Step into the Ring with Ben Trecroci: A Real Estate Heavyweight

Step into the ring with Ben Trecroci—real estate pro, Cubs fanatic, and a guy who knows how to lay the foundation for success. Growing up in the business, Ben has seen it all, from market booms to historic properties getting a second life. But today, we’re stepping outside the office and into the squared circle for some fun, no-holds-barred questions about real estate, baseball, and his love for WWE. So grab your seat—front row, of course—and let’s get ready to rumble!

Your father, Frank Trecroci, had a major impact on Kenosha real estate. What was it like growing up watching him build the business?
Ben: As a kid, I always knew it was special having a dad who knew so many people—it seemed like he had a key to the city. We’d visit all these interesting buildings downtown that he owned. He respected everyone, and everyone respected him in return. He took a huge step in starting his own brokerage downtown around 2000, and it turned out to be the best move. The name Trecroci Realty became synonymous with my family and me.

Did you always know you wanted to follow in your father’s footsteps, or did you ever consider another career path?
Ben: My career took a few twists and turns before I eventually followed in my dad’s footsteps. I went to Columbia College in Chicago for journalism and worked at a couple of area newspapers. But when the internet took over, job opportunities in print journalism dried up. Since I had already been helping my dad out, I decided to get my real estate license—and now, I’m the broker of Trecroci Realty! It’s funny how things work out.

What are some of your earliest memories of working with your dad in real estate?
I remember going to open houses with him as a kid. I’d help put up signs or sit quietly with some toys when customers came by. It was cool seeing all these houses as a child. As I got older, I ran around in many of the buildings that are now thriving businesses. Want to know which ones? Shhh… Later, as a teenager, I would take pictures, drop off keys or papers to customers or other realtors, which helped me build relationships early on.

What lessons did your father teach you about the industry that you still carry with you today?
Ben: My dad was always patient with buyers and sellers. He never used high-pressure tactics but always kept things professional. Sometimes it’s better to listen than to talk, especially in real estate. Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest decisions someone can make, and you don’t want to overwhelm them with unnecessary chatter.

How has your family’s approach to real estate shaped Trecroci Realty’s reputation in Kenosha?
Ben: My family’s name has been synonymous with real estate for years. It started with my Uncle Guy Trecroci, and continued with my dad, Frank, my Aunt Sandy, and my Uncle Mark. They were all exceptional realtors who treated their clients with respect and professionalism.

Your father ran Trecroci Realty for 50 years before his passing. What was the transition like for you to take over?
Ben: Honestly, they were some big shoes to fill. But my dad had taught me so much—sometimes without even realizing it. My sister, Stephanie Bosco, and I have been working hard to make him proud. Still, we miss being able to call him for advice, especially when it came to his vast knowledge of real estate!

How has the Kenosha real estate market changed since your father’s time?
Ben: The city has grown so much from the late 60s until now. It’s wild to think that not long ago, there was barely any development west of Green Bay Road, and now it’s one of the most populated areas in Kenosha County.

What are some of the biggest challenges in real estate today that didn’t exist when your father started the business?
Ben: While it’s convenient to send a text or email these days, sometimes you really need to speak to someone in person or over the phone. Back then, you had to meet with people or bring them documents to sign—there was no DocuSign! As convenient as digital tools are, there’s a certain disconnect with not having face-to-face communication.

What is your vision for Trecroci Realty in the next five to ten years?
Ben: I’d love to see more agents join the team! While it’s important to keep the family legacy intact, I’m open to bringing in talented agents who aren’t related. I also hope to be a key player in bringing a major residential or commercial development to Kenosha—maybe even a grocery store to Downtown!

Are there any projects or developments in Kenosha you’re particularly excited about?
Ben: The downtown development that’s going to transform the area in the next few years is incredibly exciting! There have been several projects in the past that were shelved, but this new round of development really seems to be happening.

You recently joined the Lakeshore Business Improvement District (BID) board—what motivated you to get involved?
Ben: I’ve always been involved in making downtown a better place—whether through attending monthly meetings, volunteering with the Kenosha Trash Trotters, or promoting the area to friends, real estate clients, or anyone who’d listen. I finally decided to join the BID board to make a more direct impact.

What are some key initiatives or projects the BID is currently focusing on?
Ben: We just had a very successful inaugural St. Patrick’s Day Parade, and we’re expecting more events like it. Along with Visit Kenosha, we’re working hard to make Kenosha a destination—not just for fun but also as a great place for new businesses to open or expand.

How do you see the BID shaping the future of Downtown Kenosha?
Ben: The BID is helping to create a thriving downtown by supporting business owners and organizing major events like the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. We want the district to be a place where people can live, work, and play—all year long.

From your perspective as a real estate professional, what are some of the biggest opportunities for business growth in the district?
Ben: I believe there’s room for more unique entertainment, food, and retail options. We already have a lot of great businesses, but there’s definitely potential for something truly distinctive that will draw people to the district repeatedly.

How can local business owners and community members get more involved with the BID’s efforts?
Ben: Definitely attend the monthly meetings! There’s time for public comments, or you can just sit in and listen. Many local business owners get involved by participating in community events like the upcoming Easter Bunny Hop on April 12.

You’ve seen Kenosha change over the years—what are some of your favorite things about “Old Kenosha” that you wish were still around?
Ben: I miss some of the old stores, like Becker’s Newsstand downtown, the arcade at Market Square, Hungry Head, Mac’s Deli for Nut Bars, and even K-Mart from the ’80s. You had to be there to understand the charm of it all.

How important is community involvement in your business, and how do you stay connected with the city?
Ben: It’s crucial to stay involved and understand what the community cares about. I attend city meetings, BID meetings, and even follow Facebook groups (though they can get wild). I also listen to the Kenosha Connects Podcast to stay informed about what’s happening in the community.

What advice would you give to someone looking to invest in property or buy their first home in Kenosha?
Ben: The first step is always to get pre-approved by a mortgage officer—there are many great ones here in Kenosha. Then, talk to a real estate agent. Even if you’re just curious about the history of a neighborhood or building, we can help guide you through the process.

What is one of the most unique or interesting properties you’ve ever worked with?
Ben: Where to start? There’s a lot in real estate, but one of the most memorable was a house near the lake from the 1880s that had a tree as the foundation joist. It looked like something out of Willy Wonka!

If your father could see Kenosha today, what do you think he’d say about its growth and development?
Ben: I know for sure he’d be thrilled to see the development finally taking place downtown. He spent years working to improve the area, and it’s great to see those plans coming to life.

If you could build your dream home anywhere, where would it be, and what would it look like?
Ben: I’d choose Carol Beach by the lake. It’s so peaceful there. Even though I can’t swim (shhh), the view is unbeatable. I’d love to have a Florida room with all windows so I can enjoy the view year-round.

As we come to the final round, of this interview,  let’s tag in some fun questions to get to know Ben outside the ropes of real estate! From the baseball diamond to the squared circle, Ben has some interesting takes on his favorite passions. Let’s dive into the ring and see what he’s got to say about his love for the Cubs and his wrestling fandom!

You’re a huge Cubs fan—do you have a favorite game or memory as a fan?
Ben: There are so many! Of course, the 2016 World Series win is unforgettable. But one of my earliest memories was skipping school at Tremper to go to a Cubs game with friends. We sat in the bleachers on a perfect sunny day—when we got home, our parents asked why we were so tan. We said gym class was outside!

What’s your all-time favorite WWE moment or match?
Ben: WrestleMania 3 will always be my favorite. It was the first one I saw live, and the matches—Hogan vs. Andre, Ricky Steamboat vs. Macho Man—are what made me a fan for life.

If you could tag team with any wrestler, past or present, who would it be and why?
Ben: The Bad Guy, Scott Hall. He was so cool and didn’t even need to try. There’s no one quite like him.

What’s something people might not know about you outside of real estate?
Ben: I’ve appeared as an extra in a couple of TV shows and movies filmed in Chicago. Have you seen me before?

After going the full 9 innings, one thing’s clear—Ben knows how to close the deal inside and outside the real estate game. Whether he’s helping buyers find their dream home or cheering on the Cubs like it’s WrestleMania, his passion is unmatched. Thanks for stepping into the ring, Ben—now let’s see if the market (or the Cubs) can bring home the championship this year!