Get to know our members who share their expertise to help shape the future of our association and industry!
We chatted with a member of our Professional Standards Committee and Professional Development Advisory Group Loraine Jennings, Coldwell Banker Realty, to find out more about her career path, why she volunteers and more.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN THE INDUSTRY?
30+ years
WHY WERE YOU INTERESTED IN GETTING INTO REAL ESTATE?
I flipped a house with a friend and was hooked. I also have an engineering background, so it was a natural progression for me.
WHAT’S YOUR BIGGEST ACHIEVEMENT IN YOUR CAREER TO DATE?
Becoming a designated managing broker of a Coldwell Banker Realty office, which is where I started my career in real estate back in 1998.
WHAT HAS HELPED YOU MOST TO GET WHERE YOU ARE TODAY?
The vast experiences that I’ve had from being a receiver for the Department of Justice, having an exclusive contract with the Chicago Housing Authority and HUD, managing large commercial buildings, working in management with a mortgage company and all of the certifications I have within the solar industry. Also, being aligned with CAR and taking advantage of the opportunities to volunteer and meet other members with my same passion.
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR CAREER?
I enjoy sharing my knowledge and experience with the agents that I serve. Problem-solving is my strength and something I truly enjoy.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE OTHERS WHO ARE LOOKING TO TAKE THEIR CAREER TO THE NEXT LEVEL?
Run your real estate business like a business. Align yourself with strong industry partners that you can rely on to provide the same level of service and expertise to your clients. Also, always remain humble.
WHAT DOES VOLUNTEERING MEAN TO YOU?
I love volunteering with CAR because it is my way of not only giving back but also honing my skills. I’ve been on the Professional Standards Committee for approximately 10 years, and being on that committee has kept my knowledge of license law sharp and has made me a better REALTOR® and designated managing broker. Collaborating with other brokers from other brokerages is also a benefit that I truly enjoy.
WHAT HAS BEEN MOST VALUABLE TO YOU/YOUR BUSINESS SINCE YOU GOT INVOLVED IN OUR INDUSTRY?
The most valuable thing is definitely education and industry involvement.