What was your most interesting job before going into real estate?
I was a technology program manager. It required managing a lots of relationships and partnerships so that we could all reach success.
Where did you grow up?
My family is from Arkansas. As a result I grew up in both Arkansas and Chicago. I like to say we are Arkansas PROUD, Chicago STRONG.
Growing up, what did you want to be?
Growing up I wanted to be a fashion designer, but I ended up studying business/marketing as an undergrad. I later transitioned into technology development and design.
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed?
I love to travel. Learning about new cultures, history and food are my passions. When I’m not traveling or working, I love to try interesting foods and restaurants.
If you could meet any well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why?
This a difficult question and I have a number of people in mind. However, I will start with Coco Chanel. What was it like starting your business as a woman? Were you considering your legacy at the time? What type of help did you receive?
What is Chicago’s best-kept secret?
Chicago’s best-kept secret? Our diners! From Pittsfield Cafe to Golden Apple Grill & Breakfast House to Golden Nugget Pancake House. Chicago diners are historic, tucked away in our various neighborhoods, serving the working-class delicious, classic food for decades! Our diners create community while feeding a city on the go!
What do you love most about the industry?
There is nothing like home. I love being involved in guiding people through the process of finding a home and contributing to the maintenance of Fair Housing practices.
How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents?
I focus on providing an experience that feels effortless for everyone involved. My goal is to make sure clients find “Joy in the Journey”. I do that by providing the highest level of service possible, being a strong communicator and being a great relationship builder.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job?
Vetting serious clients. It’s really exciting to convert a lead to a client, but it can be a bit exhausting and discouraging when you discover a client may not be serious about renting or leasing. Working in real estate takes tenacity and the ability to keep spirits high. There will always be another client who is serious and needs to receive the best service.
What’s your best advice for generating new leads?
Leverage your passions. If you love restaurants, talk to your community restaurant owners and interact with restaurants in community. If you love clothes, interact with people while shopping. Leveraging your passions allows you to create relationships that feel effortless.
What has been your greatest accomplishment?
Working with the Chicago Police Department on violence prevention in inner-city communities. I was a professional circuit speaker for Chicago PD, where I shared my stories and upbringing with Chicago elementary school children.
What are you binge-watching/reading/listening to lately?
I am currently binge-watching “Outlander” and reading “Finding Your Own North Star” by Martha Beck.
What’s your favorite meal in Chicago?
Anything on the menu at Mercadito (108 W. Kinzie St., Chicago, IL 60654).
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Chicago?
The Wrigley Building. (Honestly, there are so many to choose from.)
What’s the weirdest thing that’s ever happened to you on the job?
Walking into a home for a showing and there were framed pictures of the cat everywhere. Photos, professional paintings, collages. Clearly the cat was very popular.
What’s one thing people are surprised to learn about you?
That in addition to real estate and technology, I also worked in retail management for a number of years (Macy’s, Ann Taylor, Carson Pirie Scott, etc.)
What is your favorite vacation spot and why?
Paris, Berlin and Honduras are my favorite vacation spots. There are always so many things to explore and places to relax.
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry?
Keep helping people and protecting the standards of our industry as your primary goal.
What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app?
Homesnap. It’s a really quick way to see property details on the go.
Who are your favorite people to follow on social media?
Joanna and Chip Gaines and Quiana Watson