What was your most interesting job before going into real estate?
Accounting, tax preparer.

Where did you grow up?
Chicago’s North Side.

What’s one thing people are surprised to learn about you?
That I’m Cuban and Mexican.

What do you do to relax when you’re stressed?
Just tossing the baseball with my son; kids truly have a way of making everything better.

If you could meet any well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why?
Isaac Newton because I’m a numbers guy! Newton was a mathematician and genius.

What do you love most about the industry?
For me, it’s about the culmination of expertise and knowledge. Witnessing the gratitude in my clients’ eyes as we cross the finish line together is the most fulfilling aspect of my journey in this industry.

How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents?
I’m not your average agent. I don’t view my clients as mere customers. They morph into my extended family and friends, which is why they consistently return or refer others to me. My work ethic inherently speaks volumes.

What’s your best advice for generating new leads?
Your business serves as the foundation of your success. Effective lead generation proves its worth. At times, it’s essential to buckle down, stay focused and grind away.

What has been your greatest accomplishment?
Throughout my entire career, I’ve operated as a solo agent, embodying the essence of hard work and dedication. I stand as living proof that overnight success is nothing more than a myth.

In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry?
Work your sphere of influence, network and keep an open mind.

What are you binge-watching/reading/listening to lately?
I live and breathe real estate, constantly staying abreast of market trends. Between real estate podcasts, self-improvement literature and business management resources, my dedication never wavers. And of course, I make time to catch the Chicago Cubs baseball games — it’s all about balance.

What is your favorite vacation spot and why?
Cuba — there’s truly nothing like it! The humility and rich culture will make you profoundly grateful for all your blessings.

What’s the weirdest thing that’s ever happened to you on the job?
Perhaps not the weirdest, but certainly the most heartbreaking moment occurred when I entered a vacant property prepared for a showing, only to discover a homeless family seeking shelter from the brutal Chicago winter. The youngest member couldn’t have been more than 5 years old.

What is Chicago’s best-kept secret?
You need to know your way around Chicago, the side streets, to avoid the expressway traffic mayhem.

Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Chicago?
Chicago Cultural Center.

What’s your favorite meal in Chicago?
Can never go wrong with Chicago pizza or a hot dog.