Discover the Heart Behind Your Relocation Guide

Step into the world of real estate with a guide who’s lived a life of rhythm and roots—welcome to my story. I’m Richard Schwartz, your Coldwell Banker relocation expert, passionate about helping you find your perfect home in Western Putnam County. From the vibrant stages of touring musicianship to the serene landscapes of Grandin, my journey has shaped a unique perspective on relocation. This page unveils that path, blending personal anecdotes with professional dedication to build trust and guide you to the North Central Florida Lake Region’s hidden gems.

Whether you’re drawn to the tranquil shores of Lake Lochloosa or the peaceful coves of Lake Geneva, my experience ensures you’ll feel confident in your move. Spanning a 15-mile radius around Grandin—covering Hawthorne, Keystone Heights, Florahome, Interlachen, and Bardin—this region is my canvas. Let’s explore how my past fuels your future home search.

The Rhythm of Touring Life

My story begins with music, it’s my passion that has carried me across the United States for over three decades. As a concert producer turned recording/performing artist I have experienced almost every facet of the music business. The associated travels have taken me from stadiums to studios, from arenas to clubs across the country.

The road was a whirlwind—late nights tuning guitars, the hum of a tour bus, and the thrill of connecting with diverse crowds under flickering stage lights. The reward was always at the end of a show; seeing the crowd’s reaction and knowing that at least for a few hours, we brought joy, happiness, and a temporary escape to their lives.

Life on tour taught me resilience and adaptability. From negotiating with venue managers to managing tight schedules, to rehearsing with the band to get the show or recording perfect, I honed skills in communication and problem-solving. The constant movement—sometimes 300 miles between shows—gave me a deep appreciation for home, a place I longed for amid the chaos. Those years, filled with applause and uncertainty, shaped my understanding of what people seek: stability, community, and a space to call their own.

The music never faded, but the road’s toll—missed family moments, unpredictable income—pushed me to seek a new rhythm. That search led me to real estate, where I could help others find the homes I dreamed of during those long drives.

Finding Roots in Grandin

The turn to Grandin, Florida, marked a pivotal chapter. Drawn by whispers of a quieter life, I arrived to find a landscape of rolling hills, glistening lakes, and a community that felt like a warm embrace. The first morning, I woke to the soft rustle of leaves and the distant call of a loon—sounds so different from the roar of a tour bus engine. Grandin, nestled within Western Putnam County’s 15-mile radius, became my haven, a place where the pace slowed, and I could finally unpack those dusty guitar cases for good.

Settling here wasn’t instant. I explored the area—hiking Gold Head Branch State Park’s trails, fishing Lake Lochloosa’s bass-rich waters, and attending local events like the Bass Masters tournament in Florahome. Each experience deepened my connection to the land and its people. I learned the value of a sturdy dock, the appeal of a lakefront view, and the pride of small-town gatherings. This immersion fueled my decision to join Coldwell Banker Ben Bates, where I could share this lifestyle with others.

Grandin’s affordability—median homes at $249,990 versus Gainesville’s $320,000 (BestPlaces.net, 2025)—and low taxes (0.8-1% vs. 1.1-1.3%) sealed the deal. It’s a place where retirees find peace and families build memories, a lesson I carry into every client interaction.

Transition to Relocation Expertise

My shift to real estate began with a leap of faith. I enrolled in licensing courses, poring over property law and market trends late into the night, much like I’d rehearsed chords in hotel rooms. The transition was natural—my touring skills translated into negotiating deals and building client relationships. I joined Coldwell Banker Ben Bates, leveraging their data-driven approach to master Western Putnam County’s market.

Training included analyzing lakefront sales—Lake Lochloosa homes at $325,000 (up 5% in 2025) and Lake Geneva at $290,000 (7% sales rise, Coldwell Banker data). I learned to highlight features like private slips, which boost value by 15-20%, and to time listings with events like the Azalea Festival for faster sales. Each course reinforced my belief that real estate is about storytelling—connecting people to places that resonate.

My first sale, a Keystone Heights lakefront, taught me the power of trust. The buyer, a retiree from Jacksonville, credited my patience and local insight. That success fueled my passion, turning a musician’s adaptability into a realtor’s reliability.

Building Trust Through Service

Trust is the cornerstone of my practice. I offer personalized service, from virtual tours of Interlachen homes to market reports detailing Putnam’s 12-15% lower cost of living (BestPlaces.net). Clients appreciate my hands-on approach—walking properties to assess dock conditions or advising on staging to fetch 5-10% more.

Community involvement strengthens this bond. I sponsor local events like the Bostwick Blueberry Festival, connecting with residents and buyers alike. My background in performing—reading a crowd—helps me understand client needs, whether it’s a family seeking Hawthorne’s schools or a retiree eyeing Bardin’s quiet.

Testimonials reflect this: “Richard’s market savvy saved us $20,000,” says a Florahome seller. My goal is to mirror the trust I built on stage—delivering results with authenticity.

Why Choose Me as Your Relocation Expert

Choosing me means partnering with someone who understands both the journey and the destination. My musical past taught me to adapt and connect, skills I apply to navigate Western Putnam’s market—median homes at $249,990 versus Gainesville’s $320,000. I use data like 3-5% annual appreciation and 0.8-1% tax rates to inform your decisions.

Services include free consultations, detailed CMAs, and access to my buyer network. Whether you’re eyeing a Lake Geneva retreat or a Keystone Heights family home, I tailor every step. My storytelling turns properties into homes, a craft honed from years on stage.

A Legacy of Relocation Success

My career reflects a legacy of success. I’ve helped over 100 families and retirees find homes, from a $280,000 Lake Geneva deal to a $340,000 Lochloosa sale. Each transaction builds on my touring resilience—turning challenges into opportunities. Clients praise my patience, like “Richard guided us through every offer,” from a Hawthorne buyer.

This legacy extends to you. With market insights and personal care, I ensure your move to Western Putnam is harmonious, echoing the rhythm of a well-played song.

Let’s Find Your Home Together

Ready to start your relocation story? My journey from musician to expert equips me to guide you through Western Putnam County’s lakefront opportunities. With a deep understanding of the market and a passion for your success, I’m here to help. Contact me, Richard Schwartz, at 386-972-4662 for a free consultation—let’s find your perfect home today!