Every day is different and I deal with so many different kinds of people, which makes it a growing experience. If I have not learned something, then it was not a productive day.
How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd
of agents? I get to know my clients, and listen to what they want. I don’t make it about me; I make it about them. And they get the same respect from me no matter what their budget is.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job? Scheduling! I’m a bit Type A when it comes to responsiveness. I really hate it when agents do not respond to showing requests.
Where do you go to network and meet new clients? I belong to some charitable organizations, but I really focus on referral business from my existing clients. When they’re referred, they have built-in loyalty – people hire and refer me because they trust me.
What has been your greatest accomplishment? My daughter. She drives me nuts, but I cannot imagine a life without her.
What was the last good movie you saw or book you read?
“Shantaram” by Gregory David Roberts. It’s the memoirs of a man who escapes from prison and makes his way to India. I just saw “The Martian,” which was the best movie I’ve seen in a long time.
What is your favorite restaurant? Sixteen at Trump. I love the views.
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Chicago? The Wrigley Building. I love the nod to French Renaissance architecture.
What kind of car do you drive? A Mercedes
Smartphone or paper? Both. I take a lot of notes and when it’s on paper, I use pencil because I change my mind every five seconds.
What is your favorite city after Chicago? To live in: Mission Beach. When I was a kid we drove there every summer for vacation. To visit: Barcelona. It has incredible architecture and amazing food.
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry? Try to keep balance in your life, this industry tends to take over every aspect of your being. On your death bed, your family will never tell you that you didn’t sell enough real estate.
What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app? Does Airbnb count?
Who are your favorite people to follow on Twitter? I don’t Tweet. I hear enough of people’s opinions in real life.