There was a time when St. Augustine could arguably be called Florida’s best kept secret. When our sleeping giant started ranking highly on trendy lists highlighting desirability, southern charm, and world class education, the secret was out! This begs the question: how does a coastal fishing village grow in a controlled, sustainable manner? While inking commercial real estate deals with heavy hitters in booming markets like Phoenix, Denver, and Las Vegas, Adam Lanteigne with Coldwell Banker Commercial was gaining insights that served as a prelude to his work in St. Augustine’s nuanced scene – rich with charming mom-and-pop storefronts.
Recalls Adam, “I had expertise out West, so I brought that kind of mindset and top level stuff to a small local market.” The pandemic amplified the appeal of modest markets, as buyers nationwide increasingly sought a dialed-down lifestyle against the backdrop of a vibrant local economy sustained by small businesses. St. Augustine captured a slice of the Florida influx with its proximity to Jacksonville and relatively low cost of living. This all crystallized into the rediscovery of a city already unearthed nearly 460 years ago. While Adam brings big city strategy and competitive edge to the southeast with his personal brand, Sold in 904, his rural beginnings help him grasp how to do business in a way that serves St. Johns County’s unique needs. “I grew up in Virginia Beach, Virginia…in the country – the rural section.” As someone who came of age in a one- stoplight enclave, Adam knows how to relate to St. Augustine locals authentically when discussing commercial development. Paying it forward with generosity is his modus operandi when connecting with business owners.
Adam shares sage advice that helps small business tenants progress to the point of owning the properties they operate out of – using the very techniques he learned along the way. To boost confidence at the negotiating table, he shares insights that level the playing field so the little shop on the block can win. What’s more, he’s an ardent advocate for mom-and-pops, working to set them up for success when he teaches them how to bargain for provisions like improvement allowances and free rent. These are the same strategies he cut his teeth on when writing business with national companies in western markets. A desire to be closer to family landed Adam on the sparkling shores of St. Augustine Beach where he and his wife raise their boys. “My brother and his wife were living here,” he explains with a warm smile, “so we wanted to give our kids that small-town beach life.” For Adam, quality time with his family, sandy toes, and the soothing rush of ocean sounds are hallmarks of a day well spent. “It really kind of grounds you,” he notes.
This pursuit of stability shows up in Adam’s grassroots involvement in civic stewardship. Shortly after moving to St. Augustine over six years ago, he began volunteering in capacities that help set at-risk youth up for success. Coaching with Ancient City Soccer affords Adam a holistic way to be a mentor not only to his sons, but to many young St. Augustinians. His membership on the board of the Protential Foundation further fosters better outcomes for the next generation. A percentage of his commissions go to the non-profit with a current focus on West Augustine. Adam will be the first to say that he isn’t good at talking about himself. Still, when a local pours into his community, an inevitable light of gratitude shines. His nuanced, thoughtful sensibilities earned him the 2024 Pathfinder Award. He was recognized for his commitment to youth and mentorship, professional success and impact, along with a reputation for lifting others up. The accolade is given to those who zealously champion the disenfranchised, fostering conditions where those from diverse backgrounds can flourish. The recognition came during a Plano, Texas conference coordinated by Coldwell Banker Commercial – the brokerage with whom Adam partners.
On his climb to becoming Florida’s #1 Coldwell Banker Commercial agent by sales and leasing volume in 2024, Adam wasn’t alone. While steadily building his pipeline, he had the backing of a supportive team that helped him navigate those early, testing days. His cohort didn’t just cheer him on—they kept him accountable. As Adam puts it, “…that is critical, I think, to anyone in any profession…working with a team that can lift you up when you need it, and put you in your place when you need that too.”Even as a polished professional today, Adam speaks candidly about where he started: “I came to the office every single day for a year. I made zero dollars, I mean, literally for a year.” That kind of grit—sticking it out through the long, complex cycle of commercial real estate—takes a rare kind of tenacity. And Adam brought it, every single day.
Staying the course has earned Adam credibility and trust from his clients. So, while ascending to the top of his regional industry, he has consistently kept newcomers in mind. Whether on the sandy shores of his family’s favorite beach, or huddling on a soccer field – he shows up as more than a real estate agent. Adam is a neighbor, a colleague, and an advocate.
SOLD IN 904
1750 Tree Blvd Ste 7
adam@soldin904.com
www.soldin904.com
