Sandra Farrell is a broker with @properties in Lakeview

What was your first job in the realty industry? As the contract administrator for Golub & Company’s residential portfolio

Where did you grow up? Oak Park

What is your favorite free-time activity? Working out and traveling

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

Growing up, what did you want to be? An art museum curator

If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why? Hilary Clinton. She’s smart

Where is your favorite place to hang out? The gym

What do you love most about the industry? The creativity. It pushes your own limits, which is really hard but also healthy.

How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents? I have a much broader background in real estate than a lot of agents. I’ve done development, rental, sales, mortgages, management and more. I have an in depth understanding of real estate, particularly condominiums.

What is the most difficult aspect of your job? Managing anxiety. I’m always thinking of the “what’s next” in terms of up-to-date technology and business news. How to keep client relationships fresh and to attract new clients.

Where do you go to network and meet new clients? Volunteering and joining business groups

What has been your greatest accomplishment? Delivering $4 billion in condo sales. Being a great aunt to the kids.

What was the last good movie you saw or book you read? “Life of Pi”

What is your favorite restaurant? Bavette’s

Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Chicago? Carbide & Carbon Building

What kind of car do you drive? Honda

Smartphone or Paper? Smartphone

What is your favorite city after Chicago? Paris

In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry? Tenacity. Stay open minded to all the options and be flexible.

What’s your favorite Real Estate iPhone/ Blackberry app? Zillow and the @properties app

Who are your favorite people to follow on Twitter? Mallory, my niece.