Hidden Gems: Meet Jodi Rae Santosuosso of The Nice Realtor Corporation

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jodi Rae Santosuosso.

Hi Jofi, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I was born into a restaurant family, so hard work was part of my life from the very beginning. Growing up in that environment taught me the value of dedication, customer service and a strong work ethic.

In 2001, I joined the Army to serve my country. While I realized it wasn’t the long-term path for me, the experience instilled discipline, resilience, and a strong work ethic that I still carry with me today.

After spending 10 years living in California bartending, acting and teaching yoga, I embraced my entrepreneurial spirit and, in 2013, opened an organic juice bar and café. It was an opportunity to combine my passion for hospitality with my passion for health and wellness. Building that business from the ground up reinforced the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and creating meaningful relationships with people.

When the pandemic hit in 2020, I made the difficult decision to close my business and pivot into real estate. I approached the industry with the same work ethic and determination that had guided me throughout my career. From day one, I hit the ground running, and that commitment has paid off. Since entering the business, I’ve built a successful real estate career, been recognized among the Top 1,000 agents in the country, and consistently recognized as a top icon agent in my company. I am passionate about helping other agents grow and be successful in this career so I volunteer as a mentor.

Looking back, every chapter of my journey—from growing up in the restaurant business to serving in the Army, building a small business, and succeeding in real estate—has taught me the value of hard work, resilience, and putting people first. Those experiences continue to shape how I serve my clients and approach every opportunity.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Like any journey, mine hasn’t been without its challenges, it has many many ups with the occasional downs. Today, my biggest challenge isn’t growing my business (I am blessed to be able to say that) but it’s creating a healthy work-life balance. As a new mom, my perspective has shifted. I continue work incredibly hard and remain passionate about serving my clients, but I’m also learning the importance of making time for myself and my family. It’s a work in progress, and one that has made me a more intentional business owner, professional, and person.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about The Nice Realtor Corporation?
Community is at the heart of everything I do, and I feel incredibly grateful to be part of such a supportive one. I love bringing people together and creating spaces where connection can happen.

One of my favorite parts of having a storefront was the opportunity to host events that brought our community together. From community yoga classes and dog adoption events to local artist pop-ups, run clubs, and clothing swaps, the space became so much more than a shop—it became a place to gather, connect, and support one another.

Creating experiences that foster community and contribute to something bigger than myself continues to be one of the most meaningful parts of my work.

Now I’m known as “The Nice Realtor,” and that’s a title I’m genuinely proud of. Kindness isn’t just part of my personality—it’s the foundation of how I do business. I believe you get further by treating people with respect, communicating openly, and remembering that everyone involved in a transaction is working toward the same goal.

One of my specialties is creating beautifully staged listings that help homes stand out in a competitive market. I love transforming a space so buyers can envision themselves living there, and I believe thoughtful presentation makes a meaningful difference in both the selling experience and the final result.

I also have a passion for working with first-time homebuyers. Buying a home can feel overwhelming, and I never expect my clients to know all the answers. I take the time to educate them, explain every step of the process, and make sure they feel informed and confident from our first conversation through closing day.

More than anything, I want my clients to feel supported. Real estate is about much more than buying or selling a house—it’s about one of the biggest milestones in someone’s life. I’m proud to have built a business based on trust, kindness, education, and genuine relationships, and those values continue to guide everything I do.

What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is that you have to be adaptable. No matter what industry you’re in, things are constantly changing. Markets shift, trends evolve, rules are updated, and unexpected challenges can appear when you least expect them.

I’ve experienced that firsthand—from closing one business during the pandemic to building an entirely new career in real estate. Those experiences taught me that success isn’t about resisting change; it’s about embracing it. You have to be willing to learn, grow, and adjust your approach while staying true to your values.

I believe that resilience comes from being open to change. If you’re willing to keep learning and adapt as you go, challenges become opportunities instead of setbacks. That mindset has been one of the biggest reasons I’ve been able to grow both personally and professionally.

Another important lesson is that mindset matters. I try to lead with a positive mindset and an attitude of gratitude. Gratitude has a way of shifting your perspective. When you focus on your blessings instead of your setbacks, you begin to see more opportunities, more joy, and more reasons to keep moving forward. That mindset has helped me navigate challenges, celebrate successes, and build both my business and my life with purpose.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://thenicerealtorcle.com/
• Instagram: spiritanimalcracker
• Facebook: jodisantosuossorealty