The best thing about first-time buyers is that they will always be around. Another cool thing is that they come in all shapes, ages and sizes. There are certainly different “types” of first-timers, like the ones who have completed hours upon hours of unnecessary research and think they know everything. Then, on the flip side, there are the ones who have done zero research at all and are confused when they see what’s actually available in their price range. In my long, long career I’ve worked with thousands of first-time buyers, and no two are alike. What they do have in common, however, is that they’ll never forget their first time — so read the cover story and learn how to make it the type of thing that will change their lives, hopefully for the better.

Personally, I’ve been soaking up the Chicago sun lately and haven’t had my ear to the streets like I normally do. But, as always, I have been stepping out to make an appearance at all the local shindigs!

Compass Chicagoland held their second annual Legends Society event to honor their top brokers on June 21. Held at BLVD Steakhouse in Fulton Market, the who’s who of Compass stepped out in style to bask in the glow of recognition and the fact that they’re now considered legends.

Also in June, Engel & Völkers (E&V) held their second annual Pride Leadership Summit! As you might’ve guessed this is right up Agent X’s alley and I was in attendance with bells on (figuratively and literally). Held at the Wacker Ballroom on June 12, presenters shared approaches to promoting the LGBTQ+ real estate community. There was also a welcome reception on the evening of the 11th and folks came from all over North America to slurp wine, eat food and pose for pictures in the rainbow-decorated E&V office — and there was another party with MORE wine at the swanky apartment of E&V agent Wade Marshall following the summit.

If you follow Joel Schaub on the socials you’d know that he recently purchased a yacht that he has named “Clear to Close.” Congrats on your newest toy, Joel! However, next time you make an announcement as grand as this one be sure to also send out invitations to join you for fun in the sun on said yacht. I must have missed that part of your post?

I’m also happy to report that many fantastic industry members will get older, wiser, prouder and more glamorous this July. First off, Terry Anderson shares a birthday with none other than our country on July 4. Tracy Flanagan celebrates on July 5, and Sherri Southall and Heather Gustafson get their special day on the 7th and 8th, respectively. Kenny Dooley and Julie Busby can raise a glass together on July 11, while Janet Belieff, Jim LaHa, and Debora McKay get their special days on the 12th, 13th, and 14th. Matt Farrell and Grace Sergio are birthday twinsies on July 15, while Andrew Perkins is on his own July 16. Erik Stegemann gets all the applause on July 18th, as does Joe McBreen on the 19th and Gail Spreen on July 21. Connie Antoniou and John Federici share a July 22 bday, while Mike Cuevas may want to sneak into their party instead of waiting until the 23rd. Marj Carpenter will say cheers on July 25, while Fran Broude, Ryan Holden, and Paul Dincin can all clink their glasses together on July 26th. Last, but never least, Gordon Munden rounds out July with a birthday on the 31st.