Brigitte Nachtigall
Great Properties Int’l Realty
305.710.9664
[email protected]
BNachtigallProperties.com
“People find it very easy to confide in me. I always say that part of my job also has a little bit of psychology in it.”
Brigitte Nachtigall’s friends refer to her as their “411.” “I have a natural inclination to seek solutions and am very blessed to know and have access to many people that can make a difference including doctors, attorneys, schools and entrepreneurs, etc.,” she says. “This is very important to my career, as I’m my clients’ first contact when they arrive in Miami, and I’m able to guide them.” During a recent sale, she made two incredible new friends — the buyer and his realtor. “Yes, I got a good price, but the sellers are particularly happy because they wanted to leave this house in very good hands, as they have been the only owners of the property for the past 35 years,” she says. “It was not just about the money, it was about finding the right buyer for such an amazing property because the owners are very spiritual.”
Experience Matters: “I worked for 10 years in development, giving me a different outlook for this industry — 8 years with The Ocean Club in Key Biscayne and two years at The Four Seasons Residences in Brickell. I leaned a lot about marketing and strategy during those experiences.”
International Perspective: “I lived in Italy for a year, which really helped me grow and see life differently. It was a life-changing experience and I speak 3 languages thanks to that experience.”
Laser Focus: “I’m a very detail-oriented person. The small things in life make a difference and people do notice them.”
Doug Kinsley
Fortune Christie’s Int’l Real Estate
305.215.5900
[email protected]
DougKinsley.com
“I’ve been living and working on the island for so long, I know the Key Biscayne market like the back of my hand!”
Doug Kinsley has always had an interest in numbers, investments and real estate. “When I was about 7 years old, my parents were going to build a house,” he says. “To get ideas, we spent a year visiting open houses and the Parade Of Homes (sponsored by builders) in the various areas of Ohio. Also, every summer, we would visit Marco Island; where the builders would have approximately 10 new homes on display each year. I loved it!” He recently had a client from Canada who described his needs, desires and budget. “I found him 7 properties,” he says. “He told me he only had time to see 3 of them; it was up to me to narrow the selection. While here, his pilot told him that due to weather, it was not safe to fly back to Canada that night. With that extra time, I was able to show him a few more properties.” The client ultimately chose one of the 3 initial properties I picked.
Client Referrals: “I’ve been with the same office for 43 years, and have a lot of repeat business. With some of my original clients of the 1980s, I have sold to their children and now their grandchildren.”
Perfect Partner: “I have the best assistant/partner in Sandy Escarpio. She’s licensed, knows every aspect of the business and has been with me for 28+ years.”
Value Added: “I provide my listings the best exposure including advertisements in print and online, as well as the international exposure provided by Fortune’s affiliation with Christie’s.”
Paulina Flores
DLS de Langeron Salgado Realty
404.513.6552
[email protected]
Amelita Courtney
DLS Realty de Langeron Salgado
786.376.5565
[email protected]
“We are resourceful, reliable, determined and truly committed to understanding what drives our clients.”
Amelita Courtney and Paulina Flores are true global citizens. Amelita’s upbringing was enriched by Argentinean warmth and values, laying a strong foundation for a diverse journey that saw her studying the arts, going to law school and marrying an American/Brazilian from New England; Paulina’s first job was in Mexico City for Cartoon Network (formerly Turner Broadcasting), where she successfully sold TV spots for the network. She later lived in Atlanta and Los Angeles before arriving in Miami. After many years of successfully navigating a wide variety of real estate transactions, Amelita and Paulina joined the newly formed DLS Realty, a boutique real estate brokerage established by Brigitte de Langeron and Natalia Salgado, who have a combined 40 years of real estate experience on Key Biscayne. “It was the best decision either of us have ever made,” they say. “They are known for establishing close relationships and are recognized for client satisfaction with repeat business.”
Customer Satisfaction: “We are proud of our personalized approach to prepping tailor-made strategies to support the decisions of our clients, making the overall experience seamless, with a quick turnaround time.”
Family Matters: “Although we have both moved to different locales with our respective families throughout our lives and careers, wherever we go or whatever we do, our heart and soul is always at home.”
Future Plans: “We see ourselves improving the personalized experiences of our clients, increasing the use of technology and further expanding our network, which includes going into other markets internationally.”
Natalia Salgado
DLS de Langeron Salgado Realty
305.509.9766
[email protected]
Brigitte de Langeron
DLS de Langeron Salgado Realty
305.244.7493
[email protected]
“Out of our headquarters in Key Biscayne, DLS Realty de Langeron Salgado is poised to continue expanding in new directions.”
DLS Realty de Langeron Salgado is a boutique real estate broker company located in Key Biscayne. It was established in the Spring of 2023 by Brigitte de Langeron and Natalia Salgado, who have a combined 40 years of real estate experience on the island. Since its founding, DLS Realty has grown rapidly, focusing on luxury residential properties in Key Biscayne and throughout Greater Miami. The company’s elite team of realtors have quickly established DLS as one of the premier brokers locally. In addition to South Florida, DLS has a strong and growing presence in Central Florida, with a particular focus on Orlando and its surrounding areas. This allows them to work with clients who are buying or selling in two of the most exciting markets in the country. This is particularly true in light of the new Brightline train connecting the two metro areas.
Strong Foundation: The founders say that DLS Realty de Langeron Salgado was founded on a set of principles that can best be summed up in one word: Trust.
World-Class Experience: “What sets us apart from other real estate companies is when a client is represented by a DLS realtor, they are not just entering into a transaction, they are building a relationship,” say the founders.
Larger Reach: From Key Biscayne and South Florida to Orlando and Central Florida, DLS works with clients in both markets who are looking to buy or sell real estate.
Giulietta Ulloa
BHHS EWM Realty
305.710.6620
[email protected]
GiuliettaUlloaGroup.com
“Negotiating is an art, and to understand it, you must understand people. Pushing deals across the finish line and having both parties happy is no easy task.”
In her early years, Guilietta Ulloa explored a vast array of industries. “I earned a degree in marketing, owned a furniture store and worked as Director of Marketing & Public Relations for the food industry in Peru,” she says. “I was also a flight attendant, which gave me the opportunity to travel, see the world, and explore different cultures, gaining a lot of experience from my diverse ventures.” Over the past 20+ years, she has worked almost exclusively in real estate, specifically residential. Her goal for the team at The Giulietta Ulloa Group is to excel at their craft. “I would like for our name to be synonymous with exceptional care for the client and with high-quality work and merit,” she says.
Top-Notch Service: “When you work with our team, you can count on us to be available and responsive every day of the week.”
Best Advice: “Always continue to learn. Real estate is always evolving and will continue to change significantly, especially with AI. The key is to adapt and grow.”
Best Advice Given: “You know the saying ‘Happy wife, happy life’ — the same applies to clients: ‘Happy client, happy life.” Treat all clients as unique and make sure you are working to get their goals met every step of the way.”
Ana Somarriba
Great Properties Int’l Realty
305.215.1686
[email protected]
GreatPropertiesIntl.com
Daniel Gaviria
Great Properties Int’l Realty
305.582.4800
[email protected]
GreatPropertiesIntl.com
“We are a boutique-style firm with almost 100 real estate agents who are dedicated to their profession and love what they do.”
Founding Great Properties Int’l, becoming independent and taking on the challenge of being a relatively small company in a sea of corporate-owned real estate firms, was no small decision and the best one Daniel Gaviria ever made. “My favorite thing about the industry is the fact that the sky is the limit with what you can achievement,” he says. “It is all about building a brand, a reputation and you are your own boss. Having happy clients who become close friends is the most rewarding part of the job.” Ana Somarriba enjoys working on the marketing side. “Technology is invaluable for promoting properties worldwide and locally,” she says. “We recently produced an eMagazine that showcases our more spectacular properties along with market stats and relevant information that we distribut to thousands of people and potential clients.”
Passions & Pastimes: “My passions are my family and golf,” says Daniel. “I play at least 2-3 rounds a week and am a scratch player. I invite any newcomers to join me for a round.”
Golden Rule: “Something that makes our company unique is that we will actually tell a client not to buy a property if we do not think it will be a profitable investment for them. We prefer to sleep well at night.”
Pride & Joy: “Our greatest achievement is having raised 2 daughters who are well on their way to becoming independent, well adjusted and successful adults; while at the same time being directly involved with the success of our company.”
Cristian Gonzalez Black
BHHS EWM Realty
305.775.3426
[email protected]
CristianGonzalezBlack.EWM.com
“Market knowledge, discipline, consistency and keeping things honest are the principles I stick by for a successful career.”
Cristian Gonzalez Black considers himself very fortunate to be in the Miami real estate market, which continues to shine and is vibrant with growth and opportunities. “Miami offers something for everyone and continues to be an exciting place to invest and call home,” he says. “I received my Real Estate license in 1998, and since then have been learning and adapting to local and international events that continue to influence and shape our community.” One of his most notable sales was to a client from Miami who was looking to buy a unit in New York. “The whole process was so amazing and fun,” he says. “And the best part is that they ended up buying a unique apartment in one of the most prestigious areas of Central Park.”
Job Satisfaction: “I enjoy being in real estate for the relationships I’ve forged and the variety of work, as each property and transaction is special, providing different challenges and opportunities.”
Leisure Time: “I’m passionate about spending time with my family, living a healthy lifestyle and boating in our amazing waterways whenever the opportunity arises.”
Quality Control: “My clients would probably say that I’m an easy-going and well-rounded person with a flair of persistency and determination to get things done.”
Dolores Urdapilleta
Urdapilleta Real Estate
305.790.9946
Dolores@UrdapilletaRealEstate
UrdapilletaRealEstate.com
“I’m an efficient, entrepreneurial woman with a lot of strength and drive. I love new challenges and greatly admire hardworking women who are also mothers.”
Dolores Urdapilleta likes to challenge herself, grow, evolve and progress. “I firmly believe that women should be independent,” she says. “I think that this conviction as a woman has led me to become the professional I am today, both personally and professionally.” She comes from an Argentinian real estate family, studied business economics, and has been living in Miami for 12 years. “I started as a sales associate and now own my own real estate company with four excellent professionals who work alongside me every day with my property management service,” she says. In addition, she has 8 realtors associated with her company who trust in her and all work together as one highly talented, dynamic team.
Greatest Achievement: “When I arrived in Miami, I created my own company, built my reputation in the real estate market, and, at the same time, started a family and am raising 3 amazing children.”
Comprehensive Care: “I accompany all my clients throughout the entire real estate process, connecting them with the best professionals, assisting with repairs and everything related to the property.”
The Goal: “My service goes beyond a mere transaction; my goal is to earn the repeat business of my clients, have them be proud of the person they’re working with, and want to recommend me to others.”
Maria Porro Toyos
Urdapilleta Real Estate
305.898.9929
[email protected]
UrdapilletaRealEstate.com
“I enjoy interacting with new people and the challenge of identifying their desires and fulfilling their dreams.”
Maru Porro Toyos is up to any challenge, including finding a client a condo with a boat slip, one of her most unique transactions. “I moved to Key Biscayne 13 years ago and realized that this place was really magical,” she says. “I decided that working in real estate was the best way to share the beauty of living by the sea and enjoying a very peaceful life.” Born and raised in Argentina, she lived in Uruguay for 8 years, and has a Masters in Psychology, which is useful when helping clients define their needs, whether their personal lifestyle or their investment ambitions. In addition to selling and renting properties, she provides integrated property management services, with a focus on high-end neighborhoods throughout Miami for both local and international clients.
Woman Power: “I’m proud of everything I’ve learned from the real estate industry and from being part of an integrated and industrious team of smart women. Being the mom of Magnolia and Borja is my greatest achievement in life.”
After-Hours: “I’m passionate about enjoying life, reading (especially about psychology, cooking and traveling!), and being with friends and family.”
Future Plans: “Miami has become an even more captivating destination. It has been exciting to meet this increase in demand. I look forward to continuing to learn and to meet amazing clients.”
Victoria Brisky
Urdapilleta Real Estate
305.979.7069
[email protected]
UrdapilletaRealEstate.com
“I offer complete real estate services for the life of the property, including advice for purchasing, legal advice through reputable professionals, maintenance, accounting and tax advice, among others.”
Victoria Brisky firmly believe that a person’s name, and the actions associated with it, are a brand and only real “business card” in real estate. “I pride myself in having taken good care of my reputation through the years,” she says. “I’ve put a lot of hard work into each and every transaction (big or small), with transparency, honesty and fluid communications with all parts involved.” This has proven to be a good recipe for building a solid business and long-lasting relationships with clients and colleagues. She recently helped a young client take her first step into homeownership. “It was not an easy transaction, there were difficulties for the loan approval, etc., however, she finally got the apartment of her dreams,” she says. “I get a particular sense of satisfaction out of these sorts of transactions.”
Plurality Of Interests: “I can be very serious and focused in a business meeting, and then completely “crazy” to the beat of a song while DJ’ing at a party.”
Home Life: “I’ve been happily married to my husband and life companion for the last 24 years. We have 4 wonderful children — a huge blessing! I love my loud, extroverted and very Italian family!”
Tech Savvy: “I’ve sold properties to clients overseas, where decisions were made over FaceTime showings, 3D tours and Zoom notary closings; including one where the buyer and seller were almost 10,000 miles apart!”
Claudine Coto Knautz
ONE Sotheby’s Int’l Realty
The Coto Group
305.389.6229
[email protected]
TheCotoGroup.com
“We are honored again to be among the Top 3 teams for ONE Sotheby’s, among 900+ agents from Jacksonville to Palm Beach to Pinecrest.”
One of Claudine Coto Knautz’s most notable career achievements happened last year when The Coto Group represented one of Florida’s most significant sales: a $78M deal in Coral Gables. “The endeavor demanded an exceptional level of discretion, extensive research and collaborative efforts with the foremost real estate professionals in South Florida,” she says. “We take immense pride in delivering the highest standard of service to meet our clients’ needs with excellence.” She is very much on top of the local market but just as committed to global reach. “I’ve established a special group of Sotheby’s partners in other top destinations such as New York, Aspen, Paris and more,” she says. “I market our properties with them on an ongoing basis, ensuring that our listings get maximum exposure worldwide.”
Professional Triumphs: “Even though it has been a much slower market, we’ve broken record prices this year across Key Biscayne. In addition to record sales at The Ocean Club, we are under contract to sell a Harbor Drive waterfront property set to be the highest priced lot value ever on the island.”
Personal Life: “Keeping up with my two young children, Natalie (7) and Henry (6), is a constant joy.”
Family Time: “We cherish beach days, playing soccer at the Village Green, biking to the Mashta bridge to spot visiting manatees, and soaking in sunsets at the Yacht Club.”
Carlos Coto
ONE Sotheby’s Int’l Realty
The Coto Group
305.803.3059
[email protected]
TheCotoGroup.com
“I have never recommended a client to buy a property that I would not buy myself or sell to my children or close relatives.”
Coming from a long line of chemists, doctors and patent developers, Carlos Coto was very curious about the Life Sciences — the origin and composition of life. As a pre-teen in Havana, he paid close attention to the conversations his young parents had while they were building their home. “After a few years in the U.S., I was surprised to discover that the prices back in the mid- to late-60s were similar to the prices in Havana,” he says. “In my mind, I thought real estate on Key Biscayne was very desirable, and surprisingly inexpensive in comparison.” Of course, property values have gone up significantly since then. In fact, in 2022, The Coto Group represented a lifelong friend during one of the most expensive residential transactions in all of Miami-Dade County.
Self-Starter: “After Castro had taken over Cuba, I arrived in the U.S. as an unaccompanied minor, I remember my first goal, ingrained in me, was to graduate from high school and pursue a college career. I attained that by the time I was 21.”
Words Of Wisdom: “If a client loses out on buying a property, I always say, ‘Never fall in love with concrete’ — I truly think things happen for a reason.”
Proud Papa: “My greatest achievement is fatherhood. No other aspect of my life rivals being a father.”
Vivianna Franchy
BHHS EWM Realty
Vivianna Deluxe
305.798.6010
[email protected]
ViviannaDeluxe.com
“My goal is to project myself as the ‘forever’, ‘trustworthy’, and ‘knowledgeable’ real estate professional every seller, buyer and peer wishes to work with.”
Vivianna Franchy believes we are all shaped by our surroundings, by our families and by the people we interact with. “I have been very fortunate to have an amazing family, excellent peers and the honor of calling Key Biscayne home for 35+ years,” she says. “My work nowadays reflects my happiness and my thankfulness for all the good I receive.” She also likes challenges. “My prior occupation was in technical sales, and it was primarily difficult because of the traveling it entailed,” she says. “Real estate is local, however, it has many parts that you do not control and that must merge all together, in one single point at the same time. It still amazes me to see how many skills you must develop to be successful in our business.”
Before RE: “I have an Industrial Engineering degree, an MBA, 16 years of experience in technical sales and working for technology companies and 20+ years working in the real estate business. All in all, it’s a great track record of good expertise.”
Fine Goals: “I love Italy and continue to strive to speak Italian fluently — and I’ll eventually become a good tennis player…you’ll see!”
Best Advice: “Big differences are achieved by focusing on the small details.”
Victor Florencio
Ocean Club Realty, Inc.
305.469.3266
[email protected]
OceanClubRealtyInc.com/Meet-Victor
“I’m more than a real estate agent — I’m your advisor, problem-solver and one-stop shop for all things real estate. I’m always there when clients need me.”
Victor Florencio comes from a long family tradition of real estate management and investing. “In my hometown of Barcelona, I began my journey at a young age, assisting my dad and grandmother with the remodeling of homes,” he says. “Early in my career, I worked in Hospitality at The Ritz-Carlton, where I gained valuable insights into providing genuine luxury service. When I eventually transitioned into a full-time real estate career, I was able to bring all my knowledge and passion to the table, offering top-notch service to my clientele.” He’s equally proud of his roles as a husband, and father of 2 wonderful children. “Watching them grow and learn brings me immense joy,” he says. “As a young parent, I’ve been able to create a loving and supportive home environment, which I consider a significant achievement.”
Top 20: “This year I achieved one of my career goals, to be within the list of Top 20 Agents of Key Biscayne.”
Successful Transactions: “I’ve successfully orchestrated more than 40+ real estate deals, which is equivalent to enough paperwork to fill a swimming pool. Fortunately, I was able to swim through it with ease!”
Happy Dad: “I once took my daughter, Bianca, to a showing and her enthusiasm and charming questions about the property brought smiles to everyone’s faces. She added warmth and joy to what ended up being the client’s future home.”
Elena Chacon
BHHS EWM Realty
305.606.5700
[email protected]
ElenaChaconGroup.com
“I’m fluent in Spanish, English and Portuguese; and my team and I are committed to the highest standards of professionalism, perseverance, integrity and honesty.”
Elena Chacon’s financial background allows her to articulate all of the economic implications of a real estate deal to her clients, helping them to make decisions that meet both their financial objectives and their real estate dreams. “The decision to buy or sell a home is one of the most important decisions you will make, and your choice of realtor will play an important role in your satisfaction with the transaction,” she says. “Moving is high on the list of stressful things to do, so when I’m able to ease the burden for my clients and help them get where they want to go, it feels good.” She is in the Top 1.5% of the 1.6 million Real Estate professionals in the U.S. in 2023 by the RealTrends America’s Best; and #27 in the Top 100 Latino Agents By Volume across the country, by the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals. After work, she dedicates most of her free time to her family and four kids. “We are all padel and tennis enthusiasts, so the weekend often finds us at the Ritz-Carlton’s courts.”
Exciting Milestone: “This year I formed the powerhouse real estate team: Elena Chacon Group.”
Outstanding Transaction: “A client put in an offer on a spectacular flagship home with multiple offers; and we were able to close in 10 days, including a jumbo loan, two appraisals, a survey, insurance and the last-minute surprise of an expired permit. It was the most stressful but exiting closing of my career!”
Caring Heart: For over 15 years, she has been an active volunteer in organizations that help vulnerable children: Reaching U, a Foundation for Uruguay, and the Sunshine Kids Foundation.
Sandra S. Borgonovo
BHHS EWM Realty
305.361.5600 / 786.486.0610
[email protected]
“I’m attracted to architectural styles of homes and interior design — combining both interests led me to a career in residential real estate sales.”
Sandra S. Borgonovo is passionate about exercise and being outdoors. She’s played tennis since she was a child in her home country of Nicaragua. “Now I do bootcamp daily, outdoors in the Village Green, which I love,” she says. “I’m very competitive with myself and always try to go beyond my limits.” She brings this passion to real estate as well. “I get involved beyond the real estate transaction with my clients,” she says. “It’s not unusual for me to connect them with contractors or cleaning services, for example, or to provide them recommendations about schools or sports clubs for their kids.” She knows the importance of supporting her co-workers as well. “We believe in collaborating,” she says. “Rather than competing.”
Diverse CV: “I was in finance for a few years as a broker’s assistant, then worked as a pre-school teacher. I found it a joy and personally rewarding to teach young children new skills and to witness their growth and development.”
Loving Family: “My greatest achievement is being a mother to my 3 children. They are my pride and joy.”
Fun Facts: “Despite my high energy level, I have started to practice yoga and to appreciate its quiet moments.”
Ivan Madera
Fortune Christie’s Int’l Real Estate
305.720.8003
[email protected]
IvanMadera.com
“With my experience in hotels, restaurants, clubs and real estate, it all boils down to service, service, service. It’s in my blood to create incredible experiences, both financial and emotional, for the people around me.”
Ivan Madera, having grown up in hotels, saw how the clients’ needs always came first; a mindset he has carried throughout his life and career. “Each year I strive to raise the bar by becoming better both professionally and personally,” he says. An excellent example is a recent sale at Monad Terrace in Miami Beach. “We helped our client purchase the condo, connecting him with an incredible designer to take it to the next level — he eventually sold the unit for a generous profit,” he says. “Being hands on, in every way, provides myself and my team with a tremendous sense of pride as we continue to create relationships.” The needs of clients don’t always end at the closing table, sometimes the realtionship continues long after the deal is done.
Comprehensive Care: “We never stop and are available 24/7. Our job doesn’t end after the closing.”
International. Businessman: “Having lived and worked in the Middle East has expanded my horizons — and my negotiation skills!”
Future Goals: “We have been steadily growing our business in Miami and Chicago and the goal is to continue on that upward trajectory by providing clients with tailored experiences in both cities.”
Thania & Robert Vernon
Miami Waterfront Properties
305.582.3761 / 305.606.9539
[email protected] / [email protected]
MiamiWaterfrontProperties.com
“When you do something long enough and in one specific area, you become the expert by default. You have the experience and the history that makes people trust you.”
Thania & Robert Vernon’s story is an immersive look at the real estate growth that has led Miami to become the world-class city it is today. After graduating from college, Thania went to work for real estate developer Gerry Robins, who recently passed. From that development experience, she spearheaded Fortune International Realty’s development sales with Edgardo Defortuna, starting with the Grand Bay Tower One. “I oversaw numerous development projects throughout South Florida as VP of Development Sales and was the Broker of Record for the Fortune South Beach office, which I opened with Gerri O’Hara in 1995,: she says. Thania also did outside consulting work for developers launching new projects, including Douglas Elliman when they first came to the Miami market. All this, while working with Robert on their extensive residential sales. Thania, who also had a Broker license in North Carolina, loves meeting new people from different places. She recently sold a Miami a property to a couple from the Northeast, where one of the individual’s mothers was at her parents wedding in Cuba in 1954. “Those are the tidbits of life that make our job special and more interesting.”
Wise Words: “Knowledge is power. It’s the one thing that no one can take away from you. Educate yourself for you, not for anyone else.”
Proud Trait: “I actually return phone calls in a timely fashion.”
Fun Fact: “Robert turned 65 this year; he finally gets Medicare!”
Spencer Raymond
Spencer Raymond Group
BHHS EWM Realty
305.951.5970
[email protected]
SpencerRaymondGroup.com
“The negotiation aspect of real estate is what I enjoy most. It’s like a strategic game — it’s very satisfying to help people achieve their real estate goals.”
The dynamic nature of the real estate market keeps Spencer Raymond engaged. “It’s always changing, which I find exciting and helps keep me on my toes,” he says. “The negotiation aspect of real estate is what I enjoy most. It’s like a strategic game, and I find the satisfaction of helping people achieve their real estate goals, whether it’s finding their dream home or making a profitable investment, is what I cherish most in this profession.” Interestingly, real estate was not a career that he had considered when he was younger. “After spending years working simultaneously in the music/television and entertainment industries and living in California and New York, I realized that I truly enjoy meeting and learning from people,” he says. “The relationships I’ve developed along this journey have been very rewarding, both personally and professionally.”
Long-Term Commitment: “I’ve maintained friendships dating back to preschool, which I think speaks to my unwavering loyalty to my friends, family, and of course, client base.”
Future Plans: “I’m considering growing my team again and have been doing a lot of work with referral agents from other states. I’ve lived all over the country, so I’m leveraging the relationships I’ve created over the years.”
Fun Facts: “I’m a contributing sponsor of the Key Biscayne Children’s Business Fair. My brother, Jeff, is a teacher at MAST Academy.”
Juanita M. Lopez
BHHS EWM Realty
305.361.5600 / 305.803.4891
[email protected]
JuanitaLopez.EWM.com
“My parents have taught me the value of hard work, treating everyone with respect and always trying to help people achieve their full potential and goals.”
The best realtors have an interesting backstory; like Juanita Lopez, who after studying Business & Economics at Boston University, went to work as a stock broker. She soon realized that the associated stress levels weren’t for her, so she went to work with her family developing projects in Little Havana. “We then established a steel manufacturing workshop, where we had a great experience and were able to supply all the steel for important projects such as the Port of Miami Tunnel, the Metro extension and many buildings and hospitals in the area,” she says. “I pursued an Executive MBA at Kellogg University, which has come in handy.” However, when the construction crisis hit, she was forced to think about what she liked best about construction, which led her to real estate. “Being a developer, construction materials supplier and contractor has given me knowledge that I apply everyday in my business,” she says.
Best Advice: “The best advice I’ve gotten from peers, family, friends and colleagues is to do things right or don’t do them at all.”
Future Plans: “I look forward to continuing education so I can offer my clients knowledgeable services. I am also interested in exploring other international markets, such as Spain, Italy and Dubai, to offer diversification to my clients.”
Leisure Time: “I love going to galleries, art fairs and museums. I enjoy playing tennis. Music is another passion. I like going to concerts, and still have a CD collection!”
Anna Sherrill
ONE Sotheby’s Int’l Realty
786.853.8484
[email protected]
AnnaSherrill.com
“I began my journey in development sales, a pivotal experience that gave me a deep understanding of the market and provided me the opportunity to connect with agents from all over the world.”
With over two decades of experience, Anna Sherrill has been a top producer at One Sotheby’s Int’l Realty since 2010, specializing in luxury developments. “My expertise is in both new developments and resale properties, reflecting my passion for real estate and architecture,” she says. A long-time resident of South Florida, she understands the appeal of the luxury market and lifestyle. She has also cultivated a network of professionals, from mortgage lenders to attorneys and contractors, who help streamline the transaction process. In 2019, she had the privilege of selling a $24M three-story penthouse at The Surf Club Four Seasons shortly after the building was completed. “It was a fulfilling experience to witness the property’s evolution from pre-sales to completion,” she says. “As an added bonus, I get to find buyers their dream homes in Miami.” She is currently representing the St. Regis Residences, Miami on the water’s edge in S. Brickell Avenue.
Above & Beyond: “My team and I are committed to helping clients get acclimated to the area. This includes recommendations for schools, doctors, restaurants, salons and even reliable handymen.”
Life’s Journey: “Growing up in Arizona, my father owned a farm, instilling in me a great appreciation for the outdoors. I was a foreign exchange student in Spain when I was 15, learned Spanish and fell in love with the culture. My husband is from Madrid, and we love to travel.”
Greatest Achievement: “My son, Max, who is 6 years old and a beautiful and happy soul, is the joy of my life.”
Macarena Gómez
St. Regis Residences, Miami
ONE Sotheby’s Int’l Realty
305.776.0369
[email protected]
“My strong work ethic and dedication throughout the years have helped me become the person I am today.”
Macarena Gómez, P.A., MBA, combines her 22 years of experience in real estate sales with local and international business acumen, marketing and excellent customer relations to sell and service clients from around the world. Currently working in the Development Division and as Sales Executive at ONE Sotheby’s International Realty, where she is a pre- and post-construction specialist in Miami, she has successfully sold and collaborated in sales processes for developers of high-end luxury buildings such as The St. Regis Residences, Miami. “With the use of technology to facilitate sales, we can seamlessly close any transaction globally,” she says. The personal touch matters, too. “I pride myself on listening to the wants and needs of buyers and going the extra mile to make their purchases easy and enjoyable. I always stay in touch with my clients and their families after a transaction.”
Business Savvy: “The real estate industry is constantly changing, and it’s important know the market to be able to adapt to new trends and developments.”
Inside Story: “A native of Spain and flulent in Spanish and English, I was educated in San Francisco and was in the telecommunications industry in Silicon Valley before getting into real estate.”
Energetic Pursuits: “I like to travel the world, spend time with my family and helping others — I believe in daily exercise and always improving and learning.”
Pilar Mercader
BHHS EWM Realty
Pilar Mercader PA
786.208.5407
[email protected]
PilarMercader.EWM.com
“My team and I encounter many different situations and work collaboratively to solve even the most difficult problems.”
A Key Biscayne resident for 20 years and realtor for the past 15, Pilar Mercader enjoys the very agile and complex nature of real estate, and how the South Florida marketplace has several submarkets and changes continuously. “I love to visit the properties under construction, study the real estate trends and meet new clients to whom I can be of service,” she says. Prior to real estate, she spent more than 10 years in the corporate world being a consultant to large companies. “I learned to work with people from different backgrounds, to solve difficult problems and to think analytically,” she says. “I decided to switch careers to be able to work independently and to get closer to the transactions. Today, I love buying and selling property for my clients and taking care of the transactions from A to Z.”
Home Life: “My greatest achievement is my family. My husband and I have 3 boys. They were all raised in Key Biscayne and call it home.”
Athletic Nature: “I’m very passionate about sports. I love playing tennis, doing yoga and Pilates.”
The Team: “The Pilar Mercader Group is made up of 5 talented individuals who always strive for the best interests of their clients.”
Jorge Boj
Great Properties Int’l
305.803.6956
[email protected]
BNachtigallProperties.com
“We as a team will take advantage of our combined experience and deep knowledge of this island in order to provide the best buying experience possible to local and first-time residents.”
A humble husband and father of 3 beautiful daughters, Jorge Boj was born in Puerto Rico, grew up in Mexico and Texas, and has called Miami home for over 23 years. He wakes up every morning with the goal of finding a dream home for his clients and negotiating the best deal possible. “I’m so lucky and blessed to have found Key Biscayne for myself and my family and call it home,” he says. “Our main goal is to protect our clients’ best interests, not only by giving them our best advice when selecting a property, but throughout the entire process. We are very detail-oriented. More than one client has come back to us after trying other realtors.” He’s had his real estate license for over 22 years, working full time, and says: “It’s been a blast!”
Boating Lover: “I look forward to weekends boating along Biscayne Bay. It connects me directly with nature and makes me appreciate how lucky we are to be able to live in such an amazing city.”
Travel Enthusiast: “I collect airline memorabilia — Braniff, Eastern and TWA Airlines, among others. My favorite place in the world besides Key Biscayne is Palma de Mallorca, Spain.”
Audiophile: “I love ‘80s music, and I’m so proud my daughters know many songs from the best decade ever!”
Melissa Llaury
ONE Sotheby’s Int’l Realty
713.899.5297
[email protected]
MelissaLlaury.com
“Combining innovative approaches with a deep understanding of market dynamics allows me to offer clients unique solutions tailored to their specific needs.”
After 11 successful years in real estate, Melissa Llaury’s transition to ONE Sotheby’s has been particularly enriching. “What I cherish most about this profession is the opportunity to build a legacy, leverage extensive networking, and align with a brand that epitomizes excellence,” she says. “The marketing prowess, exceptional standards and commitment to service at ONE Sotheby’s resonates with my values.” On a recent showing, the layout didn’t suit the buyer, but she made a positive impression on the owner who entrusted her with the listing for a challenging two-month period. “In just 24 days, the property went under contract, marking a swift turnaround from nearly a year on the market,” she says. “And there are two back-up offers in the pipeline!”
Insightful Author: “I’m set to publish my first book in early 2024, offering a comprehensive guide on how to invest in real estate in Miami, providing step-by-step insights tailored for both national and foreign buyers and investors.”
Delicious Surprise: “I find relaxation and joy in creating delicious recipes, and sharing these culinary creations with family and friends on my page @melimodomama, where I showcase my culinary adventures.”
Future Endeavors: “I’m focused on strategic growth, expanding my team to better serve clients, and staying at the forefront of industry trends.”
