Dana Hancock PARTNER
Christina Tatum and Maria Coutu,
Atlantic Coast
Title and Escrow

Spring Fling Event
RISING STAR
Jose Feliciano


































Christina Tatum and Maria Coutu,
Atlantic Coast
Title and Escrow
Spring Fling Event
RISING STAR
Jose Feliciano
This section has been created to give you easier access when searching for a trusted real estate affiliate. Take a minute to familiarize yourself with the businesses sponsoring your magazine. These local businesses are proud to partner with you and make this magazine possible. Please support these businesses and thank them for supporting the REALTOR® community!
HANDYMAN SERVICES
Fix-it Flamingo (904) 474-1768 fixitflamingo.com
HOME BUILDER
Century Communities (904) 618-3220 centurycommunities.com
HOME BUYER
Mac Home Development Inc (904) 887-4015 machomedevelopment.com
HOME IMPROVEMENT
Design Works (941) 355-2703 hskindustries.com
HOME WARRANTY
Fidelity National Home Warranty
Trish Spivey (904) 716-0819 homewarranty.com
First American Home Warranty
Sierrah Stolte (904) 718-3685 firstamrealestate.com
INSPECTIONS
LunsPro Inspections (904) 249-6523 LunsProFlorida.com
River City Home Inspections (904) 654-4732 rivercityhomeinspect.com
INSURANCE
Kilpatrick Agency Inc: Goosehead Insurance (904) 420-7711 goosehead.com/agents/ carol-kilpatrick/
MEDIA PRODUCTIONS
Sta Rep Media
Khai Tran (904) 761-5848 starepmedia.com
MORTGAGE / LENDER
Atlantic Trust Mortgage (904) 338-9356 AtlanticTrustMortgage.com
First Coast Mortgage (703) 627-1775 FirstCoastMortgageFunding.com
Future Home Loans (904) 887-7926 future.loans
Movement Mortgage (404) 751-8463 tylertatum.com
Regions Bank - MacDonald Mortgage Team
Ian MacDonald (904) 998-4961 regions.com/mlo/ianmacdonald
OUTDOOR LIGHTING
JoyLights (904) 474-1768 WeBringTheJoy.com
PEST CONTROL SERVICES
Kingfish Pest Control (904) 595-5300 KingfishPest.com
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Collage Day School (904) 900-1439 CollageDaySchool.org
REAL ESTATE MEDIA
Real Home Image
Michael Rowlette (904) 930-3756 realhomeimage.com
REAL ESTATE PHOTOGRAPHY
The Real Estateographers (904) 770-5262 therealestateographers.com
RENOVATIONS
Renovation Sells (904) 655-2411 renovationsells.com/jax
ROOFING & EXTERIORS
Mighty Dog RoofingJacksonville FLA (904) 867-7859 mightydogroofing.com
SPORTS TEAMS Jacksonville Jaguars (904) 633-3348 Jaguars.com
TITLE COMPANY
Atlantic Coast Title & Escrow (904) 853-5591 atlanticcoasttitleandescrow.com
Cherry Tile LLC
Angelique “Chrissy” Kirsch (904) 300-3414 cherrytitle.us
Landmark Title (904) 367-2525
LandmarkTitle.com
Milestone Title Services (904) 716-7285
milestonetitlesvcs.com
Omega National Title Agency, LLC (904) 456-0858
Omeganationaltitle.com
Summit Title of North Florida
JC Palacios (904) 800-3704
Woods, Weidenmiller, Michetti & Rudnick, LLP
Josh Rudnick (239) 325-4070
WEALTH MANAGEMENT
Whitacre Wealth Management (410) 961-6548
WhitacreWealth Management.com
BY KRISTIN LUNSFORD
To say I wasn’t an animal person would be an understatement. Truthfully, I was terrified of anything with fur, four legs, and a bark. Growing up, my “pets” were low-key: fish, a hamster or two, and one guinea pig. My only real encounters with dogs? Being chased by them on my bike ride to Lakeside Elementary in Orange Park. To me, dogs were loud, unpredictable, and definitely not to be trusted.
That fear followed me well into adulthood. Visiting someone’s home and spotting a dog instantly triggered quiet panic. While trying to act chill on the outside, my inner voice was screaming, “Danger!” I’d calculate how to casually keep a couch or coffee table between me and the canine “threat.”
Then I met Brian. He didn’t mention his dog at first, which worked in his favor. Eventually, I met Winnie and much to my surprise, she didn’t terrify me. She was calm, sweet, and actually kind of adorable. My friends laughed, “You must really like this guy if you like his dog, too!”
Over time, Winnie helped change my heart. When our kids came along and developed their own love for animals, I tried hard to stay brave during every dog encounter on neighborhood walks. (And yes, I still crossed the street sometimes. Baby steps.)
Years later, when the kids started asking for a puppy, shockingly, I was the one lobbying for it. I even helped our daughter create a PowerPoint to convince Brian. I had officially crossed over to Team Puppy.
Now, as a dog owner, I can say with full confidence: dogs are way more than pets. They’re little life coaches in fur coats.
Here’s what mine have taught me:
• Loyalty – Whether you’ve been gone five hours or five minutes, your return is cause for celebration.
• Forgiveness – Skip a walk? Forget a treat? They’re over it in seconds.
• Determination – Lose a toy under the couch? They’ll problem-solve like it’s a moon landing.
• Presence – Dogs don’t overthink. They just are. Fully, completely, and joyfully present.
• Unconditional Love – No judgment. No expectations. Just tail wags and pure affection.
Imagine if we humans were more like that—loyal, quick to forgive, and determined when it matters. Honestly, I think the world would be a little kinder.
“There is only one title company I can count on to do it right, every single time. My clients rave about Maria’s carte blanche level of service and availability. In addition, to know I can trust she will get the job done and I don’t have to think twice about it, is critical. Exceptional customer service is everything and thanks to her, we have become a well-oiled machine. She listens, pays fierce attention to detail, and keeps the clients and me informed of each step. Atlantic Coast Title & Escrow is the greatest asset to my business and I am so thankful to them for all they have done to help me succeed.”
— Julia S. Fattahi, Engel & Völkers
Maria Coutu and Christina Tatum are redefining the title and escrow experience in Jacksonville with Atlantic Coast Title and Escrow, a boutique firm that places efficiency, transparency, and client service at the forefront of every transaction.
They started their company out of a desire to fill a significant gap in the market, seeing an opportunity to build a company that prioritized relationships and exceptional service over volume. Their approach is simple: the success of their clients drives their own success. By ensuring that every transaction is seamless and stressfree, Maria and Christina help real estate agents and lenders build their businesses with confidence.
“Working with Atlantic Coast Title and Escrow and Christina Tatum, has truly elevated my customers’ and my experience in every real estate closing. Christina’s meticulous attention to detail, communication, and proactive approach is truly a seamless experience. Atlantic Coast Title and Escrow, with their unwavering commitment to excellence, makes each transaction I do stress-free. I appreciate how Christina handles every detail with precision and care, ensuring that all aspects of the closing process are smooth and efficient. Her genuine dedication and communication have earned my customers’ complete trust.” — Holiday Hamil, Keller Williams
Unlike the traditional title company model, Maria and Christina personally handle each file from start to finish. Their direct involvement ensures a smooth, efficient closing process for real estate agents, buyers, sellers, and lenders alike.
“Our clients—buyers, sellers, and real estate agents—have direct access to our personal cell numbers which is unheard of. We’re very client-focused, which makes for an extremely efficient and smooth closing,” says Christina.
Their hands-on approach eliminates unnecessary delays and ensures that every detail is meticulously managed. Both Maria and Christina are licensed attorneys who handle every step of the process, providing a level of expertise and dedication that sets them apart from other firms. In an industry where it’s typically challenging to get a hold of an attorney at title companies, Maria and Christina offer direct contact and a familiar face from the very beginning to the end of each transaction.
A strong commitment to customer service means keeping transactions costeffective, communicating proactively, and remaining flexible to accommodate clients’ needs. Atlantic Coast Title and Escrow prides itself on transparency— you won’t find any hidden fees or confusing processes here. They also leverage the latest technology, offering remote signings and digital solutions that make closings more convenient than ever.
While the company operates with a tight-knit team of five, its impact on the industry is significant. As a fully female-owned and operated firm, Maria and Christina have built a workplace culture rooted in collaboration, hard work, and trust. This strong internal foundation translates to the way they do business—clients and agents alike feel the difference when working with Atlantic Coast Title and Escrow.
Looking ahead, Maria and Christina are focused on growth, but not at the expense of the personalized service
that has defined their success. They take great pride in being an extension of the agents they work with, helping them provide the best possible service to their clients.
“It’s nice to button up these transactions for the agents we work with and make the last part easy,” says Maria.
“We work hard to ensure that buyers and sellers have an extremely
positive experience because if they have a great experience with us, it reflects positively on the real estate agent as well,” Christina explains.
Referrals are the lifeblood of Atlantic Coast Title and Escrow. Instead of focusing on aggressive marketing, Maria and Christina rely on the strength of their reputation. The agents and lenders who work with them quickly recognize the value they bring and refer new
clients in return. It’s a quality-overquantity approach that has fueled their steady, organic growth.
“We’re fully aware we wouldn’t have a business without our referral partners. For us, we always take time to tell our referral agents that we’re thankful, do things for them, and let them know that we’re here to strengthen their business and be on their team,” says Maria.
At the heart of their passion for real estate is the satisfaction of guiding clients through one of the most important transactions of their lives. Closing on a home represents the final step in a journey that agents and buyers have worked tirelessly to complete. Maria and Christina ensure that this last step is not just a formality, but a seamless and positive experience that reflects well on everyone involved.
Looking into the future, they remain dedicated to providing unparalleled service, fostering relationships, and being true partners in the success of their clients. For those in the real estate industry looking for a title company that can fuel their business growth, Atlantic Coast Title and Escrow offer a trusted partnership—one where expertise, integrity, and personalized service come standard.
“The 904 Home Guide Team can’t say enough about the outstanding service provided by Atlantic Coast Title & Escrow. Maria, Christina, and the entire team consistently go above and beyond to ensure a smooth and efficient process. They truly stand out in their field by always keeping us informed and eliminating the constant need for follow-ups, which has been a common struggle with other title companies. Their attention to detail, proactive communication, and commitment to excellence make them a trusted partner. I highly recommend Atlantic Coast Title & Escrow to anyone looking for a reliable and professional title company!” — Mike Rolewicz, Real Estate Broker
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In 1999, with a three-year-old and a three-month-old at home, Dana Hancock decided to embark on a career in real estate. For Dana, this turned out to be the perfect choice. After trying her hand at several other businesses, real estate has been the ideal fit.
“I’d always had an interest in real estate,” Dana recalls. “My mom started selling homes when I was ten, and eventually moved into managing mortgage branches. Her work ethic and passion stuck with me.”
Dana’s journey into real estate wasn’t a direct path. Before settling into her long-standing career in Jacksonville, Dana ran her family’s water park business on the beaches of Alabama, launched an iced tea distributorship, and owned a first aid and safety company.
“I even tried to be a stay-at-home mom for a bit, but I wasn’t great at that,” Dana says with a laugh. “I’m someone who needs to be busy and making an impact.”
Dana has now spent nearly three decades making an impact in Jacksonville’s real estate market.
A Career Rooted in Service
For Dana, real estate is about more than transactions.
“I’m passionate about protecting people and doing things the right way,” she explains. “When I see things done wrong in this industry, it only motivates me to do better for as many clients as I can.”
Dana’s philosophy is deeply rooted in her high-touch approach—being involved in every step of the process. “It takes way more hard work than people expect,” Dana says. “You need to be there for your clients from start to finish.”
This dedication has fueled the success of The Dana Hancock Team, which she founded in 2002—long before teams became the norm in real estate.
“We were one of the first real estate teams in Jacksonville,” Dana says. “Now, I lead a group of five agents who share my values. In 2024, we closed $47 million across 78 transactions.”
Dana’s vision for the team’s future remains focused on thoughtful growth. “I’m not looking to hire just anyone. It’s important to me that my agents put customers before commissions and believe in doing what’s right. I don’t believe in part-time real estate— it’s a full-time commitment.”
“You need to be there for your clients from start to finish.”
“Now, I lead a group of five agents who share my values. In 2024, we closed $47 million across 78 transactions.”
Building a Legacy Dana’s career is defined not just by her numbers, but by the relationships she’s built along the way. Her high-touch approach has created a loyal client base that returns to her again and again.
“It’s all about doing right by people,” Dana says. “That’s what brings them back and earns referrals.”
For Dana, this commitment to excellence is also a personal legacy. “I want to be remembered as someone who worked hard, did the right thing, and treated people well,” she reflects.
Dana’s commitment to relationships extends beyond her professional life. Married to Rick for 31 years, the couple raised their two sons, Chase and Clay, in St. Johns County’s public school system. Chase is now 30, living in St. Johns with his wife and three children. Clay, who’s 27, lives nearby in St. Augustine.
When not working or spending time with family, Dana and Rick embrace their love for travel. They enjoy visiting friends around the country, relaxing at their mountain house in North Carolina and their beach home in St. Augustine, and, this fall, they’re looking forward to a Mediterranean cruise.
After nearly three decades in the business, Dana remains energized by the ever-changing world of real estate.
“Every day is different, and that’s exciting,” she says. “I still love helping people and guiding them through one of the biggest decisions of their lives.”
Her advice for anyone considering a career in real estate is simple: “Be prepared to work hard. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it. And always focus on doing the right thing—it will take you far.”
LOSING A JOB IS NEVER EASY, BUT FOR JOSE FELICIANO IT WAS A DEFINING MOMENT.
BY JESS WELLAR
“Although I had always been financially responsible, the uncertainty of not having a job for the first time shook me,” Jose admits.
“But instead of dwelling on it, I looked in the mirror and told myself, ‘Do better, Jose.’ From that moment on, I made a commitment to take control of my future. I embraced entrepreneurship, pushed myself harder than ever, and haven’t looked back since.”
This proactive mindset has served Jose well. In less than two years, he’s made a name for himself in Duval County, bringing the same hustle and drive that shaped his past careers in law enforcement, property management, and sales. Now, as a rising agent with Keller Williams Atlantic Partners, he’s crafting success on his own terms while already helping others do the same.
Jose’s professional background is diverse and impressive. He proudly served four years in the Army, followed by six and a half years in law enforcement. From there, he spent 23 years in the automotive retail industry before transitioning into property management for 14 more years.
But after losing his property management position, Jose realized that he was ready to step away from the corporate
world entirely and carve his own path.
“I wanted the freedom to grow on my own terms and build something truly meaningful. Venturing into entrepreneurship wasn’t just a choice — it was a calling to create, innovate, and take control of my future,” he explains. “The corporate world didn’t offer the financial freedom or growth I was looking for, so I decided to venture out on my own.”
Jose had spent years assisting companies with due diligence and property sales without truly benefiting from those deals himself. That’s when he made the bold decision to go into real estate — all in at once, full-time.
With years of experience managing properties and overseeing operations, Jose found the transition to real estate fairly smooth. “It’s all about connecting with people,” he affirms.
Jose wasted no time jumping in headfirst. From the moment he got licensed in the summer of 2023, he committed to doing whatever it took to grow his business — holding open houses every weekend, networking wherever possible, and leveraging every connection he had. He also credits the early guidance of his colleague, Patrick Dorrian,
for helping him quickly learn the industry ropes.
His first year in the business was a success, earning him a Jacksonville Business Journal award. In 2024, his hard work was further recognized with the Keller Williams Cultural Award, an honor that highlighted his willingness to train and mentor new agents while simultaneously closing 19 transactions for $4.5 million in sales volume.
“That Cultural Award meant a lot to me because I love helping others,” Jose smiles. “I’ve been in this business for less than two years, and I already find so much value in training new agents and sharing what I’ve learned.”
Hustle, Hustle, Hustle Jose doesn’t just work hard — he works smart. “What sets my business apart is my relentless drive and proactive approach. I don’t wait for business to come to me — I go out and create opportunities,” Jose points out.
He’s quickly built up his sphere through consistency and creative lead generation strategies.
“I still host open houses every weekend, network while Ubering, visit coffee shops to connect with people, and collaborate with a strong network of REALTORS® to exchange referrals,” he elaborates. “I
also help clients find rentals, list their properties, and consistently follow up to ensure every lead turns into a lasting relationship.”
Jose’s approach is simple: be everywhere and provide value. He adamantly refuses to let market conditions dictate his success either.
“What keeps me motivated is the mindset that success is always in my hands. I don’t accept the excuse that the market is slow — because even if it is, the real question is, what am I doing to push my business forward? If
“IT’S ALL ABOUT CONNECTING WITH PEOPLE.”
Busy Building A Legacy
When Jose isn’t hustling in the real estate world, his biggest priority is his loved ones. “I’m blessed to have my beautiful wife, Melissa, and two wonderful daughters — Desirae, who’s 30, and Isabel, who’s 5. I could not do this job without
the support of my wife. We have been together for 11 years, and she is the reason I can do what I do while she holds down the fort,” he acknowledges gratefully.
Family time is everything to Jose, whether it’s spending the day at the beach, hosting friends for a laid-back gathering, or simply enjoying a quiet night at home. Their household is rarely quiet though, thanks to their playful pets — a crew of three Bernedoodles: Tito, Terisita, and Tully Bear, and their “studly” cat, Lou Lou, who prowls the house like he owns it.
While work and family keep him busy, Jose still makes time to discover new passions. “I’ve recently started exploring real estate photography as a way to expand my real estate business. It’s been a great way to combine creativity with my passion for the industry,” he smiles.
Looking to his future, Jose doesn’t just want success for himself — he wants to help others rise along with him. He has already started taking steps toward leadership, mentoring new agents and sharing his knowledge while steadily building his real estate photography business.
“I also plan to pursue my broker associate certification and eventually build my own team and my own brokerage,” Jose concludes. “I have always loved seeing people excel along with me. It’s been that way all my life, ever since I was in the military, I have pushed others to succeed as well.”
BY TIM WEISHEYER, 2025 PRESIDENT OF FLORIDA REALTORS®
Success in real estate doesn’t happen by chance. It’s the result of tireless dedication, exceptional service, and an unwavering commitment to our customers, clients and community.
As the voice for real estate, Florida REALTORS® has created an exclusive opportunity to recognize and celebrate the outstanding achievements of our top producing real estate agents — professionals who consistently raise the bar and set the standard for achievement in our industry.
Your results speak volumes. You’ve not only navigated a competitive market but have also earned the trust of countless buyers and sellers who count on your expertise. Your performance over the past year exemplifies what we stand for as Champions for the American Dream — champions for our real estate entrepreneurs and your continued business success.
Like you, we know staying at the top requires more than past success — it demands continual growth, adaptability, and a passion for learning. In a fastchanging industry, the most successful REALTORS® are those who keep evolving, refining their strategies, and embracing new ideas.
That’s why we’re thrilled to invite you to the Florida REALTORS® Convention & Trade Expo, where opportunity meets inspiration. In addition to being the largest real estate conference and expo in Florida, this year’s event features an exciting keynote address by none other than Marcus Lemonis — entrepreneur, investor and star of The Profit. Known for his sharp business insights and people-first approach, Marcus will
share powerful lessons on leadership, resilience, and growing your brand in an ever-changing world.
Watching Marcus Lemonis on television is insightful but hearing him live is an entirely different experience. Feel the energy, absorb the practical wisdom tailored for professionals like you, and gain actionable strategies you can implement immediately. Seeing Lemonis live is more than just hearing a speech; it is an investment in a new perspective on how to grow and scale your real estate business.
Exclusive, private reception for Real Producers only!
Additionally, you are personally invited to join me and the Florida REALTORS® Leadership Team for a private reception exclusively for Real Producers. The reception will bring together the best of the best from around the state of Florida and provide incredible networking opportunities to grow your reach, expand your business and collaborate with some of the most innovative minds in real estate. Just use the QR code below to register.
A tribute to all our furry little companions, who make each of our days a little bit brighter!
“Hulk” — Rene Zook, Keller Williams Atlantic Partners Southside
“Furbio” — Haley Sherman, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty
“Oliver, Cooper & Smokey”
— Delaney Henderson, Momentum Realty
“Chance” — Amber Taylor, Herron Real Estate
“Chubs” — Scott Allen, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
“Riley” — Meshell Perry, Dogwood Realty
Twin puppies, “Max and Jax”
— Andrea Richardson and Casey Robison, ONE Sotheby’s International Realty
“Lucy and Cash” — Shelby Hodges, Keller Williams Realty Atlantic Partners St. Augustine
“Cash” - Dunia Taylor,
“Piper (Goldendoodle) and Sullivan (Schnoodle)” — Kelli and Doug Allen, ERA Fernandina Beach Realty
“Beans” — Matt Roberts, Someday Homes Realty
“Cash” — Cici Anderson, Marsh Landing Realty
“Otis-Jamal Pug” — Elaine Morgin, Coldwell Banker Vanguard Realty
“Josie” — Jordan Feria-May, Keller Williams St. Johns
“Nova” (Samoyed) — Brooke Hewitt, Momentum Realty
“Charlotte” — Cici Anderson, Marsh Landing Realty
“Penelope Jane Chance” — Allison Chance, Anchored Real Estate Group
“Cooper” — Jen Zeiller, RE/ MAX Unlimited