Agent Spotlight: John Pinkerton

In this Agent Spotlight, we're getting to know John Pinkerton. John is not just a real estate agent — he's a seasoned professional with over 35 years of experience working in corporate finance doing everything from strategic planning and financial analysis to holding executive roles like chief accounting officer and chief financial officer. 

When the last company he worked for was sold, John had to make a decision — relocate with new ownership or seek other opportunities. His real estate clients over the years are thankful that he chose the latter, becoming a successful and productive agent over just seven years. John initially worked as a consultant, but his entrepreneurial spirit and the flexibility offered by real estate were a big draw. 

Today, he uses his wealth of experience and financial acumen to guide clients through the homebuying and selling process. "I have a great deal of experience in assessing value and I believe I have a lot to offer," says John. "In some ways, I can give back by sharing my experience, particularly with first-time buyers."

John's top advice for fellow real estate agents is to always over-communicate. Ensuring that all parties involved in a transaction are on the same page can prevent surprises and smooth the process. He also believes that referrals are key to a successful real estate business, reflecting the trust and satisfaction of past clients.

Outside of work, John enjoys spending time with family and friends, dining out, watching movies, traveling, entertaining and more. Other Naperville locals might catch him at Vai's Italian Kitchen, or otherwise enjoying the community and downtown area. To get in touch with John, you can email him at john.pinkerton@bairdwarner.com or visit his website. 

What is your background? Have you always been a real estate agent? If no, please explain.

My background is in corporate finance. I have a bachelor's in economics, an MBA and was a certified public accountant (inactive). My career in corporate finance spans over 35 years and includes roles covering accounting, financial reporting, financial analysis, strategic planning, production planning and inventory control and positions including director of strategic planning, corporate controller, chief accounting officer and chief financial officer.

When the last company I worked for was sold, I elected not to relocate with new ownership for personal reasons. I worked as a consultant for a few years but ultimately chose to become a real estate agent due to the entrepreneurial nature of the profession as well as the schedule flexibility to accommodate other personal commitments.

How many years have you been a real estate agent and why do you enjoy being one?

I have been an agent for seven years, and I enjoy being able to help people get through the homebuying or selling process with a minimum amount of stress, as well as helping them maximize the value they get from either buying or selling their homes. Furthermore, in my long career, I have a great deal of experience in assessing value and I believe I have a lot to offer. In some ways, I can give back by sharing my experience, particularly with first-time buyers.

What is a meaningful real estate experience you've had with a buyer or seller? 

I had a meaningful experience working with my first clients after joining Baird & Warner. They were a young couple who responded to a postcard mailing and we set an appointment for a buyer's meeting. This couple was planning for when their lease ended and wanted to know what they needed to do to be ready. I got them preapproved and set up on with searches to get an idea of what they liked and what was available in their price range. 

When the right time came, we started looking. This was in the summer of 2021 and everything was getting multiple offers over the asking price. I provide a detailed cash requirements estimate to my clients for every home we visit calculating what the monthly payment would be as well as the cash required to close, so we would be able to go right to the limit on an offer.

After about eight unsuccessful offers, this couple still had a great attitude. We convinced one of the parents to back them, if necessary, for an appraisal gap waiver, and finally got an accepted offer. This couple closed on a wonderful home in a great neighborhood.  In many ways, I felt like I was advising my own kids. It was a good feeling when they achieved success.

What's one piece of advice that you can share with other real estate agents?

Always over-communicate. Don't just assume others involved in the transaction are doing their job. Be the one to follow up and confirm that tasks have been completed so there are no surprises.

What do you think is the key to a successful real estate business?

Referrals are key. 

What is something you like about Baird & Warner and/your Baird & Warner office?

I like Baird & Warner because they demonstrate values that I believe in.

What is one of your favorite local restaurants and why?

One of our favorite local restaurants is Vai's Italian Kitchen. We went there the first week they opened in 2018 and haven't stopped. The food and service has always been terrific. They have a great outdoor patio, which they adapted to accommodate year-round seating and they are locally owned and community-focused.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time? 

I enjoy spending time with family and friends, eating out, going to movies, traveling, entertaining and doing a modest amount of yard work.

What do you enjoy about living in your town?

Naperville is a great place to live. it has a vibrant business community, great restaurants, great parks, a nice downtown, is generally safe and has good schools.