What was your most interesting job before going into real estate?
Art instructor and gallery artist.
Where did you grow up?
South Side of Chicago, Mount Greenwood.
Growing up, what did you want to be?
An artist. And a girl boss!
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed?
I draw and paint. I have a pretty decent sized Instagram following if you’d like to check out my work: @art_by_katie_ob.
If you could meet any well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why?
So many!!! Hard to choose. I always laugh and say I would love to spend a night out with my favorite comedians Will Farrell and Jack Black. How much fun would that be?! Laughing all night. 😁
What is Chicago’s best-kept secret?
Las Tablas! A little Colombian restaurant on the North Side with AMAZING authentic food, music and a super cool atmosphere.
What do you love most about the industry?
I love the connections I make. I love seeing clients happy and excited. I love seeing clients relieved and satisfied. Having the ability to help others through a very emotional and challenging process. Making things less stressful for them gives me great joy.
How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents?
I utilize my creative side, that allows me to stand out. I stage my clients homes and use my own artwork to highlight the homes on social media. I use out of pocket materials for marketing. I allow my unique style to lead the way.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job?
The most difficult part of being a Realtor is the ability to separate yourself from the emotional rollercoaster that is real estate. Letting go of the wheel and going along for the ride without getting swept up and staying calm is key.
What’s your best advice for generating new leads?
New leads are pure gold for agents. My advice would be to keep marketing yourself even during transactions. The last thing you want is for the deal to close and be left to hustle for the next. Nurturing your SOI and reminding others that you are always available to help is imperative. My favorite reference is from an awesome ’90s movie, “Glengarry Glen Ross”: “ABC, Always Be Closing.” 😁
What has been your greatest accomplishment?
My greatest accomplishment is raising four amazing kids as a single parent. All four are currently in college on scholarships. They are the reason I push myself as hard as I do. I want them to continue to be tenacious and never stop asking questions to get ahead. Being a roll model to them as proof that hard work pays off is my greatest achievement
What are you binge-watching/reading/listening to lately?
I am a die-hard music enthusiast. I plan out my concert schedule each new year. I try to hit a least four a year. Listening to music is my sanity. I am a big Cure fan and am so excited that they will be touring again this summer for the first time in seven years in the Unites States.
What’s your favorite meal in Chicago?
I am a sucker for Vito & Nicks pizza! The best!!!
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Chicago?
I spent most of my college years at the Art Institute. It holds a very special place in my heart.
What’s the weirdest thing that’s ever happened to you on the job?
I was showing a vacant property to clients. It was our second showing, the first time I noticed a very strong Febreeze smell like they were trying to cover up something. My clients were not bothered by it and really wanted the house. We went back a second time to revisit and as we are standing chatting in the hall I see movement out of the corner of my eye. A raccoon was running towards us! It was like something out of a John Candy movie. I ran out of that house so fast — I left my clients in the dust!!! I guess fight or flight isn’t my strong suit. LOL!
What’s one thing people are surprised to learn about you?
That I am licensed in both Illinois and Indiana. I have a lot of retirees from Illinois looking to escape but wanting to still be close to family and friends it’s an ideal situation.
What is your favorite vacation spot and why?
Sedona, Arizona. It’s one of the most beautiful places on earth.
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry?
Be persistent. Don’t allow yourself to get discouraged.
What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app?
FOREWARN! I truly believe that it has saved my life more than once. The ability to see an individual’s criminal history, before meeting a stranger in a vulnerable position, [it’s important] as a female especially.
Who are your favorite people to follow on social media?
Fellow Realtors in my area. I try to stay on top of the market at all times and seeing how others are faring and what is working or not working for them helps me make the best decisions.