Born and raised in California, I was a teenager during the women’s movement, I decided then I would always have an unconventional career – and most recently that career has turned out to be real estate. As I enter a new chapter of my life, I feel a renewed passion for serving the senior community, a group whose company I’ve cherished since my youth.

Before real estate, I had various unique jobs. I worked as an armed security guard, a locksmith, a road manager for a music group, and a business manager for writers, directors, and actors in the entertainment industry. I always connected well with my mature clients, and that’s when I realized my natural connection with adults 55+.

When my husband Mike and I moved to Arizona in 2005, the home-buying process ignited my interest in real estate. I obtained my license in 2006 and jumped into the industry. Not long after, my parents moved to Arizona too, and I had the joy of helping them find their home here.

Though the market crash soon followed, I stood strong while others faltered. I embraced short sales and foreclosures, specializing in the active adult 55+ communities, which demonstrated resilience during market downturns. I’ve always connected with older adults – I love hearing their stories and feel a natural respect for them. I’m now relating to my clients more than I ever have. 

Real estate is more than just a job; it’s my passion. After all these years, I still find joy in the people I meet, the properties I see, and the unique circumstances of each transaction. Knowing I can positively impact people's lives gives me a sense of fulfillment.

Another sense of fulfillment comes from rescued animals! My friend Claire introduced me to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, an organization dedicated to ending kill shelters. During my visit, I met Hopi, a dog who had been rescued after being hit by a car. Hopi chose me – she sat on my feet and kept returning to me. Mike and I adopted her, and she became a part of our family. That experience deepened my love for animal rescue, and we enjoyed taking Hopi on road trips, especially to the beach.

Sadly, Mike passed away recently. We truly loved each other and it is a profound loss, but I’ve been working to move forward, just as he would have wanted. Mike and I never traveled internationally, something I’ve always dreamed of doing, so I decided to embark on new adventures.

In this new chapter of my life, I’ve traveled to France, Italy, Spain, Mexico, and London. I’m fascinated by the history and culture of

 each place and inspired by the beauty I’ve encountered. Photography has become a new hobby, especially capturing unique doors that seem to tell stories about the people and history behind them. I’m considering sharing these photos on Instagram – stay tuned!

I’ve also reconnected with old friends, traveling within the U.S. to visit people I’ve known all my life. I’m proud to be moving forward, living life the way Mike would have wanted me to.

When I’m not traveling, I spend time with my vibrant 90-year-old mom. We enjoy playing Rummy with our friends on Wednesday nights. I enjoy doing annual food drives at Valley View Community, a local food bank. And of course, my love for animal rescue continues. I recently adopted two more rescue puppies, Sunshine and Stella, who have joined Hopi and the two cats to our family.

Real estate offers the best of both worlds – a career that fulfills me and allows me to connect with my community. One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is guiding clients through significant life transitions. Whether you're selling your current home to embark on a new chapter or looking for the perfect property to suit your changing needs, I am here to offer support and expertise every step of the way. I understand that these moments can be emotional and overwhelming, and I strive to be a compassionate ally during these times of change.

 

I specialize in serving the senior community by offering a range of services that go beyond the typical expectations of a real estate agent. If you require assistance with estate sales, handymen, roofers, finding reliable movers or recommendations for downsizing to independent living or a retirement home, I have the resources to help facilitate a smooth transition. It brings me great joy to alleviate stress from the process, ensuring a seamless experience for everyone involved! Even after the transaction is over, I remain dedicated to you and your goals as your REALTOR® and friend for life.

 

All the best,

 

Debbie Pastori

REALTOR® | NRDS 147502070