What was your most interesting job before going into real estate?
Working as a 7-11 licensed attorney at the public defender murder task force in Cook County.

Where did you grow up?
Moved around quite a bit throughout the Chicago area. Spent the most time in Lincoln Park. Also the Lakeview and Wrigley areas, as well as the North Suburbs and West Suburbs

Growing up, what did you want to be?
A professional football player. Unfortunately, my football career was cut short by zero athletic ability.

What do you do to relax when you’re stressed?
Working out is my go to stress reliever. There is no better feeling than finishing a grueling workout and clearing the mind of clutter.

If you could meet any well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why?
Robin Williams. I think the ability to make others laugh is a super power, and the one time I saw him perform, I couldn’t stop laughing. I think he would have been an awesome guy to shoot the shit with and find humor in everyday situations.

What is Chicago’s best-kept secret?
You can usually get Cubs tickets for any game from the box office after the 2nd inning…if you don’t mind missing the start…no need to pay ridiculous resale prices.

What do you love most about the industry?
Negotiating for my clients. It’s one of my favorite aspects about the career, hands down.

How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents?
I think my background in executive recruiting as well as my legal education really align well with the negotiation and entrepreneurial skills needed to succeed for my clients.

What is the most difficult aspect of your job?
Not necessarily the most difficult, but the most time consuming aspect is searching for off-market properties before they hit the market.

What’s your best advice for generating new leads?
Say yes more often than no when invited to new places and events, and be yourself. Networking is huge in this business and people want to work with people they like.

What has been your greatest accomplishment?
I think my greatest accomplishment has been the ability to quickly get back up and keep going when challenges present themself.

What are you binge-watching/reading/listening to lately?
I listen to a lot of audiobooks while at the gym. Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss is highly recommended and one I listen to regularly.

What’s your favorite meal in Chicago?
So many great steakhouses. Gibsons is one of my favorites.

Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Chicago?
The Tribune Tower. I think it looks so cool at night.

What’s the weirdest thing that’s ever happened to you on the job?
During a home inspection right when we were getting ready to leave, a water pipe broke and a waterfall erupted a few feet away from where we were standing.

What’s one thing people are surprised to learn about you?
I think some of the challenges I experienced as a widower with young daughters, and how I’ve been able to juggle the important things in life with a successful career I truly love.

What is your favorite vacation spot and why?
Mexico. I love being in a warm climate where people speak a different language but I can still order a Corona.

In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry?
Focus on the client experience and good things will come.

What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app?
The new Compass app is fantastic. I also like components of Homesnap.

Who are your favorite people to follow on social media?
I like following Goalcast. The speeches they highlight are incredibly up lifting.