Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Barrera.
Jessica, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I started in Property Management, managing 1,200 apartments throughout the city of Chicago. In 2006 at 21 yrs. of age I decided to get my real estate license and start selling real estate. My father was starting to purchase some multi units and needed someone he can trust to represent him. In 2014, I decided to open up my own Company West Town Realty in Logan Square IL. Today my company is also licensed in Indiana, Wisconsin and Michigan. Being 21 years old, young and inexperienced I started attending Real estate networking events in the city. I joined a realtor organization called NAHREP Chicago (National association of Hispanic real estate professionals) in 2011, I enjoyed all the training and mentor ship they offered to realtors and I immediately became a member. After participating in a number of nahrep networking events, I was elected to serve as NAHREP Chicago President for 2018 which is the position I hold now.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Struggles are different with every milestone. In the beginning of my career I didn’t know what I was doing or how to close a deal. I didn’t know where to seek guidance. A lot of trial and error and fear of the unknown. But I was persistent, asking questions to other agents and attending as much training and networking events as possible. Once I became a Top Producer and opened West Town Realty, now the challenge was different, how do I recruit, hire and train? I hired my first Managing Broker Rocio Velazquez, who assisted in training our agents.
West Town Realty – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
West Town Realty is a fast growing company. After our first 3 years we’ve expanded in 4 different states. We have satellite offices throughout Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin and Michigan. We are mainly focused residential and commercial real estate. . We offer extensive training to our agents, including training in sales, marketing, business planning, branding and much more.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success for me starts with not giving up no matter the challenges. Set goals, get a mentor or an accountability partner, create an action plan and stick to it. Many times the unknown or fear alone may stop someone from taking action and give up on their dreams.
Challenges makes us stronger, it makes us think of how bad we want success.
Contact Info:
- Facebook: Jessica Barrera and West Town Realty
- Website: Jessica@westtownrealtyinc.com
- Phone: 773-370-1478
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