REAL Exclusive Magazine

Jo Ann Koontz

Koontz & Associates, PL

By Lalaena Gonzalez-Figueroa

Photo by Peter Acker

As both an attorney and CPA, Jo Ann Koontz is uniquely qualified to offer legal solutions that provide the best tax situation for her clients. Essentially, clients benefit from the services of two professionals, avoiding pitfalls they didn’t even know were there.

Especially in today’s real estate climate, short sales, loan modifications, deeds in lieu and foreclosures all present unique tax consequences that vary from person to person, and require skilled representation. From capital gains to rules impacting foreign nationals, Jo Ann provides her clients with a short- and long-term outlook on the financial ramifications of their real estate transactions.

Jo Ann is enigmatic, a no-nonsense individual with a quick wit, who communicates with impeccable efficiency. She is also an empathetic and caring advocate for her clients, many of whom are successful professionals who are facing immense challenges for the first time.

“One of the most important things people should understand is that planning can save tremendous amounts of time, money and stress,” reflects Jo Ann. People often wait for dire circumstances before seeking assistance, but there are more options available if they seek help early. 

 “Clients leave my office armed with information – and information is power,” she explains. “I give them the pros and cons, and an action plan, so they know exactly what they need to do. This gives them enormous peace of mind.”

In addition to handling distressed property situations, Jo Ann also focuses on traditional residential and commercial real estate transactions, as well as business law, and federal and state tax law. Her dual certification enables her to bring a comprehensive approach to all areas of practice. “Tax law is another layer that affects everything you do,” she says.

Jo Ann’s boutique practice is designed to offer clients attentive, concierge-level services. Associate attorney Jacqueline Meeker helps serve a growing clientele, focusing on real estate, civil litigation and tax law, and Jo Ann’s support staff has been with her since she first began practicing. In striving to build an organization that caters to client needs, she recently introduced a user-friendly website that allows people to initiate contact and request consultations online. “Our website has become a wonderful tool for local and out-of-town clients alike,” Jo Ann observes.

In addition to referrals from real estate agents, she also receives referrals from CPAs and financial planners, and is often an early point of contact for consumers. She was a leader in helping the real estate community navigate the changing market, and was a sought-after speaker on short sales, foreclosures and their tax implications. She is tapped into the local professional community, and is involved with the community at large as well. A former board member for the Center for Autism Resources and Education (CARE), she continues to volunteer her time on behalf of the organization.  She also volunteers with the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life.

In addition to her legal practice, Jo Ann also maintains a separate tax preparation business for businesses and individuals. She is also involved in tax planning, positioning clients in the best situation before tax time. In all of her professional endeavors she is focused and committed to facilitating successful outcomes for her clients whenever possible. “There is a light at the end of every tunnel,” she says. “Our clients trust us to help guide them there.”

Koontz & Associates, PL
1819 Main Street, Suite 215 
Sarasota, FL 34236
(941) 225.2615
joann@koontzassociates.com
www.koontzassociates.com

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