Taking a bold leap in pursuit of a better life, we embarked on a new adventure. By embracing the challenges and opportunities of our new home, we not only rebuilt our lives but also laid a foundation for a bright future.
In 2013, we decided to uproot our lives in Toronto to move to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, seeking better opportunities to create the life we envisioned for our family. This was no small feat, especially as parents to three children—a teenager and two in elementary school. We were stepping out of our comfort zone, leaving behind everything we knew to chase a dream.
Originally from Montreal, Canada, where I grew up fluent in French, I embarked on my first career venture in Toronto after graduating with a degree in business administration. For over a decade, I worked in the fashion industry: selling European and domestic women’s fashions to boutique and large chain stores across Canada. This gave me a solid foundation in business operations and client relations. My husband, Richard, and I later started a technology service business, Peacey Systems, in 2007, which we dreamed of expanding internationally. We started with one customer and now have a staff of over 50 supporting thousands of sites in locations around the world.
Despite our settled life in Toronto, the allure of the United States, particularly Florida, grew stronger over the years. We were particularly drawn to the business-friendly environment and entrepreneur-friendly taxes and regulations. Moreover, the warm climate of Florida was a significant pull for us, promising a lifestyle we had always wanted. Thus, the decision to move our family and business to the U.S. was both a personal and professional choice. This move was a gamble, but it was also a strategic step toward achieving the life and success we envisioned for our family.
In 2013, we took the plunge and moved to Fort Lauderdale. Failure was not an option, as the welfare and future of our family depended on the success of this transition. However, the challenges were immediate and daunting. With no credit history in the U.S., simple necessities like buying a home and a car required upfront cash payments. Additionally, the absence of a local support network meant we were navigating this new terrain virtually on our own.
The challenge of buying our first home here was the catalyst that inspired me to dive into the real estate industry in 2014, building my business from the ground up. With experience investing in real estate and remodeling, buying and selling homes in Canada, I saw an opportunity to help others navigate this intimidating process, drawing from my own experiences to offer empathy, insight and guidance to my clients, ensuring they felt supported and informed every step of the way.
Networking became my main strategy for growth. I reached out to potential clients everywhere I went—gyms, grocery stores and local community events. Every client who placed their trust in me gave me the opportunity to establish myself in the competitive South Florida real estate market.
My relentless effort paid off as I built a trusted reputation in luxury real estate, working with new luxury developments for Rosewood and Four Seasons and earning the title of Senior Director of Luxury Sales with Douglas Elliman. I love what I do, instilling passion and expertise into every transaction to help my clients be successful!
The move to Fort Lauderdale demanded courage, tenacity and an unwavering belief in our dreams. Today, both my husband and I have thriving businesses that we are very proud of.
Our daughters have started their own journeys. My oldest, Olivia, works as a product manager for a technology company. Our middle child, Lilia, is studying health sciences and our youngest, Ava, is gearing up for college as a senior in high school. Their accomplishments uphold our family legacy of strength, adaptability and resilience in the face of challenges.
Our environment shapes every facet of our lives, influencing our well-being, relationships and overall sense of peace and harmony. Having undergone extensive training in both Feng Shui and Reiki, I've come to understand the profound impact that our homes can have on our physical, emotional and spiritual health. It's not just about finding a place to live; it's about finding a sanctuary and community that resonates with our innermost selves. It is a passion of mine to guide my clients towards spaces that not only meet their practical needs, but that better their lives and bring balance.
For me, real estate isn't just a job; it's a passion rooted in authenticity, integrity and genuine connection. I take pride in my ability to meticulously understand the unique preferences of each client and tailor the buying and selling experience to their needs. From exciting milestones, like upgrading or buying a second home, to the more difficult times, such as divorce or handling estates after a loved one passes away, I am here to support my clients through every significant life event. As your REALTOR® for life, I am committed to serving you now and in the future, offering my professional advice and guidance through every new chapter!
Sincerely,
Tika Van Den Hurk
Senior Director of Luxury Sales
Broker-Associate
305.778.6570
tikasellsflorida.com
tika.vandenhurk@elliman.com