"I believe that your trust deserves someone who is totally committed to you & your goals." Michael D. Smith earned his BA in both Marketing and Finance from Northern Arizona University. He then began a career as a Commodities Futures Floor Broker & Trader at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange that lasted almost twenty years. He has lived in Deerfield, Northbrook, Long Grove and now, Lake Forest, Illinois for most of his life and is remarkably aware of the north suburban Chicago areas and understanding of the special attributes held by each. This awareness enhances his ability and strengthens his commitment in working with both home buyers and sellers in these unique real estate communities. As a long time professional in the financial futures industry and a participant in numerous real estate transactions, Michael is acutely aware and understanding of the important financial aspects of a real estate transaction for buyers and sellers. Additionally, he's a good listener who strives to understand the individual issues and concerns that are critical to the participants in a home buying and selling experience. The opportunity to represent you, as the buyer or seller, in one of the most significant financial and emotional events in your life, deserves someone with a total commitment to you and your goals. Michael D. Smith would be honored to make that commitment and to help you realize your plans to buy or sell a home. *Michael holds the Short Sales and Foreclosure (SFR) Designation, equipping him with the education and skills required to maneuver the complexities of short sales and as well as help buyers pursue short sale and foreclosure opportunities. My Goals Are... To Act As Your Real Estate Advocate: Buying or selling a property is a major life decision. Whether you're buying your first home, investing in real estate, or considering a commercial property, you can trust me to work as your advocate throughout the buying and selling process, and to provide you with Premier Service(r). That means serving on your behalf as a Trusted Advisor, Skilled Negotiator, and Expert Facilitatorsm: To Act As Your Trusted Advisor: Through my specialized knowledge and extensive training, I will help you navigate your home buying and selling process. I will listen to your goals, and recommend ways to help you achieve them. To Act As Your Skilled Negotiator: The real estate process requires negotiation of complex issues; I am committed to working in your best interests. I will help you secure the best possible price, with the most favorable terms, in the shortest period of time. To Act As Your Expert Facilitator: I will work to ensure your purchase or sale stays on track and on time. You will receive outstanding customer service, professional expertise, and learn about other services that can enhance the value of your purchase or sale. I am confident that after you work with me, you'll see that my dedication is to you, not "the deal". My goal is to help you, not just once, but whenever you need real estate assistance, and to build a lifelong relationship based upon mutual trust and understanding. If you'd like to talk with me, visit the Contact Me section of my web site. I look forward to learning more about your real estate needs, and to working with you to achieve your goals.