Winter 2024 Chicago REALTOR® Magazine

After graduating college, Hernandez moved to Chicago and began a
career in social work. From her time in social work, Hernandez learned
the importance of listening rather than hearing and always putting
herself in her clients’ shoes – all of which are skills that would serve
her well decades later as a managing broker.
She transitioned into real estate in the 80s, beginning as a
receptionist, then earning her real estate license and becoming a
managing broker. Since then, she has managed six offices and has
been active in a variety of ways in our industry.
Hernandez stresses the importance of using your voice and creating
collaboration within our industry. This impassioned plea stems from a
pivotal point in her career—where the power of collaboration from her
association helped her overcome a difficult time in her life.
It was 2011. Hernandez was immersed in managing a local office
and guiding her agents through transactions and dispute resolutions
when, unexpectedly, her husband went into a coma. She dropped
everything to be by his side—but it left her office and her team still in
need of guidance and leadership.
The Chicago Association of REALTORS ® president at the time, Mabél
Guzmán of Coldwell Banker Realty, stepped in to guide her team
and provide advice in Hernandez’s absence. She was gratefully able
to direct her attention where it was needed—with her husband.
Hernandez could not be more grateful for the support.
Weeks later, when Hernandez’s husband recovered and she returned
to work, Guzmán paid her a visit. "She took time out of her schedule
to hear my voice as a managing broker member. All these years later, I
still remember how much that meant to me. For the president to take
time to meet with me and hear my voice,” Hernandez said.
This experience is at the heart of Hernandez’s goals this year as
president. “My goal this year is to hear from as many of you as
possible, to hear your thoughts, concerns and ideas. As I said, we are
the voice for real estate in Chicago, and that
includes your voice."
“I want to hear all of your voices. We have
over 17,000 members. Members who are
engaged in their neighborhoods, brokerages,
communities, schools and so much more. That
is a lot of talent. Talent that can ensure we
meet our mission: To unite all facets of the
industry as a leading advocate for real estate,
to drive REALTOR ® business success, and to
support the economic development of our
diverse communities,” Hernandez added.
So, what does this look like for the year
ahead? Hernandez plans to carry the legacy
of compassion and listening forward by
visiting managing broker members to hear
their insights, concerns and more. As she has
emphasized, we are the voice for real estate in
Chicago, and we need all our members to use
our voices to affect change.
12 Chicago REALTOR ® Magazine