Find Your Dream Home Today
Your Trusted Gulf Coast Realtor
Luxury meets tranquility—exceptional properties, exceptional living.
ABOUT ME
Michelle Johnston is a licensed Realtor with Charles Rutenberg Realty serving Palm Harbor, Clearwater Beach, Dunedin, Safety Harbor, and the greater Tampa Bay area. She works with buyers, sellers, absentee owners, and out-of-state clients relocating to Florida and is known for her clear communication, personalized approach, and attention to detail. She also provides trusted local representation for out-of-area property owners. Michelle has experience assisting clients with a wide range of properties including luxury homes, historic residences, and waterfront properties throughout the Tampa Bay region. She understands that certain life transitions—such as relocation, divorce, or special family circumstances—require patience, discretion, and respect for privacy. Before transitioning into real estate, Michelle spent nearly three decades in the airline industry working with high-level and invitation clientele, coordinating complex travel arrangements for individuals, families, and large groups while also assisting travelers with accessibility and special needs. That experience required exceptional organization, creativity in navigating unique situations, and a high level of professional service—qualities she now brings to every real estate transaction. Having also lived out of state and overseas, Michelle understands firsthand the challenges many people face when relocating and enjoys helping clients navigate the process with confidence
JUST SOLD!
Historic Elegance Meets Smart Strategy!
Love this unique historic home. 39 windows, including one behind a closet door! It’s the charm and character of old architecture that inspires me. Every historic property tells a story, and they just don’t build them like they used to.
This one-of-a-kind 100-year-old estate in Clearwater, featuring a guest house, salt water pool, a half-acre lot, and the second-largest documented tree in the city, just sold for $1.1M. with the appraisal landing just $900 of the list price. That’s not luck. That’s strategy.
In today’s market, precision matters more than hype. By pricing it right from the beginning, this avoided surprises at closing, protected the deal, and delivered a seamless result for the seller.
Selling a historic or luxury property takes more than putting it on the MLS—it takes deep local knowledge, thoughtful positioning, and the right network.
Whether you’re selling a historic home, estate with land, or luxury property, I’ll bring strategy, care, and clarity to every step. This sale required a creative approach, as the seller was actively hosting Airbnb guests in the guest house. I coordinated showings and the open house in a way that respected both the seller’s needs and the guests’ experience. With thoughtful planning and flexibility, everything came together smoothly—and everyone walked away happy.
I’d be glad to learn more about your goals and any challenges you may be facing, so we can determine the best strategy to move forward
📍 Seller Tip | The Power of Backup Offers 📍
This historic home received two offers within four days, plus a third as a backup two weeks later.
In real estate, backup offers aren’t just “nice to have”—they’re a smart strategy. If the first deal falls through (and sometimes they do), you’re not starting over from scratch.
Always keep a well-qualified backup offer in your back pocket. It can protect your momentum—and your peace of mind. Maintain clear communication with agents holding backup offers to ensure everyone stays informed and engaged throughout the process. Consistent communication is key to a smooth transaction. 😊
just listed properties!
Find Your new Home with Michelle Johnston your Tampa Realtor
I understand that buying or selling a property can be a daunting task. That's why I work hard to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. I am dedicated to helping you find the perfect home that meets your needs and fits your budget. I am committed to providing you with the highest level of service and expertise, whether you're buying, selling, or renting a property.
