My Story
In moments of uncertainty, true strength and purpose can emerge. Embracing the challenges that came my way, I have learned to see the blessings in everything, foster a supportive community around me and embrace the love I am surrounded with.
Looking back, I realize I had no idea what I was getting myself into. The decision to become a parent came unexpectedly when I was still so young. I didn't have children, and my husband and I were together for four years but not yet married. My sister faced difficult circumstances and needed someone to step in and care for her infant, who had been diagnosed with Down Syndrome. And so, without hesitation, I did.
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At 20 years old, I took on a infant with special needs, Jordan. Truthfully, I didn’t know what I was doing. I trusted that my commitment to this child would be enough to get me through and help me navigate the unknown. I was prepared to make sacrifices for the betterment of his life.
It was a journey of ups and downs, filled with moments where I questioned if I was capable of handling all of this. But deep down, I knew I had to keep going. I had to be strong for my son. In my role as his advocate, I found true purpose in life, ensuring that he was only receiving the best.
Though we weren’t married then, I am grateful my husband stood by my side, and I know I couldn’t have done this without him. He has been my rock as we face each day, leaning on each other and our tight-knit family. The love we have for Jordan encouraged us to continue growing our family. We have two more boys, David (18) and Alex (11). Our children are a constant reminder of the many blessings we have in this wonderful life.
For years, we had to help bring Jordan the same opportunities other children had. Having the right accommodations can be a challenge, but it is incredibly important that Jordan receives the same experiences in life. Jordan began participating in the Special Olympics, and through this, we found a community of parents with special needs children. Having a support system has been crucial to our success. It's a world that only we understand, where we can be vulnerable and seek understanding without judgment.
My career in real estate has enabled me to be involved in my kids’ lives while still having a career I am very proud of. Before this, I worked at my father’s restaurant, Two Guys from Italy, learning how to run a business and be a respected part of the community. When the restaurant closed in the difficult market of 2011, I pivoted to working with my mother in real estate. It was the perfect way to fulfill my calling to help and serve others while also having the flexibility to be there for my family.
Today, Jordan lives in the home right next to ours. We feel blessed for our family and for the circumstances that allowed this to happen. It is the perfect way for us to be there for him while giving him some independence.
My family, friends, and community have all played a vital role in my journey. We built our lives around caring for Jordan, and our loved ones rallied behind us. My husband and I have been together for nearly 30 years, weathering storms and celebrating triumphs together. In our free time, we enjoy watching Alex play baseball and Jordan compete in the Special Olympics for basketball, bocce ball, swimming and bowling. David has decided to join his grandmother and I in real estate, which has been very exciting as we teach him the ropes!
Many have heard our story and are inspired to share their own. It is my goal to continue growing a community where we share our journeys, uplift one another and find strength in vulnerability.
As a second-generation real estate agent, I began my career in the industry with the guidance of my mother, who has 40+ years of experience to guide me. I entered the industry when short sales and foreclosures were the norm. The transactions were incredibly complex, and the circumstances were often highly emotional. This taught me to approach my job with compassion and exceptional attention to detail; someone's future is on the line, and it is my responsibility to facilitate a smooth process.
Having worked in different markets, I know how to be flexible and adapt, applying a strategic approach to each transaction in order to get my clients the best deal possible. Each client and transaction is unique; I take the time to learn your story, identify your needs and establish a clear plan of action to make your dreams a reality. With 11+ years of experience, I am confident I can help you achieve your goals while creating a fun and exciting process! Even after the transaction is over, I am committed to serving as your REALTOR® and friend for life, offering my unwavering support and guidance.
Sincerely,
Tomi Hochgurtel
REALTOR® | Lic# S.173162
Mobile (775) 450-1238
tomi.hochgurtel@gmail.com
www.TomiHochgurtel.com
