Jacksonville Real Producers ~ June 2024

Photo by Renee Parenteau

Zachary Cohen Writer

Kristin and Brian Lunsford Owners/Publishers

Michele Jerrell Operations Manager

Renee Parenteau Photographer Scott Golmic Photographer

Jess Wellar Writer

This section has been created to give you easier access when searching for a trusted real estate affiliate. Take a minute to familiarize yourself with the businesses sponsoring your magazine. These local businesses are proud to partner with you and make this magazine possible. Please support these businesses and thank them for supporting the REALTOR® community!

HANDYMAN SERVICES

Fix-it Flamingo (904) 474-1768

fixitflamingo.com

HOME BUYER

Mac Home Development Inc (904) 887-4015 machomedevelopment.com

HOME RENOVATION

Curbio (810) 300-9432 Curbio.com

INSPECTIONS

AmeriSpec Inspection Services (904) 448-5016 amerispec.com/locations/fl/ jacksonville

LunsPro Inspections (904) 249-6523 LunsProFlorida.com

River City Home Inspections (904) 654-4732 rivercityhomeinspect.com

INSURANCE

Kilpatrick Agency Inc: Goosehead Insurance (904) 420-7711 goosehead.com/agents/ carol-kilpatrick/

MORTGAGE / LENDER

Atlantic Trust Mortgage (904) 338-9356 AtlanticTrustMortgage.com

CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC (612) 599-8334 crosscountrymortgage.com/ My-CC-Team

First Coast Mortgage (703) 627-1775

FirstCoastMortgage Funding.com

Future Home Loans (904) 494-6000 future.loans

Heroes First Home Loans (904) 539-3790 heroesfirst.com

Mortgages By Linda (904) 591-3662 mortgagesbylinda.com

North Florida Mortgage Brokers

Timothy Newman (904) 755-0307 northfloridamortgage brokers.com

MOVING COMPANY

Jaguar Moving (904) 323-6978 JaguarMoving.com

OUTDOOR LIGHTING

JoyLights (904) 474-1768 WeBringTheJoy.com

PEST CONTROL SERVICES

Kingfish Pest Control (904) 595-5300 KingfishPest.com

PHOTOGRAPHY

Renee Parenteau Photography (904) 236-5337 ReneeParenteauPhoto.com

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

Collage Day School (904) 900-1439 CollageDaySchool.org

REAL ESTATE

PHOTOGRAPHY

The Real Estateographers (904) 770-5262 therealestateographers.com

RENOVATIONS

Renovation Sells (904) 655-2411 renovationsells.com/jax

ROOFING

Mighty Dog RoofingJacksonville FLA (904) 867-7859 mightydogroofing.com

ROOFING & CONSTRUCTION

South Edge Construction (904) 799-8000 southedgeconstruction.com

SPORTS TEAMS

Jacksonville Jaguars (904) 633-3348 Jaguars.com

TITLE COMPANY

Atlantic Coast Title & Escrow (904) 853-5591 atlanticcoasttitle andescrow.com

Cherry Tile LLC

Angelique “Chrissy” Kirsch (904) 300-3414 cherrytitle.us

Landmark Title (904) 367-2525 LandmarkTitle.com

Milestone Title Services (904) 716-7285 milestonetitlesvcs.com

Omega National Title Agency, LLC (904) 456-0858 Omeganationaltitle.com

Woods, Weidenmiller, Michetti & Rudnick, LLP

Josh Rudnick (239) 325-4070

WEALTH MANAGEMENT

Whitacre Wealth Management (410) 961-6548 WhitacreWealth Management.com

@realproducers

By Brian Lunsford publisher’s note

IT’S NEVER TOO LATE TO LET SOMEONE KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THEM

Mike McCoy is 75 years old. The Notre Dame standout defensive tackle was the first pick of the Green Bay Packers in the 1970 NFL Draft (second overall behind Terry Bradshaw).

Mike is good friends with Kristin’s dad, Ed.

Through Ed and with Mike’s permission, below is a touching email sent to Mike recently by a now 60-year-old fan named Andrew who recounted his childhood memories of Mike.

I was struck by Andrew’s courage as a kid to reach out to Mike, but even more so now after all these years.

It takes courage to contact your hero—especially decades later.

But it’s never too late to let someone know how you feel about them and how they impacted your life.

As a pro football player in his prime, Mike could’ve easily blown the kid off, but he was patient and kind to an adoring young fan.

No kind gesture is too small. You never know whose life you might change by bringing joy to others.

As much as big Mike’s autograph meant to Andrew as a kid in the 1970s, I’m quite certain it was Mike’s kind, patient, gentleness that truly meant the most to Andrew as he looks back.

I’m also pretty sure Andrew’s thoughtful email of memories and gratitude has brought more joy to Mike than Andrew might ever imagine.

Full circle.

Always #BringTheJoy

-Brian Lunsford

NO KIND GESTURE IS TOO SMALL. YOU NEVER KNOW WHOSE LIFE YOU MIGHT CHANGE BY BRINGING JOY TO OTHERS.

You signed the piece of cardboard and I left with an incredible keepsake. An autograph by my football hero.

2024 email from Andrew (I omitted his last name) to NFL and Packer great, Mike McCoy:

Subject: You were my favorite Packer

Good Afternoon Mr. McCoy,

I’ve thought about writing to you for years.... well today is the day.

In 1973 I was 9 years old.

My parents took me to a Packer game at County Stadium so I could see my favorite player, Mike McCoy No. 76.

After the game I ran across the parking lot and waited for the players to exit. When I saw you I ran over and asked you for your autograph. You kindly agreed and reached your hands out for a pen and paper. I had neither. This was my first, and only autograph, I would ask for.

I panicked and asked if you could wait there and I ran back to where my parents were. I found a pen and ran back and you were still there patiently waiting for me.

It was then we discovered I still didn’t have anything for you to sign.

Again I asked you to wait there and I ran across the parking lot and tore off a piece of cardboard from the back of a pennant I had bought.

Again I ran across the parking lot to find you still waiting patiently for me. You had patiently waited for over 20 minutes.

Our paths would cross again in 1976 when you were traded to the Oakland Raiders. I was devastated.

My father was the Picture Editor of the Milwaukee Journal back then. Somehow he obtained your phone number and said, “Why don’t you call him.” I did.

Your wife [Mike’s late wife Kia] answered the phone and a very excited 12-year-old boy blurted out, “THIS STINKS!” She was very kind and went to get you on the phone.

You were kind and patient and explained a bit about football players and how it all works.

I declared I was no longer a Packer fan and would only cheer for the Raiders. You walked me back and encouraged me to stay a Packer fan and cheer for the Raiders when I could.

I have been a steadfast Packer fan ever since but I still cheer for the Raiders.... when they aren’t playing the Packers.

I just wanted to say, “Thank you.” Your example of patience and kindness made a difference in my life. It made a lasting impact in who I became.

I have told the story of our interaction countless times to illustrate the impact of patience and kindness to others.

I hope this email provides you with a smile and a little joy.

Peace to you.

Very Truly,

Andrew

EMBRACE, EMPOWER, ENGAGE: ELEVATING RELATIONSHIPS

By Zachary Cohen Photos By The Real Estateographers

BEN WHITACRE was born and raised in Stephens City, Virginia, a small town about 85 miles west of Washington, DC. His formative years were enriched by his family and community, who helped shape him into the man he has become.

Ben’s mom, Mary Jo, was instrumental in helping him with his studies and offering him an early example of unconditional love. His dad, Dennis (who happened to be Ben’s best man at his wedding), set an example of kind and respectful leadership. Growing up alongside his two brothers, Dan and Brad, Ben was given the gift of a childhood filled with laughter, play, and adventure.

After graduating from high school, Ben was recruited to be the kicker for Towson University’s football team. He studied electronic media and film and served as the Student Government Association President while hoping to become an NFL kicker and sports broadcaster. While Ben did go on to play one year of pro football with the Baltimore Blackbirds of the American Indoor Football Association, he soon turned his attention toward a career in financial services.

Ben shares, “When I was 24 years old and deciding what I wanted to do, I knew that I wanted to find a career where I would be able to impact people and make a difference in their lives. I have always had a drive to want to succeed in anything that I set my mind to and wanted to find something that challenged me in a positive way to work hard and leave a legacy. I was looking for a career, not a job.”

That search ultimately led Ben to start his career in finance in 2005. Over the past 19 years, he’s helped countless individuals and families manage their wealth, save for retirement, and make the best financial decisions for themselves and their future.

WHITACRE WEALTH MANAGEMENT

In 2019, Ben took the next big step in his career, founding Whitacre Wealth Management. His vision was to create an independent organization with the primary goal of serving clients’ best interests.

“My company helps people in a variety of ways, such as guiding them through life with their financial decisions from buying a home, paying for college for their children, funding a comfortable retirement, and protecting their family along the way,” Ben explains. “Having an unbiased, independent lens through which we view financial planning, we can take an objective look at what is most important to our clients and how to partner with them towards their financial goals.”

In 2020, Ben took another big step, transitioning his business and family to Florida. As COVID-19 shut down schools around the country, families struggled with how to educate their kids and keep their mental health intact. Ben had long dreamed of moving to Florida, and while he assumed he’d make that move after his kids graduated high school, the COVID19 pandemic fast-tracked that move.

“With our schools in Maryland being shut down due to the pandemic and our kids struggling with virtual learning, we decided to make a change and move to Florida to get our kids back in the school building and continue their learning in person. Things happen for a reason, and God is in control. Being here and around the great people we have met from Florida and other parts of the country has been a blessing. The Nocatee community has been a great place to raise our family over the past three-plus years.”

FAMILY FIRST

When he’s not working, you’re most likely to find Ben spending time with his family at home, around town, or out on the sports fields coaching. He’s been with his wife, Trisha, for 20 years, and they have two children, Lexi and Drew.

“Trisha is my best friend and an incredible mother who is instrumental in our children’s educational growth and exudes love and compassion,” Ben beams. “Lexi is hard-working, kind, beautiful, and smart. She plays soccer, sings, and loves spending time on our lanai and throwing the ball to our dog, Bella. Our son, Drew, is all sports all the time and always smiling. His charisma and kind heart will take him far in life. Last but not least, our multipoo, Bella, is our four-year-old dog who is definitely spoiled because of how cute she is.”

Ben and his family enjoy traveling, going to sporting events, spending time with friends, and exploring Jacksonville’s restaurants. Being present with his family and the other relationships he’s developed is priority number one in his life. Whether at home with his wife and kids or serving a client, Ben stays present to the connections he’s nurtured above all else.

“The relationships I have built over 19 years in this business are beyond my wildest dreams… What a gift to work with people that I truly care about.”

For more information, visit whitacrewealthmanagement.com.

Ben and his wife, Trish, have two children, Drew and Lexi.

CHAMPIONS CHAMPIONS BREAKFAST BREAKFAST of

&

“Real estate can be a cutthroat business in general, but with Florida’s Choice Realty, we have broken down those walls and created an environment where each individual can thrive. We encourage growth, lean into each other’s strengths, and are there for one another — not just in real estate but also in life.”

-Erika Kinsel-Elliott

In 2012, Dawna Cantaway’s mom and stepdad were both diagnosed with terminal illnesses. Life was challenging over the next three years; her stepdad passed in 2014, and her mom passed away nine months later. This devastating time wasn’t over, however, as Dawna lost her grandmother a month later.

Hardship is a part of life; no one escapes it. What defines us, however, is how we respond to it. These events catalyzed something for Dawna, waking up a dream she had long held.

“My grandmother was a REALTOR® as far back as I can remember. My mom always told me that I was supposed to be a REALTOR®. Once my mom passed away, I just knew it was time,” Dawna reflects.

In 2016, Dawna began her real estate career, parlaying her years of experience drafting house plans for builders,

KINSEL-ELLIOTT

doing hands-on work in remodeling and renovation projects alongside her husband, and providing invaluable advice on inte rior design for homes and businesses.

Meanwhile, Dawna’s youngest daughter, Erika, had already begun her budding real estate career a few months prior. Erika transitioned from liquor, beer, and wine sales into the real estate industry, putting her natural relationship-build ing skills to use in a business where she could make a pos itive impact on her community.

LIKE MOTHER, LIKE DAUGHTER

“During my career as a sales representative in the liquor industry, my husband encouraged me to get into real estate to do something that would have more meaning. After some unfortunate circumstances with the company I worked for shutting the doors, I jumped head first into real estate, found my passion for it, and have never looked back,” Erika says. “I have always had a deep passion for helping others in life. Getting into real estate, I found out quickly how meaningful and important this journey is to the families I help.”

Dawna and Erika both began leading teams early in their careers. Dawna worked out of Ocala and Gainesville, while Erika worked out of Jacksonville and St. Johns. Along the way, they supported each other, shared tips for success, and gave each other the courage to overcome obstacles.

“We called each other almost daily to help each other get through the challenges [a career in real estate] can bring,” Erika explains.

“From day one, even as colleagues, we bounced ideas off of each other and had each other’s backs, so when I decided to open the brokerage, it was a given that we were supposed to run the brokerage together,” Dawna adds.

Like Mother, Like Daughter Dawna and Erika have worked side-by-side at Florida’s Choice Realty for four years. They co-founded Florida’s Choice Realty in May 2020 and have grown the brokerage to thirty active agents, eight referral agents, and four administrative staff members.

“There are many things that I love [about this business], but the one I love most is being

able to work side-by-side with my youngest daughter in leading the brokerage. [I also have] my oldest daughter helping with transactions and my daughter-in-law helping with administration [tasks],” Dawna explains.

“I get to help run a company with my mother, whom I absolutely love and admire. Nothing could be better,” Erika exclaims.

Florida’s Choice Realty closed 193 transactions for over $52 million in 2023, but what’s most important to Dawna and Erika is the culture they’ve created. Their brokerage is a place where agents can feel supported by their brokers and the agents around them. It’s a culture of collaboration, encouragement, and excellence.

“Real estate can be a cutthroat business in general, but with Florida’s Choice Realty, we have broken down those walls and created an environment where each individual can thrive. We encourage growth, lean into each other’s strengths, and are there for one another — not just in real estate but also in life,” Erika explains.

Dawna and Erika are both deeply devoted to their families. Dawna has four kids, a stepdaughter, and 14 grandchildren. She enjoys spending time with her husband, Bob, camping, biking, hiking, and gardening. Erika and her husband, Joseph, have five kids.

“There is never a dull moment,” Erika jokes. There are constant dance parties, lots of makeup and dress-up, and, of course, drama. We love spending time outdoors together. I love the beach, the zoo, gardening, bike rides, walks —

Dawna and Erika have experienced their fair share of challenges in life, making the success they now enjoy even more precious.

“My life is incredible, but it definitely has not been easy,” Dawna shares. “I consider myself one of the most blessed humans on Earth. I have an incredible family, an amazing spiritual family, wonderful friends, and the best real estate family in existence.”

“My mother is/was a pillar of faith, perseverance, unconditional love, and much more, which helped shape the woman I am today,” Erika adds. “I have been through loss, heartaches, triumphs, and more, which I feel have shaped me into a strong and compassionate person. After suddenly losing my dad in 2018, it made me realize that life is so precious and fleeting, that we have to make the most of the opportunities we are given because nothing is promised to us… I want to be remembered for the love that I have in my heart. When those around me look back at my life, it will be evident how much I loved each of them and gave everything I had to give.”

Erika stays busy with her five children.

Dawna & the Ocala team.

Erika & the Jacksonville team.

Leighann Triplett

rising stars

By Jess Wellar

Photos By The Real Estateographers

JAX LISTING SISTERS:

TammyBARANOWSKI Brooke

&

HEWITT

SISTERHOOD SYNERGY

Meet Tammy Baranowski and Brooke Hewitt, the dynamic ladies behind the Jax Listing Sisters team at Momentum Realty. Their contrasting personalities form a balanced partnership, with each sister bringing her unique strengths and background to the closing table.

The proof? Their team was ranked #89 out of 12,000 REALTORS® in Northeast Florida last year and the deserving pair won the Top Duo award at their brokerage as well. Their shared mission is deeply personal, driven by a burning desire to enjoy success on their own terms while providing for their families and caring for a disabled parent.

“The fact that we are not just a duo, but sisters, has really been our secret sauce. We have polar opposite personalities in so many ways, which we often describe as being the yin to the other’s yang,” Brooke shares. “We trust each other with our lives, so of course we trust each other every step of the way in our business.”

Early Ventures

Born and raised in Clay County, Florida, the sisters embarked on separate career paths before life circumstances brought them together professionally. With a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Nutrition and Dietetics from University of North Florida, Tammy worked in healthcare as a clinical dietitian and the food industry for years, while Brooke somehow successfully managed her family’s farm in the midst of raising five children. Both sisters note their diverse backgrounds undoubtedly laid the groundwork for their robust work ethic and compassionate approach to service.

Brooke initially dipped her toe in real estate in 2016 but the timing wasn’t ideal with her children’s busy school schedules. She took a job with

their cousin’s construction company for several years and renewed her real estate license with something to prove in 2019, crushing over $8 million in her rookie year.

“Once I discovered the possibilities of working in real estate, but still understanding the challenges and uncertainties that came with it, I begged Tammy to jump in and join me as well,” Brooke smiles.

At the time, Tammy was five months pregnant with her second child and dreading a return to strict office hours once the baby was born. Brooke knew her sister’s outgoing personality and entrepreneurial spirit would be a terrific fit in sales and convinced Tammy to give real estate a shot as their ailing mother began to require around-the-clock care. Brooke’s guidance helped Tammy navigate her inaugural year, leading to an impressive debut with 35 homes sold in 2020, generating over $11 million in volume.

Together, they formed the Jax Listing Sisters in 2022, combining their talents to provide unparalleled service and expertise. Their collaboration has already yielded remarkable success, as the pair closed 61 units for $23 million last year.

“No one else but my sister could have known my heart and convinced me to take the big scary leap into real estate,” Tammy shakes her head. “Brooke took days and I took nights to care for our mom around the clock for a month when she was in critical condition. It’s no exaggeration when I say this: thanks to real estate, we were able to keep food on the table and keep her alive.”

Compassionate Approach

The Jax Listing team is renowned for its nurturing approach, focusing on creating positive experiences for their clients.

“Being compassionate and nurturers at heart is one thing we do have in common, and that has also helped us play the long game, as all our acts of kindness and genuine connection with others has returned exponential blessings to our business,” Brooke remarks.

Tammy nods her head in agreement as Brooke speaks. Both sisters affirm that genuine connection and prioritizing the needs of clients has paved their way to success in real estate. Their mutual advice embodies their ethos: to remain humble and kind while providing stellar

service for their clients and caring for their families.

“Never give up,” Tammy advises. “I won an award last year for ‘top grit’ at our brokerage and part of that is due to the fact that if there’s a will, there’s a way. I’m very transparent with my own personal struggles and as someone who is now over one year sober, I want to show others they can succeed, too.”

“Regardless of status or expertise, my advice would be to remain humble and always be willing to help others,” Brooke adds. “Don’t be too proud to take every opportunity that comes your way in the beginning, because you never know what it could grow into!”

Beyond Business

Outside of their busy careers, Tammy and Brooke cherish time well spent with loved ones.

Married to Keith for 11 years, Tammy says the happy couple keeps busy raising their two young daughters, Fiona (7) and Stella (3). The Baranowski household is further enlivened by the company of two Labrador Retrievers, Daisy and Buddy.

Likewise, Brooke’s world outside the office revolves around her large brood, with husband Tim and a beautiful blend of five daughters, including triplets: Camille (25), Darien (25), Sophia (25), Lexi (21), and Gabriella (16). The presence of their young

grandson, Callum, adds a special layer of joy, as well as the family’s 160pound Bullmastiff “lap dog” named Gnash, and Deedee, their beloved cat.

As they look ahead, the Jax Listing Sisters aspire to leave a lasting impact on the real estate industry and their community. Both women are committed to giving back, supporting charities such as Ability Tree and the Pace Center for Girls. They envision a future where they can further mentor young agents, perhaps grow their team, and

delve into real estate investing while maintaining their strong family values and community involvement.

“Our goal is to build an investment property portfolio and continue growing our business while providing for our families and making a positive difference in the world,” affirms Tammy. “We may even start a staging company.”

Likewise, Brooke dreams of expanding their team’s reach, mentoring upcoming talent, and exploring new

opportunities, all while staying true to their core values of compassion, professionalism, and the freedom to spend time with family.

“Building relationships with customers and being a trusted advisor during a significant time brings a deep sense of fulfillment,” Brooke concludes. “Knowing that we played a part in making someone’s dream home a reality is what drives us in this profession.”

Tammy and her family.

Brooke and her family.

question of the month

What book/movie have

your read/seen recently you would recommend and why?

CHRISTOPHER MOORE

Momentum Realty

Arrival — It’s an older movie. It dives into how important communication is, showing how every word can change the way we understand each other and the world. It’s a reminder of the power of words and how they shape our relationships, especially with family, making you appreciate those family moments even more.

CYNDY TOMASSETTI

Engel & Völkers First Coast

Stephen King, Holly, great thriller.

KRISTA HOFF

Endless Summer Realty

I just finished reading The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to introduce the concept of dedicating time in the morning to personal development activities such as reading, affirmations, exercise, or meditation. It provides a practical framework for starting your day with intention and productivity. I can’t wait to begin implementing some of the things I learned into my morning routine.

LISA VERNON

Imagine Real Estate

We would heartily recommend The Fall Guy with Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt. So funny, great soundtrack, so much action, just enough romance and surprise appearances and Easter eggs. We did a customer and referral friend thank you event at Cinemark and everyone just loved it. Highly recommend it.

JONATHAN DAUGHERTY

Future Home Realty

Rich Dad Poor Dad (what rich people teach their kids about money that poor people don’t) — This book changed my way of thinking about investments and how I value my time and resources.

KELLY CAPOZZI

First Coast Mortgage

The Four Winds or The Women both historical fiction by Kristin Hannah. My favorite thing about historical fiction is reading the true events and what inspired the author to write the book.

BRANDI CONDON

DJ & Lindsey Real Estate Start With Why by Simon Sinek — I’m not one that follows direction with instant obedience. I NEED to know why!!

TAMMY BARANOWSKI

Momentum Realty

We just watched Wonder as a family and it was such a beautiful springboard of conversation for how we treat others who may look different from us. My oldest daughter and I cried together the whole movie!

TANYA COSMINI

Realty ONE Group Elevate E-myth — Great book for entrepreneurs and why and how we succeed (and fail). Lots of learning and a ton of self reflection.

GIGI URBANSKI

eXp Realty

As a REALTOR®, diving into this book could seriously up your game. It’s all about grabbing those big goals and knocking them out faster than you’d think possible. This approach is a great fit for real estate where things move fast and waiting around isn’t an option. Implement these strategies, and you could be closing deals and handling listings like a pro, way ahead of schedule. It’s a solid read if you’re looking to step up, stay motivated, and see quick, satisfying results in your work.

NIKKI-LYN HOLM

Herron Real Estate

I really enjoyed The Hill — A true story of Rickey Hill, the son of a traveling pastor who overcomes physical obstacles to pursue his dream of playing baseball in the major leagues!

JOY DOYLE

Hover Girl Properties

Rest and War by Ben Stuart — Great book on the wrestle between resting and the battle to make sure it happens.

AMY CORNETT

Beaches Realty and Management

The 12 Week Year by Brian P. Moran and Michael Lennington shakes up the usual yearly goal grind by chopping it down to 12-week chunks. This switch-up introduces a sprint mentality, which means you’re hustling harder and faster, but also seeing your wins roll in quicker — perfect for staying sharp and ahead in the real estate game.

I loved The Women by Kristin Hannah. I find her books captivating and this one was no exception. It’s one of the first books I have read that was set during the time of the Vietnam War. As a child of a Vietnam Veteran, I was saddened to see the treatment of those who served our country. I could not put this book down, it’s definitely a page turner.

SUZANNE SCHINSING

Compass Florida

I read and watched Boys in the Boat. Loved it because my son rowed in high school and for a bit at UCLA. And it’s a true story!! I actually liked the movie more than the book!

“ADVANTAGES TO A BUYER REPRESENTATION AGREEMENTS”

All REALTORS® need to know that that effective the end of July 2024 we are required to use written buyer representation agreements before touring property with buyers. Many REALTORS®, however, are new to the use of these agreements and might not be aware of the incredible advantages that accompany the use of these agreements.

Compliance Protection: Buyer representation agreements are meticulously crafted to protect both the buyer and the REALTOR®.

Professionalism: Utilizing buyer representation agreements demonstrates professionalism to clients, customers and other parties involved in the real estate transaction. It shows that you operate under clear guidelines and standards.

Clarity in Expectations: These agreements establish clear expectations regarding commission rates, client or customer representation, and other crucial aspects of the real estate process. This clarity helps avoid confusion and ensures that everyone is on the same page.

Streamlined Processes: By using written buyer representation agreements, REALTORS® can streamline their workflow and focus more on serving their customers and clients effectively.

Risk Mitigation: most buyer representation agreements include clauses that address various potential risks in real estate transactions, such as liabilities, disclosures, and confidentiality. By adhering to these agreements, REALTORS® can minimize their exposure to legal and financial risks.

Support and Guidance: Florida REALTORS® provides support and guidance to REALTORS® throughout the transaction process. Our agreements serve as a framework for conducting business ethically and efficiently, with access to resources and expertise whenever needed.

Overall, by utilizing buyer representation agreements, REALTORS® can enhance their professionalism, mitigate risks, and streamline their business operations, ultimately leading to greater success in the competitive real estate market.

by Gia Arvin, 2024 President of Florida REALTORS®

from the desk of the president