Agent Spotlight: Michelle Santorelli

It’s really no surprise to us that St. Augustine Realtor Michelle Santorelli was born and raised in St. Augustine and still calls our fair city home.  When you’re lucky enough to be born in a place with both natural and man-made beauty, great year-round weather, affordable cost of living, cultural attractions and the warmth and spirit of a small town with all the offerings and conveniences of much larger cities, why would you leave?  In fact, Michelle’s knowledge of St. Augustine and the area is a great bonus for the clients she works with.

Michelle has been a part of the Davidson Realty family for two years.  Recently we nabbed a few minutes with Michelle, in between her showing homes and running with her running club, to answer a few questions.

How did you decide to make real estate your career?
I chose real estate because it allows me to be actively involved in the community and help others start new phases of their lives. I love helping families see new possibilities.  Also, I’m a hard worker and I appreciate the opportunity with real estate to really get out of it what I put in.  I believe that success comes from helping others find their own success. 

What was it like growing up in St. Augustine?
It was pretty idyllic. My best memories of growing up here are from the sense of community.  Everyone was a friend and there was always lots to do.  Stopping at Big Joe’s for an ice cream after a day at the beach or participating in a bubble gum bubble blowing contest at the local movie theater down on the plaza were always summertime favorites.

What’s your advice for new residents or visitors to St. Augustine?
I encourage folks to really take their time to explore downtown St. Augustine and especially pay attention to the beautiful architecture of Henry Flagler and others of his time.  It’s perfect towards the end of the day when the sun is not quite as strong and then finishing the stroll with an evening meal on the bay front in one of our local restaurants is a must.  There are so many great restaurants in St. Augustine it’s hard to narrow down a list, but some of my favorites are Caps on the Water, A1A Ale Works, The Floridian, Mango Mangos, Stir It Up and The Groove.

You’re so active in the community!  Tell us about all the things you’re involved in.
Romanza is a big one for me.  It’s an amazing community organization that supports the performing arts and cultural arts puts on a number of cultural events for the city.  Romanza week in May is one of its biggest events and the Celtic Festival & Parade in March is very popular too.  I’m also involved in Artbreakers which supports families that are touched by cancer, and I’m an Ambassador for the St. Johns County Chamber.

Tell us about your hobbies and how you spend your free time.
I’m very active which is another reason I love St. Augustine.  Our area is great for people like me who enjoy outdoor activities.  I love the beach, kayaking, rollerblading, biking and I run with the local Galloway and Road Runners groups.  I also enjoy martial arts, cooking and just hanging out with family and friends.  And, like any good North Floridian, I love football.  Go Gators!

Michelle resides in St. Augustine with her two sons, Matt and Brandon. She was a Nease Panther and went on to earn her Associate’s degree at St. Johns River Community College, and a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Flagler College. While at Flagler, Michelle held leadership positions with the Society for Advancement of Management (SAM), and Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE), and was honored with induction into Leadership Flagler.