Real estate has been described to me, time and time again, as an industry where there is opportunity for everyone. Male or female, young or old – if you’re willing to work hard and take responsibility for your own success, I’ve been told, the sky’s the limit.

We wanted to hear, from sources in multiple corners of the residential real estate industry, if that is true for everyone. Mortgage lending and construction, in particular, have reputations for being male-dominated. Is that reputation earned? And if so, has it endured?

Everyone’s experience is different. In this issue, we’ve focused on the experiences of professionals who have built careers in their respective industries.

On a personal note, this will be my last issue as the managing editor at Chicago Agent. Working alongside such talented staff, past and present, has been an incredible experience, and I’m grateful for the time I’ve spent in this role. I have no doubt that my successor will lead the magazine on to great things.