What was your most interesting job before going into real estate?
My most interesting job was detasseling corn in high school. I had to walk the long field pulling the tassels off corn so it wouldn’t cross pollinate. We had to start when the sun came up and didn’t get home until late — it was a messy and tiring job to say the least!
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Ashton, IL — a very very small farm town of only 1,000 people.
Growing up, what did you want to be?
Growing up, I wanted to be a children’s author and a teacher. I loved writing stories and enjoy teaching people new things. I would always play school with my siblings and stuffed animals.
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed?
When I am stressed, I like to go shopping! New clothes and shoes always make me happy!
If you could meet any well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why?
I would want to meet Princess Diana — the effect she had she had on the world is indescribable. I would love to sit and just chat with her for awhile.
What is Chicago’s best-kept secret?
The Pasta Bowl! Hands down, the best pasta I have ever had! I really enjoy the Lincoln Park location whenever I am in the city!
What do you love most about the industry?
As cliche as it sounds — helping people’s real estate dreams come true. I always look for a win-win transaction, so that both parties are happy with the outcome.
How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents?
I distinguish myself by not being a salesperson and by being authentic and real. I want people to feel like they are being heard and that I have nothing but their best interests at heart.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job?
Paperwork! I love the people side of the business, but I do not enjoy the paperwork.
What’s your best advice for generating new leads?
Grow your sphere! Get involved! Meet new people! The folks that are most likely to work with you are the ones who already know, like and trust you!
What has been your greatest accomplishment?
My greatest accomplishment is my family. I am sure [you are] looking for a real estate-related answer, but that is not the case in my life. No matter how much success I may have in this industry or in my career, my three kids and husband will always be my greatest accomplishment.
What are you binge-watching/reading/listening to lately?
“Stranger Things” — enough said!
What’s your favorite meal in Chicago?
One of my favorite meals in Chicago is the pot pie, salad and Mediterranean bread from Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder Company!
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Chicago?
Can I count Soldier Field as a building? Hands down, my favorite in Chicago!
What’s the weirdest thing that’s ever happened to you on the job?
The weirdest thing that ever happened to me on a job was not too long ago. I was taking buyers to an early morning showing and the homeowners were still asleep in their beds when we went in. Needless to say, they asked us to come back later!
What’s one thing people are surprised to learn about you?
They are surprised that I am a small town girl. I graduated with only 20 other people in a town of 1,000. We had no stop lights in. You drive down route 38 and if you blink, you miss the town.
What is your favorite vacation spot and why?
My favorite vacation spot is definitely the beach. Give me sand and sun — I am one happy lady!
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry?
This won’t be easy, but you got this!
What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app?
My favorite real estate app is kvCORE mobile. It allows me full access to my data base when I am on the go.
Who are your favorite people to follow on social media?
Shanny Pants, Trey Kennedy, You Betcha and Dude Dad.