Mark B. Weiss, a distinguished figure in the realm of real estate, embarked on his professional journey by founding Mark B. Weiss Real Estate in 1988. Under his leadership, the firm has garnered national recognition as a trailblazer in the sale of commercial and investment properties. The company is revered for its expertise in catering to financial institutions, private owners, corporations, and trusts, as well as for its innovative approach to the renovation of vintage properties throughout Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods.
A proud graduate of Von Steuben High School and DePaul University, Mark’s educational background laid the foundation for his illustrious career. His commitment to professional growth is evident from his active involvement in various esteemed organizations. As a past president of the Lincoln Park Builder’s Club and a member of both the Rogers Park and Edgewater Uptown Builders Clubs, he has contributed significantly to the local real estate community. Additionally, Mark is affiliated with the prestigious Harvard Club of Chicago, further demonstrating his commitment to excellence.
From 2000 to 2003, Mark served on the Board of Directors of the Chicago Association of Realtors. During his tenure, he was the chairman of the association’s Commercial Committee, where he organized monthly programs and seminars for his peers. His leadership in establishing the first commercial convention for the association underscores his innovative spirit and dedication to advancing the field. Appointed by Mayor Richard M. Daley, Mark also served on the City of Chicago’s Permit Advisory Board from 1998 to 2001, contributing his expertise to the city's developmental policies.
Mark’s professional affiliations extend to several prominent organizations. As a Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) since 1994, he has completed extensive coursework in financial analysis, commercial brokerage, market analysis, tax planning, managing and marketing troubled assets, and decision analysis. This designation highlights his proficiency in various disciplines within commercial and investment real estate. His involvement as a past director of the Illinois CCIM Chapter and the Chicago Real Estate Council, alongside memberships in the National Association of Realtors, the Realtors National Marketing Institute, the Real Estate Investment Association, and other notable groups, further cements his standing in the industry.
A prolific author, Mark has penned seven influential books on real estate, including "Landlording and Property Management," "Real Estate Flipping," "The Everything Home Buying Book," "Secrets of a Millionaire Real Estate Developer," "Condos, Townhomes, and Co-ops," "Common Sense: Making Good Decisions in Real Estate Workouts," and the novel "The I Can't Get Enough Club." These publications serve as valuable resources for both novice and seasoned real estate professionals, offering insights gleaned from Mark’s extensive experience.
Mark’s foray into business began at the young age of 19, when he founded the Uncle Dan Army-Navy Stores in Chicago, eventually expanding the business into an international mail-order catalog enterprise. His entrepreneurial acumen was further demonstrated in 1997 when he helped organize and found NCB Holdings, the holding company of New Century Bank. As a member of the holding company’s Board of Directors, he played a pivotal role in steering the company through the volatile economic climate, ensuring profitability for its shareholders by coordinating the timely sale of their ownership prior to the financial crisis of 2007-2013.
His expertise extends to receivership, having first become a receiver in 1989. Mark’s experience spans Cook, Kane, and DuPage Counties. He he has been frequently retained as an expert witness in legal cases involving various private, bankruptcy, and disputed real estate matters. Additionally, he has actively engaged in property sales through the auction method, adeptly handling traditional sales, sealed bids, and public call auctions as both an auctioneer and event coordinator.
Mark’s influence transcends the business realm into education and media. He has taught at the Latin School of Chicago’s Live and Learn Program and The Learning Annex in New York, Minneapolis, and Los Angeles, sharing his knowledge with aspiring real estate professionals. His expertise has made him a sought-after media personality, with appearances on CNN, FOX, CNBC, PBS, NBC, WGN, XM Radio, WCIU, and other outlets. Mark is frequently quoted in prominent publications such as Time Magazine, Money Magazine, the Chicago Sun-Times, the Chicago Tribune, Chicago Magazine, and numerous other national and international media.
In addition to his professional achievements, Mark is deeply committed to philanthropy and community service. During his youth, he held various leadership roles within the B’nai B’rith Youth Organization and later served on its Board of Directors. In 2004, he was honored as the real estate honoree by the State of Israel Bonds Real Estate Division. His dedication to the arts is evident from his founding role in Arts at Large, a non-profit organization that bridges emerging musicians and artists with diverse audiences.
Mark’s multifaceted interests include a background in comedy and entertainment. He studied at Second City in Chicago in the early 1990s and enjoys performing standup comedy and storytelling, captivating audiences in various venues and clubs.
For more detailed information or to connect with Mark B. Weiss, please contact him directly at 1-312-617-3630 or via email at markbweiss@gmail.com.