Through unprecedented times, where no one could predict the financial future, I learned that true wealth lies not in material gain but in the service of others. Finding the opportunity within a challenge, I redefined myself and what values matter most to who I am. 

 

In 2007, the financial ground beneath me shook as the market crashed. Before this seismic shift, I had earned a very comfortable income from real estate, but it dramatically decreased within the span of a year. This was not just a professional setback; it was a crisis that deeply affected my family’s stability and my approach to life.

 

When I started in real estate in 1992, there were many years of hard work, gradually building up a client base. But over time, with continued success and growth, it began to feel as if there was no way but up! The market crash was humbling, putting extreme pressure on me to find a way forward amidst such uncertainty.

 

I remember my daughter, a preteen at the time, casually mentioning she needed new contact lenses—a simple request that I could no longer afford with our tightening budget. I called her to the dining room table, littered with bills and my attempts to make sense of our dwindling finances. I showed her the pile of urgent expenses and explained the difference between a 'want' and a 'need.' What she needed was to see, and that could be achieved with glasses, not the more expensive contacts she wanted. 

 

This moment was pivotal, not just in teaching financial prudence but in bonding us as a family committed to navigating tough times together. Both my children were approaching this difficult period with understanding, taking some of the weight off of a financially challenging time.

 

The challenges I faced reshaped my professional outlook and personal philosophy profoundly. I learned to diversify my skills, taking a position as a loan originator to better assist my clients during a time when buying and selling homes became tremendously difficult due to financing issues. This not only helped me close deals that otherwise wouldn't have been possible but also added a layer of expertise in navigating the lending process. 

 

During this time, I also became a youth minister, which provided me with spiritual grounding. I turned to my faith, asking the Lord to “Send me people to serve.” Whenever I requested this, the Lord provided—the phone would ring with someone needing help and guidance. That is when I realized that I am here to help people, not to make money or to be a rich man. 

 

When you focus on helping someone, it will always come back to you in one way or another. This philosophy became the foundation of my approach, the core from which all decisions were made. It isn't about the number of homes I can sell or the money I can make; it is about the number of families I can help each and every year. 

 

As the years passed, the lessons of the market crash continued to resonate in my approach to real estate and life. I learned the importance of resilience, the art of adaptation and the value of genuine service. The crash taught me that in adversity lies opportunity—not only to rebuild but to redefine yourself.

 

Now, as the owner of a real estate company and school, these experiences shape how I teach and lead. It's about preparing the next generation of REALTORS® not just to succeed in good times but to thrive through challenges, to see beyond immediate profits, and to focus on the profound satisfaction that comes from truly serving others. When I reflect on those years, they are now a testament to the power of resilience, faith, community connection, and service.

 

As a real estate professional, my approach is deeply rooted in serving the needs of my clients with care, expertise and a personal touch. One of the key specialties I've developed is guiding first-time homebuyers through the process of finding their ideal home, even if they initially need to start with renting. I've crafted a program that seamlessly transitions renters into homeownership within one to two years, ensuring they're financially prepared and qualified to make that significant investment. This approach not only helps individuals achieve their dream of homeownership but also builds a lasting relationship based on trust and support.

 

Expanding my reach into both Indiana and Illinois has allowed me to cater to a diverse clientele, including those looking to downsize or relocate to quieter areas. Whether it's assisting young families or retirees, I'm committed to providing tailored solutions that meet every client’s unique needs and preferences. With over 30 years of experience, I am confident in my knowledge, skills and resources to help make any dream a reality with the right preparation, support and guidance! 

 

Sincerely,

 

Lenny Feil

Broker-Owner | LIC# 471005412

Direct Call/Text: 708.870.0514

Office: 708.371.1910

lenfeil@yahoo.com

lennyfeil.com