Frankfort Couple Create Real Estate Program To Assist Veterans

FRANKFORT, IL — Tony and Jessica Martinez knew they wanted to give back and help others. The Frankfort couple, who are both real estate agents with Century 21, have created a home buying and selling rebate/discount program exclusively offered to "guardians," U.S. military, healthcare professionals, first responders, union members or education professionals. Tony and Jessica Martinez created Homes For Guardians to help make the home buying or selling process easier.

Tony was in the Navy and Air Force for 11 years. He is a disabled veteran who has served several tours overseas. Jessica previously worked in sleep medicine and helped those with sleep apnea and other sleep-related disorders.

"As a veteran and a former medical worker, our family knows what it takes to help others," Jessica said. Jessica and Tony live in Frankfort with their two children.

Jessica said she and Tony began to think of ways they could give back, and started reflecting on their own experiences.

"Buying our first home became a topic of conversation. It was the largest purchase we had ever made and a very exciting milestone in our lives," Jessica said. "The process of buying a home can seem very intimidating and that made us think, what if we could help people during their own home buying experience, maybe we could make the process a little bit easier."

Jessica said they wanted to give recognition to members of the community who make an impact on their lives.

"Teachers, because they are literally shaping my children into these smart little individuals," she said. First responders were added to the list as well, "because when an emergency occurs in our community they are front and center ready to face danger."

"Healthcare professionals because without them working around the clock my family wouldn't receive the medical attention they need; union members who continously help the working people; and last but not least our brave veterans (active, reserves, retired) who defend our country and keep us safe from harm," Jessica said.

According to the Homes For Guardians Facebook page, qualified buyers can receive a rebate up to $1,500 by utilizing the program and qualified sellers can also receive a rebate of 20 percent of the net commission

"We just want to help as many people as we possibly can," Jessica said.