Nowadays, buying a home can feel overwhelming, especially in a fast-changing market like Southwest Florida. That’s why partnering with a trustworthy real estate agent can transform your experience.

I recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Felix Olivo on the 239 Real Estate Roundtable podcast. Felix is a bilingual real estate agent working in Lee County, including Cape Coral, Fort Myers, and Lehigh Acres. 

During our conversation, Felix opened up about his journey into real estate, the challenges he’s faced, and how he’s helping families find their perfect homes. 

His story is inspiring and packed with valuable insights for anyone looking to buy a home in Southwest Florida.

Tune in to our full conversation:

The Road to Real Estate

Felix’s journey into real estate started in a way that many of us can relate to—life taking unexpected turns. Originally from Puerto Rico, Felix moved to Florida in 2007 after initially visiting a friend in Captiva while on vacation. 

However, that trip quickly turned into something more permanent. Felix stayed, found work in hospitality, and eventually met his wife.

During his hospitality years, he found himself glued to TV shows on HGTV featuring house flipping. Inspired by the idea of buying, renovating, and selling properties for profit, Felix decided to dive into real estate.

Taking the First Step

Felix obtained his real estate license in 2014 and began his career with Coldwell Banker, but encountered unexpected challenges. The reality of real estate wasn’t quite like the TV shows; it took time to make a steady income. With bills to pay and a family to support, he had to return to his job in hospitality.

A Turning Point

Fast forward to 2020, and the pandemic changed everything for Felix. Like many in the hospitality industry, he was laid off, leaving him at a crossroads. His wife reminded him that he still had his real estate license, and Felix decided to jump back into the business.

This time, he joined Stock Real Estate, a smaller brokerage in Lehigh Acres, and got to work building his business from the ground up. And he didn’t do it alone; Felix connected with trusted mortgage brokers to help his clients with the financial side of buying a home.

A Changing Landscape in Lehigh Acres

Felix has lived in Lehigh Acres since 2007 and bought his first home there in 2010. During our conversation, he reflected on the incredible growth in the area. Back then, vacant lots were selling for around $3,000. Today, those same lots can go for $30,000 or more! Traffic has become an issue, too. What used to be a quick drive now takes significantly longer during rush hour.

Why Focus on Lehigh Acres? 

Despite the changes, Felix pointed out that Lehigh Acres remains more affordable compared to places like Estero or Bonita. This ongoing affordability, along with rapid development, has made Lehigh a hotspot for families and investors.

The Market Boom

Felix mentioned that after the pandemic hit, there was a huge influx of people moving from Miami to Lehigh. With the housing market in Miami becoming increasingly expensive, Lehigh Acres offered a more affordable option. Felix dedicated his expertise in the local market to assist these families in securing new homes.

From Hospitality to Real Estate Success

What struck me about Felix was how he brought his hospitality background into his real estate business. After years in hotels mastering customer service, reading body language, and anticipating guests’ needs, he now applies those skills to his clients.

Growing Through Referrals

Felix started with friends and family as his first clients, and from there, his business grew mainly through referrals. He focuses on building strong relationships, and his clients often come back when they need real estate services again. For Felix, it’s not just about the transaction; it’s about creating a lasting connection.

Marketing and Challenges

I was curious about his marketing strategies, so I asked Felix if he used social media. Most of his business relies on word of mouth and referrals, despite his online advertising efforts. He also listens to real estate podcasts to stay updated and learn new ways to serve his clients better.

Tips for Future Homebuyers

Felix had some fantastic advice for anyone considering buying a home in Southwest Florida:

• Research the Area: Before buying, make sure to know what areas you’re interested in, how close they are to work or schools, and what the local amenities are.
• Get Pre-Approved: Felix emphasized the importance of getting pre-approved for a mortgage. It sets a clear budget and makes the buying process much smoother.
• Understand the Market: Different areas come with different price ranges. Knowing what you can afford and where will help you make a more informed decision.

Looking Ahead: Felix’s Future Goals

With the year coming to an end, I asked Felix about his plans. His goal is to increase his transaction volume and help even more families find their homes.

Real estate focuses on growth, and Felix is dedicated to advancing and enhancing his success. His passion for helping others is what truly sets him apart, and it will be exciting to see how he continues to expand his business.

Ready to Learn From Top Professionals? 

Sitting down with Felix has been a truly enlightening experience. His dedication to his clients and insightful perspective on the real estate market in Southwest Florida are just a few reasons he’s making such a significant impact.

Felix Olivo exemplifies what it means to be committed to both personal and professional growth. His story is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of community.

 As the housing market continues to evolve, having someone like Felix in your corner can provide not just guidance but also peace of mind.

Check out the 239 Real Estate Roundtable Podcast

Each episode brings you closer to the experiences and strategies of real estate professionals. Don’t miss out on future episodes where we continue to bring you the latest trends, effective strategies, and heartwarming stories from real estate experts.

Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and expert advice to help you navigate the exciting world of real estate.