Sam Sharp is a senior VP of Mortgage Lending with Guaranteed Rate in Chicago
What was your first job in the realty industry? I worked at a brokerage, cold calling for business, until I became the top producer for the company, which lead to a partnership as an owner.
Where did you grow up? Colorado
Growing up, what did you want to be? A rockstar/professional drummer – and I was, for a period of time.
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed? I have been a professional musician for 30 years. No matter what’s happening with work, music is always there.
If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why? JFK – I would like to know if he knew his life was in danger.
Where is your favorite place to hang out? The recording studio – it is an amazing feeling when you are able to create and capture the outcome.
What do you love most about the industry? I love when you work with a client who truly appreciates what goes on in our business. Someone who is respectful and trusts your relationship. It is a good feeling when you see someone truly happy, and you were part of that.
How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of lenders? I always answer my phone, and if I miss a call, I follow up ASAP. That is the key to success in this business.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job? Dealing with unrealistic expectations that stem from a client’s “idea” of the business. I always try to learn from a client that can seem demanding, but unfortunately, there are some people who are just not “people” people.
Where do you go to network and meet new clients? Closings are a great way to finalize a transaction and network with all of the successful parties involved.
What has been your greatest accomplishment? Successfully travelling the country playing music and then transitioning into a successful career in an unrelated field.
What was the last good movie you saw or book you read? Breakfast of Champions – Kurt Vonnegut. I have read it 3 times.
What is your favorite restaurant? Osteria Langhe – Its the neighborhood restaurant that you encounter when you travel to Italy wishing you had a place to go to back home that was as good – it really is that good and its right in Logan Square.
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Chicago? Merchandise Mart – its the sheer magnitude. It gets me everytime.
What kind of car do you drive? Range Rover Sport
Smartphone or paper? Both
What is your favorite city after Chicago? Paris
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry? Listen to those around you that are successful – They know
What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app? My personal App – I use the mortgage calculator all the time
Who are your favorite people to follow on Twitter? Rob Delaney