More About Mike!
Mike’s family story in Southwest Florida stretches back over a century. From Mike’s great-great-grandparents forward, his family has lived, worked, and raised their children along these same barrier islands and coastlines, creating an unbroken connection to the place he serves today. His great-grandfather, Gus Cole, arrived from Arkansas in 1908 and homesteaded what became known as Cole Island, now Boca Grande North. A pioneer, fisherman, and general store owner, Gus helped build the foundation of the local community.
Growing up surrounded by this heritage, Mike learned Southwest Florida from the inside out. He spent his youth hunting in the woods, fishing the harbor, running boats through the passes, and experiencing local life in a way that only comes from generations of family history. This upbringing gave him an intimate understanding of both the land and the water—and a respect for the lifestyle that draws so many here.
Before entering real estate, Mike built a successful career in the maritime industry, serving as a licensed Captain on large commercial vessels.
His work took him from South America to Alaska, where he navigated some of the world’s most challenging waters and learned the value of planning, leadership, and calm decision-making. These qualities continue to define how he handles real estate transactions today.
Alongside his maritime career, Mike spent more than a decade as a farrier, working with ranches, horse farms, and their owners throughout the region. That experience provided firsthand knowledge of rural properties, acreage, equestrian operations, and the practical needs of landowners—insight few agents possess.
Today, Mike is a licensed Real Estate Broker, Broker Associate at Michael Saunders & Company, and a licensed Mortgage Loan Originator, offering clients a level of expertise that covers property, land, water, and financing with equal confidence.
Rooted in history. Shaped by real work. Built on integrity.
This is the foundation Mike brings to every buyer and seller he represents throughout Southwest Florida.
