Sometimes, you have to create your own opportunities—and through hard work and sheer will, find the best way forward. That determination and drive defined my career and how I serve others.
It was 2007, and everything in my life was changing—fast. I had just gotten married, we’d welcomed our first child, and I made the bold decision to quit my job and go into real estate full-time. My business had been growing steadily on the side, and corporate America had shown me one layoff too many. Still, the timing? Let’s just say it was less than perfect.
My background working in the mortgage industry in the post-closing department was a huge asset. It wasn’t client-facing, but it gave me a real look at how deals came together—how homes were financed, what buyers and sellers paid, and how much of a role the agent played in shaping the outcome. That’s what initially inspired me to earn my license in 2000. As my experience grew, so did my belief that this was the right fit. Real estate offered the freedom to build on my own terms—and every transaction felt like a chance to help someone make a major life move.
Not long after I took that leap, the housing market collapsed. The economy shifted beneath my feet, and I found myself fully invested in an industry that was suddenly in free fall. I had no fallback plan. But I had a new family depending on me, and quitting wasn’t an option. So I adjusted. I pivoted to short sales, learned quickly, and started a property management company to help stabilize our income. There were so many challenges to navigate, but it only made me better at my job and prepared me to handle just about anything.
One of the most meaningful aspects of my work has been serving the Haitian community here in the DMV area. My parents immigrated from Haiti, and I saw their work ethic and determination to build a life here. My grandmother sold homemade baked goods in Brooklyn to support her family, and my mother now runs a catering business that we built together. I’ve seen firsthand what sacrifice, resilience, and ambition look like. That mindset shaped me, and it’s the same spirit I see in so many of the Haitian families I work with—people striving for stability, opportunity, and something lasting to pass on.
That’s why serving this community is more than just a professional focus; it’s a personal mission. I’m deeply involved outside the business as a member of the Association of Haitian Professionals and as a published author focused on Haitian history—especially the revolution that led to Haiti’s independence. Sharing our history and giving back to the community has become one of my greatest passions. That commitment shows up in my work, as well. In real estate, I make sure my clients are educated, empowered, and positioned to build long-term and generational wealth through homeownership. I want my clients to realize the American dream they worked so hard for.
Most of my business today comes from referrals and repeat clients I helped buy their first home, who now trust me with their second, third, or even investment properties. The past two years have been my best years yet, earning the Silver Award from the Prince George’s County Association of REALTORS® for over $7.5 million in volume in 2024, and on track to earn the Gold award for over $8 million in 2025.
I’ve learned that circumstances don’t decide the outcome—you do. Challenges come and go, but staying focused, doing the work, and leading with purpose is what drives results. Everything I have is not the result of waiting for conditions to be perfect, but by showing up consistently, doing the work, and focusing on the people I serve.
I have two kids, Chase and Maven. When I get the chance, I enjoy playing tennis and spending time writing through my independent publishing work. I’m grateful to have shaped my life around the things I’m passionate about.
Real estate is about more than helping someone buy or sell a home—it’s about making sure they feel informed, protected, and confident at every step. I guide my clients through the entire process with clear communication, honest advice, and strategic planning. From the first conversation to the final signature, I make sure nothing is rushed or overlooked. I walk clients through contracts line by line, break down market data so they can make informed decisions, and handle negotiations with experience and precision.
Whether someone is buying their first home, upgrading, downsizing, or investing, I tailor the process to fit their goals and timeline. I connect them with trusted lenders, inspectors, and vendors. I stay responsive, even after closing, and I check in long after the deal is done. Most of my clients come from referrals—and many have trusted me through multiple transactions over the years.
Real estate is personal, and I take that seriously. I serve with intention, advocate with integrity, and always aim to deliver results that create long-term value—not just for today, but for years down the line.
Sincerely,
Frantz Derenoncourt, Jr
