What was your first job in the realty industry? I was affiliated with a Coldwell Banker holding company first, so I could just give referrals. It offered no rewards, so I decided to move to a medium-sized company and get personalized training from the owner/broker himself.
Where did you grow up? I grew up in the warm and friendly city of Manila, Philippines.
What is your favorite free-time activity? I love to travel around the United States. My goal is to conquer every state and countries all over the world to learn their culture and admire the beautiful sights and sounds through photography.
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed? I do some meditation and creative cooking.
Growing up, what did you want to be? I wanted to be an artist because I love to draw, or a veterinarian because I grew up in a household full of cats, dogs and birds.
If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why? I would love to tweak the brain of Thomas Edison and learn what challenges he faced before succeeding to become one of the world’s famous inventors.
Where is your favorite place to hang out? Home
What do you love most about the industry? I love the adventure of meeting new people and going places, as well as being exposed to large and small homes and their nuances.
How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents? I offer a detailed and personalized approach, speak four languages and offer full-service treatment to all my clients from mortgage to home insurance. I give a lot of pretty useful advice along the way. I make a point of visiting a client’s home after closing and staying in touch.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job? Constantly upgrading our knowledge of technology, real estate systems and the ever-changing legal requirements and real estate laws.
Where do you go to network and meet new clients? Public places, parties, office events, open houses and volunteer work.
What has been your greatest accomplishment? Being there when my child needs me.
What is your favorite restaurant? Prairie Grass.
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Chicago? I love the Aqua. It is fascinating to see the play of sunlight from different vantage points.
What kind of car do you drive? A Subaru Outback. It’s great on any terrain.
Smartphone or Paper? Both.
What is your favorite city after Chicago? I have three: San Francisco, Hong Kong and Manila.
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry? Scour everyone in your sphere of influence and tell them you’re in this business.
What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Blackberry app? Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices KoenigRubloff app
Who are your favorite people to follow on Twitter? The Dalai Lama, Dr. Oz, Alton Brown and Mashable.