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Agent Spotlight: REALTOR® Cindy Humayun
With a dynamic background spanning multiple industries and a global perspective, REALTOR® Cindy Humayun brings unparalleled dedication and insight to Tomlin St Cyr.
Originally from California, Cindy’s childhood was marked by adventure, having lived in Japan and Oregon before pursuing higher education. She holds a degree in Business and Marketing from the University of Oregon and an MBA from the University of Scranton, equipping her with a strong foundation in strategy and customer-focused service.
Cindy’s journey brought her to Tampa Bay in 2010. Since then, she has watched the region’s remarkable growth. With 14 years of residency, Cindy has gained deep local knowledge and a passion for the community, making her an exceptional resource for buyers and sellers.
“I have seen tremendous growth in the Tampa Bay area in a short amount of time, and living here has given me great insight into all the things that make this city the perfect place to raise a family,” Cindy said. “I love that real estate is a constantly changing industry and that no two transactions are the same. Helping people build wealth through homeownership and property investment is an incredible opportunity.”
Cindy’s professional experience is as diverse as her personal journey. She has worked in insurance, senior housing, home health, and even taught English overseas. She played an instrumental role in launching a home health agency and guided families through the complex process of senior housing transitions—work that honed her listening skills, empathy, and problem-solving abilities. These traits now serve her clients as they navigate the process of buying or selling a home.
Known for her logistic skills, sharp attention to detail, and ability to adapt, Cindy is a natural problem solver who loves tackling the challenges of the ever-changing real estate market. Her clients describe her as a professional who knows when to focus on the business at hand but also has a knack for making the journey enjoyable.
As a minority woman who has lived in various cities, states, and abroad, Cindy understands the challenges of relocating. She is passionate about helping others find their perfect home, no matter the stage of life.
Beyond real estate, Cindy enjoys participating in the Unsinkable Krewe of Molly Brown, part of Tampa’s beloved Gasparilla festivities. She spends her free time with her husband, Rod, their children Saya (10) and Evren (8), and their two miniature schnauzers, Lucy and Philo. Whether reading, watching documentaries, attending concerts, or cheering on her kids, Cindy treasures time with family and friends.
As a proud member of the Asian Real Estate Association, Cindy brings a fresh perspective and a strong commitment to her clients. She’s excited to guide you through your next real estate journey with expertise and a genuine passion for helping people.
To work with REALTOR® Cindy Humayun or to learn more, click here.
Agent Spotlight: REALTOR® Kaelynn Shaw
REALTOR® Kaelynn Shaw brings a unique blend of skills and experience to Tomlin St. Cyr Real Estate. Originally from Poplarville, Mississippi, Kaelynn relocated to Tampa in March 2024 with her husband, an Air Force service member stationed at MacDill Air Force Base working on KC-135 refuel jets. Her journey to the Tampa Bay area is a testament to her adaptability, resilience, and readiness to serve her new community with dedication and warmth.
Kaelynn’s passion for real estate is deeply personal. “Something about being part of helping people find their dream homes or helping them sell one to start a new chapter in their lives is special to me,” she said. Her eagerness to meet new clients and her commitment to assisting them through every phase of the real estate process underscores her approach to providing an exceptional client experience.
Her early career in the restaurant industry shaped her into a well-rounded professional with a strong foundation in customer service, financial acumen, and practical problem-solving. From a young age, Kaelynn demonstrated an outstanding work ethic and community-minded spirit. In high school, she earned merit awards from the National Honor Society, dedicating over 100 hours of community service annually—a commitment that cultivated her selflessness, compassion, and determination. Her skills in photo and video editing, learned along the way, add an extra layer of value to her real estate services, enabling her to present properties in a visually compelling way that appeals to today’s market.
Clients describe Kaelynn as caring, hardworking, organized, and refreshingly lighthearted. Her sense of humor, combined with her diligence and attention to detail, makes the process of buying or selling a home enjoyable and stress-free. Kaelynn’s commitment to lifelong learning is one of her key differentiators in real estate. She actively seeks new insights and skills that can benefit her clients, from understanding the latest market trends to mastering new tools and techniques to optimize the buying and selling experience. Every interaction with Kaelynn is infused with her genuine desire to help others and her commitment to understanding each client’s unique needs.
Outside of real estate, Kaelynn enjoys spending time with her husband, often bonding over video games and creative projects. A skilled crafter, she creates everything from small clay figures to paintings, though baking holds a special place in her heart. Together, they’ve built a warm home filled with love, which includes their rescue Shiba Inu, Bam Bam. Rescued from the SPCA after his previous owner could no longer afford his care, Bam Bam is now thriving and five pounds heavier, bringing joy and laughter into their lives as their “ball of sunshine.”
With a background as rich as her skill set and a heart for helping others, Kaelynn brings more than just professionalism to real estate—she brings heart. Her journey, rooted in resilience and community values, ensures that each of her clients receives dedicated, personalized service. Ready to make a meaningful impact on Tampa Bay’s real estate market, REALTOR® Kaelynn Shaw is excited to help you embark on your next real estate journey, guiding you seamlessly and successfully every step of the way.
To work with REALTOR® Kaelynn Shaw or to learn more, click here.
Rebuilding After a Flood
Rebuilding After a Flood: Top Construction Loan Options for Homeowners
If your home was damaged by a flood, the process of rebuilding can feel overwhelming. However, several financing options are available to help homeowners recover and restore their properties. Here’s a look at some of the best construction loans and disaster recovery financing options that can ease the burden of home reconstruction:
1. SBA Disaster Loan
The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers low-interest disaster loans to homeowners, renters, and businesses affected by declared disasters. If your home is in a presidentially declared disaster area, you may qualify for this loan to cover the cost of repairs or replacement. Note that SBA loans do not duplicate insurance benefits, so it’s essential to factor that in when applying.
- Eligibility: Homeowners in declared disaster areas.
- How to Apply: Visit DisasterAssistance.gov, call (800) 621-3362, or visit a local disaster recovery center.
2. Construction-to-Permanent Loan
A construction-to-permanent loan offers a seamless solution if you need financing for both the construction and the permanent mortgage of your home. This loan features flexible terms ranging from 15 to 30 years and the option of either a fixed or adjustable interest rate.
- Benefits: During construction, you’ll only pay interest on the funds as they are drawn, reducing the initial financial burden.
- Ideal for: Homeowners rebuilding after a flood who want to combine construction and long-term mortgage financing.
3. Home Equity Loan
If you have accumulated equity in your property, a home equity loan allows you to borrow against the value of your home. This can be particularly useful for immediate funds needed to rebuild or make major repairs after flood damage.
- Key Advantage: Access to lump-sum funding based on your home’s current equity.
4. Increased Cost of Compliance (ICC) Coverage
For homeowners with National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policies, ICC coverage can provide up to $30,000 to help with costs related to floodplain management compliance. This includes raising, relocating, or otherwise modifying your home to meet current flood standards after it has been substantially damaged.
- Coverage Limit: Up to $30,000 for compliance-related rebuilding costs.
- Eligibility: Homes in a Special Flood Hazard Area with substantial damage.
Choosing the Right Loan for Rebuilding After a Flood
Each of these loan options can provide valuable financial support as you rebuild your home. When considering your options, it’s important to assess your financial situation, long-term goals, and the specific needs of your home reconstruction. Consulting with mortgage specialists or financial advisors can help you select the best solution for your unique circumstances.
Rebuilding takes time, but with the right financing in place, you can restore your home and protect your investment for the future.
St. Petersburg Booms: New Stadium, Hot Developments, and Innovation Ahead
Downtown St. Petersburg is poised for significant growth, with real estate investment and development projects moving forward in 2024 and beyond.
The St. Petersburg development plans combine housing, creative workspaces, authentic diversity, and distinct entertainment offerings with multi-modal transportation.
Here are three St. Petersburg developments builders are excited about.
1. Tampa Bay Rays Stadium
The Tampa Bay Rays plan to begin construction on their new downtown St. Pete stadium, tentatively named the Pavilion, in early 2025, with an expected opening in 2028. The $1.3 billion ballpark will be part of the larger $6.5 billion Historic Gas Plant District redevelopment, including 5,400 residential units, 750 hotel rooms, 1.4 million square feet of office and medical space, and 750,000 square feet of retail. The mixed-use project aims to revitalize the area with a blend of residential, commercial, and recreational offerings.
The Pavilion will feature a unique fixed roof and a three-tiered seating design that steps down to create a more approachable street-level presence. The 365-day venue will host community events, concerts, and other activities when not used for baseball. The fan experience will be enhanced by distinct seating neighborhoods, a pedestrian plaza on 2nd Avenue South with food and beverage outlets, and a versatile main entry plaza for pre- and post-game activities.
2. Coquina Key Plaza Redevelopment
St. Pete-based developer Stoneweg is moving forward with its $124 million redevelopment of the former Coquina Key Plaza in South St. Peterburg, aiming to transform the 14.5-acre site at 4350 6th Street South into a thriving mixed-use community. The plan features nine garden-style buildings and surface parking.
The planned retail spaces include a local coffee shop, health clinic, bakery, pizza restaurant, and yoga studio. Stoneweg is still prioritizing the inclusion of a grocer and pharmacy. The construction design and phases are geared toward delivering units more quickly. The first construction phase is expected to begin this year, and completion is projected within 12-15 months.
3. ARK Innovation Center
The Pinellas County Commission recently celebrated the completion of the ARK Innovation Center, a 45,000-square-foot business incubator in St. Petersburg. Operated by the Tampa Bay Innovation Center (TBIC), the facility offers suites, conference rooms, 3D printing labs, and prototyping studios for engineers, data scientists, and entrepreneurs. ARK’s research team occupies over 10,000 square feet, providing a state-of-the-art space designed to support startups and tech companies in Tampa Bay.
In 2024, St. Petersburg ranked No. 1 in Florida for Best Places to Live, Work-Life Balance, Best-Run City, and Park Amenities. With the area poised for growth, now is the perfect time to invest in property and maximize future value.
To discuss other real estate opportunities, CLICK HERE.
AGENT SPOTLIGHT: REALTOR® Jonathon Silva
Born in Dallas, Texas, and raised in Florida since he was 1 year old, Jonathon Silva has called the Tampa Bay area home for the past five years. With roots spanning from Miami to Tampa, Jonathon brings deep local knowledge and a genuine love for his community to his role as a realtor at Tomlin St Cyr Real Estate Services.
Currently a sophomore at the University of South Florida (Go Bulls!), Jonathon is pursuing his studies with the same dedication he brings to real estate. He holds an A.A. degree from Hillsborough Community College, laying a solid foundation for his career. Jonathon’s journey into real estate was inspired by his desire to help others find their ideal home and become part of the vibrant Florida community.
“As a REALTOR®, it’s our job to unite people together under a community as well as provide them with a forever home to create memories,” Jonathon explains. His own experiences moving frequently as a child instilled in him a profound understanding of the importance of finding a permanent place to call home.
Before entering real estate, Jonathon gained invaluable experience as a house cleaner, working under his mother’s guidance. For the past two years, he has helped clients with busy schedules maintain pristine homes, developing a keen eye for presentation and the effort required to keep a residence immaculate. This hands-on experience has translated seamlessly into his real estate career, where he now applies his understanding of home presentation and client communication to assist buyers and sellers.
Jonathon’s interpersonal skills were honed early on through a unique high school venture where he sold empanadas as an alternative to the standard school lunches. Known as “The Empanada Man,” he learned the importance of understanding client needs and providing value—a lesson he carries into his real estate practice. His ability to connect with clients and tailor solutions to their needs has been a cornerstone of his success.
Fluent in Spanish, Jonathon leverages his language skills to serve Tampa’s diverse community effectively. His fluency opens doors to potential clients and ensures that he can meet the needs of a broad demographic in the area. Jonathon understands the importance of matching clients with homes that fit their criteria and budget, ensuring a seamless and satisfying experience.
Outside of work, Jonathon is an active member of the USF Gaming Club and is committed to giving back to his community. He volunteers to feed the homeless in Tampa Heights and advocates for those facing financial difficulties. His compassionate nature extends to his personal life as well, where he enjoys reading, exploring local eateries, and spending time with his one-year-old Angora cat, Maxi, and his supportive mother, Karina, who has been a key motivator in his pursuit of a real estate career.
With a blend of professional expertise, personal experience, and community dedication, Jonathon Silva is not just a REALTOR®—he’s a committed partner in helping you find your perfect home in Tampa Bay.
CLICK HERE to learn more or to work with REALTOR® Jonathon Silva.
The Power of an Independent Insurance Agency: Protecting What Matters Most
In a world filled with uncertainties, having the right insurance coverage is more than just a necessity; it’s a cornerstone of peace of mind. Whether you’re safeguarding your home, car, boat, or even your recreational vehicle, the right insurance policy ensures that you’re prepared for life’s unexpected twists and turns. But with so many options available, how do you choose the best coverage? This is where the power of an independent insurance agency comes into play.
What Makes an Independent Insurance Agency Different?
Unlike a captive agent who works for a single insurance company, an independent insurance agency represents multiple carriers. This means they have the flexibility to shop around on your behalf, comparing policies and prices from various providers to find the best fit for your unique needs.
Imagine you’re looking for auto insurance. A captive agent might offer you only one option, with limited flexibility in coverage and pricing. An independent insurance agency, on the other hand, can present you with several options, helping you find a policy that offers comprehensive protection at a competitive rate. This ability to tailor coverage to your specific circumstances is a significant advantage.
Comprehensive Coverage for All Aspects of Life
An independent insurance agency is your one-stop shop for all your insurance needs. Whether you’re insuring your family car, the boat you take out on weekends, your RV for those cross-country road trips, or even your motorcycle, an independent agent can help you secure the right coverage. But it doesn’t stop there. They also offer umbrella policies, providing an additional layer of protection that goes beyond the limits of your standard insurance.
For instance, if you own a boat, you know the freedom and joy that comes with being on the water. But with that freedom comes risk, and without proper insurance, a single accident could turn into a financial nightmare. An independent insurance agent can guide you through the process of selecting the right boat insurance policy, ensuring you’re covered for everything from accidental damage to liability.
Personalized Service and Expert Advice
One of the most significant benefits of working with an independent insurance agency is the personalized service you’ll receive. These agents aren’t tied to any one insurance company, so their loyalty lies with you, the client. They take the time to understand your needs, evaluate your risks, and recommend policies that provide the best protection.
Additionally, independent agents bring a wealth of industry knowledge and experience to the table. They stay up-to-date on the latest trends and changes in the insurance market, ensuring that the policies they recommend offer the best value and coverage. This expertise is especially valuable when navigating complex coverage options, such as umbrella insurance, which can provide crucial protection in today’s litigious society.
Long-Term Relationships and Trust
Building a relationship with an independent insurance agency means having a trusted advisor by your side for the long haul. As your life evolves—whether you buy a new car, upgrade your RV, or start a new business—your insurance needs will change. An independent agent will be there to reassess your coverage, ensuring that you’re always adequately protected.
Moreover, independent agents are deeply rooted in their communities. They understand the local market and the unique risks you face. This local expertise allows them to offer advice and coverage options that are tailored to your specific location and circumstances.
Conclusion: Why Choose an Independent Insurance Agency?
In the end, the power of an independent insurance agency lies in its ability to offer choice, personalized service, and expert advice. Whether you need coverage for your auto, boat, RV, motorcycle, or an umbrella policy to protect your assets, an independent agent can help you navigate the complexities of insurance with confidence. By choosing an independent insurance agency, you’re not just buying a policy; you’re gaining a partner who is dedicated to protecting what matters most to you.
Agent Spotlight: REALTOR® Daniel Louis
REALTOR® Daniel Louis is deeply rooted in the Tampa community. Born and raised in Tampa, he was part of the first wave of babies born at the then-new St Joseph’s Women’s Hospital. This deep connection to the community has given him an expert inside look at Tampa’s most desirable locations.
“I have watched Tampa evolve and grow over the years, which has given me an intimate knowledge of some of Tampa’s most desirable locations,” Daniel said. “I use that expertise to help you find the perfect home or a buyer for your home or property,”
With over 30 years in Tampa, Daniel has lived in various vibrant neighborhoods, including the South Tampa Westshore area, Davis Islands, and his current home in Seminole Heights. His educational journey began at Berkeley Preparatory School and H.B. Plant High School. Daniel then attended Hillsborough Community College, Manatee College, and Santa Fe College, focusing on Religious Anthropology and Jazz Improv. His pursuit of knowledge continued at Erwin Technical College, where he attended nursing school.
Daniel’s professional background is diverse, showcasing a strong commitment to helping others. His early career in the health industry saw him working in geriatric Alzheimer’s facilities during his nursing school clinical rotations, as well as in vitamin and supplement stores. In 2015, he transitioned to a career in personal training, a passion he continues to this day. From 2019 to 2021, Daniel also made his mark in the medical cannabis industry as an operations manager and training facilitator for new employees. This diverse background equips him with a unique set of skills and perspectives in the real estate industry.
Driven by a deep-seated desire to make a positive impact, Daniel has found his true calling in residential real estate. His passion for helping people and improving their lives is the driving force behind his work. He firmly believes that a person’s living environment plays a pivotal role in their life, and he is dedicated to helping individuals and families find their ideal place.
His compassionate nature and outgoing personality are evident in his approach to real estate. “What I love about real estate is the interpersonal connections we make in the process, helping people find their dream home and start the next great chapter of their lives,” Daniel said. This genuine passion for his work ensures that every client feels understood and valued.
Daniel’s experience as a personal trainer has honed his ability to connect with clients and understand their unique needs. “Working as a personal trainer for so many years, I have learned that connecting with someone is the best way to help them achieve their goals. In just the same way that I can come to understand someone to help them achieve their physical goals, I can understand and help them find exactly what they are looking for in a home.”
Active in the community, Daniel is a proud member of the Human Rights Campaign and the founder of the Manchester United Supporters of Tampa, an internationally recognized organization supporting Manchester United fans in the Southeast. In his free time, Daniel enjoys running, working out, watching football (soccer), playing board games with friends, and competitive miniature painting, where he earned 2nd place at CMON Expo 2020.
Daniel and his partner of over 10 years, Clair, share a home with their three indoor cats and one outdoor cat. Clair is a talented painter and entertainer in Tampa, whom Daniel describes as “the light of my life and pushes me to be better every day.” His parents are both retired and live in Michigan now. When his parents still lived in Tampa, his mother managed the famous linen shop, Villa Rosa. His father worked as a neurosurgeon and was, for a time, the president of the Hillsborough County Medical Association and an alternate Florida delegate to the American Medical Association. Daniel is the youngest of three, with his eldest sister working as the Global Head of Entertainment for Meta, and his middle brother is a gastroenterologist living in Virginia.
Daniel combines his extensive local knowledge, diverse professional background, and genuine passion for helping others to provide exceptional service in the Tampa real estate market. Click here to work with REALTOR® Daniel Louis.
Agent Spotlight: REALTOR® Leah Williams
REALTOR® Leah Williams is ready to turn your property dreams into reality! With a wealth of dynamic experience, a passion for helping others, and a dedication to excellence, Leah is your go-to resource for all your real estate needs in the Tampa Bay area.
Leah’s journey to becoming a real estate powerhouse is marked by academic excellence and professional achievement. Armed with both master’s and bachelor’s degrees from Southeastern University, Leah consistently distinguished herself, earning a coveted spot on the Dean’s List every semester. Her academic prowess laid the foundation for a successful career, initially leading her to excel as a corporate paralegal for five years. It was during this time that Leah honed her negotiation and communication skills and her attention to detail—skills that seamlessly translate to the world of real estate.
Driven by her innate desire to assist others, Leah transitioned into real estate, where her passion for helping people truly shines. She possesses an uncanny ability to connect with clients, understand their needs, and guide them through every step of the real estate journey. Leah’s mantra is simple yet powerful: “I am confident that I can help you realize your real estate aspirations.” With her unique blend of ambition, adaptability, diligence, and exuberance, Leah is committed to delivering unparalleled service and achieving exceptional results for her clients.
Leah’s approach is grounded in her comprehensive knowledge of the market and her unwavering dedication to client satisfaction. Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, Leah leverages her legal background and finely-honed skills to ensure smooth and hassle-free transactions. She says, “I will utilize my knowledge and experience to advise you on the most successful purchasing or selling tactics and find you the best price.” With Leah by your side, you can trust that your real estate goals are in expert hands.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Leah is deeply involved in her community and finds fulfillment in giving back. In her downtime, you can find the Chicago native hitting the gym, indulging in a good book, cherishing moments with loved ones, or gliding gracefully on roller skates.
One of Leah’s favorite quotes about real estate and entrepreneurship is, “Selling is not a pushy, winner-takes-all, macho act. It is an empathy-led, process-driven, and knowledge-intensive discipline. Because, in the end, people buy from people.” –Subroto Bagchi, Co-founder of Mindtree.
For a seamless, stress-free real estate experience in Tampa Bay, look no further than REALTOR® Leah Williams. Contact her today and let her passion, expertise, and dedication guide you home.
Agent Spotlight: REALTOR® Monika Liller
REALTOR® Monika Liller brings a rich cultural background and diverse professional experience to the dynamic world of real estate. Born and raised in Warsaw, Poland, Monika’s formative years were shaped by the city’s vibrant streets and serene landscapes. Attracted by the promise of opportunity, she embarked on a new chapter in Tampa Bay, drawing strength from her Polish heritage and embracing the challenges of a new culture.
With a Bachelor of Science in Pre-Law from Liberty University and ongoing pursuit of a Juris Master’s degree, Monika’s passion for justice and ethics fuels her commitment to positively impacting society. Her professional journey spans various sectors, from directing a children’s museum to navigating intellectual property law in Washington, D.C. With experience as a commercial real estate paralegal, Monika bridges the gap between legal complexities and business realities, ensuring seamless transactions for her clients.
Driven to make a meaningful impact and thrive in a dynamic industry, Monika finds fulfillment in the multifaceted real estate profession. Described as energetic, helpful, and approachable, she approaches each client interaction with enthusiasm and dedication, making their real estate journey a seamless and rewarding experience.
Monika’s comprehensive skill set, honed through diverse experiences, equips her to foster engaging environments, navigate complex legal processes, and provide personalized solutions for her clients. With a proven track record of success across industries and a relentless pursuit of excellence, Monika is committed to helping clients achieve their real estate goals and making the buying or selling process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Active engagement in legal and real estate communities through memberships in NALA-The Paralegal Association and Greater Tampa Realtors keeps Monika at the forefront of industry trends, enhancing her ability to serve clients effectively.
Residing in Tampa for the past three years, Monika embraces the city’s vibrant culture and beautiful surroundings. She finds joy in civic engagement and the creative process of baking, which has earned her recognition in the culinary world. Alongside her beloved husband, David, and three dogs, Monika cherishes the simple moments of life and remains dedicated to making a positive impact in her community and beyond.
To work with REALTOR® Monika Liller or to learn more, click here.
Agent Spotlight: REALTOR® Sophia Love
REALTOR® Sophia Love is more than just a real estate agent; she’s a born-and-bred Tampa native with a passion for her city and a knack for connecting with people from all walks of life. Born and raised in the heart of Tampa, Sophia attended Alonso High School and later pursued her education at St. Petersburg College.
With several years of experience in hospitality and retail, Sophia brings a wealth of customer service skills to her role at Tomlin St Cyr Real Estate Services. Her previous positions have honed her ability to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds, understand their unique needs and preferences, and find creative ways to meet them.
“I chose to go into real estate because I felt it would be the perfect fit for me,” Sophia explains. “I love collaborating with people as well as always having something new and exciting to do. Having lived in Tampa my whole life, I’ve seen the rapid growth of the city and noticed what a great opportunity it would be for me.”
Described as positive, relaxed, and eager to learn, Sophia’s value proposition lies in her sociability and capacity to adapt. She approaches each client interaction with enthusiasm, striving to make the buying or selling process as seamless and enjoyable as possible.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Sophia leads an active lifestyle. She enjoys working out, playing tennis, and spending quality time with her friends and her beloved chihuahua, Celine. Sophia’s passion for tennis is evident as she eagerly seeks to improve her skills on the court.
As a real estate agent, Sophia embodies the spirit of Tampa Bay – vibrant, dynamic, and always ready to embrace new opportunities. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor, Sophia’s genuine enthusiasm and commitment to excellence make her the ideal partner for all your real estate needs in the Tampa Bay area.
Click here to work with REALTOR® Sophia Love or to learn more.
