The Story of VIV

Felix J Vivas arrived to Chicago in 1994 from Venezuela after graduating ___ with a vast knowledge of sales. His first job set the foundation for a career in real estate and construction. After working in an apartment rental company in the West Loop neighborhoods while also doing residential and commercial construction, he acquired his first property in Bucktown. Later, in 1998, he established his own construction company, starting with 2 employees. It grew to  a crew of 16, working in all aspects of general contracting. Taking advantage of a larger work force behind him, he participated in various real estate investments, which allowed him extra income to be able to buy his own apartment building in the booming neighborhood of Roscoe Village. 

After having his first child, he and his family moved to the Northern suburbs, leaving the rush of city living. Finding some down time after the move, he was able to increase his knowledge in real estate by taking multiple courses in appraisal, property management, and real estate laws. These laid out his path to earning his real estate license in 2006. 

Before the infamous market crash of ’08,  he divided his time between construction and real estate, using his connections through his business to bolster each other. Once the market crashed, he used his difficulties to drive him.  He used his experience in sales for a glazing contractor while continuing small projects with VIV, using word-of-mouth to find new clients. Since then, VIV has built a vast portfolio built on the hard work and dedication of its employees which has been key to prevail in this industry.