July 2024 Jax Rising Star ~ Donielle Sallas Wagner with Coldwell Banker Vanguard Realty

Congratulations to our Rising Star for July 2024, Donielle Sallas Wagner with Coldwell Banker Vanguard Realty.

Realizing the Deam

By Jess Wellar | Photos by The Real Estateographers

Donielle Sallas fantasized about going into real estate for years after listening to broker grandparents’ regale her with fascinating stories of helping clients while she was growing up; Donielle even went so far as to take a real estate course, but after missing the final exam by two points, she pushed the dream aside — temporarily.

Approaching real estate with more determination than ever, Donielle obtained her license in late 2020 and has been a REALTOR® on fire ever since with a burning desire to help clients achieve their dream home while taking care of her family.

“Becoming a REALTOR® wasn’t just about finding a career — it was about reclaiming my independence and building a future where I could contribute meaningfully to the lives of others,” Donielle explains.

A NEW CHAPTER

Born in Jacksonville and raised in Clay County, Donielle had her first child after graduating high school at 18 and was married by 20. When her next child came along shortly thereafter, Donielle was content to be a stay-at-home mom raising her children.

However, after her fifteen-year marriage ended, Donielle found herself starting over. Life led her in different directions, including nearly a decade in the medical field and a role as member engagement coordinator for the Clay Chamber of Commerce.

“It felt like being a high school graduate all over again, entering the world as an adult for the first time,” she recalls. “The desire for financial independence became a necessity.”

She remembered her grandparents’ stories and her own unfulfilled aspirations in real estate.

“Determined to make a change, I decided to give real estate another shot,” she adds. With renewed passion, she took the course again, studied harder, and passed the exam.

RAPID RISE

Donielle obtained her license in late 2020 and quickly made her mark with her determination to excel. In 2023, she achieved over $9.8 million in sales volume across 17 transactions.

Reflecting on her swift success, Donielle says, “Real estate isn’t just my job; it’s my passion and my way of giving back to my community, my family, and my fiancé.”

Plenty of accolades soon followed her impressive performance, including: Elite Representative Network 2024, Coldwell Banker 2023 International President’s Circle Award, CBVR’s Platinum Award 2023, and Elevate the Elite 501 for 2024.

“My grandparents were so giving and caring and taught me how to be a better person in general,” she continues. “But through real estate, I learned how to be able to take care of myself and not depend on somebody. I finally found my ‘why,’ which is to be financially stable and independent, and I think a lot of women can identify with that emotion, too.”

A PERSONAL TOUCH

Donielle’s approach to real estate is deeply personal. She prides herself on offer- ing exceptional, hands-on service and strives to be more than just a REALTOR® — she always aims to be a trusted advisor and friend.

“Building long-term relationships is at the core of my business,” she offers. “Many of my clients come back to me for future transactions and refer their friends and family, which speaks volumes about the trust and satisfaction they have in my services.”

Perhaps most impressive is Donielle’s ongoing commitment ment to real estate educationtion. She has earned her C2EX designation and is currently working towards becoming an EDGE member. Additionally, Donielle is currently attending NEFAR’s leadership academy and most recently received her global luxury designation.

“Going to these classes helps me meet other REALTORS®, and you want to work with people you know; it helps to collaborate,” she notes.

Donielle’s advice to newer agents echoes her educational ethos.

“Prioritize client education,” she advises. “Educate your clients about the real estate process, market conditions, and what to expect. Empowering them with knowledge builds trust and confidence.”

“Clients don’t know what they don’t know; and if it takes a while to find the right house, that’s okay,” she points out. “My worst fear would be a client calling me up six months after we closed and telling me they hated the house they bought.”

ON THE HORIZON

Outside of work, Donielle’s life is filled with family and fun. She recently married Chris, and the couple are planning to be married this fall. Together, they have a blended family: daughter Meghan, and two sons, Austin and Cooper. Donielle also has four grandchildren between the ages of 1-4, so needless to say, her house is lively whenever there’s a family gathering.

Their three French BulldogsArchie, Penelope, and Sam add to the joyful chaos. “Our bulldogs love a golf cart ride and also love to run and chase golf balls on the golf course!” Donielle adds with a laugh.

In her spare time, Donielle prefers to head straight to the water, whether boating, fishing, or visiting waterfront restaurants. She also enjoys traveling, with a focus on creating memorable experiences with her loved ones.

Giving back is equally important to her. Through Coldwell Banker Vanguard’s charitable organizationtion, CBV Cares, Donielle and her colleagues fund and serve various local charities they are passionate about.

Looking ahead, Donielle has plenty of ambitions in mind.

“The future holds a lot of promise ise and excitement for me,” she shares. “Through NEFAR’s leadership academy, I am gaining valuable skills and insights that will help me serve my clients better and expand my business.”

Down the road, Donielle envisions herself living on the water and owning rental properties to generate passive income to support her family, while being recognized as a trusted and knowledgeable real estate professional who goes above and beyond for her clients.

“Success is about living a life that aligns with my values, brings me joy, and allows me to make a positive difference in the world around me,” she concludes. “And in doing so, I strive to be the best version of myself.”