Jorge Vazquez: 2024 Latin Times Magazine Lideres Award

Full Name: Jorge Vazquez 

Hispanic Heritage: Puerto Rican 

Residence: Tampa, Florida 

Profession: Real Estate Investment Advisor & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at Graystone Investment Group, Graystone Real Estate, Lending GIG & the Property Profit Academy 

LTM: Tell us about what you do for a living and how you got into it. 

I’m Jorge Vazquez, CEO and co-founder of Graystone Investment Group, a premier real estate investment company based in Tampa, Florida. With over 20 years of experience, I’ve been involved in more than 3,500 transactions, ranging from traditional sales to intricate strategies such as 'Subject to' financing, house hacking, non-performing notes, corporate rentals, Airbnb, wraparound mortgages, private notes, short sales, REOs, and more.

Today, I manage around 300 properties, serve as the broker for 50 agent consultants, and own several companies, including a wholesaling company and a lending company. Graystone is truly your real estate partner—whether you’re looking to buy your dream home, invest passively, or learn how to do it yourself. Our motto says it all: "You invest, we do the rest!"

My journey into real estate began unexpectedly. I came to the United States broke, without knowing the language or anything about real estate. I started as a licensed financial advisor, helping clients manage their wealth. However, many of my clients showed a strong interest in the real estate investments I was personally making, which inspired me to transition into the industry fully. Since then, I’ve dedicated myself to guiding investors through the real estate market, helping them avoid common pitfalls by sharing the lessons I’ve learned throughout my career. Today, I own over 30 properties and run multiple companies. If I can do it, anyone can.

At Graystone, we operate with a mission captured in our motto: 'You invest, we do the rest.' Our goal is to make real estate investing accessible and profitable for everyone by offering personalized support to each client. Under my leadership, Graystone has grown into a global company, serving clients from China, Canada, South America, and Central America. We take pride in our commitment to understanding each client and tailoring our services to meet their unique needs.

LTM: In your industry, what separates you from the competition? 

Graystone Investment Group sets itself apart with a deep focus on building meaningful, lasting relationships. Unlike many others in the industry who treat clients as mere numbers, we take the time to understand each investor's unique situation and guide them step-by-step through their real estate journey. Our mission goes beyond completing transactions—we aim to help people achieve financial security, a better retirement, and life-changing opportunities.

Our approach is highly personalized, catering to both new and experienced investors. We provide tailored strategies that range from traditional investments to advanced options such as corporate rentals and 'Subject to' financing. This level of customization, combined with our genuine passion for making a positive impact, is rare in the industry and truly sets us apart.

Graystone’s global reach is another aspect of what makes us unique. We work with clients both locally and internationally, demonstrating our commitment to building a diverse and inclusive community of successful investors. For us, it’s about more than just making money—it’s about changing lives and creating opportunities for financial growth. When our clients succeed—whether by retiring early, paying for their children’s education, or securing a brighter future—it reflects our core mission.

LTM: Why do you feel you were nominated as one of “2024 Latino Lideres?” 

I believe I was nominated because of my unwavering dedication to empowering others through real estate and my strong commitment to the Latino community. Over the years, I have worked tirelessly to help individuals from all backgrounds—particularly within the Latino community—achieve financial independence and build generational wealth through strategic real estate investments.

 I have always focused on creating opportunities, educating people about real estate, and guiding them through an industry that can often feel intimidating. Being recognized for these efforts is humbling and reaffirms my belief that when you lead with passion and a genuine desire to help others, the results speak for themselves.

LTM: During COVID-19, what was your biggest challenge, and how did you overcome it? 

Navigating the uncertainty of the real estate market during COVID-19 was one of our greatest challenges. The pandemic caused disruptions ranging from fluctuating property values to new regulations that impacted both buyers and sellers. It also posed the challenge of maintaining strong client relationships in a traditionally hands-on industry while transitioning to a remote setup.

We leveraged technology to stay connected, using virtual tours, online consultations, and digital transactions. Our strategy focused on clear communication and flexibility, providing clients with constant updates on market changes and advising them on new investment strategies that were less vulnerable to market volatility, such as corporate rentals or Airbnb properties. By staying adaptable and client-focused, we not only weathered the storm but also helped our clients thrive during uncertain times.

LTM: What is your biggest achievement in business or personal life, and how did you achieve it? 

Throughout my career, I have received numerous accolades, including being named one of the top 10 Latinos of the Year in Tampa Bay by Latin Times Magazine in 2008, recognized as one of the Tampa Bay Business Journal’s Top 25 'Up & Comers' in 2011, and receiving the Best of Florida Award in 2023. These honors are a testament to my dedication and the success of Graystone.

One of my proudest achievements is growing Graystone into a global company. Our vision is to create a real estate group that not only helps people build wealth but also drives positive societal change by creating jobs and improving lives. We take the time to get to know each client personally, ensuring that they are more than just a number to us. The most gratifying moments are when clients tell me, 'Jorge, I retired because of you,' or 'I was able to put my kids through college because of your guidance.' These successes reaffirm the impact we strive to make every day.

LTM: What’s next for you and Graystone Investment Group? 

2024 marks an exciting year for us as we launch the Property Profit Academy, a new initiative designed to help agents and new investors build wealth through real estate. I’m incredibly proud of this venture, as it aligns with my mission to educate and empower others to navigate the real estate market effectively. The academy will provide comprehensive education and hands-on guidance, equipping participants with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed in real estate investing.

In addition to the academy, Graystone's future is focused on expansion and impact. We plan to grow statewide and nationwide, making Graystone a household name in real estate investing. However, this growth isn’t just about size; it’s about reaching more people, creating jobs, and helping thousands secure a better financial future.

As we expand, we are continuously seeking ways to make real estate investing more accessible—whether through new investment models, technology, or educational resources. I remain committed to my role as a mentor and thought leader, continuing to share insights through articles, speaking engagements, and media appearances, such as my feature on “Cafecito with Rosie on Air.” 

LTM: What does being a U.S. citizen mean to you? 

Being a U.S. citizen means pursuing the American Dream. For me, it involves building a business that supports my family while also helping others achieve financial security. It represents freedom—the freedom to take risks, start a business, and carve out a path in life. With that freedom comes the responsibility to give back, help others succeed, and contribute to society.

LTM: What is your opinion on the state of affairs in our nation, and what role do you see Hispanics/Latinos playing in the future? 

Our nation is in a time of transition and challenge, yet there is immense opportunity. Hispanics and Latinos, as the fastest-growing demographic, will play a crucial role in shaping the future. We bring a strong work ethic, entrepreneurial spirit, and a commitment to building a better future for all. I believe our community will drive growth in small businesses, innovation, and community development, contributing to a more inclusive and prosperous nation.

LTM: What is the best leadership lesson you’ve learned? 

The most valuable lesson in leadership is putting people first. It’s about building strong relationships and empowering others to achieve their best. This approach has shaped how I run Graystone, fostering a culture of support and collaboration. By prioritizing people—whether clients, team members, or partners—we have built a reputation for personalized service that drives success.

LTM: What is your favorite Latin food? 

My favorite Latin food is chuletas y arroz con gandules. The perfectly seasoned pork chops, paired with savory rice and pigeon peas, bring a sense of home and tradition. It’s my go-to comfort meal, embodying the rich flavors of Puerto Rican cuisine.