Marie Schutt is the managing editor of Chicago Agent

The Top Producers issue is one that we know readers look forward to every year: it’s a chance for the high achievers in real estate to get recognized, for agents to celebrate their successes, and for the real estate community to learn from those who are pulling in the big numbers. But at the end of the day, what does “top producer” even mean?

Usually, it’s a number: a certain yearly sales volume. But I’m sure that most agents will agree that the common associations with the phrase “top producer” add up to far more than stellar sales numbers. Top producers have a certain image, a reputation in their market. They have certain habits, know how to develop a winning brand image and often build successful teams to support themselves.

So what is the true measure of a top producer?