Q: What advice would you give to women looking to start a career in real estate?

JJG: Real estate is a wonderful career filled with so many opportunities. My advice is to find a mentor or work with a team to learn the ropes and gain valuable experience in the field. Having a support system early on in your career can make a big difference in how successful you can become.

Q: What inspired you to pursue a leadership role within the Miami Realtors organization?
JJG: I've been a member since 1996, and one day, my broker told me, "You will be the president of the association." I’ve always loved helping our members learn and succeed in their real estate careers, and that inspired me to take on a leadership role.

Q: How do you assist clients in understanding the financial aspects of buying or selling a home?
JJG: Buying a home is often the most significant purchase someone will make in their lifetime. I make sure to bring clients into the office for a detailed discussion about the process. We review everything from what they qualify for to submitting an offer, as well as the steps that follow, such as inspection, appraisal, survey, title, real estate taxes, and insurance.

Q: What strategies do you use to help first-time homebuyers feel confident and informed throughout the process?
JJG: I help them understand their credit situation and how to get pre-approved for a loan. I also explain the importance of not making big purchases, like buying a car, during the homebuying process, as it can affect their financial standing.

Q: How has technology changed the real estate industry over the years?
JJG: Technology has transformed the industry in many ways. While 87% of consumers are satisfied with their real estate agents, only 11% will use the same agent again. CRM tools help agents stay on top of their client relationships. AI is also playing a role by predicting moving patterns in certain neighborhoods, which agents should take advantage of to remain competitive.

Q: Can you tell our audience about one of your most memorable moments in your career?
JJG: One of the most memorable moments in my career has always been the experience of handing keys to first-time homebuyers. It's a moment filled with joy and accomplishment for both the client and me.

Q: Which woman inspires you and why?
JJG: My mother inspires me the most. She immigrated to this country with my father, my brother, and me. My father fell ill, and she became his caretaker. She learned to drive after only two lessons and passed her citizenship test, all while having only a third-grade education and not speaking English. Her strength and determination have been my guide, and she continues to give me her blessing on every investment I make. 

Q: What is one word of advice you can offer to young women who want to reach your level of success?
JJG: Success doesn’t come easy. You need a clear vision and a strong commitment to hard work. Educate yourself and become an expert in your field.

Q: What advice would you give to young women who want to pursue their dreams and start a business?
JJG: Learn how to create a solid business plan and see if you can secure a loan before opening your business. If possible, try to buy the property where you plan to operate your business, as that investment can pay off in the long term.

Five Things About Justine Jimenez Garcia

1. If you could share a meal with any four individuals, living or dead, who would they be?
My father because I lost him too young, and my grandparents.

2. What's your favorite family tradition?
Sunday dinner

3. What’s your favorite thing to do in your free time?
Walk by the water bay or ocean and listen to audiobooks

4. What was the last book you really got into?
The Things You Can See Only When You Slow Down: How to Be Calm in a Busy World by Haemin Sunim

5. What would your perfect vacation look like?
Being on a boat in the Amalfi coast