For broker Glen Stegemann, the chance to join an emerging luxury real estate brand and help shape a fast-growing market is what ultimately drew him away from a seven-office firm in the Naples area to the shores of Miramar Beach.

“I see so much potential for growth here,” said Stegemann. “This market is where Naples and Fort Myers were 15 years ago.”

L to R: Mauricio Umansky, Sara Becnel, Brendan Parker

Left: Glen Stegemann

Flying With Ease Entertainment performer

The arrival of The Agency on the Emerald Coast marks a milestone for the region’s real estate landscape.

The Agency is one of the leading international brands in luxury real estate, with more than 150 offices in 14 countries.

While each branch is independently owned, clients benefit from the broader network, which offers tailored, full-service support across every step of the real estate journey.

“The Agency has the ability to facilitate that white glove service at every touch point,” Stegemann added. “We’re always anticipating our clients’ needs and want to keep the process simple while guiding them in the best possible way.”

Although the Northwest Florida Beaches branch officially opened in January, its foundation runs deeper. Managing Partner Sara Becnel spent more than a decade with Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, helping lead the property through both the pandemic and a significant period of growth.

The Florida office opens on the heels of a satellite location in Madrid, Spain, which Becnel will also oversee.

“I chose to partner with The Agency so we could expand beyond Sandestin and give our existing brokerage a more global reach and a much-needed infusion of fresh tech, ideas, and excitement,” she said. “It was a strong cultural fit as well since we share the same vision and ideals.”

Together, Becnel and Stegemann envision a full-service approach that goes far beyond the transaction, with referrals for furnishings, art, renovations, and more.

“Because we are not corporately owned or publicly traded, we don’t answer to shareholders or operate under restrictive budget pressures,” Stegemann said. “This gives us the flexibility to pivot quickly, make decisions in real time, and focus entirely on helping our clients achieve their goals.”

The team already represents numerous homes across the Emerald Coast and expects to expand that footprint as they bring more brokers aboard. Stegemann even sees potential for growth into the Panama City area in the near future.

“What excites me about the Emerald Coast is that we’re positioned well within the state because of our mix of full-time residents and those with second or third homes,” Becnel said. “I’ve watched this community grow for more than 40 years, and we are still an up-and-coming area. It feels energizing to be part of that growth and to help people enter this market and enjoy everything it has to offer.”

To learn more about The Agency’s Northwest Florida office, visit theagencynwfl.com.