Jan Morel is a broker with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Hinsdale
What was your first job in the realty industry?
Real estate development project management
Where did you grow up?
Hinsdale
Growing up, what did you want to be?
A highway builder
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed?
Play paddle or basketball
If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why?
Any current or former Secretary of State of the U.S., as I think this is the most difficult job in the world. I would love to understand how they work with all the different cultures to advance our interests and the interests of allies, and those who do not have any representation.
Where is your favorite place to hang out?
DJ’s in Westmont
What do you love most about the industry?
Every day presents a new set of challenges, and I love the thrill of working through them to my clients’ satisfaction.
How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents?
Creative advertising and true commitment to my clients’ success. My clients feel this commitment.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job?
Giving clients the bad news about their property value. There are still many people who own homes not worth what they were back in 2006.
Where do you go to network and meet new clients?
Starbucks and village functions
What has been your greatest accomplishment?
Professional: Entering the CB President’s Club
Personal: Raising three beautiful kids with my wife
What was the last good movie you saw or book you read?
“Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters” by Meg Meeker
What is your favorite restaurant?
Stray Dog in New Buffalo
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Chicago?
The Smurfit Stone
What kind of car do you drive?
An Acura RDX
Smartphone or paper?
Smartphone
What is your favorite city after Chicago?
Paris
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry?
Be ready to work hard and smart to succeed.
What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app?
The SentriSmart App, so I don’t have to carry my keycard to do showings
Who are your favorite people to follow on Twitter?
@colincowherd