Port City Realty
Based: Mobile, Ala.
Employees: 15
Website
Julie Martin had just opened a second real estate office in Gulf Shores, Ala., when the oil spill obliterated interest in waterfront property. "When a hurricane hits, it hits, and then you assess the damage," says Martin, 52. "With the spill, there was just so much uncertainty all summer long, and we still don't know what the effects will be for years to come." She filed a claim to help keep the business afloat, but says it was difficult to quantify because losses were based on commissions people might have made, but did not. Martin expanded her foreclosure department, increased her online presence, and began targeting second-home buyers and investors looking to buy inexpensive property.
Employees: 15
Website
Julie Martin had just opened a second real estate office in Gulf Shores, Ala., when the oil spill obliterated interest in waterfront property. "When a hurricane hits, it hits, and then you assess the damage," says Martin, 52. "With the spill, there was just so much uncertainty all summer long, and we still don't know what the effects will be for years to come." She filed a claim to help keep the business afloat, but says it was difficult to quantify because losses were based on commissions people might have made, but did not. Martin expanded her foreclosure department, increased her online presence, and began targeting second-home buyers and investors looking to buy inexpensive property.
