For Connor Ritzi, Associate Broker for Century 21 Alliance Group, a career in real estate had been his path for years. Growing up in Valparaiso, Ritzi was close to Nick and Jeanne Sommer, owners of Century 21 Alliance Group, and their son, spending vacations and holidays with them every chance he got. Growing up near the family business introduced him to real estate early, making it a clear choice for his future career.
“You grow up in an environment like that, and it really sucks you in,” Ritzi said. “The year that I have been with Century 21 has been great. I’ve learned so much from both Nick and Jeanne.”
As an associate broker, Ritzi works closely with Nick Sommer on the commercial real estate side of the company. This focus involves networking and developing close connections with the community. While at times the commercial real estate process can be slow, sometimes taking upwards of a year to close on a development, making connections within Ritzi’s hometown has been a rewarding experience.
“You try to reach out and get involved with local organizations, meet local business owners, and network with people who are involved in the financial industry,” Ritzi said. “I’ve found that real estate is a lot of networking. You’re connecting with people to see how you can help them and how they can help you to strengthen that connection in the community.”
Connecting with the community has translated to community work as well, continuing a Century 21 tradition of community involvement. Ritzi is a member of the Rotary Club and is also on the Porter County Junior Fair Board.
The focus on networking and building relationships with the community has allowed Ritzi to build upon his already strong personal skills, learning more about communication and the unique needs his clients have.
“Since I have been so close to this industry for a long time, there hasn’t been much that has surprised me,” Rtizi said. “But I have found myself learning a lot about people and have developed my interpersonal skills that are important in this line of work. You deal with a wide variety of people, from all types of backgrounds, so you have to be adaptable and accommodating for everyone."
In his free time, Ritzi can be found enjoying the outdoors, whether it’s fishing, skiing, or just enjoying his time outdoors. Previously, Ritzi attended high school at Valparaiso High School and college at Lewis University in Romeoville, Illinois, where he received a degree in business administration. There, he also was in track and field and cross country. Running is something he still enjoys when he can.
He also likes to read and is currently reading "The Lord of The Rings" and enjoys nonfiction, especially philosophical books.
For more information about Century 21 Alliance Group, visit their website at https://www.21alliance.com/.