WILLISTON, FL, October 19, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Marc Pompeo has been recognized for his achievements, leadership and nearly four decades of service in the real estate industry.

Mr. Pompeo has built his career around an enduring commitment to Williston and the surrounding North Central Florida communities. Since 2016, he has served as broker-owner of Harriett Downs Real Estate LLC, where he leads a team of real estate professionals while continuing to work directly with buyers and sellers. His hands-on approach encompasses virtually every aspect of the brokerage, from property marketing and contract preparation to transaction oversight and closing coordination. By remaining personally involved throughout the process, he strives to provide consistency, accountability and attentive service to both clients and agents.

A hallmark of Mr. Pompeo's career is his extensive knowledge of the local market and the rural communities his company serves. His expertise extends beyond property values and transactions to an understanding of the character, history and lifestyle of the region. Rather than viewing himself simply as a salesperson, he considers himself an advocate for the community and takes particular pride in introducing newcomers to the area.

That philosophy is reflected in an expression he frequently uses to describe his approach to real estate: "making neighbors." For Mr. Pompeo, a successful transaction is not simply about selling a property; it is about helping people become part of the community and developing relationships that often continue long after closing.

His career in real estate is also closely tied to the legacy of his mother, Harriett Downs, who established the business and became a respected presence in Williston and the surrounding area. Mr. Pompeo considers continuing and building upon what she created to be among his most meaningful accomplishments. Community members who knew his mother have frequently remarked on the pride she would have taken in seeing the company continue under his leadership. Preserving her name, values and commitment to service remains an important part of his professional life.

Mr. Pompeo entered real estate in 1988, shortly after his mother became a broker in 1987. He later earned his Florida real estate broker's license in 2004 while working alongside her, in part to ensure continuity for the family business should the need arise. Following his mother's passing, he assumed ownership of Harriett Downs Real Estate LLC in 2016 and has continued operating the company in her name.

Before establishing himself in real estate, Mr. Pompeo developed a diverse professional background that contributed to his entrepreneurial and customer-service skills. His early career included camera sales and management positions with photography stores and photo laboratories, as well as management of a flea market in the Florida Keys. He also served six years in the United States Navy as an electronics technician, an experience that instilled technical proficiency, discipline and attention to detail that have remained valuable throughout his career.

Beyond his brokerage, Mr. Pompeo has devoted considerable time to professional and civic service. Within the real estate industry, he has served on the board of directors of the Dixie-Gilchrist-Levy Counties Association of Realtors. His professional expertise includes residential and rural real estate, local market analysis, country properties and assisting buyers relocating to North Central Florida.

Mr. Pompeo supplemented his professional experience with college coursework and has continued to build his expertise through decades of practical experience and professional licensure. He became a licensed Florida real estate agent in 1988 and a licensed Florida real estate broker in 2004.

Community involvement has been a defining element of Mr. Pompeo's life in Williston. Over approximately 15 years, he has served multiple terms on the board of directors of the Williston Area Chamber of Commerce, periodically stepping away as required by term limits before returning to serve again. He served as chamber president from 2018 to 2020 and currently serves as vice president.

Mr. Pompeo also serves as vice chair of the City of Williston Planning and Zoning Commission, where he supports responsible growth while working to preserve the rural character and quality of life that make the area distinctive. His community service also includes membership on the board of the Orange Hill Cemetery Restoration Association, as well as previous service on the City of Williston Board of Adjustment and Code Enforcement.

His commitment to the community was recognized in 2026 when he was named Citizen of the Year by the GFWC Williston Junior Woman's Club, an honor presented during Williston's Independence Day celebration. The recognition reflects his decades of civic involvement, community leadership and dedication to the Williston area. His other honors include recognition for his leadership as president of the Williston Area Chamber of Commerce, outstanding service as a chamber director and service to the local Realtor association.

Born in Miami, Mr. Pompeo was raised with his sibling by a single mother whose generosity, work ethic and commitment to others profoundly influenced his life. The values she instilled continue to shape his approach to business, community service and personal relationships.

Family remains central to Mr. Pompeo's life outside of work. He and his wife share a blended family that includes one daughter, one son and three additional children through marriage, as well as their grandchildren. He enjoys spending time with his family and traveling with his wife, particularly on cruises. Known for his sense of humor and curiosity, he also enjoys collecting gadgets and memorabilia, many of which share space in his office with awards and reminders of a career devoted to real estate and community service.

Looking ahead, Mr. Pompeo intends to gradually reduce his involvement in the day-to-day operations of Harriett Downs Real Estate LLC while preparing experienced members of his team to assume greater responsibilities. Although he looks forward to having more time for family and travel, he plans to remain connected to the company and the Williston community that have been central to his life and career.

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