Joy Hicks, MBA, REALTOR®
Renovation Real Estate Agent
⎯ ✦ ⎯
Certified Seniors Real Estate Specialists®
Military Relocation Professional Designation
I’ve always loved combining strategy, creativity, and problem solving, which has shaped both my professional background and the way I serve my real estate clients today.
After graduating with honors with both my Bachelor’s degree and MBA in Finance, I began my career in corporate finance at Merrill Lynch, where I was part of a team whose process improvement efforts contributed to earning the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award. I later moved into project management and process improvement at Homeside Lending before becoming Vice President of the Fraud Department at Washington Mutual Bank, leading a team that investigated mortgage broker fraud. During that time, I was honored as a Summit Club winner for performance and leadership.
In 2007, I shifted into entrepreneurship and began buying, remodeling, and selling historic homes throughout Jacksonville, particularly in San Marco. Since then, I have renovated and sold more than $10 million in residential properties while also helping homeowners navigate their own remodels by coordinating contractors, managing projects, and creating spaces that feel both beautiful and functional.
That hands on experience naturally led me into real estate, where I found the perfect blend of finance, design, negotiation, and helping people through important life transitions. Today, many people know me as the Renovation Real Estate Agent because I help sellers strategically prepare their homes for market without overspending, while helping buyers recognize opportunity and potential others may overlook.
Community involvement has always been important to me as well. I have served on the boards of Friends of Hendricks and Friends of Landon, remain active in my church, and support numerous local non profits. For eight years, I also had the privilege of serving as Head Coach of Wolfson Varsity Cheer, leading the team to both state and national success, including a 4th place national finish.
Outside of work, I’m a proud wife to Tim and mom to two amazing children. I love traveling, and our family has visited all 50 states twice together. In my free time, you’ll usually find me enjoying yoga, dancing, walking, or spending time with friends and family.
Helping Sellers Maximize Value
Many people know me as the Renovation Real Estate Agent because I help sellers determine which improvements are worth making before listing and which are simply unnecessary expenses.
While staging plays an important role, the biggest return often comes from focusing on the updates that matter most to buyers. My goal is to help sellers maximize their investment, attract stronger offers, and avoid spending money where it won't increase value.
Helping Buyers See Opportunity
For buyers, I help uncover potential that others may overlook. Outdated finishes, old paint colors, or cosmetic issues can often be transformed with simple updates that create immediate equity.
With my background in remodeling and home design, I help buyers evaluate not only what a home is today, but what it could become tomorrow.
Specialized Service for Every Stage of Life
Working independently allows me to provide even more personalized service and focus on the areas of real estate I'm most passionate about.
As a Certified Senior Real Estate Specialist®, I help individuals and families navigate downsizing, empty nesting, estate sales, and the often emotional process of selling a loved one's home with patience, compassion, and strategic guidance.
As a Military Relocation Professional, I also assist active duty military members, veterans, and their families with the unique timelines, housing needs, and benefits involved in military moves.
No matter your situation, my goal remains the same: helping you make informed decisions and achieve the best possible outcome with confidence.
"Joy's expertise and dedication made our home-buying experience seamless. Her specialized knowledge is truly a game-changer!"
Brandy, St. Johns, Florida

I am part of the REMAX Specialist team in Jacksonville, FL. REMAX is a leading choice when people are seeking out an agent they trust the most. REMAX is an unparalleled brand power, strengthened over more than 50 years. Multiple surveys reveal that REMAX agents, on average, outsell other agents by more than 2 to 1. REMAX has a presence in more than 110 countries and territories – so agents aligned with the brand are a part of an extensive network.