Pouring everything into a career I wasn’t truly passionate about, I realized I had grown complacent, convinced this was just the way life was. It wasn’t long after this revelation I realized that in order to see real change, I needed to take a chance and embrace the unknown.

 

I recently walked away from a career that had consumed my life for over a decade—a role I had fallen into out of necessity, not passion. I knew I couldn’t keep living that way. My family deserved better. I deserved better.

 

Growing up, I watched my dad work himself to exhaustion running a hurricane window and door manufacturing company. I promised myself I would make different choices, choices that provided a more balanced life. However, when my college degree did not align with my employment goals, I ended up having what I never wanted to have – a job that ran every aspect of my life. 

 

What was supposed to be a temporary gig turned into years. I learned every aspect of the company—accounts payable, payroll, purchasing, human resources—eventually managing multiple departments. I became the person who solved problems, smoothed over crises and handled the work no one else wanted. At first, I was proud of how much I could handle. Eventually, my dad sold the business, and over the years, I realized my kindness was being taken advantage of. Just because I could do everything didn’t mean I should. My responsibilities grew but my fulfillment didn’t. I was working late nights, answering calls after hours and carrying the weight of an entire business on my shoulders—without recognition, without boundaries, and without joy.

 

My husband, Derek, and I were raising three kids, and I felt like I was missing everything. My kids spent more time in daycare and after-school programs than with me. I was commuting over an hour each way, barely home for dinner, constantly distracted by work. One day, I realized my life didn’t align with my values. My family came first in my heart, but my actions didn’t reflect that. Something had to give.

That’s when I started searching for a way out. I asked everyone I met what they did for a living, wanting to know how they built careers that gave them the life I wanted—flexibility, balance and meaning. Some answers were impractical, but when I met real estate agents, something clicked. I realized the industry needed people who valued relationships, follow-through and authenticity. I wanted to offer the kind of care I’d been praised for in my previous role—but on my own terms. Most of all, I wanted the flexibility to be there for my family.

 

In 2022, I earned my real estate license, but just as I was getting started, Hurricane Ian struck, devastating many of the areas I had hoped to work in. I kept my full-time job at first, but the more I worked, the clearer it became—I couldn’t juggle both. Despite the fear and uncertainty, I gave notice at my job and walked away from the career that had consumed me for so long.

The transition wasn’t easy. But the change was immediate and powerful. For the first time, I was present for my family. I could take my kids to soccer, eat dinner with them, and actually give them my full attention. My husband fully supported me and pushed me to make the change. We weren’t just surviving anymore—we were living.

 

I'm proud of the career I'm building and the great brokerage I’m with that has like-minded people who prioritize relationships over transactions. Helping clients navigate major transitions in their lives is incredibly rewarding, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to do work that truly matters.

 

Leaving the safety of my old job was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, but it was also the most important. Sometimes, you have to let go of what’s comfortable to create the life you truly want. 

I’ve built my reputation by going beyond what people typically expect from a real estate agent. Many of my clients come to me after feeling let down by others in the industry, and I’ve earned their trust by prioritizing what truly matters—strong relationships, transparency and follow-through. I take the time to listen, address concerns with honesty and tailor my approach to each client’s unique needs. By being attentive, solutions-focused and deeply committed to their success, I create a seamless and stress-free experience. 

 

While technical expertise is essential in real estate, the human aspect is just as important. Buying or selling a home isn’t just a financial decision—it’s often a deeply personal one, tied to major life changes. I understand the emotions that come with the process and work closely with my clients to ease uncertainties and overcome obstacles. Whether it’s navigating a tight budget, handling complex financial circumstances or finding solutions to unexpected challenges, I approach every situation with patience, creativity and a genuine commitment to my clients’ best interests. I’m not just here to close deals—I’m here to be your guide, advocate and problem-solver, ensuring that every step of your journey feels manageable and well-supported.

 

Sincerely, 

Cheryl DeLuca

REALTOR® | LIC# 3549888

Direct 239-224-0056

cheryl@rasorealty.com

www.cheryldeluca.co