Chris Pequet is an agent with Village Sotheby’s International Realty in Hinsdale

What was your first job in the realty industry? I started as a sales agent for a small boutique company in Hinsdale.​

Where did you grow up? Ann Arbor

Growing up, what did you want to be? I was always interested in architecture as a child.  However I studied public relations and advertising at Michigan State University.​

What do you do to relax when you’re stressed? We have a lake house in Michigan.  Although I can’t get there as often as I would like, it is quiet and peaceful and a joy to hang out there.​

If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why? I would give anything to have lunch with all my family members who are no longer living. I never paid much attention to all the history and the family stories, and now that there is no one left to ask, I sure regret not documenting more of our family history.​

What do you love most about the industry? ​Matching clients with their dream home and experiencing their excitement.​

How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents? It’s all about service!​

What is the most difficult aspect of your job? There are so many roadblocks and details that need to be maneuvered these days, it is so important to stay on top of every little detail.​

Where do you go to network and meet new clients? I have been selling real estate for over 30 years, so my largest portion of new buyers come from personal referrals.​

What has been your greatest accomplishment? ​Outside of real estate, I am very proud to be able to give back to my community whenever possible.​

What was the last good movie you saw or book you read? I have a stack of industry magazines that I try to get for real estate and economy updates.  I save them forever and read them whenever I can. The last fun industry book I read was “Shark Tales” by Barbara Corcoran.

What is your favorite restaurant? ​I love trying new restaurants, and in downtown Chicago there is never a short supply of new places to try.​

Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Chicago? Oh, there are so many. My favorites are the old buildings that have been restored and show off the exquisite detail of their history.​

What kind of car do you drive? Before I ever buy a new car, I sit in the back seat to make sure it is big enough for my clients to be comfortable.  I currently drive a four-door Lexus sedan.​

Smartphone or paper? Smartphone and iPad!

What is your favorite city after Chicago? ​Monte Carlo​

In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry? Don’t burn any bridges.

What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app? ​Maps