AJ Markowski, an incorporated leasing agent with the Chicago office of Draper and Kramer, was named the 2024 leasing agent of the year by Multi-Housing News. That’s an impressive honor for anyone, but it’s a true achievement for a relatively new CRE professional like Markowski, who began working in the industry in 2019.
Markowski says that his favorite part of working in real estate is the relationships he builds, particularly with applicants working through the city’s CHA voucher program.
“It’s a complicated process, and there is often a long wait for information,” Markowski said. “I do my best to advocate for these renters, provide any insight and support I can from having gone through the process with other applicants, and keep them informed every step of the way. Affordable housing is a huge issue across the country, but especially in Chicago, and I am proud to work at a property that participates in a program that is part of the solution.”
Here is a look at Markowski’s career so far and his goals for the future:
Tell us about your background. Where did you grow up? Where did you go to school?
I grew up in Inverness, Illinois, about 35 miles northwest of downtown Chicago, and attended Indiana University, majoring in Sports Management and General Business. Growing up, I always wanted to work in the business side of sports industry, basketball specifically, and I achieved that goal. However, I was living away from my family and friends and travelling heavily, which I didn’t like. After trying many career paths, I found real estate to be a more fulfilling opportunity and brought me back to Chicago, which prompted me to switch.
How did you get your start in the CRE industry?
After college graduation, I started working in the sports management field for the Chicago Sky and Bradley University in sales/marketing positions, but soon realized I wanted a career change. I became a licensed Illinois real estate broker in 2019 working in the multifamily division for Marcus & Millichap in Chicago. My mother, Jill Markowski, works as a commercial lender at an independent bank, and real estate has always been a big interest of mine. I was dealing with job uncertainty due to the start of Covid and I found myself unemployed in June 2020, like many during that time.
Real estate jobs were scarce, but I was determined to stay in the industry. Which led me to finding the residential leasing division of Draper and Kramer, Incorporated. Shortly after interviewing, I was fortunate to be offered the position of Residential Leasing Agent at 1350/60 North Lake Shore Drive in June 2020, and I still hold that title today. My grandfather owns a condo in the neighborhood as well, so my familiarity of the area gave me a head start. I believe my extensive education of the Gold Coast neighborhood and my experience as a licensed broker has allowed me to thrive in this position and really enjoy it for the last 4.5 years.
Did you have a mentor who helped you get on your feet, or is there someone you turn to now for support?
I’m incredibly thankfully for the support of my parents who taught me the life lessons to prepare for the real world, as well as provided me the opportunity to complete higher education. It was important to them I find the right school, and they loved Indiana University as much as I did. I credit several college professors for instilling the necessary knowledge and experiences to help me start a career.
My property manager Kelli Stuart is someone I turn to now for support. I owe all my property management knowledge to her, and I appreciate her persistent and honest attitude. During my tenure, she’s helped me develop my leadership, critical thinking, and communication skills that are needed to become a future property manager myself. Kelli continues to provide all the resources to feel comfortable at 1350/60, and I appreciate her so much! I’m also thankful for the people I work with every day, and I could not be so successful without the help of Kelli, as well as Heroes, James, Veda, Alan, and Amber!
What does an average day at work look like?
As is the case with most real estate jobs, each day brings something a bit different, but there are some consistent tasks I perform. First and foremost, I’m the initial contact for incoming prospects as well as all current tenants with property-related concerns. I provide in-person as well as virtual tours to potential residents, always focused on our goal of maintaining a high occupancy level.
I really enjoy interacting with the residents of the building every day.
I am also an active member of the Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM) Chicago, and attend events whenever possible.
What do you like most about your job?
Most people are surprised when they find out I also live at 1350/60 Lake Shore Drive, but I’d say that is actually what I love most about my job. Having the experience as a tenant allows me to answer any work-related question in the most accurate and confident way possible. I take tremendous pride in being a tenant as well as the leasing agent of the property. There are not many questions about this property I don’t know the answer to at this point!
Looking to the future, what do you hope to work on/achieve that you haven’t already?
One day, I hope to be the manager of multiple properties, and, someday, invest in CRE – specifically multifamily and industrial. It would be a great way to create passive income opportunities for my family.
I am certified as an Accredited Residential Manager with IREM, and my next goal is to earn my Certified Property Manager certification to open more career paths within Draper and Kramer.
How do you spend your time away from the office?
I recently got married, and enjoy spending time with my wife, Kim, and dog, George. I’m also a big Chicago spots fan (and Bears season ticket holder) and like to play golf, too. Kim and I enjoy long walks on Lake Michigan with our dog and dining out at our favorite spot – Gibson’s Italia.