After working for the Chicago Police Department doing criminal computer research and starting his own tax-preparation business, Howard Thomas turned to a career in real estate to fulfill his desire to help people make wise financial choices. Clients appreciate working with Thomas because he provides straightforward advice without trying to upsell or deceive them. He is known for being fair and always treating clients with respect. “I think what has earmarked who I am comes from wanting to offer the same service to my 100K client that my million-dollar client receives,” he says. “It’s easy to help someone who is in the higher net worth, but why not give the same time and effort to a lower-net-worth buyer? Don’t they deserve the same excellence?” Thomas believes that his ability to meet people where they are sets him apart. He’s good at matching clients’ preferred communication styles while respecting their wishes and guiding them toward good decisions.

As director of business development at RE/MAX Premier, Thomas has been named to the RE/MAX Premier Presidential Circle and Chairman Circle, received RE/MAX’s 100% Award and garnered the Chicago Association of Realtors’ Top Producer award and Top Neighborhood Producer award for volume sold. He’s also made RE/MAX’s top 8% of agents in the nation for sales several years in a row. Thomas invests in others by teaching classes for younger real estate professionals; so far he’s mentored over 200 agents. “I enjoy the coaching classes,” he says. “I think I give them real-life examples of what the industry is really about and how they have to approach it as a job.” Thomas shares that many of his past mentees will still call him to ask for advice and troubleshoot problems. “I know that I’ve made a difference,” he declares.

In his free time, Thomas has coached a travel baseball team and offered private lessons for players of all ages. His other interests include antique cars, pool, motorcycles, golf and boating.