Real estate has been a part of Steven Johnson’s life since his teenage years when he held a summer job with a contractor who flipped houses. Before entering the industry, Johnson received a degree in estate management from Starkey International Institute and worked as a professional butler. “I enjoyed the high service I was able to perform in that position, but my passion was to work for myself,” Johnson says. “Luckily, customer service is within both careers, and I’m still able to fill my service heart.”

Vice president of sales with Baird & Warner, Johnson specializes in negotiations, pricing and selling single-family homes and condos throughout Gold Coast, River North, Lincoln Park, Streeterville and the western suburbs, specifically Elmhurst. “Much of my business occurs in neighborhoods where I have either previously lived or currently reside,” he shares. “I feel that when I work and live where I sell, I become an expert in that neighborhood as I’m familiar with the school district and know about any upcoming projects that may impact real estate.”

With a flexible-yet-process-driven style, most of Johnson’s business stems from referrals through networking and repeat clients. However, he’s recently grown business through personal advertising and exploring the Baird & Warner brand. He credits his success in seeing opportunity in properties that need small and, sometimes, major improvements. “I am not just looking to make a sale,” he says. “I am trying to make a great investment for my client and myself.”

Johnson believes in arming his clients with accurate information. “What separates me from different agents is that I prepare my clients on what is realistic,” he explains. “I always follow through with what I tell them.”