When I started writing regularly about residential real estate, I wanted to put myself in the shoes of a new agent. I searched online for tips for new agents trying to break into the business, seeking ways to build my base of knowledge and grow my understanding of the industry.

The tip that came up over and over and that I continue to see regularly in real estate articles everywhere: Find a mentor. Most successful agents and managers have a mentor to thank for helping them find their footing early in their real estate careers. This month, we explore that topic to discover what makes a good mentor, what agents need from a mentor and, if you’re seeking some guidance, how to connect with a mentor.

In our cover story, we talk to three established real estate leaders to learn how they guide their agents. In this issue’s Association News column, Chris Studebaker, president of the REALTOR® Association of the Fox Valley, offers his take on mentorship and what his association has done to help train the next generation of residential real estate leaders.

As the calendar flips to October, our editorial staff wondered what it would be like to sell a home with an allegedly haunted history. Even if you don’t believe in ghosts — I don’t — a good agent still needs to be able to address questions about a home’s history and dispel any myths. Be sure to check out senior editor Emily Mack’s report, online later this month, to learn more.

There’s plenty more in these pages, including images from our annual Chicago Who’s Who party, held at The Reed at Southbank along the south branch of the Chicago River. The setting and weather were perfect, and everyone seemed to have a great time. I know I did.

Patrick Regan