REAL Exclusive Magazine

Debra Pitell – Michael Saunders & Company

By Lalaena Gonzalez-Figueroa

In an industry known for its temperamental nature, the Realtor® who cultivates a long-term career is one who adapts, grows, and always maintains a focus on client care. Debra Pitell is one of those success stories. With over 25 years’ experience in the field, she continues to offer her clientele a level of service that is nothing less than stellar.

Born in London, England, Debra launched her career shortly after relocating to the United States. Just 23 years old she quickly found professional success, despite the fact that the market was relatively uninviting. Her astute business sense and dedication to meeting her customers’ needs became the anchor that allowed Debra to build a solid career in a volatile industry. Today she continues to meet challenges head-on, and has maintained a spot as one of Sarasota’s top luxury real estate specialists.

Debra is well-versed in residential transactions. Her area of expertise is waterfront homes, and she has cultivated an impressive knowledge of the details necessary to ensure a smooth and successful transaction when representing clients in the sale and purchase of these properties.

“I’m able to assist my clients with very specific questions and needs related to waterfront homes,” acknowledges Debra. “From taking title to obtaining insurance, to building codes, there are countless details that must be addressed.” As rules and laws evolve, Debra remains up-to-date with the latest changes. She reads voraciously, regularly attends seminars and networks with several area lawyers who send her pertinent information and updates.

Though market conditions fluctuate, Debra remains steadfast in her commitment to meeting her clients’ unique needs.  In addition to a comprehensive marketing and advertising plan for every listing she represents, she has also expanded to target international buyers in the United Kingdom. “We’ve seen a notable increase in buyers from the UK who are interested in the Florida real estate market,” observes Debra, who has created an online site specifically dedicated to those prospective clients. “By providing my sellers with a strong presence in the UK, I’m offering a significant added value.” Strong exchange rates and Debra’s ability to connect culturally with foreign buyers may also be a plus; whatever the cause, the results are impressive. “I’ve closed multiple transactions with foreign clients,” she states.  

Her professional designations are the result of Debra’s commitment to ongoing education and training, and she readily shares her knowledge through articles on her websites. “Not only do people appreciate the opportunity to receive this information, but writing helps to keep me current with my clients’ perspectives,” explains Debra of her decision to pen her own pieces. Ideas come from customers and the general environment.  “It may be as simple as asking, ‘How do I obtain a mortgage?’ when all you’re hearing is that you can’t get a loan right now,” Debra says. “I try to address topics that are pertinent to today’s market as well as ones that are always on peoples’ minds.”

Debra remains enthusiastic about her profession and, more importantly, the real estate market. “There are great values available, and it’s a fantastic time to invest,” she observes, adding that she and other successful agents are doing just that. “We still believe in the market,” she asserts. “That’s important. Real estate will always hold a tangible value, and we’re not losing sight of that.”
Debra Pitell, CRS, GRI, e-Pro
Michael Saunders & Company
1801 Main Street
Sarasota, FL 34236
Telephone: 941-356-0437
www.SarasotaHomes4Sale.com
www.SarasotaFloridaRealEstate.co.uk