Today we’d like to introduce you to Zidnia Ayala.
Hi Zidnia, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
“I Arrived with God and One Suitcase”
I started in real estate in January 2000, in Puerto Rico. I worked as a Real Estate Broker for about 12 years, in a time without the technology and tools that now feel indispensable. I learned the old-school way: notebook in hand, constant calls, in-person visits, lots of ethics, and even more perseverance. There were no shortcuts—but there was purpose.
In June 2014, I made a decision that changed my life: moving to Florida. I arrived in this country alone, with God and one suitcase. Normally, when someone takes a leap like that, friends or family are waiting. I had no one. I remember sitting on a bench outside the Orlando airport, watching buses pull in and out, picking up travelers and taking them somewhere. I asked myself a simple question: “What now?” And then an even more important one: “Where are those buses going?”
That simple question changed everything. I was told they went to the car rental companies. I hopped on one of those buses and soon walked out with a rental car, a GPS, and the best company I could have: God. Within a month, I had an apartment, a car, and a job. I consider that chapter of my life a powerful testimony. I give Honor and Glory to God, because doors opened in a supernatural way at the very moment I needed it most.
Then came another challenge: my license from Puerto Rico wasn’t valid in Florida. I had to start from scratch. I took the course, and by God’s grace I passed the end-of-course exam. The next step was the state exam… and that’s where I stopped. I was afraid to fail. By law, I had two years to take the state exam; months went by filled with “what if I don’t pass?”—silences that weighed heavy. As the deadline approached, I decided I couldn’t let fear write my story. I registered for the exam and made myself a promise: “For one full month, I will study like never before.”
After dropping my daughter off at school, I went to the public library from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., every day, for a month. Highlighted pages, summaries, practice tests, quiet prayers. Test day arrived and, once again, the Lord moved in my life: I passed the state exam. It was one of the best days I can remember.
With my license in hand, I began working the Central Florida market. At first it wasn’t easy: a new state, a new system, new rules, and a market I needed to learn in depth. But God brought good people into my path who helped me, and I brought what I’ve always had: discipline, integrity, and a deep love for serving. Today I’ve spent eight years practicing in Florida, grateful for every family I’ve helped open the door to their home.
Looking back, I see a clear line connecting each moment: ask, move forward, trust. Asking took me from that airport bench to my first opportunity. Moving forward pulled me out of paralyzing fear and into that testing room. Trusting sustained me when answers didn’t come quickly.
My philosophy as a Realtor® is simple: every client deserves a process that is clear, human, and honest. I don’t sell houses; I accompany life decisions. I translate data and contracts into clarity, and anxiety into concrete next steps. My motto—“With you every step toward your new home”—isn’t a slogan; it’s a commitment. It means being there before, during, and after closing; telling the truth even when it’s uncomfortable; and celebrating, together, the key handoff that opens new chapters.
To anyone starting in real estate—or any path—I’d share three thoughts:
Fear is defeated by walking. Take the next step, even if you can’t see the end of the road.
Discipline is the bridge between intention and results. Study, prepare, and show up every single day.
Never underestimate a simple question. Sometimes the biggest door opens because you had the courage to raise your hand and ask, “How do I get there?”
I continue serving in Central Florida with the same conviction I had when I arrived: dreams need direction and faith. And if my
story inspires someone today, I hope it inspires you to ask one more question, study one more hour, and try one more time.
Because if I’ve learned anything, it’s this: when you walk with God and do your part, the right doors open at the perfect time.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
No, it hasn’t been a smooth road. My first hurdles were clear:
language—Spanish is my first language—and learning a brand-new market. Even with prior experience in Puerto Rico, Central Florida was entirely different. That meant something very real at the beginning: it was hard to find clients.
What did I do? I turned each challenge into a plan. I strengthened my English in daily practice, refined my professional communication, and invested serious time learning the market—neighborhoods, inventory, pricing, contracts, and local norms. I leaned on my faith and the same discipline that helped me earn my license; I walked communities, showed up at events, listened to people, and built relationships through transparency. Over time, those efforts opened doors: clients’ trust followed—and with it, the opportunity to serve better every day.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about LPT Realty?
About my business and what you should know
I’m a Central Florida Realtor® and run my real estate practice with LPT Realty. My approach is fully consultative: I turn market data into clear decisions for buyers and sellers, with honest communication and concrete next steps throughout the process.
What I do and what I’m known for
Local market expertise (Polk County, Haines City, Davenport & nearby): inventory, pricing, and trend analysis to drive strategy.
Relocation clients from out of state (NY, VA, PA) and local families: full guidance on neighborhoods, timelines, total costs, and negotiation.
Sellers: end-to-end listing strategy—pricing, repositioning, property prep, digital marketing, and purpose-driven open houses.
New construction & master-planned communities: builder comparisons, lots, incentives, and warranties.
First-time buyers and veterans: financial education on the journey, closing costs, and approval paths (coordinating with trusted partners).
What sets me apart
Bilingual (Spanish/English) and human-first: I explain every step in your language—with no fine print.
Data + speaking/negotiation skills: I blend market analytics with communication and leadership training (Maxwell Leadership) to negotiate with clarity and respect.
Full-journey support: before, during, and after closing—I don’t disappear at the key handoff.
Educational content and transparency: I turn process anxiety into a simple, measurable plan.
What I’m most proud of (brand-wise)
My promise: “With you every step toward your new home.” It’s more than a motto; it’s my service standard. I’m proud that clients recommend me for clarity, integrity, and the patience with which I guide high-stakes decisions.
What I want readers to know
With me you’ll get clear guidance, timely data, and direct communication.
I’m powered by LPT Realty, and I connect you with a strong professional network (inspection, title, insurance, etc.) so everything runs smoothly.
If you’re selling, I’ll build a tailored positioning plan for your property and timeline.
If you’re buying—first home, Florida relocation, or new construction—I’ll be with you every step, from pre-approval to “welcome home.”
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
I don’t believe in luck, rather I give everything to God; my life, family and business… when you give everything to Him and always put Him first, the doors that open before you are infinite and in all these years that is what I have done; Put Him first and seek His Presence and the rest comes in addition.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://zidniaayala.lpthomesearch.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zidniaayala/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zidniaayalarealtor/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zidnia-cruz-9562bb112
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@zidniaayalacruz1786
- Other: https://linktr.ee/zidniaayala
