Florida Dreams Reality Group: Adriana Montes Came to America with a Dream. Now She’s Helping Others Build Theirs.

Adriana Montes, JD, MBA, came to America at just 18. A bag in hand, a dream in her heart, and the determination to build a better life. “I came to the US from Colombia, and I didn’t speak any English, and I was pursuing the American dream. I dreamed of having a better future.” Her nights were filled with late shifts. Cleaning to make ends meet, saving every dollar to create something for herself. Adriana’s relentlessness was her fuel to keep going.

“Little by little, I first studied English and then got my bachelor’s in finance marketing, and I started getting my licenses for mortgages, real estate, insurance, title, then opened a mortgage company, insurance company, title company, and real estate company. That hustle led her to start Florida Dreams Realty Group and Florida Dreams Capital Group, inspired by her journey that brought her here. “I always believed that homeownership was part of the American Dream. So, I decided to establish my career in real estate and open businesses that reflect that vision.”

Building Wealth Through Purpose

For the last 20 years, Adriana has turned her ideas into a thriving business. Over 1,500 properties were sold, totaling over $500 million and expanding her own portfolio of investment and rental income producing properties. “I started becoming a real estate investor for myself, little by little. So, I transitioned from being a broker to being a real estate investor and buying my own rental properties, doing fix and flips... and then in the last five years I started doing more commercial real estate, small multifamily, and I also acquired a small boutique hotel in Vero Beach.” What makes her stand out? Her approach. Blending creativity, business acumen, and persistence. Her legal background provides a different perspective as far as laws and contracts in Florida. “I like to think outside the box... having an eye for a diamond in the rough. I can see an opportunity.”

Finding Trust in Banking

Every successful person has a supportive team that truly believes in their dreams. For Adriana, that trust was found with City National Bank of Florida. Her search for a true relationship began after struggling to secure PPP loans during the pandemic.

“A few years back, I was looking for a bank… I was with a major bank for a while, but at that time, I was looking for one that would treat me more personally. One that I could call, and they could instantly recognize me.” Since joining CNB, her business has skyrocketed because it’s supported with a personalized service that meets her needs.

Leadership, Service, and Legacy

Her commitment to service mirrors CNB’s belief in strengthening communities through partnership, purpose, and people. “It’s very dear to my heart to do community work and to get involved with leadership projects… in Orlando, I volunteered at the homeless shelter… I did the Miami Leadership program with the Miami Chamber of Commerce… We raised $65,000 and built a pantry that serves a high school called Miami Edison. It’s serving about 2,000 families, about 100,000lbs of food in Little Haiti.” For her, giving back to the community sets her services apart. 

Empowering Women Every Day

‍In this male-dominated industry, Adriana leads with strength and vision. “Staying true to my standards and values has guided me a lot,” Adriana says. She approaches every challenge with the same focus and determination that built her success.
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City National Bank of Florida, in partnership with the Orlando Magic, is proud to support business owners like Adriana with our Spotlight on Small Business program, inspiring others to dream bigger and build stronger. At CNB, we’re honored to stand beside women who build their dreams from the ground up and empower others to do the same.

‍Please note: The content in this article comes from individual opinions and experiences. The content should not be taken as advice coming from City National Bank of Florida. City National Bank of Florida does not offer tax, legal or accounting advice. CNBFL Member FDIC.