Sometimes the career you’re meant for isn’t the one you start with—it’s the one that quietly follows you through every chapter of your life, waiting for the right moment to step forward.

I realized it was time to get my real estate license when we moved to Florida in 2021. I had been thinking about it for a while, but what truly inspired me was the incredible REALTOR® who represented us. The level of care, strategy, and professionalism she brought to the process made me think, Why am I not doing this?

If you had told me in my 20s that I would become a REALTOR®, I wouldn’t have believed you. Back then, I was a carefree dancer and dedicated years of my life to dance. Eventually, reality hit, and I dropped out of dance classes in college to get a job.

 I began selling cars but struggled with how the sales process was managed. My boss pushed me to sell the most expensive models because they brought in higher profits. I couldn’t bear convincing people to buy something they couldn’t truly afford. I remember young couples coming in without the proper budget, and instead of upselling them, I would guide them toward more affordable options. My boss didn’t love that.

Later, after realizing that car sales was not for me, I switched gears and began organizing trade shows and meetings for a publishing house that sold technical dictionaries for engineers. I loved that job—setting up exhibitions and traveling. It was there that I began learning about marketing. Still, I eventually hit a glass ceiling and started looking for something more.

 My life changed when I accepted a position helping manage the office for a hedge fund recruiter; that opportunity took me to London for 12 years. Living in London was transformative in every possible way. The work-life balance was phenomenal. 

In London, I met my now-husband, Stuart, at a pub. We built a life together and welcomed our two daughters, Isabella and Olivia. I was fortunate to receive a full year of maternity leave and later became a stay-at-home mom. Our family moved several times, and that’s how I truly became acquainted with real estate. I began to understand the power of location and how the right updates could make any house feel like home.

Eventually, the constant gray weather affected my mood in a negative way and we decided to relocate to sunny Florida. Around the same time, my parents—who had been living in Portugal, my native country—relocated to Florida as  well. My father was battling cancer, and my 78-year-old mother had been his sole caregiver. It had become too much for her to handle alone.

When they arrived in Florida, I, along with our amazing REALTOR®, took charge of finding a home that would allow them to live with us so that I could help take care of them as they grew older. That experience confirmed what had been growing inside me for years. I knew it was time to get my license.

 Today, I’m delighted to work in a field I genuinely love. Real estate allows me to combine empathy, honesty, creativity, and strategy—all the skills I’ve gathered throughout my journey. In my free time, I sing and love spending time with my daughters, who are now moving into their teenage years and enjoy athletics, and singing. As a family, we visit our favorite theme parks as often as possible and have developed a love of cruising.

Looking back, every chapter—from dance to London to motherhood—led me exactly where I was meant to be.

I lead my business with extreme honesty and a deep commitment to always doing what’s right for my clients. Integrity is non-negotiable for me—I double-check information, verify details, and make sure every decision is grounded in accuracy and transparency. I’m not pushy, and I don’t believe in pressuring anyone into making a move before they’re ready. Instead, I guide my clients thoughtfully, offering support while giving them the space they need to feel confident.

 I’m a natural problem solver and a careful listener. I take the time to truly understand each client’s unique situation so I can tailor my approach to their specific needs. Communication is key in my process—I follow up consistently but never overwhelm with excessive messages. I believe in being present, accessible, and approachable.

 

My business background, including working with publishers in New York City and attorney offices in London, shaped my sense of professionalism and attention to detail. I take my work seriously and approach every transaction with the level of care, structure, and respect it deserves.

Sincerely,

 

Shana Garland