Through a lot of trial and error trying to find my calling, I finally found it in real estate. One simple leap of faith has allowed me to forge a fulfilling career, cherish family moments and give back to the community—all of this is a testament to the rewards of perseverance and finding one's true purpose.

 

It was a defining crossroads in my life. Katie, my soon-to-be wife, stood by my side as I grappled with a monumental decision—plunging into the unpredictable waters of a career in real estate just 10 months before our wedding.

 

My wife, Katie, has always joked that I have lived nine lives. I spent many years finding a career path that fit my personality and interests. I have always been a people-first person. Every year or two, I tried something new, from working trade jobs and bartending to selling outdoor kitchens and spas; I was all over the board.

 

It took a demanding job in property management to change everything. I was constantly working—7 days, 70 hours a week—turning a business that was losing money into a profitable one. However, my salary never reflected the improvements I made. Finally, I asked for a raise that matched the value I had brought to the business. In response, I was told the company was on a pay freeze. That was my breaking point.

 

A long time ago, someone suggested I become a REALTOR®. It took hitting a wall in my current job to realize the benefits of a commission-based role: there was no ceiling.

 

Shopping for our own first house, we went through four different real estate agents. Each agent had something different to offer, but at the end of the day, I left the experience feeling I could have done better than all of them. I could help people through one of life’s biggest milestones while finally having control over my income, time and the way I run my business.

 

On the cusp of beginning a new chapter in our lives getting married, I told Katie my plan to become a real estate agent. She fully supported me, knowing I had always worked hard and found a way to make ends meet. My previous lives were like training wheels. Now, it was time to apply all I had learned toward real estate.

 

Starting from scratch in real estate meant facing a barrage of challenges—navigating a difficult market post-2008, learning the ins and outs of transactions and finding my personal approach in a competitive field, all while we planned our wedding and as I worked my other job in property management. My work week went from 70 hours working in the office to then adding a 40-hour class schedule on top of that, but it was worth it. I hustled hard, gaining insights and honing my skills. It wasn't smooth sailing, but gradually, success began to peek through the clouds.

 

In February 2013, I was finally able to quit my job to pursue real estate full time. It was one of the biggest milestones of my life, proving I could operate my own business and be successful at it. I had finally found a job that aligned with my passion for helping people and my desire to make a positive impact. I get to help people through some of the most exciting moments. What could be better than that?

 

In addition to giving me purpose and fulfillment, real estate has opened the doors for me to give back. My wife and I, along with four others, co-founded a nonprofit, L.E.A.F. Foundation, a platform to empower and uplift our community. Through various initiatives like scholarships, supporting local organizations, and giving back to causes close to our hearts, we aim to spread positivity and make a tangible difference in people's lives.

 

The flexibility real estate offers has been priceless. For our children, Dean, Frank and Anna Rose, I can be there for the big moments, prioritizing what matters most. This may just be my ninth life, but I am grateful I stuck it out and found the path that allowed me to be there for my family and my community in meaningful ways.

 

Establishing my own brokerage, Fontaine Real Estate Group, in 2019 was a pivotal moment. I believe in being an expert at something before taking the next step. As a broker/owner, I took the time to develop a great framework to build off of. My philosophy centers on more than transactions; it revolves around nurturing relationships, cultivating trust and embracing a collaborative ethos. This brokerage is like a family—a space where agents can thrive, learn and grow not just as REALTORS® but as individuals. I'm proud of what we have achieved and look forward to continuing to grow our reach in the community.

 

When working with clients, I focus on forging genuine connections, understanding individual needs and prioritizing the human aspect of every interaction. I've strived to create a client-centric experience where empathy, transparency and unwavering dedication are the cornerstones. It's not just about closing deals; it's about being a trusted advisor and guiding clients through one of life's significant journeys. By listening intently, providing tailored solutions, and being there at every step, I've endeavored to make the real estate process not just efficient but also deeply meaningful for each individual and family I serve.

 

Sincerely,

Jay Fontaine
Broker-Owner | LIC# 370315
Cell (734) 718-7425
Office (248) 654-8700
jay@fontainerealtyteam.com
www.FontaineRealEstateGroup.com