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As a Florida native who has resided in both St. Augustine and Fort Lauderdale, Melissa Cates doesn't just have an extensive and comprehensive understanding of the lifestyle, communities, schools, neighborhoods, and businesses on the First Coast, but she also has a profound love for the city where she lives and works. Melissa assists all her customers in South Florida by means of a proven, dynamic referral system, as well as, assisting her Northeast Florida client base.

Melissa started her real estate career in 2009 when the market was economically and competitively challenging. When the housing market was trying to recover from the recession, Melissa received her designation of Certified Distressed Property Expert and helped many people sell their home when most of her customer’s homes were worth less than their principal balance. She diligently worked with her customer’s banks and lenders to satisfy their home debts so her customers can happily move on to their next chapter.

Holding the certifications for Seller Representative Specialist, Certified Distressed Property Expert and Luxury Home Specialist-- Melissa gained recognition as a professional, devoted real estate agent that one could trust. Her customers knew she would confidently see them through every step of the way during buying or selling real estate. Additionally, Melissa was a member of Keyes President Circle and top producer in 2012, 2015 and 2016.

Melissa is proficient in educating her customers and recommending the best options that meet their short and long-term needs. Her dedication to clients exceeds their expectations as most of her new business is generated from past customer referrals. Melissa is a skilled negotiator and offers staging assistance to her customers to maximize their equity and accelerate the sale of their home.