Seeing an opportunity through the lack of a local real estate company dedicated to the utmost in customer service, Michael Saunders decided to fill the void herself by founding Michael Saunders & Company 40 years ago — in 1976. Little did she know at the time that her new brand of customer engagement—delivered with her signature style from a single small office on Sarasota's St. Armands Circle — would grow to include 26 branch offices in three Florida counties; and an influence on the real estate business felt around the world. Even from its earliest days, Michael's was a company informed by solid core values, driven by knowledge and hard work; and based on the mutual trust that develops from cultivating lasting customer relationships. Pretty much a voice in the wilderness back then, Michael’s deeply held values along with a keen focus on customer service and global connections are now shared by dedicated agents—from Bradenton to Boca Grande. In 2003, Michael was joined in the business by her son Drayton, who grew up around the company even as it was growing. Drayton not only shares Michael's passion for real estate but also her fierce insistence on remaining an independent company focused on serving the unique needs of her local constituents on Florida's Gulf Coast. The company they have built together goes beyond real estate to being a proud member of the communities that have contributed so much to its success. Giving back to these communities is a value that starts at the top and is shared by members of the Michael Saunders & Company family. For this reason, the MSC Foundation was founded as a way to engage our agents, management and staff at every level of charitable giving to the members of our community most in need of shelter, sustenance and a path to self-sufficiency. Our earnest beginnings have blossomed into a corporate culture where character, integrity and good works speak for themselves; and every customer interaction should lead to a rewarding real estate experience. And it all began with a lady named Michael.