Jim Bittner
Each month, ICBR honors one of its members as Member of the Month. This month, we recognize Jim Bittner. Jim is a broker with RE/MAX Real Estate Groups in Anderson, Ind.
ICBR: Why are you an ICBR member? What do you look to gain out of your membership?
Bittner: I originally joined because I presumed it was the “right thing to do” for a commercial practitioner, which proved to be the case. As a significant plus, ICBR has been a wonderful source for quality networking and education. And my membership has proven to be a quality listing tool since none of the other “commercial agents” in my local market belong. Membership has also allowed me to geographically expand my practice.
ICBR: What designations/awards/recognition have you received?
Bittner: Past President of the Anderson/Madison County Association of Realtors (AMCAR); served as Chair of the Indiana Association of Realtors Professional Standards Committee and Member Benefits Committee; AMCAR “Realtor of the Year” for 2009; 2007 recipient of the AMCAR “Distinguished Service Award;” former At-Large member of the National Association of Realtors Professional Standards Committee; CCIM Candidate; Graduate of the REATOR Institute (GRI); Certified Residential Specialist (CRS); Accredited Buyer Representative; “RE/MAX of Indiana Broker/Owner of the Year” for 2007; RE/MAX Broker/Owner Executive Council 2013; Certified Realty U Instructor; member of ICBR Professional Development and ICREX Committees.
ICBR: How did you start your career in commercial real estate/development?
Bittner: I spent years as a residential agent but always had an interest in commercial real estate. In the mid-90s I was simply bored beyond measure with residential and made a decision to explore commercial real estate. The kick-start came when I took the CCIM Intro course taught in Indianapolis by David Bickell and Randy Scheidt. That simple two day course opened my eyes to a totally new real estate world and jump-started my career. I completed the conversion to commercial-only about 11 years ago.
ICBR: Do you have any mentors? If so, who? How has he/she inspired you?
Bittner: David Bickell and David Martin effectively mentored me in the early days of my commercial real estate career. Mr. Bickell was a valued mentor and business partner for a number of years. He helped me learn the ropes and taught me the value of a commercial real estate education. Mr. Martin was affiliated with my company for a year or two and was instrumental in broadening my vision beyond my local community.
ICBR: What is the most important thing you have learned by working in commercial real estate?
Bittner: I have thoroughly enjoyed learning about a variety of businesses and how they operate.
ICBR: What is your current professional goal(s)?
Bittner: Complete CCIM within 18 months!
ICBR: What is your most recent accomplishment?
Bittner: New great-granddaughter, Braylee, was born on December 8th. While I am WAY too young to be a great-grandfather, I am a GREAT grandfather!
ICBR: Do you have any special skills, interests or hobbies?
Bittner: “An accomplished singer and church musician, Jim served for years as a minister of music and worship leader. He has sung back-up vocals on many albums for artists such as Sandi Patty and Bill Gaither and was a member of the Johnny Mann Singers. As a testament to his versatility he has also performed as a featured classical soloist and narrator with the Anderson Symphony Orchestra and the Anderson Symphonic Choir.
Personal interests include American History, classic mysteries, travel, Bass and Muskie fishing and his Golden Retriever, Holly. Jim is also a Colts and Pacers fan.”
-From bio at www.jimbittner.com