Today we’d like to introduce you to Evelyn Fred.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Evelyn. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I jumped into this business when many others were leaving the industry due to the economy. From 2007 – 2012 I did 100% short sales on both the list and sell side. I assessed the market and went where the business/market was headed. No sense in fighting a bull!
My business today thrives on client referrals, repeat business and grass roots prospecting.
Volunteering in the industry has also been a key element in my growth professionally, personally and in number of transactions. There is much to be said when you know the broker on the other side of the table that you have established a relationship and surrounding yourself with peers and mentors. I am active in volunteering for my local board, the Chicago Association of Realtors, as well as the Women’s Council of Realtors both on the national and local level. I was the 2015 President for the WCR, Chicago Chapter and currently serve on the national steering committee.
I continuously “up” my game by pursuing further education beyond the state mandated and required continued education (CE). Additional education puts you at a different level in terms of customer service. It enables you to think “outside the box”. I am an ABR = Accredited Buyers Rep., SRS = Sellers Representative Specialist, CREN = Certified Real Estate Negotiator, SFR = Short Sales & Foreclosure Rep., ADPR = Accredited Distressed Property Rep, CIPS = Certified International Property Specialist and am working on my CRETS = Certified Real Estate Team Specialist.
I have a team of four, 2 team members specialize in listings, 1 specializes in short sales & 1 admin.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Transition/change is always a challenge. Smooth roads are paved with dedication, hard work and long hours. In 2007 market conditions foreclosures and short sales were rampant, the banks were understaffed and ill equipped to handle the volume. It was particularly difficult as a newbie/rookie and finding a mentor was not something I considered due to lack of experience. Somehow, I managed to get through all that & was named Rookie of The Year followed by Top Producer in both the industry as well as in my offices [I switched brokerage to Sotheby’s at one point]. In November 2015, I was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of breast cancer, Triple Negative. In 2016 I underwent surgery, chemo, healing, physical therapy, reconstructive surgery, etc.…. I ended 2016 with the best year ever! All said, I can’t complain about my journey it has been an adventure and one I am happy to have been a part of!
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Baird & Warner – what should we know?
I specialize in residential sales. I am most known for my honesty. I pride myself on customer service, it’s what keeps me busy! My dedication to communication with clients, providing resources, step by step action plans, keeping & staying involved, even after the sale is what sets me apart. Baird & Warner shares the same commitment to the industry and its brokers. Baird & Warner has been around for 162 years, family owned/operated, that’s quite an accomplishment in an industry that brokerages come and go.
Contact Info:
- Address: 2762 N Lincoln Ave.
- Website: www.evelynfred.bairdwarner.com
- Phone: 773-981-2005
- Email: evelyn.fred@bairdwarner.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/evelyn_fred
- Facebook: facebook.com/evelyn.fred2
- Twitter: twitter.com/EvelynSFred
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