A five-year resident of the Near North Side - and, specifically, the Streeterville neighborhood -- Russell Vilt founded Excel Condos as a values-based real estate firm. He has been struck by the philosophy of Starbucks since working there in college. As Starbucks’ founder Howard Schultz says, the coffee chain is in “the People Business serving coffee.” The coffee shop down the block might be less expensive, but it’s that Starbucks Experience that keeps customers returning day after day. From this profound experience, Russell realized that it’s how you treat people that makes all the difference. That “People First” attitude defines him. A Realtor since 2009, Russell began his own company in 2014 to create a better experience for people looking to buy, sell, or rent in Chicago. His specialty is the condo market and, specifically, the downtown area and Near North neighborhood, which comprises Streeterville, the Gold Coast and River North. Russell graduated from the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign with a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology. He admits that people “often give me a strange look when I tell them my major area of study.” But, he explains, that academic background “helps me relate to people in ways that others may not be able to. And, if you understand where people are coming from and what their motivations are, you have a huge advantage when it comes to negotiating.” He is a director of the Chicago Illini Alumni Club. He also is involved actively in the community. He is Outreach Chair for the Associates Board at Chicago Lights, a community outreach organization of the Fourth Presbyterian Church, where he is a deacon; a member of the Big Shoulders Auxiliary Board and a member of the Streeterville Organization of Active Residents (S.O.A.R). He enjoys attending sporting events and trying new restaurants ”that the wonderful city of Chicago offers - It’s my kind of town!” His personal residence overlooks the city, and he loves soaking in the view of its magnificent skyline. He keeps fit and enjoys reading in his spare time. You can still find Russell hanging out at a coffee shop similar to one where he once worked. Want to chat with him over coffee? Set up a time simply by calling 312-835-2550.
