When we moved back to St. Simons, we knew it was the start of a new chapter. And embracing it, I found a new opportunity to serve, educate, and support others.

 

One day as I was driving off the causeway, I saw a sign that read, “Pre-licensing Real Estate Class Starts January 25”. It felt like that was the sign I had been looking for. We were just three weeks back on St. Simons Island after years away. I had recently retired and was ready for a new challenge—a new adventure. So, I signed up.

 

Real estate wasn’t new to me. I’d actually gotten licensed years earlier when we first moved to Georgia. We initially came so our kids could be near their grandparents. But life took us back to Virginia to care for family, and I let the license expire, thinking that chapter was closed. After retiring a second time, this time from the federal government, we returned to St. Simons—and that sign reminded me of a path I wanted to follow but hadn’t been able to fully explore until now. 

 

Before real estate, I spent over two decades in law enforcement, retiring as a First Sergeant from the Prince William County Police Department (VA). Then I served as a federal investigator and eventually a Supervisory Agent-in-Charge with the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency. Both careers were grounded in service, leadership, and problem-solving. They also taught me how to handle high-pressure situations, communicate clearly, and de-escalate tensions to find win-win outcomes.

 

All of those skills translated into real estate, making the transition smooth. Law enforcement was about protecting people in tough situations. Real estate is about protecting people through some of the biggest decisions and investments they’ll ever make - buying a home, selling a property, investing or relocating. It’s still a high-stress situation, but I get to walk people through it and get them to the other side. From my previous careers, I already understood legal language in contracts, knew how to negotiate under pressure, and was used to navigating multiple agendas—so much of real estate felt familiar from day one. 

 

When I got my license in 2021, I knew only three people in the area and one of those was a Realtor. So, I started with what I could control: embracing my neighborhood. I sent postcards, started a local events newsletter, and got involved in the community. My first neighborhood mailer turned into a home lot sale to a builder, which led to a new build and another listing. From one postcard, that relationship grew into multiple transactions and long-term trust. 

  

I’ve focused on bringing real value to people. I send out football schedules and holiday calendars, and my sellers receive a weekly update so they’re never left wondering what is happening. After each closing, I donate $100 in my client’s name to a local charity of their choice, along with a donation to a local food bank. As I’ve built my business, I have grown roots in the community and developed some amazing connections beyond just business, which I am grateful for.

 

Education and training were always a big part of my previous careers, and I’ve found the same fulfillment in mentoring newer agents in real estate. I believe there’s plenty of business to go around, and when we help each other improve, the entire industry benefits. I am now the 2026 President of the Women’s Council of REALTORS® Southeast Coastal Georgia Network and serve as VP of Governmental Affairs for our local board. It’s important to me to stay involved, advocate for homeowners’ property rights, and help uphold our professional standards.

As a bonus, my business has become a family affair. Our daughter, Nicole, manages my weekly newsletter and our son Max is preparing to enter the business as well. Together we’re working toward launching a family staging company together with my husband, Craig. It feels like everything I’ve done—service, leadership, teaching—has led to this.

 

Outside of work, I enjoy spending quiet mornings at the beach for the amazing sunrises, reading, playing trivia, and spending time with family.

 

When you work with me, you won’t be left guessing about what’s happening or what comes next. I’m clear, direct, and committed to keeping you informed from start to finish. Whether you’re buying or selling, I’ll walk you through each step, so you understand the process, the timeline, and your options. You’ll get honest feedback, prompt answers, and real guidance. If something needs to be addressed, I handle it. If a problem comes up, I work to solve it quickly and keep things moving. I’ll help you understand the contract terms, explain what matters and what doesn’t, and do all I can to make sure you’re protected. From local buyers and sellers to second-home owners, relocating families, and federal employees training at FLETC, I connect and empathize with the people I serve, understanding the pressures and logistics involved with making such big life transactions.

 

My job is to advocate for your best interest, help you avoid costly mistakes, and keep things as smooth and stress-free as possible. I don’t take that responsibility lightly. You deserve someone who answers the phone, follows through, and takes the time to do it right—and that’s exactly what I do. I’m here to make sure you feel confident in every decision and supported every step of the way!

With gratitude,

   

 

 

 

Jacquie Wheeler