10 Questions With ​Keith Kreis Of Charles Rutenberg Realty

Charles Rutenberg Realty is a real estate agency that prides itself on providing exceptional service in order to benefit its clients — and with top-rated realtors like Keith Kreis in the Greater Chicagoland Area, they're truly living up to their mission.

With more than 30 years of experience, Kreis knows the ins and out of the real estate industry. From helping clients sort out financial issues that might arise when purchasing a home to marketing their homes like they're his very own, Kreis will do everything in his power to ensure a professional and stress-free home transaction. Read on to learn more about Kreis and his success in this exclusive Patch one-on-one:

Patch: How long have you been doing business in town?

Kreis: I’ve been involved in the real estate industry for over 30 years. I have lived in the western suburbs for
over 40 years. The towns include Bolingbrook, Plainfield, Naperville, Oswego, Wheaton and Carol Stream.

Patch: What attracted you to the line of work you’re in, and how did you get started?

Kreis: As a child, my parents would buy a house, fix it up and sell it. I have lived in over 27 properties in my
lifetime. One of the greatest things about real estate is that there are no two homes that are exactly alike.
Just as there are no two situations that are exactly the same, making this a fun and challenging business.

Patch: If you had to sum up your business mission to a stranger in five words, what would those words be?

Kreis: Honesty, integrity, dedication, professionalism, communication

Patch: What’s the biggest challenge or most difficult moment you’ve faced in your job?

Kreis: I try to avoid any major challenges for my clients. When I go with my clients and view homes, I scan
for the imperfections that could cause major issues. I make sure that the property is priced accordingly and that the house is treated as an investment as well as a home, ensuring they get the very best price.

Coming from a financial background myself, I have the experience and expertise to deal with issues that might arise regarding financing. I am very proud to say that each client that I’ve had has been able to buy the property their hearts were set on! It's important for clients to know you’re not there just for the commission, but there to help them every step of the way even after the closing.

Patch: What’s the most satisfying part of your job?

Kreis: I would say the most satisfying part of my job is the people I meet. Over 85 percent of my business is repeat and referral customers. Not only are they my clients, but I become their trusted advisor and friend. My clients have consistently rated me among the highest rated agents in the western suburbs and in the top one percent of all agents on Trulia.

My clients know that I’m there for the long run, and even after the closing I am there to help if they should need anything (like contractors, for example). They know I’m not there to rush them into buying a house. They also know that I will help them find the perfect home and get them the perfect price.

When it comes to selling their home, my clients know that it will be done professionally — hiring a
professional photographer, using all the latest in technology and social media, having their home featured on all the most popular websites, and marketing their home like my very own.

Patch: How would you say your business or organization distinguishes itself from the others?

Kreis: Honesty and communication, I would say, are some of my biggest attributes. When communicating with my clients, I make sure to get back to them in seconds — not hours or days. I am very honest when it comes to giving my assessment of any individual property. I always make sure they are getting their perfect home at the right price.

I also offer the latest and the best technology when they are looking to buy a property. I want them
to have everything that I have at my disposal, taking out all of the stress of buying or selling a home and making it a fun and easy process.

Patch: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given when it comes to success?

Kreis: Be honest and truthful. Treat others as you would like to be treated. Believe in yourself and others will
believe in you as well. Have a set of goals that you wish to achieve. Never forget that one of the most
important things in life is your family.

Patch: Are there any new projects or endeavors you’re working on that you’re extra excited about?

Kreis: With the changes in technology, videography is by far one of the biggest items in the real estate
industry. I personally do a video for every listing because videos can show you what the home truly looks
like. I also do video walkthroughs for my clients if they’re unable to view a property. The real estate
industry is going through major changes with the technology that is here now and coming in the
future. If you do not stay on top of the changes you will be left behind. I love what I do! I really like the
people I deal with, so I plan on being in the industry for a long time.

Patch: How can Patch readers learn more about your work and business?

Kreis: The best way for people to learn about me is through the video below. If they have two minutes, it can show them how I can change their lives for the better. For more information, check out my website, Facebook page, Twitter page and LinkedIn. You can also email me or give me a call at 630-673-0306.

This Patch article is sponsored by Keith Kreis of Charles Rutenberg Realty

Image Credit: Keith Kreis of Charles Rutenberg Realty