Mario Greco is the founder of MG Group with BHHS KoenigRubloff Realty Group in Chicago
What was your first job in the realty industry? Broker associate at C21 Sussex & Reilly
Where did you grow up? I was born in Jefferson Park and grew up in the northwest suburbs of Chicago
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed? Walk my dog, Jack
Growing up, what did you want to be? A doctor, but I graduated college with two engineering degrees, became a lawyer and then left the law to sell real estate – so you know, focused…
If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why? Nikki Sixx from Motley Crue – He’s a fellow animal lover and someone I idolized as a teen who went through a ton of hardship as an adult and lived to tell about it. I’d love to know how.
Where is your favorite place to hang out? Home
What do you love most about the industry? It rewards you in proportion to what you put into it – both financially and otherwise.
How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents? I am extremely detail-oriented and organized, and have built an actual group – not just one in name only – that is dedicated to the client from initial contact to after closing.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job? Clients have access to a lot of real estate information – much of it general or untrue – and having to convince them that just because it’s on TV or on the Internet that it doesn’t apply to their situation or property is the bane of our existence as agents.
Where do you go to network and meet new clients? I don’t cook, so I meet a lot of people in restaurants. I like to sit/eat at the bar if possible because you tend to meet interesting people there.
What has been your greatest accomplishment? Forming and growing a group in our industry that really believes in what we do and how we do it.
What was the last good movie you saw or book you read? “The Big Short” (book and movie) should be required reading and viewing for everyone in our business.
What is your favorite restaurant? Fat Rice
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Chicago? Chicago Athletic Association Hotel
What kind of car do you drive? Tesla Model S P85+
Smartphone or paper? iPhone
What is your favorite city after Chicago? Los Angeles
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry? You’re the professional – not your client. Stick to your guns.
What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app? Slydial
Who are your favorite people to follow on Twitter? @TheOnion