What was your most interesting job before going into real estate?
Bartending.
Where did you grow up?
Rogers Park.
Growing up, what did you want to be?
I remember always wanting to be an artist. I created beats, played, piano and some guitar. I still do whenever I’m feeling inspired!
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed?
I make music. I actually got a few songs completed.
If you could meet any well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why?
I would love to meet Jonny Kim! Not only do we share the same nickname, but that guy is from another planet! Navy SEAL, astronaut and a doctor! He is the prime example of success and determination. Whenever I have setbacks, I always use his story for motivation. Nothing is impossible!
What is Chicago’s best-kept secret?
South of the Border on Morse, right of the Red Line!!! Place doesn’t close the kitchen until 2 a.m. and the food and drinks are great!!!
What do you love most about the industry?
I love that the harder you work, the greater the gain! Real estate agents know when you put dedication and HARD WORK, it rewards you! You never stop learning, and the way of doing real estate is continuously evolving — I like that! It’s never boring! I adapt quickly. I LOVE IT!
How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents?
I try to be open and genuine to all my clients. Wether it is a $100,000-cash purchase or a $500,000 home. I give my best performance and deliver the best value possible! I set expectations and try to be as patient as possible with all my clients. I actually encourage them to call me or text me, I want to them to see me not only as a Realtor, but as a friend and a professional they can trust.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job?
PAPERWORK!!
What’s your best advice for generating new leads?
Referrals! But even better than referrals, OPEN HOUSES!!!
What has been your greatest accomplishment?
In three short years, I have culminated a ton of awards, including Top Producer from the Chicago Association of REALTORS® in 2021 and 2022 … In 2021 and 2022, I also gained national recognition from the National Association of Hispanic REALTORS® as one of the TOP 150 LATINO AGENT IN THE COUNTRY!
I also won the prestigious CENTURION Award given to only a handful of Century 21 Agents. Not bad for just three years, coming into the industry knowing nothing about real estate!
What are you binge-watching/reading/listening to lately?
On Netflix, World War II documentaries. Sounds boring, but I like history! LOL.
What’s your favorite meal in Chicago?
In Skokie, the Buffalo Wild Wings burger with lemon pepper fires
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Chicago?
The Diamond Shamrock Building! There is none like it in the country. It’s beautiful and sharp!
What’s the weirdest thing that’s ever happened to you on the job?
While hosting an open house, a couple came in … the husband loved the house and the wife did not! They got into an argument in front of me about why this house was not the right one! The husband was upset and apologized. It was very suspenseful!
What’s one thing people are surprised to learn about you?
They are surprised when they hear my age for the amount of experience and network I have. I truly try to deliver! Delivering value is my forte!
What is your favorite vacation spot and why?
I never mind a getaway to the Wisconsin Dells! Only a tank of gas away and super peaceful. Love me a quick getaway!
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry?
Invest in yourself and network as much as you can!
What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app?
Zillow.
Who are your favorite people to follow on social media?
Ryan Serhant, Grant Cardone, Jonny Kim.