Agent Spotlight: Robert Casorio

Robert Casorio has made a splash in the North Shore real estate market, and his waves don’t seem to be stopping anytime soon. Throughout his eight years as a real estate broker, Robert has seamlessly combined his expansive residential and commercial finance knowledge with a passion for harboring lifelong relationships to create the perfect balance for his clients.

Read all about Robert’s journey and the mentors who’ve helped guide him along the way, as well as his own advice to future realtors in this week’s Agent Spotlight.

At Work with Robert Casorio

How did you land in a real estate career?

After several years in corporate America as an accountant and finance manager, I left to work in the mortgage field as a mortgage broker for about 10 years, then eventually landed in real estate as a broker. I follow 2 generations of family members in the field.

If this is a second, third or nth career, what were you doing previous to real estate?

Previous to real estate, I worked for several companies in the accounting and finance field before I ended up as a mortgage broker. The ability to analyze markets, provide solutions and negotiate the best position for my clients has been a result of my corporate experience.

What is your favorite part of working in real estate?

Meeting and getting to know my clients. They become life long relationships and I am always thankful to be part of their journey. I also enjoy the rapidly changing technology and how it has become a part of our industry.

Who in the industry has made the most impact on your professional journey?

One of my mentors at Ernst and Whinney- Al Hopkinson. He told me, “You will not have all the answers. There are resources for those. You have the ability to listen, a willingness to learn and a strong work ethic. You will do just fine.”

What is one piece of advice you’d give to a new real estate agent?

Work hard. This is a business, not a hobby. Put together a business plan and work that plan. Listen with the intent to learn from your associates, managers and especially clients. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

What are 3 things you always bring with you to a showing?

I always bring the listing sheets and property information; somewhere for clients to write notes and pens; as well as a tape measurer to measure a wall or room size to see if clients furniture will fit.

What is one thing you literally could not do your job without?

My Samsung smartphone. With so much technology today, I can run my business from my smartphone.

At Home with Robert Casorio

What neighborhood do you live in?

I live in Evanston.

Describe your own first home.

A small 2 bedroom ranch in Libertyville with no basement. At barely 1000 sq ft., it was tiny and needed work, but it was mine. My first home! So proud to be a homeowner.

What is the first big-ticket item you bought when you moved into your current home?

I always lived in smaller places in the past that could only fit a small sofa or love seat. When I moved to Evanston, I purchased my first leather sectional couch which become the center of my family room.

What do you love most about your neighborhood?

The people. Evanston has such a rich, diverse ethnic population. It’s amazing! I enjoy meeting my neighbors at local coffee houses or cafés.

How do you start each day?

I wake up with my gratitude for the day, followed by a long walk with my dogs usually at 5:30 in the morning. A walk through my quiet neighborhood allows me to gather my thoughts.

At Play with Robert Casorio

What do you read every single day?

I enjoy reading Inman news online. A great read on what is happening in the world of real estate including the newest technology.

What is the best advice you’ve ever been given?

Don’t get hung up on the small stuff. Life is short, enjoy the day and the moment you are in.

What are 3 words clients would use to describe you? 3 words your family would use?

Clients- Helpful, patient, knowledgeable. Family- Helpful, fun, giving.

If I weren’t a real estate agent, I would be…

Architect or an Artist. I have a fine arts background and always was intrigued with European Architecture since I was a teenager.

What did you eat for breakfast today?

I usually have 2 eggs and turkey sausage with a cup of black coffee. This is usually the healthiest meal I have for the day.