What was your most interesting job before going into real estate?

Software engineer.

Where did you grow up?

India.

Growing up, what did you want to be?

Growing up, I wanted to be an engineer, just like my dad. He was my hero and has always been there for me. My elder brother also became an engineer, so my path was clear.

What do you do to relax when you’re stressed?

I will try to play with [my] kids, watch TV, spend time with friends or get some nap/sleep to rejuvenate.

If you could meet any well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why?

The first I would love to meet is my dad, to tell him how much I love him, how much I miss him and how much I would [have] loved [for] him to see him play with his grandkids.

What is Chicago’s best-kept secret?

Chicago’s true best-kept secret isn’t just one place or location. It’s the neighborhood-by-neighborhood culture — each area feels like its own small city, with distinct food, architecture and community energy. And honestly, the real secret is that Chicago gives you world-class experiences without NYC prices.

What do you love most about the industry?

What I love most about the real estate industry is that it allows me to combine strategy, relationships and impact in a way that truly changes lives. It’s not just about buying or selling property — it’s about guiding families through major milestones, helping investors build long-term wealth and turning opportunities into tangible results. You get to meet new people, make new connections, new opportunities, find new growth avenues, impact/change lives in a meaningful way, etc.

How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents?

I distinguish myself from the competition by being patient, a strategic negotiator and facilitator, client-focused, detail-driven, community-connected [and] integrity-driven, with passion and compassion for the clients, providing them with sharp market insights, creative marketing and relentless commitment. I thrive converting transactions into lifelong connections.

What is the most difficult aspect of your job?

The most difficult aspect of a real estate career is managing people’s emotions while protecting their financial interests at the same time. Making them understand the situation, value, position and outcomes. As an agent, you must stay calm, strategic and objective, even when negotiations get tense, inspections reveal surprises, financing shifts or timelines tighten. It’s not hard to sell houses; it’s the human dynamics, pressure and unpredictability behind every transaction.

What’s your best advice for generating new leads?

The best advice for generating leads in real estate is to “stop chasing leads” and start building relationships and visibility consistently. Be dedicated, consistent and provide value to clients. Build a database, use systems and adapt to the market conditions.

What has been your greatest accomplishment?

My accomplishments as a Realtor isn’t just measured in transactions or volume; it’s measured in trust built, relationships sustained and lives impacted. From guiding first-time buyers through life-changing milestones to helping investors build long-term wealth, my success is defined by the lasting value I create beyond the closing table. Building a respected personal brand and a team, fostering a strong community network, and turning clients into lifelong advocates … that is the accomplishment that truly stands out for me.

What are you binge-watching/reading/listening to lately?

Tony Robbins, Phil M. Jones, Jay Shetty. Any new series on Netflix and Prime.

What’s your favorite meal in Chicago?

Being a vegetarian and a foodie, I am game for trying new places, new cuisines and new variety of foods. Biryani and pizza are my favorite foods.

Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Chicago?

The new Aqua tower is very interesting and unique.

What’s the weirdest thing that’s ever happened to you on the job?

Entering into basements without lights and weird sounds coming off is definitely the weirdest thing.

What’s one thing people are surprised to learn about you?

One thing people are often surprised to learn about me is that while I operate with strong strategy, negotiation and business focus in real estate, I’m deeply relationship-driven at heart. Beyond contracts and closings, I genuinely value mentorship, personal growth and building meaningful connections that last far beyond a transaction. Many expect a Realtor to be purely sales-oriented, but I see my role as a long-term advisor and community connector — someone invested in people’s journeys, not just their properties.

What is your favorite vacation spot and why?

I have a couple of favorite spots: the Smoky Mountains, San Diego, Cancun, Dubai and, of course, India.

In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry?

Dedication, commitment, passion, patience, strategy, focus, follow-up, relationships, brand

What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app?

Land id, MLS, NARPR, Remine.