Bryan Guentner sets up shop in the south village area with his real estate operation
Q: Bryan, you are a longtime Realtor and real estate broker who recently established a business again on Siesta Key, this time in Crescent Plaza. Tell us how and why this came about.
A: After over 18 years of looking to expand on Siesta Key we were presented an opportunity to open an additional RE/MAX franchise.
We are very fortunate to secure the location in Crescent Plaza. There is so much happening in the south village of Siesta Key that we wanted to be a part of the excitement.
Q: How does it feel to be back?
A: We are extremely grateful to be back servicing Siesta Key residents directly with a great location. Even though real estate agents are now mobile and utilize technology to help buyers and sellers, we know real estate is local and both agents and clients prefer dealing in person with Realtors.
This aligns with our company mission for RE/MAX Platinum Realty. Our vision is to have smaller, high-profile locations so we can provide outstanding local service.
Q: You used to also reside on Siesta Key. Share with us your history with the island.
A: We have always had a soft spot for Siesta Key in our heart. In the late ’90s and early 2000s we lived here.
We were a small part of the original Siesta Key drum circle and very proud that Siesta Key has been voted the No.1 beach numerous times.
We were involved with the fireworks, Christmas tree lighting in the Village, and many other chamber events.
Q: Indeed, about 20 years ago you were a member of the board of directors for the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce and even served as president. What were the hot local issues back then?
A: One of the hottest topics was the attempt to save the original Summerhouse restaurant.
I really enjoyed serving on the chamber board and as president. Many wonderful memories. It was definitely a challenge at times and extremely rewarding, too.
Q: In 2000, you found a buyer for a Siesta Key property at just shy of $8 million — a record price at the time for the area. Today, a local property is listed for $22 million.
More than 20 years later, what’s your reaction to the explosion in property values on the island?
A: I always believed that Siesta Key values were underpriced compared to Naples and Miami Beach. Siesta Key is such a unique and beautiful place.
The current values are a product of low supply and high demand. In the last 20 years, Siesta Key has definitely been discovered.
Q: You landed some very desirable internet domains back in the day. Can you tell us a bit about that?
A: We have always embraced technology and marketing. Being patient, we were very fortunate to secure a few.
Years ago, we were able to acquire SiestaKeyBeach.com. I approached a local retiring real estate agent and was able to purchase the domain.
The site is currently going through a refresh which promotes Siesta Beach, real estate, and our expanding vacation rental business.
Author: John Morton