What was your most interesting job before going into real estate? I have been selling real estate for over 17 years. Before that I have always had some sort of sales position, from tuxedos to scuba equipment.
Where did you grow up? Chicago’s Northwest Side.
Growing up, what did you want to be? Growing up, I wanted to be a doctor. Once I realized it was helping people that was my passion, my vision shifted a number of times, but it always stayed in the realm of being of service to others.
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed? My favorite things to do that fills me with positive energy is to garden and plant flowers.
If you could meet any well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why? If we stay in the realm of real estate, I would love to meet Josh Flagg and would have loved to meet his late grandmother, Edith Flagg. Josh’s laid-back attitude, impeccable style and his monumental real estate career is beyond impressive. Edith Flagg was the woman I most desire to be like. No-nonsense, self-made, extremely family orientated and made it through all odds!
What is Chicago’s best-kept secret? Not sure if it’s a secret, but Lurvey Garden Center & Landscape Supply. I love flowers and plants and all things that relate to it. If I am ever stressed or anxious, a walk through Lurvey’s is a cure!
What do you love most about the industry? Providing my clients with the all-American dream is something I truly take pride in.
How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents? I am not the typical salesperson. I really build friendships and bonds with my clients. They trust me! It is never just a sale to me — it is really about authentically providing my clients with a long-lasting memory. I want them all to be able to look back at when they buy or sell with me and remember it being the smoothest and most exciting time.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job? The most difficult part is seeing brokers not building relationships with one another. It is crucial in our business to have great relationships with one another.
What’s your best advice for generating new leads? Pick up the phone! Your phone is your best friend in real estate. If you are not staying in touch with people and asking people “who can I help today” there is no reason to be in this business.
What has been your greatest accomplishment? 100% my greatest accomplishment is our daughters. They make me want to be better and do better in ALL aspects of my life.
What’s your favorite meal in Chicago? La Scarola restaurant — anything they serve!!!
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Chicago? 150 N. Michigan Ave. My mom worked for Smurfit Stone when I was younger and I loved going with her! The building is stunning. I have always been impressed by the design. I remember going to roof as a kid- wow, the views were some the most amazing in the city!
What’s the weirdest thing that’s ever happened to you on the job? I was showing a vacant property and walked in on a naked man sleeping on the floor. It was an interesting day to say the least.
What’s one thing people are surprised to learn about you? I love to write. I have hundreds and hundreds of completed journals.
What is your favorite vacation spot and why? My favorite close to home spot is Elkhart Lake Wisconsin. I have been going there since I was a kid, and now we take our children there. I get a sense of peace every time I am there.
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry? Always ask. The worst they can say is no.
What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app? DocuSign saves me hours a day.
Who are your favorite people to follow on social media? Gary Vee — I feel like he is always directing his post just to me. Lisek Interiors — my constant design inspo. Danny Did Foundation — they do amazing work in the epilepsy world.