Illinois REALTOR® of the Year John C. Kmiecik, CRB, broker-owner of Century 21 Kmiecik REALTORS® in Chicago was honored this week at the annual REALTOR® of the Year banquet hosted by the Illinois Real Estate Educational Foundation and the Illinois Association of REALTORS®. His message to the crowd gathered at the Springfield Hilton was all about the importance of family and home.

Illinois REALTOR® Magazine interviewed John before the celebration asking him to share some insights from his 33-year career in real estate for what agents need to be doing to be successful in this challenging housing market and how to build brand loyalty.

When asked why agents should get involved in the REALTOR® organization at the local, state or national level, John says: “If real estate is your livelihood and you rely on it for any sort of income at all you have to be actively involved whether it be in your community, your churches or your schools. I believe being actively involved in the REALTOR® organization is something every REALTOR® should experience and enjoy. It’s a wonderful opportunity to build a referral base, to network with great minds and get some great ideas.”