Finding Your
Gulf Coast Home
Julie Papagni is a Broker Associate with eXp Realty and a 24-year real estate veteran guiding buyers through Sarasota, Nokomis, Venice, Bradenton, Palmer Ranch, Siesta Key, Lakewood Ranch, and Southwest Florida's luxury coastal market — focusing on the $750K–$1M+ segment. Buying a home on Florida's Gulf Coast is about more than square footage and school zones. It's about the life you want to wake up to every morning — and Julie helps you find exactly that with transparency, market expertise, and personal attention that keeps clients coming back. Having relocated from Michigan to the Sarasota area five years ago, Julie knows firsthand what it means to make a life-changing move to the Gulf Coast.
How Does Julie Guide You Through Buying a Home?
Define Your Vision
What does your ideal life on the Gulf Coast look like? Beach steps away? A golf community? A quiet canal with boat access? We start by understanding exactly what you want.
Get Pre-Approved
Knowing your budget upfront puts you in the strongest negotiating position. I work with trusted local lenders who understand the Southwest Florida market.
Tour & Compare
I curate a personalized selection of properties that match your criteria. You see the best options without wasting time on homes that don't fit.
Negotiate & Secure
With 24 years of real estate experience and trained negotiation skills, I make sure you pay a fair price and get the terms that protect you.
Close & Move In
From inspection through final walkthrough, I manage every detail so nothing falls through the cracks. Then you get your keys and start living the life you came for.
Why should you have a buyer's agent?
In Florida, the seller typically pays the buyer's agent commission — so having your own representation costs you nothing extra and gives you a powerful advocate. Julie knows the Sarasota, Nokomis, Venice, Bradenton, Palmer Ranch, Siesta Key, and Lakewood Ranch markets inside and out, with 24 years of real estate experience and trained negotiation skills that protect your interests. Her focus on the $750K–$1M+ luxury segment means she understands the unique considerations of high-value purchases.
She knows when a price is fair, when an inspection report reveals something serious, and when a seller has room to negotiate. Having led 400 agents as a Team Leader and CEO, and spent 1.5 years as a productivity coach training agents in negotiation tactics, that expertise works for you.
As Julie says, I'll help you find a home you'll love waking up in every day.
Because she works directly with every client, you always get her. No assistants. No runaround. Just direct, honest guidance from start to close.
Buyer FAQ
How much do I need for a down payment?
It depends on the property type and your loan program. Conventional loans can require as little as 5-10% down, while jumbo loans for luxury properties may require 15-20%. I connect you with lenders who can explore all your options.
Should I get an inspection on a new construction home?
Absolutely. Even brand-new homes can have issues. An independent inspection gives you leverage in negotiations and catches problems before they become yours.
How long does the buying process take?
Typically 30-45 days from accepted offer to closing. Cash deals can close faster. I keep the timeline on track and communicate with you every step of the way.
Do I need to be in Florida to buy a home?
No. Many of my clients purchase remotely. I provide video tours, detailed reports, and handle everything so you can close from anywhere.
Ready to find your home?
I'll help you find a home you'll love waking up in every day.
Let's start with a conversation about your goals.