James Hayden, a native of Southwest Florida, has cultivated valuable relationships across various disciplines that significantly impact the sale and acquisition of real estate. He holds a bachelor's degree in Business Management from Hodges University and is currently completing a master’s degree in public administration at Florida Gulf Coast University.
With most immediate family members residing between Collier and Lee Counties, James's family has established a robust presence in the Southwest Florida real estate market. Raised on Sanibel Island, he and his brother cherished the island life, often spending time on the water surrounded by nature.
Prior to his real estate career, James enjoyed a successful stint remodeling kitchens and bathrooms for new homeowners and investors. In 2006, he transitioned to the City of Fort Myers Fire Department, where he serves as a firefighter, driven by a passion for community service and the opportunity to forge meaningful connections while aiding citizens in times of need. This dual role has provided James with valuable insights and leadership experience that bridge the gap between the public and private sectors, fostering both professional and personal growth.
James recently participated in an exclusive program at the Department of Homeland Security Leadership Academy, hosted at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center. This experience exposed him to advanced leadership principles and allowed him to engage with top-tier professionals responsible for overseeing major public sector initiatives, enriching his understanding of leadership dynamics and synergies between different sectors.
Married with the privilege of raising four children ranging from 7 to 23 years old, James and his eldest child are engaged in a friendly race to complete their master’s degrees. They enjoy outdoor activities such as camping, while James also finds fulfillment in family time and pursuing personal fitness goals at the gym or through yard work.
Grateful for the opportunity to assist individuals, families, and investors in maximizing their real estate potential, James takes pride in coaching, mentoring, and supporting colleagues. He believes in quietly contributing to the success of others as a positive form of leadership, aiming to define professional interactions through continuous development and effective networking strategies.