From Bases to Beaches: Turning Military Lessons into Coastal Living Success

After twenty years in the U.S. Air Force, I found myself standing at a crossroads that every service member eventually faces,,, the end of one chapter and the start of another. Like many who hang up the uniform, I had options. I received an excellent job offer that promised stability, good pay, and a clear career path. But something inside me wanted more than just another job. I wanted purpose, freedom, and a chance to build something of my own.

Throughout my military career, I had always been fascinated by real estate. Every time I received new orders and moved to a different base, I bought a property. What started as a practical decision, owning instead of renting, then slowly grew into a genuine passion for real estate investing. I learned how each market worked, how to find value, and how homeownership could be one of the most powerful tools for financial freedom.

When I retired, I decided to take that experience and turn it into my next mission. I earned my real estate license and joined eXp Realty, focusing on helping others, especially fellow veterans and families, and dialing in finding homes along Florida’s Emerald Coast. But I didn’t stop there I also love for the water and fishing led me to become a licensed charter captain. Then launching Coasting with Gordie, a family-friendly boat charter experience that celebrates everything we love about living here from dolphin watching to island adventures to fishing.

Now, my days are filled with helping clients close on homes and then celebrate their success out on the water and a complimentary charter trip as my way of saying thank you. It’s more than a business; it’s a lifestyle that blends my two passions: real estate and the Emerald Coast.

Transitioning from the military wasn’t easy, but it was worth it. I traded the certainty of a paycheck for the freedom to build something meaningful — to serve my community, share my love of the coast, and create lasting experiences for families who call this area home.

Whether you’re buying, selling, or just looking to explore the coast, I’d love to connect. You can learn more about me and what I do at CoastingwithGordie.com or find me on Google as Captain Gordie Emerald Coast Charters & Coastal Homes.

Cheers!

Capt Gordie