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Bonnie Allen: Exceptional Client Care

By Lalaena Gonzalez-Figueroa

Photography by Peter Acker

She established herself in the hospitality industry as an astute businesswoman with solid leadership skills, and Bonnie Allen has utilized these strengths as a knowledgeable and affable real estate professional. Her experience in tourism and commercial investments provides her with a unique perspective, and she applies this in her work with residential buyers and sellers. As a member of the team at Kelly Gettel & Co., Bonnie offers her clients an exceptional level of representation and care.

An East Coast native, Bonnie transitioned into real estate after cultivating an accomplished career with Marriott Hotels. Her financial background was well-suited to the move; her early endeavors involved the acquisition of commercial and investment properties. After relocating to South Florida, she became actively involved in community and professional organizations including local politics and charities. Bonnie was also elected president of the Greater Ft. Lauderdale Lodging and Hospitality Association, leading a membership that exceeded 300 individuals. Her responsibilities were significant: Bonnie served on local boards as a member of the association, establishing a comprehensive network of collegial connections in the process. “I had to keep a lot of people happy,” she recalls of the position. “One of my constant challenges was to identify creative and unique solutions to issues facing our diverse membership.”

In 2012 Bonnie and her husband Jim, a retired Marine Corps officer, relocated to Sarasota in a move that took over a year to complete. “We came with a specific list of criteria and an established budget,” she explains. “It took a lot of patience and perseverance to find the home that was right for us.” That journey allowed Bonnie to embark upon an in-depth exploration of the regional housing market. She became well-versed in new construction as well as resale homes, condominiums and waterfront properties throughout the region in her lengthy and detailed search. The process was a fruitful one; not only did Bonnie and her husband find their ideal home, but she also gained an intimate knowledge of the local real estate market, which allowed her to successfully transition her residential real estate business.

Bonnie’s open communication style and professionalism have earned her the trust and respect of clients and colleagues alike. In fact, it was what brought her to Kelly Gettel & Co. Joining Gettel & Co., says Bonnie, has been a wonderful move. “Kelly is established not only in our industry, but in our community,” she explains. “She’s incredibly knowledgeable and has a great capacity for marketing and advertising. Her vision is guided by a unique perspective that always places an emphasis on achieving successful transactions for her clientele.”

The diverse challenges of real estate today appeal to Bonnie, who enjoys the opportunity to “solve the puzzle” that is each distinct transaction. “I like to put the right person with the right product, help my clients put each piece in place in order to accomplish their goals.” The business of real estate, an increasingly complex industry, is one that allows Bonnie to utilize her diverse skill set. She is technologically astute, patient and thorough, working closely with each client to determine their long- and short-term objectives and then to identify the necessary steps to reach successful outcomes. Her financial background allows Bonnie to add significant value to the process of purchasing new homes, as she excels in settlement statements. “This is critical in new construction, where costs aren’t static,” she explains.

Bonnie, who grew up racing sailboats in Annapolis, Maryland, continues to enjoy the water as a resident and an agent. Her experience affords her a solid understanding of the elements involved in waterfront home transactions, and she enjoys the process of marketing the lifestyles that accompany this niche market.

It’s a great time to be in real estate, says Bonnie, who is optimistic about the movement she’s seeing in the marketplace. “I’m excited about the recovery that we’re experiencing,” she notes. “There are terrific opportunities out there for buyers and sellers, and I’m looking forward to assisting my clients in achieving success and realizing their goals.” 

Bonnie Allen
Kelly Gettel & Co.
2170 Main Street, Suite 203
Sarasota, FL 34237
(727) 492.7716
bonnie@kellygettelandco.com

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