“Now that the holidays are over, it’s time to get back to business. The cover story has some concrete steps for real estate pros to become business owners, while my column has got you covered in the gossipy, know-it-all department. There is no reason you can’t enjoy both.”

It’s time for the experts to sit together and make some guesses about what’s going to happen next year. What we do know is that there will be a presidential election, property taxes will probably go up and someone famous will die.

“As I’m sure is evident, I could totally be a managing broker. But who wants all that work and responsibility? I can hire people to have those ulcers for me, thanks.”

“Everyone has a favorite neighborhood. For me, it depends on whether or not you would consider a private island a neighborhood.”

“As you can probably guess, Agent X is not the best at keeping secrets. Speaking of which, let’s get to the gossip!”

“When I heard this issue was going to be about some mumbo jumbo called iBuyers, I wasn’t sure what to make of it. They’re apparently not a thing in Chicago yet, so you shouldn’t be embarrassed if you don’t know exactly what it means. Still, I checked in with my technology people and they officially laughed in my face.”

“Representing which party, you may be wondering? Well, that’s the tricky part. Like the lovely ladies of the Real Housewives of any city, I prefer not to reveal my political affiliations. Which I guess would make it difficult for me to run for president.”

“Non-traditional will be on my headstone and atypical is my middle name, so this is right up my alley! Say goodbye to those cookie-cutter deals, because those are a thing of the past.”

“Now that I’ve revealed some of my secret association memberships (there are a few more I am not allowed to mention; one of them sounds a lot like Lou Malnati…) let’s get on to the important gossip of the week.”

“A friend told me just this morning that he spotted pumpkin spice beverages at our local Dunkin’ Donuts. People, it’s August, which is way too early for pumpkins. And don’t even get me started on all these Halloween decorations rearing their ugly heads. The only good thing about these early signs of fall is that I was able to purchase candy corn.”

Go impress your friends, and the rest of the team you work with, by spewing inspiring quotes.

“I totally could’ve been an auctioneer. It’s hard to tell from typing, but I am skilled at speaking really, really fast. Basically, it’s because I have a lot to say at all times, which should come as no surprise.”

“I’ve been waiting to use that headline for years, and now I have an excuse. However, I have a sneaking suspicion that many of you young whippersnappers have no idea what it means. No matter! All you need to know is how to make a cool video to sell listings and market yourself, which you’ll get in the cover story.”

If you’ve made it onto the Who’s Who list, then you’re someone who also knows what’s what in the real estate industry. The folks in these pages are dedicating their lives to the business and making a big ol’ impact.

I know lots of people love their pumpkin spiced lattes and their football and chunky sweaters, but I prefer sunshine and shorts any day. Not only is summer finally here, but this also means 2019 is halfway over. Rather than bemoan the fact that time keeps marching on and on (and on), why not take a look back at the last six months and see how things are shaping up?

“Regardless of how many suburbs there are, each has its own specific flair and flavor. I’m also pretty sure that I’ve had a lovely meal and too many cocktails in most of them. However, when it comes to serving my clients, I don’t mess around.”