Keys to the Emerald Coast

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South Walton continues to be one of the most talked about markets along the Emerald Coast -- and in this episode, we’re diving deep into what’s really happening.

We sit down with South Walton Area Director Sabine Robertson to talk all things South Walton: the incredible growth, the challenges agents are navigating, and the realities behind current housing prices. Sabine shares insights from the ground level about what’s working, where the pressure points are, and what REALTORS® should be watching as the market continues to evolve.

From market trends and local dynamics to the opportunities that lie ahead, this conversation offers valuable perspective for anyone working in or watching the South Walton area.

If you want a clearer picture of where the market is and where it might be heading you won’t want to miss this one.

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In this episode of the ECAR Podcast, Chad & Maria sit down with ECAR’s Commercial Director, Tim Collins, for a conversation that starts on the volleyball court and moves into the world of commercial real estate along the Emerald Coast.

After a quick warm-up talking about volleyball and life around the area, Tim dives into what’s happening in the local commercial market. Tim shares insights on current trends, opportunities, and what residents and local businesses might expect to see as the region continues to grow.

From new developments to the evolving needs of our communities, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the commercial side of real estate and what it could mean for locals in the months and years ahead.

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In Episode 21 of Keys to the Emerald Coast, we sit down with ECAR Crestview Area Director Jason Miller to talk all things Crestview.

From the area’s strengths and challenges to ongoing revitalization efforts, standout features, and what the future may hold, this episode offers a well-rounded look at one of our region’s fastest-growing communities. Jason shares valuable insight into the market, community development, and what makes Crestview unique — all while bringing his signature sense of humor to the conversation.

Whether you’re a real estate professional, resident, or simply interested in the growth of the Emerald Coast, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

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In this episode of Keys to the Emerald Coast, we sit down with ECAR’s Association Executive, Melissa Skoniecki, for an inside look at what’s ahead in 2026.

Melissa shares what she’s most excited about in the coming year, the strategic direction of the association, and how ECAR is continuing to elevate the value it delivers to its members. From new initiatives and professional development opportunities to advocacy efforts and member-focused programs, we cover what’s coming down the pipeline and how it all connects to supporting REALTORS® across the Emerald Coast.

If you’ve been wondering what ECAR has in store and how you can plug in, this episode offers clarity, vision, and plenty of reasons to be excited about the year ahead.

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In this episode, we’re joined by Joe Capelotti — ECAR Board Assistant Treasurer, RPAC Chair, and host of 3 Beers and the REAL Truth  for a down-to-earth conversation about RPAC and why it matters to every REALTOR®.

Joe helps break RPAC down in plain language, explaining what it is, how it works, and why having a seat at the table is critical when decisions are being made that impact our industry, our businesses, and our communities. We talk about how RPAC advocacy protects private property rights, supports REALTORS®, and ensures our voices are heard at the local, state, and national levels.

Most importantly, Joe shares why the only way to have that voice is by supporting RPAC and its mission — because advocacy doesn’t happen by accident.

If you’ve ever wondered what RPAC really does or why your investment matters, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

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In this episode, we sit down with Lisa Buchman and Sam Lapomardo to shine a spotlight on one of ECAR’s most meaningful initiatives — the CAMO Committee.

Lisa and Sam walk us through what CAMO stands for, why the committee exists, and how it serves as a powerful way for members to give back to our local community. From hands-on projects to impactful partnerships, they share what the committee does, how members can get involved, and some exciting highlights to look forward to in the months ahead.

If you’re passionate about service, connection, and making a real difference beyond real estate, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

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In this episode, we’re joined by two real estate legends, Cynthia DeLuca and Steven J. David, to talk about REI Week and why now is the time for real estate professionals to start building legacy wealth for themselves — not just their clients.

Too often, agents, brokers, and industry professionals spend their careers helping others create wealth through real estate, while neglecting to do the same in their own lives. Cynthia and Steve break that cycle by sharing how they got started, what they’ve learned over decades of investing, and how real estate professionals can begin thinking like owners instead of just advisors.

Cynthia DeLuca shares her journey from buying her first rental property in 1999 to building a diverse portfolio that includes everything from single-family homes to apartment complexes and commercial properties — even tackling deals most people would run from. Steven J. David brings over five decades of experience as an investor, educator, and industry leader, having owned and managed more than 600 properties while teaching thousands of REALTORS® how to analyze and manage investment real estate.

Together, they discuss:

• What REI Week is and why it matters
• How real estate professionals can get started investing, even while working full-time
• Common mindset and fear barriers that hold agents back
• Practical steps to begin building long-term, generational wealth through real estate

If you’re in real estate and have ever thought, “I help everyone else build wealth — when do I start building mine?” this episode is for you.

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In this episode of Keys to the Emerald Coast, we sit down with Chrissy Hartley to talk about the powerful mission behind Building Homes for Heroes and ECAR’s role in supporting it. This dedicated committee and task force works tirelessly to raise funds for veterans and active-duty military members in need of assistance right here in our community. Building Homes for Heroes constructs, modifies, and gifts mortgage-free homes to injured veterans, Gold Star families, and their loved ones—helping to remove financial burdens, restore independence, and create a stronger foundation for civilian life. Each home is thoughtfully designed to meet the physical and psychological needs of disabled veterans and their families, improving day-to-day quality of life and offering hope for a brighter future. It’s an inspiring conversation about service, impact, and giving back to those who have given so much.

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In this episode of Keys to the Emerald Coast, Chad Nelson and Maria Howell are joined by Melissa Garza, ECAR’s Government Affairs Director, for an in-depth conversation on advocacy and the issues that matter most to Realtors. The discussion centers on Great American Realtor Days and why it’s such a critical opportunity for Realtors to engage directly with lawmakers. Melissa breaks down key legislative topics and bills every Realtor should be aware of and actively advocating for to protect property rights, support homeownership, and serve clients more effectively. From Capitol Hill to the local level, this episode highlights how ECAR is working to ensure Realtors have a strong, informed voice in the legislative process.

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We’re kicking off 2026 with a fresh episode of Keys to the Emerald Coast! Chad Nelson and Maria Howell reconnect to start the new year and waste no time diving into the action from the Florida Realtors® Mid-Winter Meetings in Orlando, FL. Maria breaks down what Mid-Winter is all about, why it matters to Realtors across the state, and how it helps shape priorities for the year ahead. The conversation also looks forward to one of ECAR’s biggest advocacy events -- Great American Realtor Days -- setting the stage for what’s next and why involvement has never been more important.