Bernie Martino, Realtor - Hayward Lakes/Birchwood

Where did you grow up? What was it like?
I grew up in a small town in central Illinois where everyone knew each other. My grandparents were Italian immigrants who moved here in the early 1900's to find work, and my grandfather and father worked in the coal mines for many years. All of my aunts, uncles and cousins lived in the same town, or in neighboring small towns.

Why do you live in the Hayward Lakes area? What do you like most about it?
My parents had vacationed here since I was a very young child. More than 30 years ago, I left a stressful management job and brought my family to this quiet, peaceful area to raise our 4 children.

What is your favorite lake? Why?
Long Lake - it's my favorite because we always came here for summer vacation. My aunt and uncle owned a simple log cabin that I thought was the best cabin in the world! My parents used to tell me a story that I fell off the end of the dock when I was only 18 months old! As I got older, I came up here with my aunt and uncle in the winter and learned to ice-fish.

What is your favorite part of working in Real Estate?
I love being outside and I love talking to people! For me, real estate is a natural fit!

What is the most unusual thing you have encountered while working in Real Estate?
The first time I went alone on a showing, it was to show a large resort on a lake. I had arranged to meet the people at a nearby place, and wasn't really nervous - that is, until the buyers pulled up in a motorhome and I learned that they had brought all of their children and grandchildren - 17 people in all! Trying to keep track of everyone was sort of like being at a carnival! All in all, they were very nice people and somehow I survived! Any showing after that one, was

Why should someone choose you as their real estate agent?
I work on a real estate team with my wife, Becky. We both love this area and are willing share our knowledge and experience to help buyers and sellers accomplish their goals.

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