Today we’d like to introduce you to Paola Sharkey
Hi PAOLA, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
When I moved to Florida in 2005, I wasn’t just starting a new chapter in my life—I was discovering my true calling. What began as an interest in investing in distressed properties quickly evolved into a passion for real estate. From renovating and staging homes to learning the nuances of the market, I fell in love with the process of transforming properties and helping others find their perfect home.
My journey to this career was shaped by diverse experiences and a strong educational foundation. Born and raised in Colombia, I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering from the University of Valle. Later, my thirst for knowledge and ambition took me to Costa Rica, where I completed a Master’s in Business Administration with a focus on Marketing at the Inter-American University.
These experiences instilled in me not only the technical expertise to excel in real estate but also the ability to connect with people on a deeper level. Being bilingual in English and Spanish allows me to serve a diverse clientele and ensure that every client feels understood and supported throughout their journey.
Real estate is more than a job to me—it’s a way to build trust, create meaningful connections, and make a positive impact on people’s lives. Whether it’s helping a family find their dream home or guiding a seller to maximize their property’s potential, I approach every transaction with professionalism, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to my clients’ success.
For me, real estate isn’t just about houses; it’s about turning dreams into addresses and making the process enjoyable, exciting, and stress-free for everyone I work with.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I came to America with my husband, who was a real estate broker, and we worked together in West Palm Beach. Later, we decided to move to Ocala, where I obtained my real estate license.
However, just a few months after our move, my husband passed away. I suddenly found myself alone in a new city, without family, friends, or a network to rely on. Starting over in those circumstances was incredibly challenging.
No one knew me, so I had to make myself known. I began with cold calling, door knocking, and distributing flyers—methods that required resilience and determination. Slowly but surely, through hard work and persistence, I started to build my reputation.
Today, I’m proud of how far I’ve come. My journey taught me that with dedication and unwavering determination, anything is possible.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m a real estate professional specializing in residential properties, with a strong focus on helping families find homes that suit their unique needs and dreams. I’ve worked extensively in Ocala and the surrounding areas, building my reputation as someone who listens deeply to my clients and works tirelessly to guide them through every step of the process.
What sets me apart is my personal journey and the values I bring to my work. When I first started in real estate, I was in a new city where I didn’t know a single person. Through sheer determination, I built my business from the ground up by connecting with people directly—cold calling, knocking on doors, and distributing flyers. Those early days taught me resilience, perseverance, and the importance of forming genuine relationships.
I’m most proud of the trust I’ve earned from my clients over the years. Many come to me because they know I’m not just here for a transaction—I’m here to help them navigate one of the most important decisions of their lives with care, honesty, and professionalism.
What truly motivates me is seeing the joy and relief on my clients’ faces when we close on their dream home or achieve their goals in selling their property. Real estate is more than a job to me; it’s about helping people build their futures and creating lasting connections along the way.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
For anyone just starting out in real estate, my biggest advice is to stay consistent and be patient. Success in this industry doesn’t happen overnight—it’s a marathon, not a sprint. Focus on building relationships, because trust and referrals are the foundation of this business.
I wish I knew when I started:
1. Don’t be afraid of rejection, You’ll hear “no” more times than you can count. But every “no” brings you closer to a “yes.” Stay confident, learn from every experience, and keep going.
2. Take time to learn the market, and stay up-to-date with industry trends. Education and personal growth are key.
3. Even if you’re new in town or don’t know many people, attend community events, collaborate with other professionals, and don’t hesitate to introduce yourself. The connections you make today can become clients or sources of referrals tomorrow.
4. Believe in Yourself: Starting out can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re new and trying to stand out. Determination and hard work can open doors. Take it one step at a time, and celebrate every small win.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.paolasharkey.realtor/
- Instagram: paolasharkey_realtor
- Facebook: paolasharkey.realtor
- Youtube: @paolasharkeyrealtor
