I stopped seeing my nontraditional path as a disadvantage and started seeing it as my superpower. Success is about having the courage to build your own.
Janelle Jacques · In Her Own Words
Her Story
About Janelle
Janelle J. is a New Home Consultant with Holiday Builders, specializing in new construction homes for first-time homebuyers and community servants, including nurses, police officers, and teachers, in Polk County, Florida. After graduating from college, she spent 10 years in the insurance industry, gaining extensive experience in client relations and risk management. Her pivot to real estate began during the COVID-19 pandemic when she obtained her real estate license to list properties for her husband, a real estate investor. While market conditions delayed those investment plans, her personal interest in purchasing a new construction home led her to explore opportunities in one of Central Florida’s fastest-growing areas, where thousands of new homes were being built each month.
Seeing the significant influx of families and professionals relocating to the region, Janelle recognized a unique opportunity to serve her community. She quickly became embedded in local neighborhoods, helping buyers navigate builder incentives, interest rate buydowns, and move-in ready options while providing expert guidance through every step of the homebuying process. Her deep understanding of both real estate and new construction markets allows her to create value for Realtors and buyers alike, turning potential challenges into strategic opportunities for growth and homeownership.
Beyond her professional work, Janelle is passionate about shaping neighborhoods and fostering strong community connections. She actively participates in economic empowerment initiatives, women’s leadership programs, and community events, including representing Ms. Kissimmee in the Ms. Corporate America Pageant. Through mentorship, education, and collaboration with Realtors, she has become a trusted advocate for homebuyers and a respected leader in Central Florida’s new home market.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Janelle
01What do you attribute your success to?
I would say it's being the oldest of 10 kids. Being the oldest of 10 kids, I was considered like the second mom, you know? I had to help my siblings with their homework, and like, help them with food, and like, it just created this little trailblazer in me. That experience of having my hands full when I was growing up and being responsible for so much at a young age really shaped who I am today and gave me the drive to get stuff done.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I actually founded a nonprofit organization called Insurance and Realtor Boss Babes that aims to educate young women on the power of obtaining a professional license. I tell them that once you get a professional license, it automatically qualifies you for a job, and I teach them about insurance and real estate and how to make six-plus figures in these industries. That's what I would tell them - going to college isn't always the answer if you're not going to matriculate into a program that immediately qualifies you for a job. If you have the opportunity, I would highly suggest looking into professional licenses. I think in this day and age, to put yourself into tens of thousands of dollars worth of debt for a career that's not promised, getting a professional license is such sound advice.
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