Meet Melea VanOstrand and Cara Croom | REALTORS®

We had the good fortune of connecting with Melea VanOstrand and Cara Croom and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Melea VanOstrand and Cara Croom, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
M.C. Group, comprising of sisters Melea VanOstrand and Cara Croom, decided to start their real estate business with a shared vision and a combination of complementary skills and experiences.

Cara, one half of the duo, brought her diverse background in education and healthcare to the table. Her attention to detail, strong communication skills, and the ability to navigate complex situations from her previous careers made her a natural fit for the real estate industry. Her dedication to providing personalized assistance to clients, ensuring their real estate needs were met with professionalism and satisfaction, was a driving force behind the decision to start the business. Cara’s commitment to excellence in serving clients was a core value that M.C. Group wanted to bring to the Miami real estate market.

Melea, the other half of the partnership, brought a wealth of knowledge and insight into the local real estate market. Her experience as a seasoned real estate reporter in South Florida gave her a deep understanding of the area’s real estate trends, developments, and transactions. This valuable insight and knowledge allowed her to provide clients with a unique perspective and a competitive edge in the market. Melea’s promise to always prioritize her client’s interests, minimize stress throughout the process, and make the real estate experience as enjoyable as possible was a key motivator for establishing the business.

Together, Melea and Cara recognized that their combined skills and expertise could create a powerhouse sister team that would offer unparalleled service to clients in the Miami real estate market. Their passion for real estate, commitment to excellence, and complementary skill sets made starting M.C. Group a natural and exciting decision. They aimed to bring a new level of excellence and professionalism to the industry, and their dedication to this mission continues to drive their success in the real estate business.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Melea: What sets me apart from others in my field is my relentless commitment to learning and adaptability. With a background in journalism, the legal field, and real estate, I believe that staying ahead in any industry requires continuous growth and a willingness to embrace change. This mindset has allowed me to stay at the forefront of my profession. Getting to where I am today professionally has been both challenging and rewarding. It certainly hasn’t been easy, especially as a mother of two, but I’ve always approached challenges as opportunities for growth. One of the most significant challenges I faced was getting through grad school while pregnant and working full-time, which taught me the importance of perseverance and resilience. I overcame it by enlisting the help of my support system, and reminding myself that at the end of every challenge is a great reward. Throughout my career, I’ve learned valuable lessons. Firstly, the power of networking and building meaningful relationships cannot be underestimated. Secondly, never stop learning; knowledge is your greatest asset. Lastly, always stay true to your values and ethics, even in the face of adversity. I want the world to know that our brand and my story are a testament to the fact that with determination, continuous learning, and integrity, anyone can achieve their professional goals. I hope to inspire others to pursue their passions and never stop striving for excellence.

Cara: I’m particularly excited about building meaningful relationships with families and helping them find a home that not only suits their current needs but also supports their future aspirations.”

Regarding my journey to where I am today, it’s been a combination of faith and hard work that has kept me focused and motivated towards my goals. I firmly believe that your work ethic should align with your faith, and when you combine the two, you become unstoppable. Life’s challenges are meant to be overcome, and if everything comes easily, it’s a sign that you’re not pushing yourself hard enough.

Throughout my career, I’ve learned the invaluable lesson that when one door closes, it’s essential to seek out another opportunity, and then another if necessary. Success is not handed to you; you have to set your goals and put in your utmost effort to achieve them. It’s crucial to understand that it’s not a sprint but a marathon, and longevity is a testament to perseverance and dedication.

What I want the world to know is that our sister group, M.C. Group, is built on a foundation of strategy, family values, and unwavering loyalty and morals. We prioritize each other’s best interests and bring that same passion into our work. We are genuinely passionate about what we do, and we aspire to share our love for our profession with the world.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
When family or a friend is in town we ensure a perfect blend of tourist attractions and local experiences. We kick off with a visit to the iconic South Beach, where the golden sands and vibrant Art Deco architecture offer a quintessential Miami experience. Then, we explore the city’s rich cultural heritage at places like Little Havana, indulging in authentic Cuban cuisine and live music. To immerse loved ones in local flavor, we head to Wynwood Walls, a haven for street art and creativity. A day at the historic Vizcaya Museum and Gardens adds a touch of elegance to the itinerary. And, of course, no visit is complete without savoring the fresh seafood at a local waterfront restaurant. It’s the perfect blend of tourist delights and authentic Miami charm that leaves people with unforgettable memories of the Magic City.

Other places we love, and places we love to eat:

Exploring the Everglades
A family day at Zoo Miami
Planta Queen in Coconut Grove
Red Rooster Overtown
Hollywood Beach

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
A big shoutout to our incredible family! Your unwavering support, strong values, and faith in Jesus have been the cornerstone of our journey towards becoming outstanding citizens. Your love and guidance have shaped our path, and we’re forever grateful for your influence. We carry your legacy with pride, and your faith inspires us to make a positive impact in our community. Thank you for being our guiding light.

Website: www.mcgroupmiami.com

Instagram: mcgroupmiami