Coldwell Banker snags a big name in Chicago real estate

A very familiar name for most Chicago real estate professionals has moved over to Coldwell Banker Realty. Mabél Guzmán, former president of the Chicago Association of Realtors and current vice president for the National Association of Realtors, said yesterday that she chose to move to the global brand because of changes she’s observed there.

“I’ve been watching what Coldwell Banker has been doing for some time now, specifically regarding its strategic direction of inclusion and diversity,” Guzmán said in a press release. “It’s not just platitudes; they’ve put an emphasis on increasing diversity and representation in our industry and put programs in place to support that.”
Most recently with @properties, Guzmán has represented the industry in both the media and in Congress, where she’s testified about topics such as flood insurance reform and the Neighborhood Stabilization Program.

“We are beyond thrilled Mabél has chosen us as her brokerage,” said Ayoub Rabah, president of Coldwell Banker Realty. “She has made such a positive impact on the lives of countless residents and agents, and we look forward to supporting her continued success.”

Illinois Realtors names VP of marketing and communications

After losing head communications pro Jon Broadbooks to Midwest Real Estate Data LLC, Illinois Realtors announced this week that Anthony Hebron would be its new vice president of marketing and communications. Hebron was most recently running communications efforts out of his own company, ATH Reputation Management, though he also had corporate roles at firms such as Kellogg’s.

“I’m excited about the opportunity to join the Illinois Realtors team and to devote my energy to protecting the rights of property owners,” Hebron said in a press release.

Renovation lending veteran joins Guaranteed Rate Affinity

Earlier this week, Joe Daly was named national renovation sales leader at Guaranteed Rate Affinity as part of the company’s plans to increase its share in the remodeling loan niche. Before joining, Daly had served in a similar role at other national mortgage lenders, such as Stockton Mortgage Corporation and AmeriFirst Home Mortgage. He’s also taught many continuing education classes for agents about renovation programs.

“Joe will play a vital role in growing and developing Guaranteed Rate Affinity’s renovation programs, allowing us to continue helping our clients and referral partners take advantage of even more financing options and homeownership solutions,” David Dickey, executive vice president of national production, said in a press release.

New CMO at Interfirst helps to lead relaunch

After announcing earlier this month it would be relaunching under a new business model, Interfirst Mortgage Company brought on Lou Friedmann as its chief marketing officer. “He has a deep understanding of the mortgage industry, successful customer acquisition strategies, and our proprietary technology platform,” said Mark Freedle, executive vice president of production for the company, in a press release. “This knowledge will be invaluable in accelerating the growth of our wholesale channel and the launch of our branded entry into the retail market.”

Friedmann noted that this moment could be a turning point for the lending sector. “I am excited to return to Interfirst at this pivotal point in time for the mortgage industry,” he said.