In this episode of “I Am Lakeland,” host Don Burns sits down with John-Michael Elliott and Richard Eijo of the Elliott & Eijo Group at S&D Real Estate Services. This dynamic duo shares their fascinating journey from personal real estate agents to partners in one of Lakeland’s most successful property management and real estate firms.
Richard kicks off the conversation with his unique “reboot” story, detailing his transition from a high-stakes career as a chef in luxury hotels like the Ritz-Carlton and Eden Rock to the world of real estate. He explains how the intense focus on hospitality and customer service he learned in the culinary world became the foundation for their business philosophy today.
John-Michael discusses his own roots in the industry, starting in 2000 and navigating the extreme market fluctuations of the mid-2000s. The two describe how they “united their powers” during the 2007 market crash, finding a niche in short sales and eventually property management by helping clients who were “accidental landlords.”
Whether you’re a property owner, a first-time home buyer, or someone interested in the local real estate market, this episode offers expert insights and a testament to the power of a strong business partnership built on trust and a shared love for Lakeland. 72
